When I see the drunk man fumble in I slowly loose my what's left of my good mood. I try to keep a calm exterior and ignore the situation, after all it's not my place to react. I know the Commander will handle this so I try to distract myself from it all. I drift into my mind, going over the routine of some surgeries in my head. I'm snapped back to reality though when I hear him stumble over to our table. I open my eyes to see him pouring a lot of alcohol into my cup. The sharp smell filled my senses. As those sickening memories filled my mind I felt my stomach turn.

It's alright, stay calm. I repeat in my head over and over. I don't know what scares me worse. The thought of picking up that cup and chugging it or the much more likely scenario of me going to the medical bay after dinner and shooting up enough pain killers to put a horse out. The temptation of the alcohol is enough to send me on a downward spiral to something much worse. Underneath the table I clasp my hands together and nervously rub my fingers. Tensions had been high the past two days and this wasn't helping any.

My eyes drift up to the girl as she comes by and removes the cups. I can't recall her name but I can remember that she's my bunk mate. Maybe I should thank her later? I should at least tell her she handled the situation well. Through all the mess I hadn't even heard the girl at the table talk to me.

After a few moments of lying face first on the cold floor of the brig I decide to open my eyes and sit up. "Well, that went better than expected," I say to myself as I rub my head. Lieutenant Sharp sure was rough dragging me down here, but it was expected. A few moments of silence passed before I stood up and took the two step necessary to get to the door of my cage. "Hey buddy!" I call to the crew member set to wait until I "woke up". "You heard the Lieutenant. I'm up now go get him." After the man ran off to get Sharp I pull a metal tin out of my cargo pocket and open it. Pulling out a fresh cigar I cut the tip of the filter and light it with a wood match before taking a nice long drag followed by a long sigh.

LT Commander Brine Sharp

I had almost stopped my search for booze when I looked through Eric's bags and found enough to run a small bar, I'm glad I kept looking. In every nook and cranny, under the beds, in the air duct, everywhere, and I found it in the craziest places. Well at least he has imagination." I say to myself just before one of the security staff tells me Eric is awake. That didn't take long at all, now too the fun part. As I walked back to the brig I think about how things are likely to turn out and none of them seem good for him, he was likely to freak out when I told him about the dog but I had other news he was going to like less!

When I stepped into the hall just outside Eric's cell the unmistakable aroma of a fine cigar was hanging in the air. I see you're enjoying yourself Sargent, it's a good thing too because you're likely to be spending a lot of time in there. I said as I stepped up to the door and nodded to the guard to let me in.



I watch the Lieutenant walk into the brig and take another long drag from my cigar. I listen to his comment about spending allot of time in the cell and laugh a bit, holding the cigar in the corner of my mouth. I take one more drag from the cigar after Sharp finishes before holding it in my bionic arm and blowing out the smoke slowly, savoring the flavor as I did. "Care for one, Sir?" I ask him, holding out the tin towards him.

Waiting a few minutes after I take another small drag. "I hope you didn't hurt Lea when you caged her?" I ask, a small threat hidden in my words as I locked eyes with the Lieutenant.

LT Commander Brine Sharp

I smiled, took one of the cigars and thanked him then stuck it in my mouth without lighting it. I had never been very interested in smoking, but I would chew on a cigar all day long. I pulled the cigar out of my mouth, held it in my hand and said. "Before I get into that sergeant, if you have something you want to say to me just say it, as long as you add a sir, But you will follow appropriate military protocols when addressing the Commander. Is that understood?" I lean back against the wall and enjoy The rich, robust flavor of the cigar. He had good taste in cigars and booze even if his attitude was shit.



"Well," I say while rolling my shoulders and rubbing my head, "Would it have killed ya to be a little softer on the drag here, Sir? Those stairs kinda hurt." I chuckled a bit at him before taking another drag. "Besides that.... Did you enjoy my little acting job back there, Sir?" This time I did not laugh. I simply held my cigar in my teeth and smirked at him.

LT Commander Brine Sharp

I couldn't help but smile when I thought about the 'thunk thunk thunk' noise his head had made bouncing down the stairs. "No it wouldn't have, but it wouldn't have been worth it otherwise. To be frank, no I didn't. You made a complete mockery of everyone who had a hand in your training and the military as a whole, but you probably consider that an achievement don't you?" I say, cigar still in my mouth. He probably thought he was clever or something. Maybe he thought it was going to keep him out of trouble. Well he'll learn he doesn't want to cross me at some point, but he doesn't strike me as a quick learner.



"That I do, Sir," I say in reply. I remain silent for a few moments, enjoying my cigar. "So you gonna ask why I did it? Or do you still think I was legitimately being a drunken ass, Sir?" I ask with another smirk. It was amusing to think my acting is good enough to fool everyone.

LT Commander Brine Sharp

It didn't really matter why he did it but it might be interesting to see his reasoning on it. "I'm just partial to the drunken ass theory but I'll indulge you, why'd you do it Sargent?" I say after a moment of contemplation. The more information I gleaned the easier it would be, everyone has a weakness you just have to dig until you find it.



"You see, Sir. I'm not an idiot, I'm grunt, a Soldier, but not an idiot. An idiot doesn't survive on the frontlines as long as I have. Unless they're in Rebirth that is." I say that last bit with a small laugh. "We all heard the briefing for this mission, at least what they're willing to tell us. This is a suicide mission, it's why most of you are all Rebirth. You die, then you come back no problem. I don't have that safety net, I'm not a member of Rebirth, nor do I care to be. It's not natural.

Anyway, point is, once we actually get this mission underway, and bullets start flying, I don't need anyone here feeling bad if I get shot." I pause and give the Lieutenant a good hard look. "You tell me to run through the fire, I'll run, and I'll kill every single bastard on the other side, but there will not be anyone on this team following me. So, now that they all hate me to hell and back I don't have to worry about that now do I, Sir?" I ask, placing the cigar in my mouth and holding it in my teeth.

LT Commander Brine Sharp

I stand there and chew on the cigar contemplatively for a long moment, ignoring his comment about rebirths, his reasoning seemed sound at first glance but he was factoring all the variables in. "I can see where you get that idea Sargent, but I don't think you're looking at all the angles here. I've been on more suicide missions than I can count, many of them before I was a rebirth, don't get me wrong I admire your self sacrificing spirit but the only reason I'm here today is something that you don't have." I say thinking back on all the times we knew that a mission was going to go bad and we pulled it off anyway. How we pulled victory from the jaws of defeat for years.



"And what the hell might that be?" I ask, the cigar still in my mouth as I lean back against the wall and cross my arms over my chest.

LT Commander Brine Sharp

It was only the single most important thing for any military unit. "Trust, you don't trust your teammates and they don't trust you. Without that you may as well pop yourself out an airlock right now because the only thing you're going to do is get someone else killed." I said as I started pacing. "If you know that you can trust the man watching your back or rigging the explosive or sniping the guy with a gun to your head, then your team can accomplish the impossible, you will be more than the sum of the individual members. Moreover you won't need to throw yourself at the enemy, that's why us rebirths are here. We can die and be okay, so it only makes sense to let us take one for the team." I say as I recall all the crazy shit we did.



As I listened I had to force myself not to laugh. Each word Sharp said was making it harder and harder though. Finally, after he had said his piece, I laughed. I laughed enough that I had to hold my cigar in my hand so it wouldn't drop to the floor. It took me a few moments to bring myself back together. "For a stiff officer, you really surprise me. You honestly didn't even bother to read my dossier after Commander Rin requested me for this mission did you?" I shake my head and take a quick drag. "My call sign is 'Wolf' for a reason. On the frontlines I am placed in the heaviest fighting, but given freedom to move where I need to. I have not had a team for years, Lieutenant, and that's because my skills are better used if I'm alone. Now why would the Commander request me specifically if she wanted everyone to work as a team? It makes no sense, and so I reinforce my point." I take another quick drag from the cigar. "Seeing as I'm the lone 'Wolf', and my ops are solitary. I don't need anyone crying over my corpse once I do my duty. That said, I'll play nice and proper with you and Commander Rin in private, but out there, with the others, I'll keep on being an ass. I don't need anyone following me into the ground, Sir." I finish speaking and take a long, prolonged drag, from my cigar as I look him dead in the eyes.

LT Commander Brine Sharp

This had gone on long enough, I had tried to be reasonable and explain this nicely but he is one of those guys who truly believe that they are above the law simply because of their combat ability. "You just don't get it do you? So you're a badass, big fucking deal. Everyone on this team is a badass, and in case you missed it, this isn't a front line mission, your run and gun tactics won't do you any good here. Your former commander left out a few details in the personal file he sent, like your complete lack of ability to work cooperatively with anyone and your complete disregard from the chain of command. Had we known about that we never would have requested you." I say as I pull the cigar from my mouth and step up right in front of him still looking him in the eye. "Furthermore you don't get to decide whether or not you work with someone or not, you don't have the rank, information or the brain power required to make those decisions, Sargent, I do that's why I'm a Lieutenant Commander! I have more than fifty years of experience, Commander Monroe has more than that, you should consider that the next time you think you know everything. There may come a time when we need your particular skills but until then, and I'll be blunt so that you are sure to get this, Play nice with the other kids or I'll have your insubordinate ass relieved of duty and court marshaled at the space station. And you'll have a hell of a time trying to find your dog after twenty years in military prison." I don't give a damn if he could single handedly win the war if he insisted on continuing to act like a spoiled little bitch I'd string his ass up and use him for target practice.



I shifted my cigar to the other side of my mouth after LT Sharp finished his little power rant. I stared him directly in his eyes. I was trying to be nice about this, but my patience was wearing very thin now. "If I was going to be canned for insubordination it would have been done the day I broke an admiral's jaw. Your threats don't scare me, Sharp. I'm not some damned green boy just out of boot. Now why don't you use your rank and brain to think for a second." I pause here and run my hand down my face in frustration. Talking to this man was like talking to a damned robot. The only thing he did was listen to orders and never think for himself. "Wrap your head around my career so far. Single Ops or free roam permissions on the battlefield since the day I graduated boot. Now that's not bragging, that's facts, and it's not hidden behind any red tape. Now think, as a battlefield Commander, how much could you accomplish if you had someone who you didn't have to worry about on the lines? Someone you just told to go do something and it would get done, and, until you had something else for them, they operated on self made objectives to ensure victory.

Now with that in mind, how much more could you accomplish with an asset like that? You would be able to concentrate on more important or harder objectives without needed to track the smaller ones. That is why I operate the way I do. That is the reason I don't work in teams, and that is the reason I am still in the military and not some one armed bum sitting on the streets asking for handouts!" I pause again as my temper was starting to get ahead of me. I was trying to make a point not get into a fight with the man, even though it would make me smile to knock him around a couple times.

"Point is, Sir. I am almost completely operate on a solo basis. I don't work well with others off the battlefield, I don't like other people and want nothing to do with them. Countering that, if you or Commander Rin tell me to help this guy, or escort that guy, I will, no question. You want anything more than that, forget it. So before you go on your next rant about rank, and experience, why don't you go consult Commander Rin about why she chose to include a grunt like me that likes to work alone on this little mission of yours." With that said I took long drag from my cigar, not caring if the smoke went into his face or not. Especially since he thought it was a good idea to get up in my face.

LT Commander Brine Sharp

This guy just didn't get it, this really was the end of the line for him if he doesn't learn to play by the rules. "Look Sargent, Commander Monroe gave me a problem to take care of and said fix it or dispose of it, that problem is you. You have made yourself more trouble than you're worth and this is your last chance to fall in line before I sack you for good. I don't give a shit how good at what you are if you can't follow an order you are useless to me and the Commander. If you don't like it than your fuck out of luck, just because you got pushovers for Commanders in the past doesn't mean you can continue to do as you please here. I am not going to tolerate it and neither will the Commander, if you feel the need to take this up with her than do so but if I hear anything other than you doing exactly what I've told you to do then you'll find out just how serious I am." I say making it as clear as possible that this is the end of the conversation and if he forces the issue any more there will be irreversible consequences, then I leave him there in the cell to stew or rant or whatever the hell he wants to do and go to make my report to Commander Monroe.

SGT Azurael Winchester

I scowl and grunt in pain, another headache. I got them constantly but either never had the time or bothered to go and get it sorted. I'd get around to it one day, hopefully I wouldn't be removed from duty - that was my main worry. My work is my life. I slip on a pair of sunglasses, they seem to help with the 'attacks'.

Justin "Bane' Case

Prologue.

I've spent three weeks on the top of this mountain. Watching, waiting for the right moment to let loose the round. This isn't just an assassination, this is also recon. Recon isn't my favorite thing to do but it has to be done.

I've watched multiple targets over the past three weeks. I know almost everything about them. How they drink their coffee, when they take a shit in the morning, who they're sleeping with. I know who these people are when no one is looking. I won't feel bad about killing these people.

I watch all of my targets are gathered in the same conference room. I have to wait for the right moment. Three people, two rounds. Two of them were sitting a cross from each other. Plus a third at the end of the table.

I slow my breathing, long measured breaths. I do everything I can to control the adrenaline and my heart rate. I draw one deep breath and pull the trigger. I get the two sitting across from each other. I have less than three seconds to get back on target and pull the trigger. I watch as the round pulls slightly to the right but thankfully, it still finds its mark. I watch the back of his head explode and I know I had finger too deep in the well. It's a rookie mistake that I shouldn't make.

"At least he'll have an open casket." I say to myself. I touched my ear. A long rage radio in the form of nanotechnology. With this I can communicate with any radio without ever moving my lips. It was all a matter of finding the right frequency.

"Command, this is TF Zephyr. How copy?"
"Zephyr this is Command, we read loud and clear. Give us a sitrep."

"All targets are accounted for. I'm ready to wrap up here. All data has been transmitted."
"Rodger that Zephyr, bring it on home. You're being reassigned to Commander Rin Lee Monroe. You'll get a couple of days of rest before getting back out into the field. She requested you for a classified mission"

"..." I have to process what my CO has just told me. Rin Lee? Monroe? I haven't seen her for what? Twenty years now, that sounds right. There was good reason mind you. What happened back then... You don't forget something like that.

"Zephyr this is Command. Acknowledge." They demanded from me.

"Command this is Zephyr, I acknowledge, Commander Monroe, female, pink hair, about 5'10. Prettier than sin, call sign Valkyrie?"
"That's her Zephyr, sounds like you know her."

"Something like that... This is TF Zephyr. Rodger wilco. I'm heading home." I don't know whats going on right but I don't like it. I start inching my way out off the mountain. I just killed a couple of people. Killing them was the easy part. Getting away was the hard part. They are gonna come looking for me. I need to watch my step till I can back into the safe zone. From there I can start to really move.

The next day.

I made it to the base in just twelve hours ago. I did my after action reports and turned them in. I now find myself in the bathroom, first time in what seems like a couple of months. Was it that long? I can't remember. When I look in the mirror I see a man that looks like shit. Tired and beaten up. Its nothing that some rest won't fix. I'll get that on the way to meeting Rin Lee.

As I pack my things into my duffle bags. I can't help but notice the dust on everything. I've spent too much time out in the field . It's a reminder that my job never seems to end. Maybe I should slow down a little. Maybe this reassignment won't be the worst thing ever.

When I finish packing and head to my shuttle. I'm not sure where I'm going but this will get me there. A medic comes up and gives me an injection, something to help me sleep. They know I don't do well on these things.

When I come to there's a stack of folders next me. Dossiers on the people I'll be working with. Information is little to say the least, name, rank, picture and job descriptions.

There isn't enough information for me to idea of anyone but one question keeps coming to mind. Is this a combat group or a modeling group? The people here are way to pretty. I get the feeling we're not going to kill people as much as do fundraising and bullshit moral raising.

I set down the folders and motion for the medic to dose me up again. This time I'll sleep till arrive. At least this way I don't have to worry about being a fucking model.



I wake up only to find that the ship has landed. It'll be another hour or so before I can get the answers I am looking for. I use this time to hit the bathroom and get cleaned up. I'd hate to look bad as I show my ass for the first time. Thankfully I'm wearing civilian clothes. I can hide my rank and use it to my advantage.

When I step off the transport ship, I'm greeted by an Ensign. I feel bad this kid. I'm gonnna use him for everything he's got. He welcoming, and has a warm smile. I almost hate to do this. "Commander Rin Lee Monroe! Get me there!" I barked. That warm smile turns into a fearful one. "Yes sir!." He says with a salute and leads me to who I wanna see.

I get walked over just a few bays, just a crossed the hanger. I was saddened to see that I wasn't gonna get to mess with more people.

I shout my instruction for all the others to follow. "Officer on deck!" I shout. "If all yall would be so kind as to give me and the commander a few moments... Now go! Go! Go!" I watch them jump to their feet and head for the door.

As I wait move next to Rin Lee Monroe. A horrible idea crossing my mind and I just can't help myself. I begin to sing.



As the last one leaves I realize that may have gotten a little to into it. I look at Rin Lee. I'm not exactly sure how I should be feeling. She is prettier than I remember but something is different. "You look good Rin." I start off with a complement. It's a very weak a d poor attempt at winning some trust. "It's been what? twenty years or so?"

"You know I just... Just can't help but wonder what the fuck I'm doing here?" I let a small laugh. Secure in the knowledge that she requested me.

"You wouldn't mind sharing that information would you? I gotta wanna need to know that." I may have said more than a little flippantly.



I was standing there, clipboard in hand, looking over diagnostics of the vipers along with the lists of ammo and general supplies to be loaded on the ship with them. I sigh in irritation as the lower ranking officers I'd been using to take care of prepping and loading the vipers quickly moved out of the area. I simply ignore Bane and his flamboyant entry. It was like he was putting on some kind of performance in hopes of swooning me, or at least getting a reaction. My attention continues to stay focused on the papers as I carefully look over them and flip through to the next. He filled the silence with stupid lyrics and eager questions. To which I continued to ignore and stay glued to my task at hand. Now it was quiet, nothing being said. An awkward silence as most would call it. In all honesty half my reason for making him wait was to remind him who was the boss here.

Finally I finish and look up. "Are you done being an idiot yet?" I ask as I lower the clip board and put a hand on my hip. "Because if not I can take off for another 20 years and give you a chance to grow the fuck up." I bark out at him. I shake my head and walk to a table where I set down the clipboard. What I said might be a little more harsh than necessary but I've had to deal with a lot of shit from the rest of my team and I'm in no mood to have it coming from him too. Then again, what kind of fucktard yells at everyone to leave then starts rapping?

Justin "Bane' Case

"Somebody had a bad day huh?" I tell her as I lean against the table she sat her clipboard on. "I think even if you took off for next fifty yeas, I'd still act like this. You knew that when you got me here." She's trying to get the upper hand. She wants to let me know me who's in charge around here. I'll back off and let her have it. There is a time and place for everything. This wasn't the time to push.

It makes sense, but it makes me wonder what happened around here. I've heard rumors that she had became some kinda hard ass over the years. I didn't think they were completely true, but even back then she was a little on the hard side. Still I can't help but wonder what happened around here. She's angry I can tell that much. She was never one to suffers fools. That was proven on the battlefront.



I put a hand on the back of my neck, briefly trying to rub out some tension, and look around then back to him. "I know. But your good at what you do, and I need people I can trust at my back. Because I have a gut feeling we're about to walk off into some deep shit." I explain in a more tired then angry tone. "Hell, that's our job though." I say shaking my head and re-positioning my stance. I flag over a Petty Officer who stood just out of ear shot. "Double the the fuel for the Vipers and triple all the ammo. Other than that everything is good to go." I tell the young officer as I hand them the clipboard. I look back to Bane who was waiting much more patiently now. "Let's find somewhere private so I can give you the run down of why exactly your here." I suggest. Wasting no time I walk briskly towards the exit.

Justin "Bane' Case

Bitch best get right I tell myself. I'm one of the best in this army but that's a talk for another time. I'll save that comment for later, even though it hurts my pride more than I want to admit. I stay silent till I know she's done talking. I may not be speaking but I am watching, shes stressed. Is it stress or fear and worry? There are way too questions here.

The more I listen and watch her, the more confident I get that this is big, really big. Might even be able to change the tide of the war. I can't help but wonder what could be that big? A Defection? Taking out their Rebirth system? Are we a splinter cell attacking the capital of UKD?

I have to remind myself that whatever this is, its gonna get fucked. In my whole career I haven't had many perfect missions. Perfect missions where the stuff of legends. I've had few, others have as well. My gut tells me this won't be one of them.

I Watch as she tells the Petty officer what to do. Double fuel and triple ammo? I really don't like this. I hate those things, with words that can't be expressed, I hate them. It removes most all of your senses. It takes away the smelling, hearing and touch. You can't taste the gun powered air.
Give me a blue sky and dirt under my feet and I can deal with anything.

It's not till she says something that I realize not only is my face is showing my anger at the Vipers but I have no clue whats going on right now. The only thing I can hear is private and rub down. I want make a joke but I know I heard wrong. That's not her style. That's not to say I'd say no to that deal. I'd take that in a heart beat.

"Mind if we get something to eat? It's been a few days since I had some solid food." I asked her. If I have to hear how bad this is gonna be. I'd rather do it on full stomach than an empty one.

I grin to myself, remembering what an old friend once told me. "I like to be wined and dined before I get fucked." And I can't help but get the feeling I'm gonna get fucked, and not the way I want.



Despite his silence I can tell he's got a lot on his mind. The look in someone's eye and their expression can often tell you more about what they're thinking then words ever could. And while I have met people you manipulate even the smallest of details about their reactions to mislead you, I know Bane and that's not what he's doing. He's not really the type to play little tricks like that. Chances are he's gonna say it to your face, and bluntly at that. Knowing that though makes me worry about his silence. I can feel a certain disgust, curiosity, worry, and general edginess about him.

Hell, he doesn't even know what the mission is about yet and he's edgy. Maybe that's why I'm so stressed, this mission keeps giving me a weird feeling. It's far from the most dangerous mission I've been on, yet why can't I shake this feeling? I wonder if I'm just going soft in my old age... huh yeah right.

I had noted his scowl towards the Vipers, probably just his dislike of flying and ships. That or the jet fuel is getting to him. "Of course. I wouldn't want you to be thinking about food while I'm trying to brief you." I remark as he comes alongside me. Absentmindedly I run a hand over my head to smooth my ponytail.

* * *

I suddenly regret offering to pay for his food. I was unaware of how much he could devour. "Was the ice cream really necessary?" I ask with a shake of my head. I feel like a babysitter walking along with the kid and his ice cream cone. After ducking into a storage room I begin the briefing. I tell him the same information all the others got. About half way through I take a seat atop a crate and cross my legs. Once I conclude I take a long breath. "Any questions?" I ask.

Justin "Bane' Case

She ran her hand through her hair. Shes stressed and worried. I can't help but wonder if she saw my face. It always kinda bothered me how observant she was. It was normally pretty hand but not when it was directed at me.

She did agree to the food though. That's something in the plus column. When offered to pay for the meal, I remember she's never really seen me eat. Last time we were together I didn't really get the chance to eat anything outside of an MRE here and there. She'll regret it later, more than she knows. After the second or third pass through I can tell shes not too happy anymore.

Eating with Rin Lee was much more enjoyable than what some people would think it be. I can see she why they would think that. She tightens up around other people, its when they leave I can see her loosen up a bit. When she loosens up and starts talking Rin Lee is a surprisingly fun and lovely person... When no one is around to see it. Pity most people won't see that side of her. As we get up to leave I can't help it. They have ice cream here! I must have it!

As we leave I can hear how annoyed she is by her questioning the need for ice cream. "You know I haven't even had the option of ice cream for a few months. Ground fighter remember?" I try to remind her what she pulled me away from.

It wasn't long before she pulled me into storage room. I don't know whats gonna happen in here. Am I getting briefed, laid, or is she gonna try to kill. She has her side arm with her, but I got ice cream and I know how to use it.

I listened intently to every detail of briefing. I don't like this, I hate this idea. Something is wrong here. As I watch her sit on a box and adopt an oddly feminine pose, she asked for questions. Dear Lord Sweet Baby Jesus do I have questions.

I stare at her silently for a few moments gathering my thoughts together, licking and enjoying every bit of the ice cream that is almost gone. I'm sure she thinks I look like a fool. I got up and walked to the door and stepped outside of the storage room. "Wait here." I told her. I'm not asking her, I'm telling her. I find the nearest person and take ask them to get my bags and bring to the storage unit.

He's quicker than I gave him credit for. My bags where there not long after I walked back into the room. I still haven't said anything. The silents is deafening in its own way. "Just so we are clear, we don't really know where we are going, and we don't know whats gonna happen when we get there. Just that we're going to Cortan, and we're gonna be in city... Likely a big one. Will Rebirth even be an option? Why the hell are we taking Vipers? For that matter is this all we're doing or are we gonna do some bullshit splinter cell shit?" I spoke as I starting pulling somethings out of the duffle.

Two steel cup and a bottle. The bottle was rare liquor from Haxon. It wasn't all that rare twenty years ago but its extremely rare these days. One of the many gifts from that day that just keeps on give. I toss her a cup and poor myself more than I ought to, I toss her the bottle and motion for her to do the same.

After a drink I lean on the box next to her. I forget how good this stuff is. I glance at her a time or two before speaking. "Something isn't right here and you know it. Are you sure you wanna go through wit this?"



I set the bottle aside for the time being. I raise my hand to my mouth and wipe the sweat away from my top lip. The air in the room is humid and uncomfortable, with a stale smell on top of that. I pass the empty cup back and forth in my hands as I momentarily gather my thoughts. With a deep breath I set the cup by the bottle then move my hands to grasp the edge of the crate I sat on, arms straight. My eyes move to meet his. His stare was as stern and serious as mine. His concern is legitimate but I surely hope he doesn't think I'm new to things like this.

"I'll be getting a message from the spy tomorrow giving us more specific details. But unfortunately we can't always have all the information we'd like to. I guess you could say not having a set in stone plan makes it easier to make adjustments. You know just as well as me a good soldier has to be flexible." I say plainly. Slowly I tilt my head downwards and rock it back and forth, a popping sound coming from my neck as several vertebrae snap back into place.

"Anyone on this mission who is in Rebirth has a sufficient amount of bodies aboard the ship. So yes, it will be an option. As for the Vipers, well I don't like going in without being prepared. I've been given the lead way to investigate and if we get ourselves in a shitty situation I don't want to be unarmed." With that I slide off the crate and lean on it, arms crossed. I know how bad this all looks but I'd rather be overly prepared then caught off guard.

Justin "Bane' Case

When she finishes, I down the rest of my drink and pour one for the both of us. She'll get pissed at me for it but I doubt she'll do anything I can't handle. I rub my temple then run my hand through my hair before letting out a large sigh.

She dodged the last question, a lot could be read into that. Again something else to save for later. "Alright, time to get with the beat, these are the cards you've dealt and you gotta play them right." I tell myself.

"Okay! Well Rin, tomorrow. we should know something tomorrow!" I tried to say cheerfully, I don't know if she would buy it or not but I gather my things. I just noticed I called her Rin, not Rin Lee. She's gonna notice that. Well she say chalk it up to alcohol or distraction? Chang the pace, don't give her time to realize what just happened. I start singing a little song as I make sure everything is where it supposed to be.

So don't delay, act now, supplies are running out
Allow if you're still alive, six to eight years to arrive
And if you follow, there may be a tomorrow
But if the offer is shun, you might as well be walkin' on the sun

When I am done I look back to her, knowing shes as unhappy about this as I am. At this point if I asked any more questions, we'd be running around in circles. Its best to leave it alone for now. When more information comes to light, then I'll throw a bitch fit. "Is it too late to ask how yah been? You look good, hairs as pink as ever!" No matter what she says next this conversation is coming to a close. I could use some time to myself. Maybe meet a few of the people on this task force.



I briefly stare down at the liquid in the cup. I had refrained from pouring a drink since I'm on duty and have a shit ton yet to get done. However, after going through that briefing again and answering his questions I feel I can now justify it. Besides, one drink won't be remotely enough to impair my judgment. I also know how to cut it off at just one. I swirl it around the cup once or twice then take a long drink. The nearly forgotten taste takes me decades back to memories that were sweet when made but turned bitter somewhere along the way.

I pull myself out of the toxic trap called memories and force my mind to focus on the reality at hand. I nearly do a double take when he called me Rin. It isn't the fact that he called me by name that I find surprising, it's that he didn't add in my middle name like he usually did. It was an odd habit of his that I don't really understand but I suppose we all have those strange little things we do. However, him addressing me in nontraditional ways is much more tolerable than him randomly breaking out into song. I try to tune him out as I finish my drink.

Now there was a question I hadn't seen coming. It felt about like a slap to the face, stings just enough to get your attention. It felt like a hour passed as I tried to concoct some kind of answer, thankfully though only a few seconds passed. I tilt my head back to finish off the drink then set the cup aside. Silently I threw up walls, all around me. Any inch of unprotected emotion was buried. "I'm still alive, aren't I?" I answer causally. The reality that we both knew all to well was that I couldn't die, not even if I want to.

Justin "Bane' Case

I watched as her face went from seemingly enjoying this conversation, to a cold hard exterior. I could see the wheels turning in her. Whatever she says next will be a lie. I'm watching as the walls go up all around her. If you knew what you were looking for her could be road map of pain and disappointment. Something happened to her that was pretty bad. I almost wonder how many times something like that happened. As much as I want to ask, its none of my business right now.

I was holding everything together till she answered. Hearing her answer I let a laugh or three slip out. "I don't know Rin Lee, you look pretty dead to me." I told her before I down my drink. I put the cups and bottle away and pick up my bags.

" Well Commander if you need to talk, I'll be around. Just listen for my lyrical flow."I tell her as sling the bags over my shoulder and fire off a shitty salute. "DJ, drop a sick beat!" I shout as I walk out the door.

I walked to my cabin and unpacked a few things. I didn't unpack much, if nothing no reason than I was lazy and just wanted to keep drinking. I did pull out some... objectionable items. They were my own personal weapons. I hate it when other people mess with my weapons. My knives, my fire arms, my upkeep.

I pull out the bottle and steel cup and fill the cup. I also pull out a small stereo. As the music plays I start cleaning and maintaining my weapons. I sharpen my knives, slow and steady. Mindful of just how important a clean and sharp cutting edge. When I finish my knives, three in total. Each one of them had their own purposes. I have a knife for utility, for people and for food. I take very special of each of them. I never without one of them.

I moved on my firearms. I kept two them with me at all times. A handgun and rifle, both custom built by me. The rifle is my pride and joy. I've gone over every inch and part on this rifle, everything is done the way I want it and it looks like it. I love this weapon. My handgun is a little more conventional. A lot of the handgun has just been modified, a small change here or there. Its a very effective tool that can be overlooked.

As I take apart my rifle, I notice that I left my cabin door open. It doesn't bother as much as you'd think it would. It really helps that my back isn't to the door. I take another drink and clean my rifle. There were worse ways to spend an evening.

A collaboration bewteen AcerRo and BlackRose24

Raina Matthews

I was currently walking towards the bar, as me and Eli had agreed that we would meet at the closest bar when we got on the station. I was walking through the crowd of people, attempting not to bump into anyone, and was very relieved when I saw a bright sign flashing 'Tony's Bar' up ahead, and sped up a little. As soon as I entered, there was the wonderful smell of alcohol. It had been way too long since I had a drink. (Okay, I had a drink like four days ago, but considering the wonderful day I had yesterday, I really needed another one.) Making my way over to the bar, I asked the barkeep for a dark beer and waited for Eli to get here. He was late, which was a little odd for him, but then again we hadn't really made a set time for us to meet at the bar.

Eli Matthews

I had just walked in the bar and went to sit next to my sister. "Hey, sorry I'm a little late." I greeted as I sat down. I ordered a whiskey on the rocks and sipped it slowly when the bartender brought it. "So, I was originally going to be on time, like I normally am, but on the way here I hit a bit of a roadblock. Some guys apparently decided it would be a good idea to try to rob me, so I had to change they're minds. Anyways, how's your day been so far?"

Sgt Azurael Winchester

The migraines, headaches, whatever - they had because a constant nuisance over the past few days. On the upside, I had gotten used to them. It wouldn't interrupt my work. I had found a meditation technique of sorts that, well released tension, and helped somewhat. Thinking of the time G and I had together our first night in the same room helped to release the tension. I didn't actually believe that myth until I tried it. Who knew, huh? It saved me going to medical and kept me relaxed. I wasn't about to tell any-one how I relieved the pain.

I wake Up In My bed the smell of cigars and Alcohol attacking my senses. Even though Eric had been in the brig did not mean he had taken his smell with him. I rub my eyes as i stand up Bumping my head."Dammit!" I come out of my bed and start putting on my clothes. I then turn around and start packing my stuff that i had unpacked. i then light up a cigar and start walking out of the ship. I shake a few hands with the crew of said transport ship and wish them good travel. The fake as hell skylight shined in his face as he entered the bay they had landed on. I walked of the boarding plank and slowly disapeard into the crowd of people. I checked my data pad to see where there ship was docked. Unfortunately it seemed it was docked at the other side of the station.I sighed and started my walk towards the ship. This station seems to have seen better days. As some of the fake daylights flickered showing the metal roof. Most people ignored it. I decided to do the same.

I then finally reach the ship. She looks look with the fresh paint job. I smile as i look at the giant cannon on top of it. It looked unstable but it should do the trick in a fight. If they where gonna be in any action at all for that matter. I approach the ship and a soldier stops and ask me for my businesses.I calmly show him my papers. He salutes and steps out of the way letting me enter. I nod and walk onto the boarding plank into the bowls of the ship. After walking around for a but i manage to find my room which is close to the bridge. My room is big enough. A bed, a desk, and a closet. I then start unpacking . I putt my books on the desk and a few of my best bottles as well. I also put some drinking glasses on it as well. I pack my clothes into the closest. I then pick up something that brings back memories. A small picture of me and my wife. I stare at it for a while before putting it on my desk as well. I then put the rest of my beer into my closest and start to explore the ship. It didn't take long before i found the bar. The bar looked like any regulary bar . The one thing that stood of was the piano tucked away in a corner. I around if anyone is near then walk to piano take and take a seat. I slide my fingers across the keys checking if they sound false which they don't and then i start to play.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcIMvliWM2I

There was nothing to do. And nothing to do meant it was time for some alcohol. As if we hadn't all learned our lesson with that already. But obviously we were a hard headed bunch, and wouldn't be easily deterred from having a good time; because by the time I made it to the local bar, several of my crewmates were already there. The sound of the piano coming from the corner sent a harsh surge of deja vu through my mind, though it was completely impossible to remember or figure out why. It left me feeling disoriented for a moment, and then abruptly my consciousness seemed to drop into the reality now around me. It felt odd whenever it happened, some days more than others, but it always felt like I spend most of my life watching and navigating myself from afar.

I looked around to room in a new state. I knew that I stood in a room full of strange faces, and the longer I stood their in the midst of everything, the more out of place I would seem. I cleared my throat and stepped over to the bar, ordered a glass of vodka straight, and slumped down onto a barstool. I glanced around the room; which seemed to me to be cast in a haze of vague colors that danced through the air on rhythmic waves of sound pouring from the piano out into the space around. This feeling of floating between empty spaces and reality kept throwing my mind back and forth. Or, more so it seemed as though I kept slowly drifting away into the nothingness, only to be randomly snatched back into reality by the strangest little thing. Like when I turned from the colors just now to focus on the pen in the bar tenders pocket, and I was suddenly and forcefully reminded of reality around me. In reality, the bartender was giving me a funny look for staring at his shirt, and probably assuming I was high as a kite. In reality, I looked up at his confused expression and ordered another drink. In reality, this vodka tasted like shit. But in the glass, I began to wander off into the emptiness again. I guessed that this is the sort of moments when most people would be day dreaming or replaying old memories. But in my world, I couldn't really pinpoint where my mind went. I think it just goes to sit in a dark room sometimes.

I finished my second glass. I was fixated on the woodgrain of the bar and I realized that some beautiful tree had died so that I could prop my elbows on it's corpse. I felt so much more for that tree in that one moment, than I had probably every really cared for a person. I decided I was probably a tree too. I ordered another glass.

There is only so much fun in drinkin alone. I need to get out of here. I need to get out and mingle with people. Its been a while since I've been around... Well, anyone. As I slid the bottle under the bed and put my firearms away, I wonder where a guy can keep drinking around here. I also make sure I have a knife with me. Just in case the worst should happen. I keep it out of sight.

I don't know how long I was wondering around before I found Tony's Bar. It didn't stand out by much, it was just the kinda place that I wanna be at. As I walk in I can't help but see and hear some dude playing a piano. It was a beautiful sound, one worth listening too... Just not right now. Right now was the time for drinking.

I walk up the bar, I feel like I have a few eyes on me. When the barkeep shows up and asks for my order. I simply state, The good stuff. As soon as the drink gets to me, I sit back and watch whats going on. Its been a few months since I was around this many people, not without having to kill someone. "Just take it easy Bane, you'll get used to this all again." Or so I tell my self.

I was about to go insane. Half rations on top of janitorial duties was a pain the in ass and I wanted to strangle whoever the fuck that drunkard was. Or blow him up. Didn't matter if he was on Rebirth or not, I'll kill 'em. That is, of course, after I've had a nice strong drink to calm the nerves or blow them out, whichever came first. Of course I wasn't going to turn into a drunken fuck nugget like whatshisname. "Tony's Bar." I muttered, shrugging before walking in. I walked up to the bar, promptly placing myself on the stool in front of the tender. "Whatever strong stuff you got. Hit me." I said, sighing as the barkeep walked off to get my drink. The piano was good though. At least the kept in time with the my imaginary metronome. Or was that a bomb? Nope. I'm just stressed out.

After having taken care of my responsibilities I set off to find something to do. I had worked hard on preparing the medical bay and moving supplies so I rightfully felt I deserved to relax a bit before we head out. The Commander seems to think this mission could drag on for awhile so I should go ahead and enjoy the RAS while I'm still here.

After awhile I found myself walking through the main business district of the station. There were all sorts of shops, stores, and restaurants to be seen. It was obvious they had tried to model the area after some kind of outdoor shopping mall. The lack of naturalness and charm was obvious though. Then again, what else would you expect from one of the furthermost outposts? You have to appreciate the fact that they even try to bring some normal life comforts to these people. I imagine it helps with sanity.

I scanned the area with a causal eye. I noticed a bar up ahead called Tony's and as I passed I could see several of my teammates in there. I wanted badly to go in, have a drink, and enjoy their company. "No, bad idea." I whispered to myself. I could still go in. No drinking, just socializing. I thought, or rather bargained with myself. No. I wouldn't do that to myself. With a brief huff I continued to walk. Instead of a bar I decided to spend my time and money at a coffee shop.

LT Commander Brine Sharp

I was on my way back from picking up a few odds and ends I hadn't been able to find anywhere else when I saw Captain Carson sitting in a coffee shop by herself and looking like she could use a little company. I had intended to go back to the bar so I'd be close by if there was trouble but having read her file and knowing why here by herself instead of in the bar with everyone else I decided that this was more important. So I walked in, ordered a large coffee with cream and quadruple sugar, and a half dozen coffee cake muffins then walked over to her table. "Mind if I join you Captain?" I say politely.

Captain Brandy Carson

I admit, I hadn't really been aware of my surroundings. For a soldier that's a big no no, but then again I'm only supposed to be a doctor. "Lieutenant Commander!" I say as I snap to attention. Rather ungracefully I jolt to my feet and salute. It was probably more than he expected me to do but I'd rather do more than necessary, it tends to get you in trouble less. I most certainly didn't want to push my luck with Commander Monroe or Lt. Commander Sharp.

It took me a moment to recall what he had said to me. "Oh, of course Sir." I say with a nod. After being told to relax I return to my seat. It's only then I notice what he held. "I envy you Sir, if I ate that much I'd be as fat as a cow." I said with a soft smile. Hopefully that wouldn't offend him in any way. It was true though. With all he had to eat it's amazing he doesn't weigh more. His augmentations require him to eat like that though.

LT Commander Brine Sharp

Smiling broadly I sit down at the table and as I arrange my food say. "It's probably my favorite part of being augmented, I can eat just about everything I see and stay in shape. It does sometimes cause problems on the battlefield though."Those training exercises had ended badly! I had put two of my team members in the ICU and the MPs had to hit me with a truck to to get me in irons. "You may want to keep some horse tranquilizers on you if I'm low on food." I say only half joking.

Having my leg blown off had a lot of ups and downs. Mostly downs but the ups were always awesome. One, people shut up when you get involved in things. Two, the prosthetic could break limbs if caught in a fight, though it was heavy as hell. It also gave me the determination to do better. The day was simple for me, I found a gym, beat the shit out of some punching bags with my fist, then I beat the shit out of things with my one good foot, and even got my crap one in the air. All I was thinking was: It's going to be gone soon, I can't let myself get out of practice. Yes I realized I was in no way the "best" soldier, but that's no reason to not act like I am. It's mainly a matter of convincing yourself you are better then those you compete against, with out it going to your head.

After getting kicked out of the local gym for stabbing the exercise equipment. I left some money to pay for the damage but I think they were pretty clear they didn't want to see me again. I was walking through the station with out my cane, physical therapy was almost over, and I was getting a new one soon anyways so no real reason to have it. Now, what to do with my last bit of free time before I go back to the fronts? I had options, I could go grab some electrical components and go mess with people, I could get some alcohol and do the same thing. Though I can't afford a bad impression. Hmm. So no booze, maybe jam some short range devices? I could just walk until I get tired? Damn I sound like an old person.

I eventually made my way to various shops, some bars, gift shops (What could even be in the gift shops here? Last resort kits? actually...), and a coffee shop. Wait... Coffee... The coffee at home sucks... The coffee issued to us sucks... I still got some money left in my savings! "Hell... Fucking... yes." I worked my way over to the shop and ordered a what most would call creamer with coffee. But I call it awesomeness in a cup. I sat down at a table before I started hearing very familiar voices. I wish I had placed the voices faster, for a moment I refused to make eye contact because I was like 80% sure it was a girl I met last time I was out here. And personally death by own prosthetic sounds like a sucky death.

I looked over to see two of my several commanding officers. The way I see it, I have the best and the worst rank. Best because I am normally one of the higher ranks int he field, so no one will normally go against what I say or do. Worst because not on the field I am that poor middle guy who deal with the griping from the lower ranks, and trying to remember who's actually in charge of me. I stood up and slowly walked my way to the two officers. They seemed to be talking about something not work related. Best time to get involved.

I went up to the table and slammed both my hands down on it. "Now Kiss."

SGT Azurael Winchester (Nexus)

I recline in my bed, a small smile on my face remembering what happened with G and myself. I put my head phones on and listen to my music. People would never guess the genre I listen to - death metal. I mutter some of the lyrics, probably way off key and off tune, but who cares? Not me any-way. I either sound deranged, or . . . no, never mind, just deranged. At some part of it I fall asleep still listening to the music.

LT Commander Brine Sharp

I nearly killed the man with my coffee cup but luckily for him I was too busy choking to death on the half a muffin I had in my mouth and spraying crumbs everywhere! It's not that I didn't see him coming, just that I never thought he'd do something like that! It was surprising, shocking, embarrassing and a little hilarious.

After a few minutes of trying to regain my composure I finally managed to stop coughing up my lungs and said. "I never kiss on the first date Sargent!" keeping as straight a face as possible I continue. "unless you are implying that the good captain Carson's intentions are less than honorable." I say giving her a covert wink.

Petty Officer Derek Benson

I was on my way to Tony's and moving as fast as I could with a new set of body armor in tow, some idiot was selling a full set of Titan class 3 heavy combat armor for scrap, 100cr! I couldn't believe my luck! Sure it was an older type of armor but it was bad ass nonetheless! I mean sure I'm a pilot and won't need it but I'm sure one of the other guys would pay a pretty penny for it!

I walked in the door to Tony's and saw a few familiar faces. After waving at any who where paying attention I found an empty booth at the back and put the Titan 3 in the seat next to me like a person. "you stay here gorgeous, I'll get us a drink." I say to the armor then go to order a whisky.

Captain Brandy Carson

I hadn't expected to see Sergeant Monroe, much less did I think he would greet us in such a ridiculous manner. Judging by Lt. Commander Sharp's reaction he's just as shocked and surprised as me. I had noticed a certain sexual tension amongst our team, and it was a bit worrisome. There were definitely some attractive faces and figures in the group. I just hope they don't get so distracted with each other that they put the mission at risk. I doubt that will be an issue though.

Just when I was about to assist the Lt. Commander he managed to clear up the obstruction on his own. I didn't really want to do the heimlich maneuver on a superior in the middle of a coffee shop, but I also didn't want to watch a man choke to death even if he'd just download into a new body. No need in dying unless it's the only option. At first I didn't realize that what he was saying to Hunter was a joke, but I caught on. "Yes Sergeant, what are you implying?" I ask with a raised eyebrow. I looked forward to his reaction.