Rover Strike: Vortex Episode 1: Preparations By Gerhard Naudé All Rover Strike names © Gerhard Naudé All Road Rovers names © Warner Brothers and rightful owners Vicki Maddog © Robert Baer Jr. Rally © David Reynolds Marauder © Jeremy Bass Cody © Eric Schulte Shepherd, Safi, Chomar © K-9: The First Ace © His player Catman © John Butler Pierre Booswa © Steven Today Jake © Patrick Rinaldi Any question, comments, complaints, feedback or suggestions can be sent to gnaude_@hotmail.com. Prologue: The Coming Storm Main Hall Parliament Cape Town Western Cape Province Republic of South Africa 28 August 1:22 PM: This is a large hall where the members of the South African government, Members of Parliament representing the various parties and others gather for meetings, discussions. and speeches. There is a wooden podium at the front of the hall, behind which are even higher podiums for the Speaker. Set up in an amphitheatre are wooden benches for the MPs, while above it is a gallery for visitors, media and others. In front of the podium is a pedestal with a sceptre placed on a mount. Running from the podium to the main entrance doors between the benches is a maroon and cream carpet. Two doors on either side of the hall lead out. Right now, the Parliament is in session. The South African president, his cabinet and his party's MP's are seated to the left of the podium, since their ruling African National Congress party have the majority of seats. To the right are the opposition parties and their MPs. Behind the podium is the Speaker and her assistants. In the gallery are a few high-level visitors and media reporters from various newspapers, the South African Broadcasting Cor- poration (SABC) and the independant e-TV channel. At the podium right now is the ANC and government Finance Minister, Adriaan Vorster. His papers, cue-cards and a glass of water is on the podium. He looks around at the various parties and visitors as he makes his speech. Vorster:"In short, ladies and gentlemen of Parliament, why should we spend our budget trying to help these mutants, when so many humans in our country suffer from grinding poverty?" There are many shouts of approval from the ANC and some of the opposition parties. Some of the parties, however, shout in protest and make cat calls. Vorster points specifically at them. Vorster:"It is people such as those honourable members, who think that it is better for humanity to step aside and allow these mutants to lord over us. Animals lord over humans! There is no doubt, and I am sure that you will agree with me, that it is an ab- surd notion." The shouts of protests become even louder. In response, those who are approving shout louder in an attempt to drown out the opposition. The Speaker bangs a wooden hammer and shouts over the microphone. Speaker:"Order! Order!" As this happens, Vorster stops to take a quick sip of his glass of water. Once things have calmed down, he clears his throat and resumes his speech. Vorster:"I emphasize once again: South Africa cannot allow itself to be..." Vorster clears his throat again. Vorster:"... allow itself to..." He again clears his throat, then does it again. He suddenly begins to choke and gag while his face turns pale, much to the consternation of the members of parliament and the Speaker. Speaker:"Minister Vorster, what is...?" Suddenly Vorster collapses next the podium, holding his throat and coughing and gagging loudly. MPs quickly rush over to him to help him. The hall is in chaos as people try to help Vorster. There are shouts for medical help, while some make calls on their cellphones or call their aids. The media, meanwhile, keeps their cameras firmly on the scene before them. Private Ward Groote Schuur Hospital Cape Town 5:56 PM: This is a recovery room for a single patient at the Groote Schuur. The walls and ceiling are white with a light blue tile floor. There is an adjustable bed with some medical equipment and a small table next to it. In the one corner is a television set. The draped window looks out over Cape Town. In the bed is Adriaan Vorster, now in a hospital robe, a respirator over his face and various wires attached to him running to two monitoring machines. Right now he is looking out towards the city. A few minutes later a pair of suit-wearing bodyguards with wires come in, checking to see if the room is security. Moments later, the president comes in with his presidential pet, Shepa the Jack Russell. Vorster turns his head to the president, who comes up to his bed. Shepa stands up on his hind quarters and licks at Vorster's hand. He starts to pet him. President:"How are you now, Adriaan?" Vorster:"Better now, but that experience was horrible. I was sure I was going to die, Mister President." President:"That may have been the case, if the poison dosage you got in was stronger." Vorster is shocked at this statement. Vorster:"Poison?" President:"Yes, poison. It was a deadly one, but you were lucky. Whoever put that poison in misunderstood the dosage needed. It was not enough to kill you." Vorster frowns. Vorster:"Any suspects?" President:"Nothing so far. We are currently questioning the kitchen staff. I've appointed a special investigation team to investigate this incident. Not only that, many in parliament are now hesitant to drink the glasses of water served." Vorster:"It has to be those mutants. They wanted to kill me and bring down our government." President:"They are suspects, those mutants, but right now we should stick with the facts for the moment." Vorster:"I am still sure it was them, Mister President." The president shrugs his shoulders, then speaks again. President:"I called your wife and told her you were fine. I also told her you won't be able to take the flight back to Pretoria with us." Vorster:"Us?" President:"After what happened today, me and most of the ministers decided to follow your example and take a government flight instead of going on the Blue Train. We'd all feel much safer if we did." Vorster:"I agree. Trains are too easy a target for ambushes along the way and provide too many hiding places for terrorists. The flights are much more secure and doesn't cost so much to the taxpayer." The president smiles and nods. He kneels down and picks up Shepa in his arms. President:"That is true. Some of the ministers are a bit disappointed that they will not be able to enjoy the luxuries of the Blue Train." Vorster smiles faintly and nods along. Vorster:"I agree with you on that, Mister President." As this is going on, a staff secretary of the president has been listening in from the doorway nearby. As the conversation begins to drift towards the end, he turns and heads into the hallway. Hallway Groote Schuur Hospital 6:01 PM: This is the hallway that runs through the hospital. The architecture dates to the time of the colonial era. The windows opposite the ward look out into a courtyard. Nurses and doctors walk this way and on their daily routines. The secretary walks a short distance, then takes out a cellphone. He looks around so that he is sure no one is paying attention, then dials a number. He puts the phone to his ear and waits until the call is answer. Once it is, he begins to speak in a soft tone of voice to the person on the other end, all the while making sure no one is paying attention. Secretary(into phone):"Hello, Breyton?... Mhlakaya here. The president and some of the ministers are going on the plane that Vorster was to take.... Vorster? He is in no condition to go until then... Ee, call off the operation... Over and out." The secretary ends the call and quickly puts his cellphone away. He turns and heads back to the ward room. No one pays a second glance at him. Mutant Quarter Kayalitsha Township Cape Town 6:20 PM: This is a shanty town located on the outskirts of Cape Town, though nearly all of the old crude shacks have been replaced by decent, but small, houses. At one part is a single street where all the houses along it belong to the cano-sapiens, felo-sapiens and other non-humans. Large street lamps line the road, while the houses have some gardens out in front. At one of the houses, a male lion-sapien wearing dirty overalls opens the door of his home and steps outside. He looks back inside. Lion:"Keep the steak warm, dear. I'll be back in a moment." A lioness answers from somewhere in the house's kitchen. Lioness(from kitchen):"All right. Don't take too long, Tabamta." The lion steps outside and closer the door behind him. He walks to the gate of the fence around his house, opens it and goes onto the street. He walks down the street towards the only telephone booth (which is a payphone attached to a street lamp). As he walks, from the shadows of a driveway at the end of a street, two individuals are watching him in an old Volkswagen. Both of them have binoculars, and their features show that there are wolf-sapiens. Wolf #1:"That him?" Wolf #2:"Yes, that is the Tabamta b*****d we've been told about. He's the one who's going to use the phone." Wolf #1:"Are you sure about the stuff we put there? Even if it works, won't it also kill others who use the phone?" Wolf #2:"Don't worry. Hildagarde assured me that its effects will fade after an hour or so. Let's just keep an eye on the lion." The two wolves keep their attention focused on the lion. The lion goes to the telephone and picks the up the reciever in his one paw, then begins to push buttons. Suddenly he begin to choke. Second later, he grabs his neck with both paws and starts to gag. His eyes roll into the back of his head and he collapses to his knees. He then falls to the ground and squirms a few moments before going still, his paws still around his neck and his eyes wide open and dead. In the car, the two wolves lower their binoculars, showing their satisfied smiles. Wolf #1:"You were right. That is good stuff." Wolf #2:"Told you so. Let's go before they find out what happened here and inform the general that phase 2 of Operation Gullotine is a success." Wolf #1:"Yeah. Besides, this part of the city is too open for my tastes." The car turns out of the driveway, then goes into one of the streets leaving the quarter, leaving behind the dead lion-sapien at the phone. Peak Top Heksriver Mountains Western Cape 8:31 PM: This is a reasonably flat top amid the peaks of the mountains of the Heksriver Mountain Range. The mountains are rather rocky with regular rock cliffaces visible amid short grass with the occasional bush native to the region. It is dark as night, barring some lights from a town in a valley visible from the peak top. On the peak top there was movement: a group of figures milling about with some heavy equipment. Their shapes against the night sky revealed that they were cano-sapiens. Three of them are carrying large, tube-like objects. The last is apparently looking at the night sky with some binoculars. One of the other cano- sapiens turns to the one next to him. Sapien 1:"How long do we need to stand here, Tanga? The winter nights up here are even worse than in the camps." The one called Tanga turns to answer. Tanga:"As long as we need. We must complete our mission. Unless YOU enjoy watching Vorster systematically destroy our lives." Sapien 1:"Look, I hate him as much as the rest of you. But we've been standing up here for ages, cut off from all communications, waiting for him." The third cano-sapien joins in the conversation. Sapien 2:"Not all communications. There is still Tabamta." Sapien 1:"Ja, but he has not called us so far. And tonight is the night Vorster is to head back to Pretoria." Tanga:"If he has not called, then that means our mission has not been cancelled. We only leave here until he calls, or we kill Vorster." Sapien 1:"If only it wasn't during the tail end of winter that we have to do this." Just then the sapien with the binoculars calls to them while looking at the night sky. Sapien 3:"Fellows! Here comes the plane, on scedule!" The other sapiens quickly react and pick up tubular-shaped objects. They move to the highest point and mountain the objects on their shoulders. As they do so, up in the sky one can see the blinking lights on the wings of the plane which is their target. The sapien with the binculars keeps tabs on the plane as it approaches over the mountains. Sapien 3:"Steady... almost in range..." Tanga and the other sapiens follow the lights, keeping the objects pointed at it. After a few moments the plane is right above the mountains. The sapien with binoculars then gives a thumbs up. Sapien 3:"There! Now!" Tanga:"Take aim... lock on target..." They lock onto the plane. Tanga:"Fire!" Tanga and his companions pull the triggers. The night sky is suddenly lit up as three stinger missiles fly from the launcher tubes on their shoulders. It also shows that Tanga is a Collie, and his friends are a Siamese cat, a bulldog and a zebra. They watch as the three missiles streak towards their target. After a few moments the stingers catch up to it. The three missiles strike the tail and an engine on each wing. The explosions tear apart the tail and wing. It also ignites the almost-full fuel tanks and an instant later the plane is consumed in a massive jet fuel fireball. Back on the mountain, Tanga and his group watch in satisfaction as the flaming wreck plummets towards earth. Tanga:"And with that, Vorster's reign of terror comes to an end." His companions begin to cheer. Suddenly a missle streaks out of the sky and explodes near the cat with the binoculars. The explosion sends the cat screaming over the edge of the mountain. The other duck and drop their launchers. As they look up, three distinct shapes fly directly over their heads: Griffon Fighters. Zebra:"It's the air force! But we were told that there wouldn't be any escorts!" Tanga:"Let's go! We'll figure that out later! Run!" The three of them dash down the mountainside, but it is hard in going, since there are steep cliffs along the path they are taking. The planes circle back and fly towards them. Moments later they open fire with their guns. Tanga ducks down into a gully and avoids the hail of bullets. The screams he hears in the darkness, however, tells him of the fate of his companions. Once the planes pass, he creeps quickly down the gully further into the mountains. Soon he gets into the lower regions where the planes cannot see him. As he climbs further down, the planes fly to where the presidential plane had crashed. Farm Road Heksriver Valley Western Cape 11:24 PM: This is a dirt road running amongst the vinyard fields in a valley in which the Heks(Afrikaans for "Witch")river winds it way through. Dotted here and there are the old French Huegenot farmsteads, some of which have their lights on. They are too far from the road, where a van is parked. Several wolf-sapiens in red camo-uniforms and night goggles stand guard around it holding AK47's. The side door is open, where two figures are seated inside. Another figure comes running towards the van. The soldiers spot him and turn their rifles on him. One of them points a flashlight from a camera at the figure, showing that it is Tanga. Soldier:"Halt!" Tanga stops and waves both paws. Tanga:"It's me, Tanga!" The soldiers nod and lower their AK-47s. Tanga approaches the van, where the two figures turn to look at him. One of them can be seen in the dark as being a wolf-sapien. The other is seated much deeper in the van and one cannot make out who he or she is. Figure 1:"Gutentag, Herr Tanga." Tanga frowns at the figure. Tanga:"We shot down the plane, but I lost my companions. You people said there would not be any escorts." Figure 1:"Zat so? How terrible, ja?" Tanga:"At least their sacrifices were not in vain. Vorster is now well and truely dead." Figure 1:"Not quite, Herr Tanga." Tanga looks up sharply as the figure speaks to a soldier up front. The soldier turns up the volume of the radio he was listening to. Announcer(over radio):"... all indications show that the president and many of the ministers have indeed been killed in an apparent terrorist attack. Authorities have not commented on possible suspects thus. This is the second and more deadly attack on the government following the attempted poisoning of Finance Minister Adriaan Vorster, who is recovering in hospital..." The soldier, at the command of the figure, turns the volume down again. Tanga is complete shock at the radio announcement and looks at the figure. Tanga:"You... he wasn't on the plane...?" Figure 1:"Nein, Herr Tanga. He was in ze hospital in Cape Town." Tanga:"Then... we've failed... but how? Why did you not tell us he was in hospital?" Figure 1:"Because you did not need to know zat." Tanga looks sharply at the figure again. Tanga:"What do you mean?" Figure 1:"Simple, Herr Tanga. Your people found out and told Herr Tabamta about Vorster and was instructed to alert you. Ve could not allow zat, so ve killed him before he could contact you, ja?" Tanga suddenly realizes that he and his companions were both tricked and betrayed. He growls in anger at the figure. Tanga:"You tricked us! This is treachery!" Figure 1:"Nein, this was part of ze plan." Tanga:"The SLA will not stand for this! My commanders will hear of your foul deed!" Figure 1:"Nein, zey won't." The figure snaps his fingers. The soldiers point their AK-47's at Tanga, one of them holding a video camera pointed at him. The figure looks to the one deeper in the van. Figure 1:"A fitting end to ze little puppet, Herr T?" The other figure, Mister T, replies with a soft chuckle. Mister T:"Indeed. Now cut the puppet's strings." Figure 1:"Javol." The figure snaps his finger again. Tanga barks at them all. Tanga:"You sons of..." The soldiers open fire while the one with the camera records the fate of Tanga. The shots echo throughout the valley, causing the lights in almost all the farmsteads to go on. CNN Centre Atlanta, Georgia United States of America 29 August 10:01 AM: This is the interior of the main studio for CNN. An anchorwoman is busy reading a special report bulletin. On a nearby screen is an image of South Africa. Anchor:"... condemned the assassination of the South African president, saying it would simply exasperate the current tensions over the anti-mutant situation. Meanwhile, Adriaan Vorster,..." An image of Vorster replaces the image of South Africa. Anchor:"... who was also the apparent target of an assassination attempt, has taken up the role as caretaker president and appointed a temporary government. During an interview with Melanie Malloy, Vorster said he would take up the role of president for five months, when fresh elections are to be held to vote in a new president, after which he intends to go back to the post of South African Finance Minister." Another image replaces that of Vorster. It shows rescue workers, police and military personnel crawling over the wreckage of the plane. Anchor:"Meanwhile, no group was yet stepped forward to accept respon- sibility for the downing of the flight that carried the South African president. While police have no commented on possible suspects, political experts say that a right-wing mutant group called the Sapien Liberation Army was the only group hostile to the government who had the ability to launch such an attack." She continues to read the news. Conference Room Road Rover Headquarters State of New Mexico United States of America 14 September 9:34 AM: This is a large, domed room with a large, circular table in the middle and a podium for the Master against the one wall. The table has a logo of the Road Rovers on it. There are three doorways, two leading out on either side of the podium and a floodlit doorway at the podium itself. Seated around the table are Unit STRIKE, Tanarus, Elexis, Vicki(who is seated next to Illanov) and the Master. Striker and Phoenix are each holding lists in her hands. The Master looks at Phoenix. Master:"So have you decided on whom you wish to invite to the wedding?" Phoenix:"Strikie and I are still working on it, but we've pretty much have nearly all the names of those who could say they can come. We still need word from a few others, but most of them will be there." Master:"And have you made arrangements for the seats of all those to attend?" Phoenix:"Yes. When we hold our wedding in two months' time at the training grounds in Oregon, everyone will have his or her seat. And have some extra chairs ready in case we get more guests." Shephard:"Speaking of which, sir, what kind of security will there be at the ceremony?" Corsair:"Yeah. It's become almost a tradition here that, whenever there is a wedding amongst us, all the villains will try and take a few shots at us." The Master looks at Shephard. Master:"I have made the needed arrangements. The entire area will be off-limits to everyone except invited guests and staff and even the airspace is ours for that day, curtesy of Cadwell. The local stations will send out broadcasts about it and we will have units patrolling the area to keep out trespassers." Corsair whistles in amazement. Shephard:"Good to hear, sir, though I wouldn't mind some action anyway." The Master chuckles, then turns to Striker. Master:"How about you, Striker? How goes your arrangements?" Striker:"Mostly goed. Shag wil be making most of the food, one of the Rover units have volunteered to be the wedding band, the limo has been arranged and most of the wedding and dining furniture and equipment are ready to be placed on schedule. Oh, and we have arranged for Pastor Wan to preside at our wedding." The Master nods in satisfaction. Master:"Good. You said 'mostly good', though." Striker nods and looks at the list in his paws. Striker:"There are still a few issues that need to be resolved. Firstly, I have not been able to contact the cook who is baking the wedding cake for a few days now. Neither has the florist, in the second case. And lastly we need someone to go look up at the limosines-for-hire firm and and have a look at the car we will be using. I will need to go and see to all of those." Phoenix:"But Strikie, you and I still got to go visit the tailor to get our measurements for the dress and suit." Striker frowns and thinks. Striker:"Ai yai yai. I forgot about that..." Illanov, who is seated next to Striker, pats him on the shoulder. Striker looks at him. Illanov:"No need to worry, comrade. You two can go visit the tailor. We go take care of those others things for you." Vicki:"My husband's right! All of us Rovers are very willing to help you two out to make your special day the best." Elexis, seated next to Phoenix, pats her as well. Elexis:"Just tell us what we need to do and we will do it." Striker and Phoenix smile back at their friends. Striker:"Baie dankie. We appreciate your help." Phoenix:"We are both in your debt." Corsair:"You know, not to burst any cushy bubbles here, but these 'things' that need to be done has the hint of something fishy." Everyone looks at Corsair, who is leaning back in his chair and resting his feet on the table. Master:"What do you mean, Corsair?" Corsair:"Well, the boss has not been able to get a hold of the cook or the florist for a while now. If you asked me, I'd say that, doing what they do best, the bad guys have gotten to them and are setting up traps." Illanov:"You are being suspicious, Yankee." Corsair sneers at Illanov. Corsair:"Really, Red? And you think that the villains wouldn't jump at the chance to get at us? There's lots of folks who want to see the wedding become a funeral, all in one." Before Illanov can reply, Tanarus steps in. Tanarus:"Corsair has a valid point. The wedding is an opportunity for our enemies to attack us while we are vulnerable. The florist and cook might actually be setting us up." Phoenix:"But what about our wedding cake and flowers?" Shephard rises up, saluting at Phoenix. Shephard:"Ma'am, I request that I investigate these suspicious activities and ensure that the flowers and cake are ready on time and to engage and eliminate any hostiles." Phoenix looks at Striker and smiles. Phoenix:"Nice boy, isn't he?" Striker chuckles and looks at Shephard. Striker:"I think you only to go and fight, Shephard, but you are right. You should go to the florist and cook and investigate." Illanov:"Comrade, he might need some help. How about we ask some of the other Rovers to go along? They can help fight off any ambushes by the bad guys." Master:"Good idea. Most of them here for that reason anyway. Go father yourselves some friends and go look into the florist and cook. And while you are at it, you can also have a look at the limo we'll be using." Everyone nods. Tanarus and Elexis get up first. Tanarus:"We'll go to the florist." Illanov stands up along with his wife Vicki. Illanov:"Vicki and I will visit the cook." Striker:"Reg, Alex. And take Corsair with you..." Both Illanov and Corsair are about to protest, but Striker immediately cuts them off. Striker:"... no further excuses." The two of them sigh and then glance at each other with frowns. Shephard then stands up. Shephard:"I will lead a unit to investigate the limosine with your permission, sir." Striker:"Permission granted." Shephard salutes, then leaves the table. The others follow suit and file out of the room, leaving Striker, Phoenix and the Master. The Master looks at the couple. Master:"And you two have an appointment with the tailor." The couple nod, then get up. They approach each other and then take each other's paws, smiling broadly. Striker:"Shall we, Mevrou Phoenix?" Phoenix:"Let's shall, Mister Striker." The couple chuckle, then kiss as they walk off. The Master chuckles as he watches them go, then he picks up their lists. Master:"And I will go and make sure those two love birds haven't skipped anything on their lists." He begins to go through the lists. Throne Room Unknown Location At That Moment: The figure at the throne is still sitting there, looking at the bank of monitors. Next to the throne is a pile of papers consisting of reports, files and other documents. Another figure is standing at the base of the podium, waiting patiently as the other watches a screen showing a news reporter with the countryside of Oregon State as his background. Reporter(on screen):"No details were provided regarding when or even who will be attending the wedding of the two Rovers. What is certain that security will be very strict and that no one without any special invitation will be allowed to attend the ceremony. This is Greg Berdett for..." The figure on the throne hits a button on the remote control he is holding to mute the sound. He then looks down at the figure, who's reflection against the glow of the screens indicate he is a wolf- sapien. Figure:"Seems the information your commander provided me is proving to be accurate, Mister T." The wolf-sapien, Mister T, nods. Mister T:"Like I told you before, general, our information is accurate and reliable. And our assistance to your organization can be invaluable." Figure:"It already is. I've found out all about Striker's wedding plans from what you have given me. Now, are you sure about the other factions that might try to disrupt the wedding?" Mister T:"All but that of the GONV. They still remain enigmatic, but there is a good chance they, too, would make a strong attempt at assault. As for the others, their plans are already in motion." Figure:"What are their chances of success?" Mister T:"Judging from their previous attempts, the chances are low that would be anything more than just a disruption in the flow of events." The figure leans back, holding paws together and pressing his fingers against one another. Figure:"So you think they will all just fail miserably?" Mister T:"Very likely, though someone or something MIGHT get lucky." The figure thinks it over. Figure:"Can we perhaps help increase their chances?" Mister T:"You could send some of your own forces to assist if need be. And Comrade Leader has already begun working to aid those hostile to Striker. With our assistance, they will be more likely to succeed." The figure thinks it over, then his grin can be seen through the screens' reflection on his fangs. Figure:"So be it! You tell your leader to do what he can to bring down Striker or cause him pain and suffering. Be sure that he pays for what he has done to me!" Mister T nods. Mister T:"So be it, General." The figure on the throne begins to laugh in a maniacal manner, his laughter echoing through the throne room. Mister T takes this chance to turn around and walk out of the throne room, leaving the figure with his insane cackle. Escort Limosine Services Downtown Portland State of Oregon 11:31 AM: The Escort Limosine Services is a business located on the border between Portland's commercial area and the industrial zone. It consists of a large two-story building that resembles a warehouse. Next to it is a large concrete lot where various kinds of stretch limosines were parked. They ranged from typical stretches to Hummers and very long limos. Banners wave from lamp posts around the lot, while a large sign with the business' name rotates on a pole by the gate in the fence. The Street Rover comes driving up the street and pulls in through the gate to stop. Shephard, Rally, Marauder and Cody climb out of the Street Rover. As they close the door, Cody looks around at all of the limos. Cody:"Wow. I wouldn't mind owning one of these rides." Rally:"Not me. They don't look like they could break the speed limits." Marauder:"Nope, but they sure will break your bank account." The three of them chuckle. Just then the owner comes walking out wearing a very expensive suit. He looks about at the group. Owner:"Hello, gentlemen! How can you today?" They all turn to the owner. Shephard walks up to him, taking out a folded piece of paper. Shephard:"Yes, sir. We're here to take a look at a limosine we are hiring for a wedding." The owner rubs his hands together with a big smile on his face. Owner:"Excellent! Which car did you service for this wonderful occasion?" Shephard unfolds the paper and holds it out to the owner. Shephard:"All the details are on this form, sir." The owner nods and takes the paper from Shephard and starts to read it. As he reads it, his smile disappears from his face and eyes become some- what bewildered. He looks up again at Shephard and tries to recover his happy attitude, but gets it half-right. Owner:"Er... yes. I have the vehicle ready. Let me just go and get it." Shephard:"Thank you, sir." The owner quickly turns around and walks back to the main building. As Shephard joins the others, they start talking. Rally:"Was it just me, or did the owner suddenly become less happy as soon as he read that paper?" Cody:"He was acting funny all of a sudden." Marauder:"There's something funny going on." Shephard:"We were told that the possibilities of hostile encounters are very likely, so we'd best keep our eyes open, sirs." Just then one of the garage doors in the building opens. They all turn to look and see a white stretch limo drive out onto the lot. The owner walks next to it. Both the limo and owner stop by the group. Owner:"Here you are, sirs. The stretch limosine you reserved for your wedding ceremony." They all look it over. Rally:"Definitely not a sports car." Cody:"But's it got the luxury to make up for it." The owner opens the rear door and offers them entrance. Owner:"Perhaps you gentlemen would like to first try out our conveyence? The driver can take you for a quick drive so that you can give it a try." Shephard looks at the others. Shephard:"What do you think, sirs?" Cody:"I would love a ride in one of these babies!" Rally:"I don't know. That owner is acting suspiciously." Marauder:"I'd love a ride in the limo, but Rally is right. That owner does not seem to be all right. I'd say we should watch out." Shephard:"Okay, sirs. We go on a ride, but we keep ready to act in case we are engaged by hostiles. They would be hoping for the ele- ment of surprise, so if we are alert we can take it away." Rally:"Sounds good to me." Marauder:"Me too." Cody:"Same here." Shephard turns to the owner and nods. Shephard:"Very well, sir. We will test this vehicle to see if it meets our requirements." The owner smiles nervously and again offers the open door. Owner:"Then climb in. My driver will handle the rest." Cody is the first to climb in, followed by Rally, Marauder and lastly Shephard. Just before Shephard climbs in, the owner stops him. Owner:"Excuse me, sir. The papers." He holds out the paper Shephard gave him earlier. Shephard takes the paper and folds it up again. Shephard:"Thank you, sir." Owner:"You are welcome, good customer." Shephard puts the paper away, then climbs in. The owner closes the door and then pats on the roof twice to signal the driver. The driver puts the limo into gear and drives to the gate. After checking that traffic is clear, the limo goes onto the road and drives off. As it goes onto the road, 3 green station wagons drive out from a nearby fuel station and after the limosine. Industrial Zone Portland 11:47 AM: The industrial zone of Portland is a skyline of factory chimnies, oil towers, storage tanks, manufacturing plants, warehouses and disposal plants. The sky is a slight orange colour from the smoke coming from the factories. The limosine is driving through the streets, passing trucks and delivery vehicles. Not too far behind the station wagons kept following. Inside the limosine Shephard, Rally, Marauder and Cody were trying out the luxuries of the limosine. Marauder is looking at the built-in television set with DVD player. Marauder:"Hmmm. Linda and I could enjoy sitting here watching movies while being driven around." Cody meanwhile, is busy checking out a small refrigerator, also built in. He takes out a can of cola. Cody:"Now this is my kind of ride. Free drinks." He opens the can and takes a sip. Rally is moving about, getting a feel for the seats. Rally:"Not bad seats. Nice and comfortable." Shephard:"So far this vehicle seems to meet the requirements for the wedding." Marauder:"More than that. I think it surpasses it." Cody:"Ditto." Rally then notices two of the station wagons pulling up alongside the limosine. Rally:"Uh, guys. Those two station wagons on either side of us..." The others quickly turn to look at the vehicles on either side of their limo. Marauder:"What the heck is going on?" Cody:"They don't look friendly..." Suddenly the windows of the two station wagons are rolled down, revealing some gangster holding ingram submachine guns in their hands. They lean out and take aim at the limo. The Rovers' eyes widen. Shephard:"Take cover!" All four of them immediately duck down onto the floor as the gangsters open fire. The windows are immediately blown apart while holes are blown into the sides of the limo. Holes are also blown into the uphol- stry of the seats. Cody:"And they don't act friendly, either!" Shephard quickly shouts out to the driver. Shephard:"Driver! Try to loose them?" The driver up front, however, just keeps driving calmly down the street while the gangsters keep on firing on the limosine. He looks into the rearview mirror. Driver:"Faster, sir? I'm afraid not. I'm not paid to drive faster." Shephard then swears out loud, pulling out his Desert Eagle. Shephard:"Crap! Our driver is a hostile too!" Rally:"I knew there was something fishy going here!" Marauder:"Now what?" Shephard:"Now we do this: Rally, you go up front and get rid of the driver and take the wheel! The rest of us, cover him!" Rally, Cody and Marauder all nod. Marauder and Cody take out their weapons and ready them. Shephard then quickly comes up as the gangsters reload and fire a few shots at the driver. The bullets crack holes into the windshield, but miss the driver. The station wagon slows down to take cover. Marauder and Cody then open fire on the other station wagon when the gangsters also reload. It, too, falls back to allow the gangsters to finish reloading. Rally takes this chance and goes up to the shield seperating him from the driver. The driver sneers at him, but Rally responds by shooting out an energy blast from his one paw. The blast cracks the shield, startling the driver. Rally repeats the attack and manages to blow a big hole into the shield. The driver then tries to reach for a pistol, but Rally grabs his hair. The driver shouts in pain. Rally then hits the driver's head on the wheel, knocking him unconcious. Rally pushes the driver off to the passenger side, then climbs in behind the wheel and takes control. About that time the two station wagons pull up again and the gangsters open fire. Shephard, Cody and Marauder duck down to avoid the bullet hail. Rally looks around and sees an open gate leading into a steel mill. He turns the limo in front of the one station wagon, heading for the gate. The station wagon swerves out of the way into a fire hydrant. The limo goes into the yard, followed by the two other station wagons. Steel Mill Industrial Zone 11:53 AM: This is a compound consisting of large brick buildings, chimneys, conveyor belts and piles of steel products. Workers are going about, doing their jobs, while smoke rise from the chimneys. Some of the workers dash out of the way as the limosine, followed by the station wagons, go through the yards. The gangsters fire at the limo, while Marauder, Cody and Shephard fire back. As the Rovers duck back for cover, Shephard looks at the others. Shephard:"Aim for their tires!" Marauder and Cody nod, reloading their weapons. Once the gangsters stop to reload, they all appear and open fire. This time, they fire at the wheels of the station wagons. Cody gets lucky and blows out both the front wheels of one of the wagons. The driver of the vehicle loses control and skids into a piled heap of steel pipes. The impact causes the pipes to break loose and roll onto the station wagon with an incredibly loud noise. After a few moments, the station wagon is trapped under the pipes and workers rush to get the gangster out (and taking their guns as well). The Rovers duck for cover again. Marauder:"Nice shot, Cody!" Cody grins, reloading again. Meanwhile, the gangsters in the other station wagon get the same idea and fire at the wheels of the limo. They manage to blow out one of the rear wheels. The limo swerves badly, but Rally manages to straighten it a bit. However, he smashes through the glass windows of the main foundry, still not having full control of the limo. Rally:"They got our rear tire!" Marauder digs out his Rover bazooka. Marauder:"I'll take care of this lot. Open up the sun roof." Cody reaches for the buttons that control the sun roof. He pushes one and the sun roof opens up. Marauder waits until the gangsters reload again, then stands up through the sun roof and takes aim. The driver sees him with the bazooka and, in panic, swerves to try and dodge the shot. But in the process he ends up smashing against a bunch of parked forklifts. Marauder then notices a large crane carrying a piece of sewer pipe above the station wagon. He fires a rocket at the crane. The rocket hits the crane and blows it apart. The massive pipe falls down towards the vehicles below. The gangsters duck down as the pipe smashes their vehicle, collapsing the roof and bending the doors to trap them inside. Marauder ducks back down. Marauder:"That's put them out of action." Cody:"And it looks like we got the lot of them off our tail." Shephard:"I think we should go and interrogate the limosine owner about this business, sirs. He looks like he knew about this." Marauder:"It does look that way, doesn't it? Let's go and have a word with him." Cody reaches forward and pats Rally's shoulder. Cody:"Hey, bud. Think our ride can reach the spot where we left?" Rally:"It will be tricky with one tire, but I'm good at driving so I say we can get there." Rally starts to drive the limosine towards the gate of the steel mill. Suddenly a the limosine lifts into the air and makes a loud "CLANK" against something on the roof. Cody:"Hey! What gives?" Marauder looks out through the sun roof. A giant magnet has taken hold of the limosine and is lifting it up into the air. He looks around and spots the gangster from the first station wagon on the crane, operating the crane's magnet. He ducks back down. Marauder:"It's those gangsters we left outside the mill. They've gotten hold of us with a big magnet." Cody quickly looks outside and sees that the limosine is being taken to a large tank of molten steel just outside the main foundry. Cody:"Guys! They're gonna drop us into that melted steel there!" Shephard leans out the window and examines the crane holding them. He looks at it for a few moments, then quickly ducks back in. He glances at Marauder. Shephard:"Sir, do you still have some rockets?" Marauder:"Five of them." Shephard:"Think you can hit the crane's counterweights?" Marauder thinks for a moment, then reloads his bazooka. Shephard moves out of the way for Marauder, who leans out the window and takes aim at a block of concrete that acts as counterweight. He fires rocket at the block. The block explodes into chunks of concrete. The crane starts to groan under the weight a bit, but keeps firm. Marauder ducks back to reload, while Cody eyes the molten steel that they were quickly coming closer to. Cody:"Better hurry! We're gonna be turned into hot dogs soon!" Marauder finishes reloading and leans out again. He fires another shot at the cracked block. The rocket hits the block. The block, already weakened from the first impact, is blown apart completely. The crane, no longer able to keep up the weight of its front part, the magnet and the limosine, starts to bend at the foot. The steel griders bend and then snap and the power wires running up the tower break as the tower starts to topple forward. With the loss of power, the magnet drops the limosine with a loud crash onto the ground. The Rovers are thrown about inside, but Rally quickly recovers to get the limosine into gear and driving away from the crane. Workers scramble out of the way as the crane crashes down upon the rolls of steel cables in a storage yard. A large cloud of smoke is kicked up as the tower lands with a resounding and loud crash. Rally guides the badly damaged limosine out of the steel mill yard. Cody pats Marauder. Cody:"Great shots!" Marauder grins, relaxing on the bullet hole-riddled seats. Marauder:"Thanks. How about passing me a soda?" Shephard:"Same here, sir." Cody:"Gladly!" Cody reaches into the fridge and pulls out some sodas. As he opens them and paws them to the others, Rally begins to drive the limosine back to the limosine dealership. Escort Limosine Services Downtown Portland 12:01 PM: Everything is still normal here. The owner is pacing up and down near his office, biting his fingernails nervously. He then hears a vehicle drive in and turns to look. His eyes widen in shock at the sight of the damaged limosine and his face drains of colour. He runs towards the limo. Owner:"My limo! My priceless limo! Oh, look at the damage!" As he approaches the driver's side of the car, the door flies open and knocks him onto his back. Rally climbs out, followed moments later by Shephard, Cody and Marauder. The owner recovers and stands up, looking really frightened. Owner:"Oh! Sirs!... Er... I'm glad to see you all... Um... had a good ride...?" The Rovers just frown at him. Shephard wastes no time and walks up to the other. Grabbing him by the front of his suit, Shephard hoists him into the hair and holds his desert eagle against his chest. Shephard:"Right. You had better talk, because we think you had some- thing to do with all of this!" Owner:"I swear! I didn't plan all this! They paid me to give you a limo with one of them as a driver! That's all! I swear it!" Shephard:"Who is this 'they'?" Owner:"Some of those mercenary types! You know! The ones on TV!" Rally:"Sounds like the Mayhem Mercenaries." Owner:"Yeah, that's them!" Shephard puts his pistol away, then drops the owner roughly on the ground. Shephard:"Now then, sir, where is the limo we are renting. And no more surprises!" The frightened owner gets up and quickly points at a light pink limosine by the main office door. It is very clean and luxurious and state of the art. Shephard looks at the others. Shephard:"Do we test drive it, sirs?" Rally:"I don't mind, but I'm driving this time." Cody:"No complaints from me." Marauder:"Yeah. Same with me." The four of them walk towards the limosine, leaving the owner to wipe his face with a cloth. Owner:"That does it. No more cheating on my customers. It's just not worth it." He leans on a stretch hummer, watching as the Rovers get into their rented limosine and prepare to test drive it. West Coast Botany Company Business District San Francisco State Of California 1:03 PM: The West Coast Botany Company (WCBC) is a two-story, white walled building with greenhouses on the top level and on the adjacent lots. Plants are growing everywhere, with a large portion of the building covered with creepers. Flowers are in bloom everywhere, particularly behind the office windows and greenhouses. In the company's multistory parking lot just accross the street (which is connected by an enclosed walkway), the TurboJet Rover comes flying over the city and lands so that it takes up a good portion of the top level space. Once the engines are turned off and the walkway is lowered Illanov, Vicki, Corsair, Shepherd, Safi and Chomar disembark. Safi looks over at the company offices across the street. Safi:"They sure are big on flowers." Shepherd:"That's why it's a florist business, Safi." Safi looks at Shepherd, her eyes narrowing a bit. Chomar steps in at that point. Chomar:"The Master said something about bad guys being here at the florist business?" Illanov:"Not as such, comrade, but we are to be on the alert. The bad guys tend to be very active during one of our weddings." Vicki:"Especially big ones like that of Striker and Phoenix." Shepherd:"Well, I say bring them on! I'm ready for a fight." Safi glances at Shepherd. Safi:"Oh? I thought it was always play with you." Shepherd glances back at Safi. Corsair watches the two of them curiously. Corsair:"Do I detect a hint of something between you two?" The two anatolian shepherds immediately look away from one another and shake their heads. Safi:"Something between us? No way!" Shepherd:"Yeah! We're just... discussing how we do... um... combat... yeah." Corsair shrugs his shoulders, not really convinced. Corsair:"Whatever. Can we go fetch the flowers now?" Illanov:"If it will stop your whining, then dah." Corsair just "Hmpfs!" as Illanov begins to lead the group onto the walkway and across to the office building of the WCBC. As they do, on the rooftops of the surrounding buildings there is the sound of mechanical movement. They enter the reception area, which is posh and clean as well as boasting a large variety of flowers. Nearby is the desk of the woman receptionist, behind her is the insignia of the company. He looks up from her computer at the Rovers. Receptionist:"Ah. Hello and welcome to the West Coast Botany Company. How may I help you?" Illanov walks up to the receptionist and nods. Illanov:"Greetings, comrade. I'm here to find out about the order we placed for some flowers for a wedding." Receptionist:"Ah. You're with those Road Rovers, right?" Illanov(nodding):"Dah." Receptionist:"Let me call Madame Peebody. She is the one you will want to see." Illanov nods as the receptionist picks up a phone and makes a call. It her a few moments to call Madame Peebody. She then puts the phone and looks at the Rovers. Receptionist:"Madame Peebody will meet you in the main lobby. Please go right on it and she'll meet you there." Illanov:"Thank you, comrade." Illanov leads the group past reception into the lobby. It is a square room, of which two sides have windows looking out at the San Francisco harbour and Golden Gate bridge. Comfortable couches are here, along with some vending machines and even more flower pots. They all sit down on the couches. Shepherd sniffs the air. Shepherd:"Smells kinda flowery." Safi takes a big sniff of the air, a smile on her face. Safi:"Ah. So nice a smell. I like this place." Chomar sniffs the air as well. Chomar:"This place is certainly big on flowers." Vicki:"Oh yes. That's why we always come here for flowers for weddings and other special occasions." Just then Madame Peebody comes in. She is an English woman with a thin body and uptight bearing. Her red hair is tied in a ball behind her head and is wearing a dress with flower patterns on it. She comes up to the group and notices Illanov at once. Peebody:"Ah, Mister... Illanov, if my memory serves me right?" Illanov stands up and offers his paw. Illanov:"Dah, Comrade Peebody." Peebody takes his paw and shakes it quickly. Peebody:"Just Madame Peebody, if you would, Mister Illanov." Illanov:"Dah, Madame Peebody." Both he and Peebody take their seats on the couches. Peebody:"Now, I assume you are here regarding that order of fine white roses, lilies and the special boquet botany?" Illanov:"Dah, Madame." Peebody:"And I assume you have seen the photographs we sent you of what we have taken?" Illanov frowns. Illanov:"Which photographs?" Peebody:"Why, the ones we sent to you via e-mail. You did recieve it, correct?" Illanov frowns some more and thinks. As he does, Shepherd takes this chance to speak. Shepherd:"Do those photos come from your catalogue books?" Peebody rolls her eyes. Peebody:"Pah. We at this company always ensure that the photographs our customers recieve are that of the flowers they will be getting, unlike some other so-called 'nurseries' who send out photographs of fresh flowers that have probably wilted into worthless weeds. We insist on the highest quality at this business." Shepherd:"Oh. I guess that makes things more expensive." Peebody:"A bit, but the quality we offer makes it much more worth while." At this point Illanov turns to Peebody. Illanov:"Neyt, Madame. We haven't recieved any e-mails from your company." Peebody is somewhat surprised. Peebody:"None? But the address is mainhydrant@roadrovers.org?" Illanov:"Dah, that is correct." Peebody:"Perhaps it was blocked by your junk mail filter?" Illanov(shaking head):"Neyt, Madame. We made especially sure that all e-mails from your specific business comes through to us." Corsair:"I think perhaps the main admin computer's junk filter might have a bug or virus. I'll have a check on it." Peebody:"Well, that does not matter. I can take you up to the green- houses and show you your orders first hand." Illanov:"That would be very welcoming, Madame." Peebody gets up and the group gets up after her. Peebody:"Please follow me." Vicki:"Lead the way, Madame." As the group starts to leave, however, the sound of high-powered engines get their attention. They all turn to look out at the one just in time to see a GONV blackbird transport fly into their field of view and up to the windows with its cargo hatch. The group's eyes widen. Corsair:"Oh crap! It's Matrix's gang!" Illanov:"Take cover!" Most of the group duck behind the couches while Peebody runs off towards her office. Safi remains on her feet and is using her telekinesis ability to lift up one of the vending machines. The blackbird's hatch flies open and smashes the window, revealing a gang of light drones with laser rifles and laser shotguns. One drone points at the group. Light Drone:"Primary objectives sighted. Engage and terminate." The drones prepare to open fire and disembark, but Safi tosses the vending machine at them. The machine flies with great speed into the drones, smashing them into the back of blackbird. The impact forces back the transport away from the building. It then flies off. The others come out from behind the cover of the couches. Shepherd goes over and pats Safi's shoulder. Shepherd:"Quick thinking." Safi:"Shows just what I can do, doesn't it?" Shepherd just shrugs and smirks. Corsair runs over to the window and looks outside. Down below he can see several parked warhorses and batle vipers. Light, heavy and combat drones are getting off and storming the building. Corsair quickly looks up back at the others. Corsair:"Guys! The streets are packed with drones! We're being sieged here!" Suddenly a laser shot from a terminator drone's E-14 rifle hits Corsair in the hip. He shouts out in pain and jumps away from the window. Illanov:"Snipers!" Chomar dashes over and helps Corsair away from the window as more sniper fire comes from the buildings around them. Vicki looks at Illanov. Vicki:"Now I see why those e-mails never came through, dear. The GONV must have blocked them so that we could come here, right into a trap." Illanov:"Dah. And we had better hold them off. Out with our weapons!" As the Rovers get out their weapons, the receptionist can be heard screaming from beyond the lobby. They turn towards the source of the scream. A squad of light drones come in, lead by battle drones that are acting as robot shields. The battle drones open up their laser chainguns while the light drones fire from behind. The Rovers quickly duck behind the couches for cover. Shepherd peeks around the side and notices the light drones are carrying high-energy grenades. Focusing his telekineses powers, he pushes the button on one of the grenades. The grenade gives a high-pitched whine as it is turned on. The light drone with the grenade detects the whine and tries to get rid of the grenade. Just as it is about to throw it, the grenade detonates in a burst of powerful energy. The explosion destroys the light drones and knock the battle drones forward onto the floor. Illanov leads the others out of the cover and open fire on the damaged battle drones before they can recover and get up. The hostile fire damages the drones beyond repair. Once done the group quickly take a breather. Shepherd:"That was fun." Vicki:"Yeah, but I'll bet there are still more of these bots coming our way." Just then Madame Peebody comes in holding a smoking shotgun. She runs up to them. Peebody:"Those horrible robots are landing on the roof and trampling all over the flowers! I need help!" Illanov quickly turns to Shepherd, Safi and Chomar. Illanov:"You three stay here and hold fort against further attacks and look after the American." Safi:"Which one?" Illanov points at Corsair, who is still behind a couch holding his injured hip. He shakes his head and mumbles something. Illanov and Vicki follow Peebody out of the lobby while Safi, Shepherd and Chomar start to make fortified positions in the lobby. Vicki and Illanov are lead to a stairwell, where two injured security guards are trying to keep more light drones at bay. Illanov quickly jumps in and fires a blast from his plasma rifle that knocks back two drones. Vicki taps Illanov. Vicki:"I'll draw their fire! Get ready to move!" Before Illanov can even protest, his wife leaps into the air and flies up the stairs. She grabs a light drone by the neck and flies into the sky, while the other drones fire at her as they disembark from two more blackbirds landed on the roof. Down the stairwell, Illanov leads a rush up the stairs to quickly take out the distracted drones. Vicki notices a terminator drone on a nearby rooftop firing down at police cars that have gathered in great numbers in the surrounding streets. She looks down at the struggling drone she is carrying. Vicki:"You friend looks like he could use your company." She swoops down towards the terminator drone and releases the light drone she is holding. The momentum of the light drone causes it to smash into the terminator drone and send flying over the edge to fall towards the ground below. She then hears machine gun fire and looks up to see a SWAT helicopter hovering overhead. It's engine is smoking as a group of 3 terminator drones focus their fire on it. Vicki:"Uh oh. The boys in blue need some help." She swoops towards the drones again. One of them stops shooting the chopper to take aim and fire on her. The shot glaces her shoulder, but she goes on despite the wound. She quickly flies into the drone before it can fire another shot and grabs hold of it's E-14 rifle. She and the drone struggle for control of it. The second terminator breaks fire to try and aim at Vicki while the third keeps on firing at the helicopter. The SWAT officers in the helicopter take this chance and fire at the second drone. Bullets smash into its head and body, sending sparks flying and the bot shuddering down onto the floor. Vicki and the drone keep struggling for the rifle. She then spots a nearby furnace chimey and grins. She starts to drag the drone towards it. When she reaches it, she doubles in under the drone and lifts it over her and into the chimney. Terminator Drone:"High temperatures detected. Avoi..." The drone's voice quickly fades as it plummets down the chimney. Vicki smiles in satisfaction, then quickly flies off to fight more of the snipers. Down on the rooftop of the WCBC, Illanov and the security guards with him are succeeding in destroying the light drones on the rooftop between the greenhouses. The now-empty blackbirds take off and fly out into the city. The one guard watches them go. Guard:"Looks like we beat them back!" Just then another blackbird appears and starts to land. The hatch opens and some kamikaze drones start to jump out of the transport. Illanov's eyes widen in surprise. Illanov:"Bolshoi!" Suddenly a missile smashes into the side of the transport and explodes. The detonation of the missile triggers a chain reaction amongst the kamikaze drones still onboard and a massive explosion sends out a shock wave that knocks Illanov and the guards to the ground while sending the drones that had gotten off flying over the edge. One of those drones falls into the middle of a battle viper and explodes, blasting the machine into half. The explosion also blows out all the glass in the greenhouses. Once the explosion clears and Illanov recovers enough, he looks through the smoke of the burning blackbird wreckage to see some Longbow Apaches approaching the battle zone. From down below Chomar comes up as Illanov helps up one of the guards to his feet. Chomar:"Hey, Alex! The drones are starting to pull back!" Illanov:"I know, comrade. I can see some of our comrades in the air force coming to our rescue." Chomar then notices the incoming Apaches and grins. Chomar:"Good ol' USAF." In the streets the remaining drones board the vehicles and transports and flee through police barricades away from the scene while blackbirds ferry the last terminator drones off the roofs. One of them gets shot down by an Apache and crashes onto the roof in a flaming wreck. Vicki lands next to Illanov, holding her bleeding shoulder. Vicki:"You all right, dear?" Illanov then notices her wound and quickly takes out a hankerchef. Illanov:"Dah, but you need something for that wound." Vicki starts to protest, but this time it is her turn to be cut short as Illanov quickly wraps the cloth around his wound security. She smiles and kisses his cheek. Vicki:"Thanks, honey." Illanov smiles at her. Just then Madame Peebody comes up to the roof, closely followed by police and SWAT officers. As the officers move to secure the rooftop, Peebody groans at the sight of the damage to her greenhouses. Peebody:"Ugh, what a horrible mess! Those robotic barbarians completely ruined the entire aura of my premises." Vicki and Illanov stare at each other, then at Peebody. Illanov:"Anyone hurt?" Peebody:"What? Oh! A few of my guards are hurt, but nothing bad. What I'm more worried about are all the flowers." She sighs. Peebody:"My insurance agent will probably faint at the sight of all this damage." She then remembers something and turns to the couple. Peebody:"But this does not mean that you will be getting your orders. We here at the West Coast Botany Company ensure that our customers get what they need, come rain or shine." The couple can only chuckle. Vicki:"It's all business, no matter what?" Madame Peebody pulls herself upright with pride and dignity. Peebody:"Naturally. That is what being in business is all about." The couple just smile and shake their heads. Some paramedics come running up to begin treating Vicki and the two guards. Apache helicopters fly directly overhead with the SWAT chopper landing on a nearby roof. News choppers now hover over the area as well while Madame Peebody goes to look at the damage to her greenhouses. Booswa Catering Service Seattle State of Washington 2:11 PM: The Booswa Catering Service is a three-story white-walled building in the business district of Seattle, not far from the Space Needle. To the rear of the building is a large parking lot, while on top is a helipad and a sign with the company's name on it. The Sky Rover comes and lands on the empty helipad. Once the rotors come to a stop Tanarus, Elexis, Shag, Ace and Catman climb out onto the helipad. Ace looks over at Shag. Ace:"So this is the business you come to for all our catering, Shag?" Shag nods his head. Shag:Rhes." Ace:"From what I heard Booswa doesn't like doing cano or felo weddings." Shag mumbles something. Catman looks at Ace. Catman:"What does he say?" Ace:"He says that Booswa often cries like a baby whenever we ask him for his service and sometimes even tries to run away." Elexis:"Well, this time he won't have to worry. We're going be asking the manager of his west coat offices for our wedding catering. I heard he is more accommodating than Booswa." Tanarus:"We'll see. Let's first go and meet him." Everyone else nods, letting Shag lead the way as they head for the main entrance to the building. Parked some distance down a street from the office building is a flatbed truck with a canopy on top. It is faced away from the building and the sail at the back is closed up. Just peeking out from between the sails was a pair of binoculars. Whispered voices can be heard behind the sails. Very familiar voices. Voice 1:"Do you see them?" Voice 2:"Aye, my general. Six of them, one of them that big white hairy one." Voice 3:"Refresh my mind as to why we are here? We've been hiding in this truck wearing the prisoner overalls we got in prison." Voice 4:"Or the straightjacket, in your case, from Sunnyvale." Voice 3:"Don't remind me." Voice 5:"Is Dylan there?" Voice 2:"Who?" Voice 5:"You know! Same fur as mine, floppy ears, blue shirt and jeans." Voice 2:"Oh, no. None of them look like him." Voice 5:"Then what am I doing here with you?" Voice 1:"Because I told you! And besides, we can easily rat you to the authorities." Voice 4:"And get the reward money too." Voice 3:"Heh. What a bonus." Voice 5:"Fine! But watch it! I'll rat you guys out just as easily as you would me." Voice 1:"Glad to see we are on the same level." Voice 2:"So what will be do now, general?" Voice 1:"This is the plan. Listen up." There is the sound of softer whispers, hard to hear from the outside amid the din of traffic. Inside the office building, the group has come into a spacious lobby, with a receptionist desk in front of a giant logo of the company. The receptionist looks up from her work and immediately recognizes Shag. Receptionist:"Ah, Mister Shag. It's good to see you." Shag nods and mumbles at her. Receptionist:"Mister Desaix? He's in his office. Shall I notify him that you're here?" Shag nods and mumbles some more. Receptionist:"Right away. Please wait a moment." The receptionist picks up the phone and makes a call, while the group goes and sits on the sofas provided for the guests. Catman picks up a magazine lying on a small table next to the sofa and looks at the cover. Catman:"Booswa Monthly?" Ace:"What?" Ace leans over and looks at the cover, which shows a photo of a smiling Pierre Booswa on it. Ace:"Since when does a company chief have his own magazine?" Elexis:"From what I've heard he is on every cover of his magazine." Shag mumbles his agreement. Catman puts the magazine back on the table. Catman:"I don't really people who have such huge egos." Tanarus:"Neither do I, but his service is still good." Ace:"About the only thing keeping him IN business." The receptionist finishes her call and looks back at the group. Receptionist:"The boss will now see you, Mister..." She suddenly gasps and screams, running from her desk. The group look confused, then suddenly hear the sound of an engine coming from outside. They look back at the entrance and can see the flatbed truck bearing down on them. Tanarus:"Watch out!" Everyone quickly jumps off and behind the sofas as the truck smashes into the door and through the lobby, sending glass shards flying through the air while a burglar alarm goes off. The truck smashes into the reception- ists' desk and crushes it against the wall. Once the truck comes to a stop, the Rovers all come up, weapons ready. Shag, however, is the only except in that he is cowering behind the sofa. Tanarus takes the first peek over the edge of the sofa. The sail on the back of the truck has been pulled down. Standing on the back are Parvo, Groomer, Storm, Havoc Skeam and Jake. Storm is wearing his white psyciatric patient pajamas, while everyone else is wearing bright orange prison overalls. All six of them are carrying either sledgehammers or fire axes. Tanarus looks at the grinning Parvo, growling. Tanarus:"Parvo. I should have known." Parvo:"Yes, Parvo." The other Rovers come up to take a peek at the villains. Ace:"Well, what do you know? Here's Boots." Parvo quickly whirls around at Ace, an angry look on his face, while Storm, Havoc, Skeam and Jake snicker at his expense. Parvo:"My name is NOT Boots! I hate that name!" Catman:"How did you lot escape from captivity?" Storm puffs himself up, trying to make himself look important. Storm:"Well, my experience in the Gulf War was not a small factor in our escape." Havoc rolls his eyes. Havoc(sarcastic):"And here I was thinking it was because somebody on the outside hired some mercenaries to break us out." Storm glares at Havoc. Groomer then steps in at that point to answer Catman's question. Groomer:"If you would really like to know, someone on the outside bribed the guards of our cells to help us escape. In exchange we are to help destroy the upcoming wedding of your friends." Tanarus:"Who is this 'someone'?" Groomer shrugs. Groomer:"We don't know, and we don't care." Parvo:"That's right. All we are here for is to get even with you fur bags for putting us behind bars. Like SO!" Parvo suddenly jumps off the track, swinging his fire axe down at Tanarus in front of him. Tanarus quickly lifts his legs and kicks at Parvo. The impact doesn't knock him back, but it stops his descend and interrupts his swing. Storm, Havoc, Groomer and Skeam jump off immediately after Parvo, each going after a Rover. Jake, however, remains behind and watches the battle unfold. Jake:"While they keep the Rovers busy, I'll make my way out of here..." He jumps off the back of the truck, keeping close and out of sight. Skeam has pinned Catman to the floor, who is unable unable to get hold of the bow on his back. Skeam raises the sledge hammer he is holding above his head. Skeam:"Let's see how kitty likes a little headache!" Catman gets an idea. He moves his tail so that it's tip tickles Skeam's nose. Skeam's eyes immediately begin to water and his nose starts twitching from the tail's tickling. Skeam:"Oh no... I ... hate... cat haaaaaiiiii...ATCHOOO!" As Skeam sneezes and steps back in the process, Catman sits up and quickly lands two quick punches. One knocks out the air from his lungs and the other right between the legs. Skeam gasps and grabs his groin, then tumbles over onto the floor. Catman gets up, pulls out his bow and puts his foot down on Skeam's head. Catman:"You should watch out when taking on the big cats." Meanwhile, Ace is backing away from Havoc, who is swinging his fire axe at him. A few tears in his t-shirt show that Havoc has gotten close a few times. Suddenly Ace cannot retreat any further as he is pressed against a wall next to a fire extinguisher. Havoc:"This time you can't get away!" In a final attempt to save his fur, Ace grabs the fire extinguisher and holds in the path of Havoc's axe swing. The force of the swing causes the axe to make a large puncture cut in the extinguisher. Immediately the carbon dioxide inside the extinguisher gushes out in a white cloud that engulfs Havoc. Havoc's eyes burn and coughs from a lack of air. He stumbles out of the cloud, trying to escape the awful fumes. His back is right towards Ace. Thinking quickly, Ace takes the now-empty extinguisher and weilds it like a club. He hits Havoc with the blunt side of it, knocking him down onto the floor. Havoc groans in pain, un- able to get up. Ace watches him carefully for a moment, then looks at the fire extinguisher in his paws. Ace:"Fire extinguishers, kids. Always have one for fires and villains with bad fashion sense." Storm is busy sneaking up on the cowering Shag, gripping his sledge hammer tightly. Shag hears up and turns to looks up at him. Storm raises the hammer above his head. Shag screams and runs off on all fours. Storm immediately runs after Shag. Shag runs around the lobby in a large circle, with Storm following him with hammer. Storm:"Hold still, mutt! This will be quick! I promise!" Shag just whimpers and keeps on a running in a circle with Storm right behind him. While the melee is going on, Jake takes a chance and runs out the lobby through the broken doorway. He darts across the street past curious onlookers and into an alleyway. A few bystanders try to follow him, but they quickly loose him in the alleyways. Back at the lobby, Tanarus is struggling with Parvo while Elexis is in combat with the Groomer. The fight between Elexis and Groomer can hardly be viewed as being fair, as Elexis' KH Military training in martial arts give her the edge. Groomer tries to take a swing at her with her fire axe, but Elexis easily dodges the attack, then immediately produces a kick that knocks the axe out of her hands. Groomer gasps, then frowns at Elexis. Elexis:"How about you surrender and spare me the effort of knocking you down for arrest?" Groomer balls her fists. Groomer:"Surrender? Never!" Groomer throws a jab at Elexis' head, but she easily dodges it. As the Groomer's arm flies past, she quickly grabs it with her left paw to hold it. Before Groomer even realizes what has happened, Elexis hits her in the neck with the side of right paw. Hitting in the right spot, Groomer is immediately knocked out cold. She falls forward, but Elexis catches her and settles her down on the floor. Elexis:"I could have spared you this, like I said." Back with Shag and Storm, the large sheepdog is still running in a circle. Storm is still following, but is lagging behind and gasping for breath. Storm:"Will... you... please... stop... running!!..." Ace and Catman come up and see the spectacle in front of them. They look at each other. Ace:"Sad, isn't it?" Catman:"What is? Shag's cowardice? Or the fact that Storm is stupid enough to actually run after Shag in a circle like this?" Ace:"The latter. Could you perhaps help me fix it?" Catman:"Gladly." Catman moves closer and watches where the two run. Once Shag runs past him, he holds out his leg in Storm's path. Storm, who's running had now become automatic, is unable to stop himself from tripping on Catman's leg. Storm trips and flies through the air. He lands head-first into an open trash can, leaving him trapped with his legs flailing about. Ace and Catman watch as Storm struggles in vain to get out. Ace:"Nice work." Catman:"Thanks." Just then Shag runs past them again, and then they notice that he is still running in a circle. Ace grabs Shag and brings him to a halt. Ace:"Hey, big buddy. You can stop now. We've canned Storm." Shag:"Rho." Shag breathes a sigh of relief. All the villains are now all down and out, save for Parvo, who is still fighting it out with Tanarus. Parvo has the upper hand and has Tanarus mostly pinned to the floor. Parvo:"Now it's payback time for all the 'Boots' jokes you Rovers had at my expense." Tanarus:"Actually, it is only due when you reach prison!" Tanarus drags his leg from under Parvo, then bends it quickly. His knee hits Parvo hard in the stomach. So hard, in fact, that Parvo gets both his wind and a hairball knocked out through his mouth. As he tries to regain his breath, Tanarus is able to pull out both his legs and then kick Parvo solidly in the chest. Parvo's remaining breath whooshes out of his lungs as he is knocked back against the truck's wheel. Tanarus then quickly gets up, runs over to Parvo and lands a couple of punches that knocks him out cold. Tanarus rubs his knuckles as Elexis comes up to him. Elexis:"You all right, Dear?" Tanarus:"I'm fine, Honey. How about yourself and the others?" Elexis:"I'm fine, and the others have things under control. We got all the villains." Tanarus:"That's good. Where's Shag?" Elexis points to Shag, who is coming towards the couple along with Catman and Ace. Tanarus:"Everything all right?" Catman:"Yes, we got our bad guys in the bag." Ace:"Or canned, in Storm's case." Tanarus:"Good. Shag, get out some rope and let us tie up our quarries before they recover." Shag:"Rha!" As Shag digs around in his fur for some rope, sirens can be heard coming towards the building. Outside police cars stop and officers jump out, guns ready. They rush inside, guns pointed at the Rovers. Tanarus immediately raises both his paws. Tanarus:"Don't shoot! We're Road Rovers!" The officers, recognizing the uniforms, nod and lowered their weapons a bit. One of the higher-ranking officers steps up to them as Tanarus lowers his paws. Officer:"We got reports of a fight going on here. I assume you fellows got the bad guys?" Tanarus:"They are all in the lobby. You should count six of them." Officer:"Right!" The officer turns to the others and begins to coordinate the arrests of the villains. Voice(from behind):"Sacre bleu! What happened to our lobby?!" The group turns around to see a Frenchman standing at the edge of the lobby. He is flanked by some thuggish security guards. He is looking in horror at the scene before him. The group approach him, getting his attention. Elexis:"You Mister Desaix?" The man turns to them and nods. Desaix:"Oui, I'm Francios Desaix. Oh, Monsieur Shag! Madamoiselle Renford told me you we here." Shag nods and mumbles something. Desaix holds up his hands and shakes his head. Desaix:"No, Monsieur Shag. No apologies needed from our most valued client. We can claim insurance, no? Now, how may I help you?" As Shag and Desaix begin to talk, the officer comes back to Tanarus. Everyone else in the group turn to look at him. Officer:"Excuse me, sir." Tanarus:"Yes, officer?" Officer:"You said there were six suspects, but my men and I only count five." Ace:"Uh oh. Looks like we've missed one." Catman:"I captured Skeam, Ace got Havoc and Shag had Storm." Elexis:"I had Groomer and you had Parvo." Tanarus:"That leaves only Jake." Ace:"Sounds like Jake chickened out of the fight." Tanarus shakes his head. Tanarus:"No, he did not chicken out. He knew that they would not win the battle, so he used the confusion to make his escape." He turns to the officer. Tanarus:"Search the area for the fugitive. And be careful, he's very dangerous." Officer:"Yes, sir." The officer gets out his walky-talky and begins to send out a call. Elexis:"What I'm curious about is who paid the guards to let these creeps out." Tanarus:"Once we get back home, we'll make some calls and inform the Master. Maybe we got a mastermind behind this." Elexis:"Let's first get this catering part done for our friends." Tanarus:"You're right, Honey." The group turn their attention back to Shag and Desaix, who keep on talking business while the officers take away the villains towards an awaiting prison van. Outer Grounds Road Rover Mission Control 4:25 PM: This is a paved walkway that winds its way through the woods surrounding the main buildings. Unit STRIKE is walking along the path. Striker and Phoenix are holding paws, while Tanarus and Elexis walk on their left holding each other's arms and Illanov and Vicki walk on their right, also holding each other's arms. Corsair, Shephard and Merit are walking behind the couples. Striker:"Dankie for helping us with the catering, flowers and limo. I'm glad you all managed to come back without being hurt too bad." Illanov:"It was a pleasure, comrade." Corsair:"Really? What with being attacked by what will most likely be known later as the first wave of villains." Shephard:"Personally, I enjoyed the action. Makes a nice break from the business of wedding planning." Tanarus:"We might get more of those breaks. From what we heard from Groomer, someone is hiring muscle on us. Those gangsters that went after Shephard were paid as well. I'm betting that the Mayhem Mercenaries might be hired by our mystery mastermind." Vicki:"What the GONV attack? Could the GONV be working with this guy?" Illanov:"Neyt. Matrix would not work for any organic, so more likely the GONV is trying to attack us to even the score with what we did with its forces in the Techno War." Merit:"A much more probably reason is that the wedding offers a high probability level of hostilities that can present the chance for the GONV to launch an attack while other defenses are active elsewhere." Striker:"We will then have to be extra vigilant. These were only minor skirmishes, and the major factions like the KH Military, GONV and the Mayhem Mercenaries still need to make their appearances." Phoenix:"But our wedding will still go ahead, no matter what." Striker smiles at Phoenix. Striker:"No matter what." Phoenix smiles back, then the couple kiss. Tanarus, Illanov, Elexis and Vicki smile at the kissing couple, while Corsair rolls his eyes. The group keeps on walking. Throne Room Unknown Location At That Moment: The figure is still seated on the throne, but this time another large figure is standing behind him, arms folded. The figure is on a telephone speaking to someone on the line. Figure(into phone):"That first lot did nothing. Not one of their number were killed." Voice(on phone):"Not surprising, though I had expected the GONV to be somewhat more successful. But the GONV will make another attempt later on. First, though. It is time to bring the mercenaries and their allies into play." Figure(into phone):"Not my expense, I'm certain you know that." Voice(on phone):"Definitely not. For there is something that will act as both payment and bait." Figure(into phone):"What would that be?" Voice(on phone):"Do the words 'Lambda Rebel Forces' strike a cord?" The figure frowns a bit, thinking over what he just heard. Then the realization comes to his face. He begins to laugh in a sinister and insane manner. The first preparations of Striker and Phoenix's wedding have been taken off, while the enemy has been beaten back. But now it seems more trouble might come for Unit STRIKE? What will their enemies do this time to stop the wedding? Who is the mysterious figure and what are his plans? And what is going on in South Africa? THE END