[center][h1]Seperation Anxiety Part 1[/h1][/center]
[center][h2] Mackenzie and Edwards[/h2][/center]

Mackenzie let out a gasp of surprise and horror as Agent Gurrera plunged his knife into Agent Edward’s arm. With the skill of a surgeon, he gouged out the insect. Blood spilled down Edward’s suit, bicep, and began to pool into the ground. With one smooth motion Gurrera removed the invader and crushed it below his heavy duty boot. 

The sound it made was not organic. It was a strangely familiar sound to Mackenzie. It reminded her of the sound of computer parts being crushed or broken. The insect’s guts even reminded her of the oil that lubricates the inside of clocks and other machines with moving parts.

With a jerk, her attention was quickly drawn back to the current situation. So many things were fighting for her attention that she didn't object when Gurrera instructed her to hold pressure to Edwards wound. Her body continued to tremble and staying focused was becoming increasingly difficult. 

“What the fuck is wrong with that man?” She grumbled softly as Gurrera turned his back to them.

“Hey, that man probably just saved my life.” Edwards said defensively. 

“hummm,” Mackenzie began a little indignant. “He didn't even hesitate before stabbing you.” 

Men who were quick to violence made her uneasy. It was not something she thought she would ever get used to. Though she shouldn't be surprised that men like Gurrera were desirable to the military and security officials. Why try to be diplomatic when intimidation can be just as effective? 

Edwards didn't know how to put Ms. Newton at ease. He could feel the slight tremor in her body as she held his arm. He found it odd that a person with Martian military experience would be so anxious in a situation like this. 

Granted even he was unsettled by these dangerous insects. His arm hurt tremendously, but that pain pushed him forward. For a moment he couldn't help but wonder if he would have full use of it again.

“Let's just get back to Command” He said as he crushed several more of the bugs under his boot. He decided it was better to focus on getting them to safety.  

Suddenly a burst of gunfire sounded from a nearby location. Edwards immediately lifted his weapon one handed. Which was uncomfortable and definitely not ideal.

“Fuck.” Edwards cursed as he turned towards the sound. He didn't immediately see Gurrera and He took several steps forward. However, he stopped as Mackenzie tugged at his wounded arm.

Mackenzie didn't have to say anything as she pointed up towards the top of the foliage surrounding them. A large mass of the insects  passed overhead and swarmed on the path ahead of them. They were now effectively cut off from their teammates. 

Edwards cursed again as he realized going forward would essentially be suicide. He was torn between wanting to attempt the rescue of his partner and getting Ms. Newton to safety. Not to mention he was wounded himself and longer they were out here the more likely he would lose the complete function of his arm.