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Chapter Text

Six months Earlier In the Mountains of Nepal.

'"Briggs! My boy, we have ourselves a bloody Yeti stuffed and ready for my mansion!" A large man mostly shirtless stood alongside his stuffed yeti. A massive patch of chest hair on his chest that was well shaved to look exactly like Australia. Wearing light brown shorts and brown steel toed boots with white socks. On his head a hat coated in crocodile teeth. Pressing a phone to his ear with a big cheesy smile on his face as the Pilot stood awkwardly behind him.

The shaky timid tone of the Pilot made Hale roll his eyes slightly. Slowly lowering the phone from his ear as he listened to the smaller man speak."A..ah Mr.Hale.. You know you were told you can't jump out of the plane.."

"Hold yer horses, Briggs. I got somethin to do. See you in a minute." Shutting the phone and lowering the antenna back into itself and stuffed it into his back pocket. "Alright Ainsley. Why exactly can't I jump out of the plane?"

"Because its unnecessary when we have a landing strip!" The Pilot nervously tapped his fingers together. Following Hale into the cockpit.

Hale looked out the window then to the centre console in front of him. "So- when the plane happens to..oh I dunno. Have some technical issues that forced me to jump. Can I jump then?"

The pilot smiled as he waved his hand. Speaking positively towards Saxton's question. "Why yes sir. But for now since the plain isn't going through that I'd say we're f-" the loud beeping and the red light flashing in his face cut him off. Various crashing noises made him turn to see Hale ramming his fist into the control panels of the plane. Pulling out fists full of wire and such that made the Pilot screech with fear. "SAXTON WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?"

Despite how loud he screamed Saxton only smiled as the plane slowly started to dip towards the snowy mountains below them. Wrapping his massive arm around the smaller male he grabbed a parachute and then grabbed his stuffed Yeti. Approaching the cargo door he slammed his fist into the button cracking it open. Looking at the Pilot he laughed like a giddy child. "Welp lad! Now we can both jump!"

The man sobbed through his goggles on his pilot hat. Tears streaming through his face as he hung loosly from Hale's iron grip he had around him. "S-Saxton please! I'm too young to die!"

"Dyin!? Who said anythin about dyin!? This is a fuckin adventure, mate!" Jumping over the edge the yeti still in his arm as well as the piole. The plane towering over them as its audible crashing along with a tight nit explosion made the air heavy as Saxton pulled on his cord and deployed the shoot that carried everyone to safety. The pilot however was more thankful when he touched the ground after forcibly crashing through a window into a big office like room. Kissing the floor various times as Briggs. A old butler approached Saxton and removed his parachute from his back.

"I-if you don't excuse..M-Mr. Hale..I'm going home now-" the pilot muttered with a stutter. Showing what pride he had left. He clearly wet himself on the way down. Considering the fact the massive aussie happened to not give him a shoot of his own. But instead only secured him by carrying him under his arm.

"Whatever ya say Ainsley! Ya sure you don't wanna stay for the crocodile steaks? Their bloody delicious!" He hummed lightly as Ainsley shook his head. Making his way to the door to leave Saxton's mansion." So Briggs. Whatda ya think of the yeti? Took me three days to hunt this sucka down!"

Briggs looked the stuffed animal up and down with eyes only one could describe as uncaring. His fine tailored coat being moved a bit as he cleared his throat. "Mm..quite Mr. Hale. Its what I would like to call unique to your collection. But might I say you have someone who wishes to speak with you. Personally sir."

Saxton smiled brightly towards his butler's words. Slamming his fist on his desk it shook violently. "Really?! Mate what are ya waitin for!? Send them in! Who is it?"

"Someone by the name of Gray Mann, Sir."

Saxton rubbed his chin towards the last name of the man who wanted to speak with him. Mann. It was something he knew he heard before. He just simply couldn't place his finger on it." Know I heard that last name somewhere before."

"It's the last name of the Mann brothers. You supply weapons to their mercs, remember sir?" Briggs asked as Hale nodded.

"Ah! That's right! Y'know..I always wondered what happened to them blokes. Missed out on pay day already!" Saxton frowned upon mentioning it. Not that it mattered to him. Money was just something he regularly threw away. He only ever wanted one thing. To viciously fist fight and stuff every animal on the planet.
Being so spendy with this money he practically burns it, using it as fuel to keep his fireplace going.

"They're dead!" An old voice popped up from behind him. Saxton turning to face the voice as a short old man in grey walked up to them." Shot them myself for what drooling idiots they were. But I digress! Hello Saxton Hale." The other's smile was something that went right past Saxton's head. A smile any normal person would find slimy and untrustworthy. But to Saxton the man seemed decent.

A bright smile crossing his face as a large hand swallowed Gray's hand in a rather forceful handshake. "Ah righty oh what can ol' Hale do fer ya, Gray? Weapons? Money? Gladly give em. If you got any more Yeti's I'd love the bastard for my upcoming yeti park!"

As Gray pulled his hand free from Saxton's sweaty hand he wiped his hand free from the sweat onto his suit and sneered visibly in disgust towards him." What I want you to do, Saxton. Is to get out."

Saxton blinked towards Gray. "Pardon, Mate?"

"I run Mann Co. now. And I'm giving you the chance to walk away. But I also heard you're a man that won't say no to a challenge." He hummed. Tapping his fingers together thoughtfully as Saxton stood there thinking for a moment.

"Alright then ya mooch. What's yer terms eh? A picnic in tha boonies? Take yer daughter out on a date? What?" Saxton asked as he looked down to the significantly smaller male that only seemed to cackle at his question.

"A fight! Loser loses the company when the winner gets it. No one has to die here. But..hell I wouldn't mind watching a few t- what are you doing?" Gray Mann asked saxton as he got into a fighting position. Punching the old man in the face so hard he knocked him back into his desk. His hand caught him and yet his hand seemed to burn. His eyes watering to the sensation in his hand as he pulled it away to see his palm blistering from the seer heat." WHAT THE FUCK!?"

"What?" Saxton chortled lightly as he held a pair of tongs in his hand. A stake sitting next to Gray Mann as he writhed in pain. Clasping his hand as it stung." Bet ya never had a grill installed into yer desk before have ya?"

"For your information you dribbling buffoon! I didn't tell you who you were going to fight! It's not me!" Gray hissed towards Hale as he put the tongs down and furrowed his brow.

"Who ya choosin then? Yer mother?"

"No, not exactly." Gray grinned despite his hand burning and nose having been broken. As he said that the double doors opened. A massive man equal to Saxton in height walked into the room. Wearing military grade padding and a bullet proof vest on his chest. Muscles bulging wearing blue goggles, grey mutton chops and a blue bandana he wore over his head. Though old looking the man appeared to be in his prime. Large and imposing.

"That would be me, Hale!" There was no flattering introduction. No handshake or 'may the best man win'. As soon as the man got within arms length of Saxton Hale a massive fist slammed into his jaw. Knocking hale back. His arm attempted to push Hale's head into the grill attached to his desk. Gray looked over Hale with a mighty smile. Triumphant in his stance knowing he was going to win this.

"Meet my Merc. Cheavy. Just dont kill him if you would. I don't need him dead just yet." Gray snapped towards the heavy as he smirked to his request.

"With pleasure Gray Mann." He snarled as Saxton pushed himself back. Grabbing a fist full of glass that came from the ceiling. Flinging it out into Cheavy's face making him back up. Rubbing his face before a sharp punch from Saxton left him coughing.

"For an old bloke you fight like a man! Not often a man like me gets that privilege!" Hale laughed as he swung his fists a few times towards Cheavy. Who collectively dodged each swing by weaving and ducking. It was clear to Saxton that this guy wasn't as much of a brute as he thought. Instead the man was working around him.

"You talk too much, Hale." Taking collective swings towards Hale, he dodged the attacks. Cheavy's arms raised to protect his face. Rolling his fist back Cheavy's fist met the fur of the stuffed Yeti. The soft yet cold fur of the beast made him raise a brow before the massive body of the Yeti fell on top of him. Its weight was rather heavy. And as Hale rounded Cheavy clapping his hands together he blinked at the room now filled to the brim with robots. Not only robots but a little girl standing next to Gray Mann.

Hale cracked his knuckles. Then his chin as he spoke directly to Gray. "Welp mate! Looks like I won thus little fightin match of yers. Take her bloody contraptions and get out of my mansion before I blow y-"

Before Hale could finish his words, arms wrapped tightly around his neck in a strong choke hold. such strength behind it it almost scared him. His eyes wide as he gripped at the arm around his throat cutting off his air supply. His arm pumped back into Cheavy's stomach but it seemed almost like his attempts to get out were pointless. A sharp laugh leaving the back of his head as Cheavy laughed.

"As I said Hale. You talk too much." He snarled as his hold grew tighter. Hale falling to his knees as Cheavy followed behind him. The little girl with her bright eyes pumping her fist with glee watching the Aussie struggle as well as Gray who enjoyed every suffering moment Hale went through. Cheavy was the one enjoying the most out of it. And the weaker Saxton got. The more his attacker laughed till he suddenly went completely limp. Standing over him Cheavy hawked up a wad of spit on the back of Saxton's unconscious head and stepped over him.

"What should I do with the filth? Considering you don't want him dead yet I can take him off your hands." A sharp kick to Saxton's side.

Gray man waved his hand casually towards Cheavy as he spoke." Doesn't matter. Just dont kill him. Break him, whatever you want. I'm going to get my Australium!" He said with pure glee as he clapped his hands together. Cheavy raising his fingers to his lip as he whistled deeply. As a group of seven people dressed almost similarly to Cheavy came into the room.

"Boss." Pyro said as she removed her helmet. Her grey hair along with her notable burn scar over her eye was that much more prominent in the lighting as she looked down at Saxton Hale with a sly smirk. Her heavy southern accent sharing her intrigue and amusement. "Holy shit. Wasn't expectin you to get him that fast."

Cheavy scoffed towards him. "Yeah well the bastard is an idiot with actual hand to hand combat. All he knows is how to throw fucking hands with yeti's and wild animals that fight on instinct." Looking down towards her he nodded towards a man wearing overalls. His somewhat old features made him appear rather wise. The man next to him held a long beard. Eyes cold and unmoving as they both stepped forward." Conagher, Vergil. Take this filth to the vehicle. I'll figure out what to do with him later." Hearing Gray Mann lose his shit on a phone call made Cheavy's brow furrow deeply.

"Welp. Dell is probably dead but those first fools managed to get past my defences, sure. But they can't beat Saxbot.." he was sure of it till Cheavy caught his attention." What are you planning on doing with Saxton Hale?" He was curious. A small sample of Cheavy's smile.

"Gonna send him to his latest project in Brazil. Heard he had a Yeti so figured we could keep him there for now till whatever you got planned for him comes to light." It was the best and possibly incredibly ironic to put a man who fights animals in his own 'Yeti Park'. And other various zoo's around the world. But considering Gray Mann now ran Mann co he knew it would make a great prison for the aussie.

"Come. I wish to show you something." Gray Mann hummed as he got up from the office chair and walked over to a door. Opening it, it came to a hallway with a large iron door at the end of it. Typing a few numbers into the panel next to the door when they got to it. As the final number was punched in the turnstile turned to where the metal bars opened the way to get to the room. And yet when he opened the door. Both Cheavy and Gray Mann were met with an empty room. All except a single brick of Australium and a note.

"An empty room?" Cheavy asked sarcastically as Gray seemed to explode with rage. As he grabbed the only brick of Australium left in the room.

"This room is a vault to what was one of the largest safes of Australium in the world!" Looking at the 'note' that turned out to be the face of a cigarette box." But that bitch Helen got to it before me!" He snapped as he crushed the box in his hand.

As Gray said the word Australium Cheavy shut his eyes slightly." Well..I suppose with the right amount of pay me and my boys can find Helen for you." He said as he rubbed his fingers together. A moment of silence as Gray nodded.

"I might need that offer.."'

Silence was in the room. He had fitted her legs a month earlier. The hard work paid off perfectly; the only thing that hadn't was her waking up. Eating a bowl of rabbit stew Engi sighed and got up. Every five hours he'd check on her vitals and assure she was still breathing. But for a moment he walked he could have sworn he heard groaning.

"Kid?" He asked. Jogging over to the hammock that contained Jenna who appeared far less skinny compared to before. The food he's been feeding her resulted in muscle growth. Looking her up and down he noticed her eyes squint and shift. Removing his sunglasses he placed their shattered frame on top of the generator and waited. Watched her through his eye as her heart rate skyrocketed till she woke up. But not calmly.

Shooting up from the hammock Jenna started screaming. Her eyes wide as she pulled the I.V. from her arm and threw the mask from her face that kept her breathing. Coughing up a storm as Engi approached her. Placing his hands on her shoulders gently catching her attention. Her eyes were full of tears and fear as she looked at him over for only a second before hugging him tightly.

Awkwardly he patted her on the back." You alright..?"

"I..I dunno..I can't remember anythin..all I remember is you pushing me out of the way of something then..I'm here..how long was I out?" Her question only made Engi huffed slightly as he grabbed her hands and held them close.

"I tell ya..you gotta promise me to stay calm. Alright?"

"Y-yer scarin me a bit..but..R-Right.. I promise.." she said as Engi nodded.

"You've been in a coma for Six months.." Those words resulted in a shaky breath but she wasn't surprised. If it was years that would have been far different. But when Engi happened to remove the blanket on her lap. Her eyes widened completely. No longer was her legs of flesh. But a goldish pair of prosthetic legs. Reaching around her back under her shirt she could feel the cool metal attached to her spine. Sinking into skin.

"WHAT HAPPENED TO ME!?"Sobbing, she covered her head. That was a surprise and a very shocking one. She couldn't handle this. Not to mention knowing if she died out there it was all too much for her to handle till the BLU wrapped his hands around her hands. He's been through this form of shock before. With his Pyro. When she lost her jaw she panicked just like Jenna. But unlike a gargling mute Jenna could share her pain vocally.

"Kid. Look I know..I know..but I made these for you.. don't panic. That won't help you." And his words made Jenna start taking deep breaths to calm her nerves.

After hours of silence Jenna remained in the hammock. Scared to walk but eventually even after he removed the tube from her stomach she refused to eat anything for that time. Till she awkwardly shuffled herself over the hammock to where her new legs dangled over the floor. Engi took notice of this and returned to her side. Offering his hand to her as she nodded in thanks. Taking his offered hand for help up she stumbled when the metallic almost skeletal looking feet touched the concrete floor. A clicking noise from her feet. Each shaken step resulted in her needing to use the Engineer as a support.

"S-sorry.."

"Nah it's fine. Yer takin yer first steps. I'm not gonna get mad over somethin you can't help. Where you wanna go? To the fire pit?" He asked as she nodded. Helping her over to the fire pit she sat down. A bowl of stew placed in her hands by the Engineer playing with the bowl with a makeshift spoon before spooning it into her mouth.

"What's your real name..?" She asked him. His eyes narrowed towards her as she swallowed the soup.

"Pardon?" He asked as Jenna huffed slowly.

"Do you have a name I can call you? Other than Engi?"

"I.." he paused. He was going to have to tell her now. She probably knew but only sighed." I'd say Dell. But I'm not exactly him.." shutting his eyes as Jenna merely stared at him.

"Yer tellin me that you're his clone? I thought he just had a twin! They did that?" She asked as he smirked towards her.

"They took Dell's blood and the old man who ran BLU so happened to make a clone of each and every one of your teammates. Aside from you of course. You're the only one who wasn't cloned because we still had our Scout."

"Ever consider makin yer own name?" Jenna asked as she swallowed another spoon full of rabbit soup.

"Huh? Ya mean give myself my own name? Like make myself my own person not based on the life of Dell?" He rubbed his chin slightly as Jenna smiled lightly. Though not completely from the shock still running through her system after losing her legs.

"Exactly Man. Don't gotta run your life based off Dell. Just. Y'know? How about Mark?" That name made Engi visibly cringe. His eyes squinted.

"Too city life for me, Kid..I always liked the thought of the name Jebediah." He smiled at the thought." That's it..Jebediah Conagher..that has a ring to it."

As he smiled Jenna smiled back. A light giggle left her lips as she coiled a blanket around her. Her fingers tapping on her new legs listening to metallic clangs of fingertips against the Australium. But she didn't know what it was. All she knew was that it looked like gold. Her eyes wandered as she cleared her throat.

"I wanted to..thank ya..for saving my life back there. Not only that but the legs too.." It was strange. As if she could still feel her own legs despite them not being flesh anymore. The metal was practically grafted to her skin but felt none of it. As if it were completely normal for her.

"Kid. Save it." Jeb muttered as he shook his head. He was thankful to finally have company. He was thinking about leaving her there if she didn't wake up in the next day or two. Six months trapped in the forest didn't call for him playing babysitter to a brain dead corpse. But now that she is awake. He noticed a change in her. Not that he knew her for more than a few seconds but she seemed to have some brain damage from the coma? He wasn't a medic so he couldn't really tell.

"Alright then Old man. Last time I checked I was a full grown woman and not a child." She snapped towards him. Her fingers tapping together as she thought." We gotta find the others.." she muttered. Mostly she wanted to know if Mundy was alive. Everyone else in the team. But remembering exactly what happened after a long time with the blu team she suppressed that trauma in the back of her head. To remember what he did to her was too much to handle. She's been through hell and all she wanted to know was if Mundy was still alive.

"Look kid..they're probably dead by now..robots attacked and-" Jeb's mind wandered off. Barely apathetic towards her need to find her team. But Jenna sent him a glare that made daggers feel like butter knives.

"You don't wanna help, then fine. Go wherever you have to go." She put the bowl down and struggled to her feet. Her shorts were covered in her blood but easily wrapped her blanket around herself to cover the stains." I'll find them myself.."

"What exactly are you gonna do!? Where ya gonna start huh!?" Jeb snapped towards her as he pointed and shook his finger and pointed to the door." Out there you could have died. Let it g-"

Jenna snapped herself. Her eyes brimming with rage as she spoke with gritting teeth that expressed her aggravation towards Jebediah. "No! I refuse! Only because people like you give up too fuckin easily. Lookin at you Jeb all I see is a coward right now that doesn't wanna get off his ass and go look for your team mates! Now if you don't excuse me. I'm going back to Teufort and learning what to do next." She huffed. Her shoes were gone but it wasn't like it mattered anymore. She couldn't feel the ground she was walking on anyway so she grabbed a plank of wood as a means of protecting herself. And made her way to the door.

"Wait! Dammit kid wait.." he huffed as he grabbed his Shotgun hat and broken sunglasses tossing them onto his eyes." I'll help yah..fuck it ain't like I got anythin better to do." He threw his gun over his shoulder and watched Jenna as she moved. Slow movement was understandable for her. She was walking for the first time after months. Using the wood she gathered as a means to balance herself like a cane. But the more she moved the more likely she'd grow used to it.

He stood beside Jenna and looked her in the eye. "I got a feelin I know where we can find a clue on where they went. Gotta go back to the Sawmill."

"Where?" Jenna questioned as she crossed her arms.

Jeb turned the knob to the old bunker door. Throwing it open to reveal the warmth of summer air. He didnt know what month it was but it was definitely warm out. "Sawmill. It's where the train crashed. An unfinished area no different to Teufort. Just unfinished and abandoned. It's a few miles through the forest and across a field."

"Fine. I'll follow you. Know if anythin goes amiss I'm gonna beat the shit outta you." She pointed her two by four at him.

"Countin on it. Now common. Yer so eager to save deadmen let's get a move on."

"Left right Left right! Common ladies we are going on a mission of discovery!" Jane Doe. Standing tall held his hands on his hips. Wearing Jeans, a white shirt and yet kept his favourite helmet on his head and his army grade boots on his feet. Crossing his arms he overlooked the sight of his crew. A group of old women that ranged from seventy to eighty. Dressed as tourists that followed Jane around for hell knows how long. "Behold the great fighting arena for one such George Washington for Gettysbur-"

"Ehhh where's Johnny Cash's house!? I paid you to show me some goddamn celebrity homes! We're in the middle of a field!" One of the old women piped up, completely interrupting Jane. To which Jane's lip raised in annoyance.

"Alright Soldier. You don't want to learn of America's greatest triumphs!? Fine! I'll show you ladies a celebrity home! I'll show you just who I got in mind." He grinned towards them. Being the young man he was, he knew it was a walk. A long one. Though being brainless he disregarded the fact the women were elderly and not young. Marching his feet he waved his hand earring the women to follow him.

It's been months since Sawmill and he took up his job of not only being a tourist but also a certified Exorcist, a priest, a physician which he was most recently fired from and nearly arrested for. And various other jobs. Mostly when being an Exorcist he'd punch the 'possessed' victim in the stomach till they puked claiming it was the demon leaving the body. Truthfully however he knew nothing about any of those jobs he managed to land. So now he took to escorting old women to the house of an English singer, Tom Jones.

One foot after another Soldier kept marching. Every hour that went by each woman would collapse or lag behind to which they were promptly left where they fell.

"Oh my Gloria collapsed!" Another woman said as Jane turned to what was left of them. Six hours of nonstop walking and the sun was already going down.

"Theres no time! She's a deadman! Look, we're almost there ladies! No time to lose! Go go go!" He snapped towards them. Marching forward as what women were left followed with him. Groaning and whining till the door to the extraordinary mansion was opened to the front room. Soldier standing there as pride filled his body." Behold! Tom Jones!"

The old women's eyes widened. Their cameras promptly praised with excitement as they started spreading throughout the room and into the home of the singer." M-my Mr. Doe you really are a great tourist! I never thought in my life I'd be walking around Tom Jones's house!" A flash of photography filling the room as the Soldier nodded in approval of his job well done.

"Wasn't expecting guests-" a voice from up the stairs said cooly as Soldier froze in place. The voice of the singer himself Tom Jones. It was to the point Soldier raised his lip. Jumping in front of the singer as he came down the stairs wrapped in towels more than likely after a shower. Soldier's hands wrapped around his neck and with a twist he snapped his neck.

"Neck snap! Urrah!" Looking down at Tom Jones Soldier smiled as everyone else seemed to scream in fear. The old women running out the door as a familiar voice slithered into Soldier's ear.

"Tom I wasn't aware you were making popcor-" pausing mid sentence the figure of a tall old man in pink pajamas stood atop the staircase. Looking at the carnage that just unfolded as he seemed to screech in anger and confusion." Soldier!? What have you done!? You just killed Tom Jones!"

Soldier smiled. Waving towards the inhumanely tall man before him. "Oh hello Merasmus! Long time no see!"

"Don't give me that!" Merasmus yelled as he held a phone in his hands!" I'm calling the police! And you'll get exactly what you deserve!"

"A-AH! I wouldn't I'm right here!" A woman said dressed in a clear police garb. She was short. But young. Wearing glasses over her eyes with a pair of handcuffs in her hand. Approaching the Soldier as she cleared her throat." You sir are under arrest for murdering Tom Jones!"

As the woman urged him to put his hands behind his back, the Soldier looked at her." Oh hello Miss Pauling!"

"Shhhh. Just follow my lead." She said as her finger met her lips. To where Soldier nodded and waved to Merasmus with his free hand before Pauling turned back to Merasmus." Just wait here. I've called backup so you can give them your statement. I'll take this.. ahem..murderer to jail!" She said as she opened the door. Pushing him towards a car in the driveway and quickly unruffled him. The sound of police sirens growing closer as she urged him to get in. Without missing a beat. She removed the police uniform. Tossing it into the passenger seat and getting into the driver's seat. Starting the car as she coolly pulled off and rode past the police rushing to the scene. Once they were clear she pulled the car over out of the road and looked to the back seat where Soldier sat picking his nose.

"Oh! Hello again Miss Pauling!" He waved. Smile bright as she gave him a sweet smile in return.

"Hello Soldier. Tell me. How would you like your old job back?" She asked him as Jane rubbed his chin.

"It's been a while since I was a public defender-"

"No! Soldier! Being a Merc!" She corrected as Soldier blinked with a grin. To be honest he missed it. The blood and his friends. Especially Demo despite him being dead his clone was in Scotland taking care of Travis's mother. So he placed his hand over his helmet.

"Miss Pauling! Does this mean I'm hired again!?" He asked childishly. Fingers twitching as Pauling laughed lightly.

"Yes Soldier. I'm getting the band back together. We have important things we need to get done! Next up Pyro."

"Um.." soldier froze slightly towards her mention of the Mute." Where exactly would Smokey Joe be? I haven't seen them since we left Sawmill. That was nine years ago!"

"I have my ways Soldier don't worry. Do me a favour and put this on will you?" She asked as she tossed a paper bag into the back seat with him. Pulling it out he recognized the grenade strap and red clothing he used to wear.

"Yes sir! One soldier's suit is being put on right now!" About to rip his pants off Miss Pauling covered her eyes.

"A-ah! Wait! We can just use a gas station bathroom!" She screeched. Not very intrested in seeing the burly man naked in her backseat. But Soldier had many other plans. And staying in civilian clothes made him itch inside.

"No can do, Miss Pauling! I got a code and that code is no Soldier is a true soldier if they're wearing civilian clothes!" He hissed. ripping his shirt from chest and threw it out the window. Then the pants. To feel red on his skin. He felt like a proud american again wearing the color." Now Miss Pauling. How about we get the band back together!?"

"That's the plan Soldier-"

Chapter Text

Jenna looked along the graveyard. Robots of countless sizes scattered about. And the most prominent things were the massive partly burnt and exploded tanks standing on either side. Her eyes scan the debris and robots for any sign. Anything of any person from her team. Yet nothing. Till they approached a building. Shutters were open. Out front a loan dirt mound saying 'JEREMY' on a makeshift cross.

"Found somethin. They were here alright.." Jeb muttered to himself as he held up schematics. Something he found in a workshop that Jenna joined him in. The place looked to be a mess. And Jeb didn't look all too pleased with the schematics that were drawn. One wrench with Tesla coils around it. Along with a pair of numbers that Jenna could only assume were directions to a specific location.

"What's that?" She asked.

"Blueprints for a special wrench." Rolling up the schematic he stuffed it in his pants pocket and fixed his hat. The more they looked around the place the more time went by. Jenna searched slowly as Jeb was a bit faster. Still needing the two by four to fully walk without stumbling she paused for a moment.

"Hey Jeb. Look at this." Jenna called out. In a briefing room a sketch of a detailed map to something.

Jeb entered the room. Overlooking the drawing he furrowed his brow and lowered his head." Blueprints to those destroyed tanks. Lookin at them now they seemed to have made an escape plan."

"So you gonna admit you were wrong?" Jenna asked with a sly smirk. One thing she couldn't get enough of was proving to people who looked down on her wrong. It was a unique euphoric experience. One she would never let down as Jeb pinched his nose and sneered.

"Fine. You were right. I was wrong. Happy now?"

"You got no idea." Jenna chortled. She didn't quite trust Jeb. He did save her. But it didn't really give her the 'ok'. She was watching her back around him. Watching him like a hawk thanks to the boundless distrust she held towards those she thought were friends. The biggest being the Spy. Till she shot him in the throat.

She however did not remember the experience on the train and in Teufort. She had wiped those traumatic moments completely from her mind. Everything was a blur. If anything Jeb felt like her stepdad in a way. Not that he was beating her but the way he spoke made her feel angry. But did not hold it towards him. Her mind was racing over and over. And when Jeb eyed her he couldn't control himself.

He smiled with her as he tipped his torn cowboy hat toward her. It was a strange relationship so far. Jenna didn't trust Jeb, and Jeb was very distant with her. Mentally and emotionally distant than physical. But it wasn't like she cared. She wasn't his mother. So she sat down and sighed. Thinking to herself for a moment.

They were in the dark about what happened. They were fired. Not being paid anymore because of the new ownership. It took her a moment to think. Finding nine people in a whole planet made her feel small. Insignificant specs in the universe and there she was. Sitting on a chair wondering where on earth they went.

"Hey kid." Jeb said as he nodded his head towards the back of the compound. A moment of silence filling her before she slowly got to her feet and followed Jeb." Found a Tank in the back. A little damaged and a few things missing. I'm sure in an hour or two I can get this up and running." The tank was fairly large. No place to fire missiles but it was the only vehicle they had to work with. There was no clues to where they went yet. The only thing they had to go off of was that they were alive and they escaped.

The more Jenna thought to herself as Jeb worked on the tank the more she remembered little tidbits she remembered reading in the newspapers promptly provided in their base. A man by the name of Charles Darwin. A millionaire that owns one of the biggest zoo's in the world.. he and Saxton Hale had a falling out years ago. One such falling out resulting in half of his zoo being burned down and Saxton Hale being arrested for the arson he placed on it. And when she thought of Saxton Hale. She thought of help.

"Jeb!" Jenna hollered up to the tank. Wrench in his hand Jebediah peeked over the hatch down to her." What do you know about Saxton Hale!?"

"The hell? Why do you wanna know about him?" He's never seen him for himself. But he has heard things regarding the aussie. His obsession with beating wild animals with his bare fists.

"I think if we find Hale we can get help in finding the others! But we need to learn where he is. And I think I know where we can start!" She sighed. Charles Darwin was a lead. She by all means was no detective but she figured the man knew something. Placing her feet on the ground she approached the tank and awkwardly clambered up the ladder.

"Who you thinkin?" Jeb asked as he attached a piece of metal to a panel that was exposed." Some kinda interrogation or whatever?"

"Interrogation..? You know not everything is about torture..right?" Jenna asked as Jeb cleared his throat. He didn't know how to work without being a dark distant bastard. He was cursed to work with a team that found entertainment in torture.

"Who is the damn target?" He groaned as he looked at her. Annoyed as his blue eye shifted in his skull towards her.

"Charles Darwin!" Jenna snapped back at him." Bastard apparently knows Saxton Hale. Two have been at odds for years. I was thinkin if we talk to him we can get a location on the guy."

Jeb pinched his nose as he nodded. "Right right. But where do we find him?"

"We could start at his zoo. Guy put millions into it. Though I know he doesn't do it for the animals.." Jenna had actually been to the zoo in her youth. Her mother took her there when she was five. For a beautiful birthday present. A day without worry it was supposed to be. But the animals always looked so sad and defeated. Like they were abused. She couldn't get through the zoo without crying at every exhibit. The worst birthday of her life. But she knew exactly where his zoo was. In the midst of a forested area within the Oregon area.

It was hard to get in but Jenna knew someone that could get her into the zoo for free.

"Fine so we go find this Charles Darwin and ask him where Hale is. Easy as that?" Jeb tapped his hammer against the nail to keep the panels from falling off.

"Well I don't see why it wouldn't be. We're just asking him where he could be." Shrugging Jenna lifted herself into the tank and sat down in a seat. Looking around the cabin she saw bits of blood on a seat in the back. The sent of oil and burnt flesh. It clung to the interior tightly as she plugged her nose tightly and coughed.

"Yeah I was gonna warn ya that it was gonna smell bad. Better than nothin though. I think I just got one more tweak to make with the central pressure gauge and we should be good to get outta here." He mumbled. Making the tweak was easy. Mostly just a twist or two and the tank was ready. Taking a deep breath he crossed his fingers as he pressed a button on the centre console. Before he knew it the massive vehicle rumbled to life. Clapping his hands together as he nodded." YEE HAW! THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKIN ABOUT!" Slapping his knee he looked over his shoulder to Jenna. She was proud.

"Congrats Engi. We got a long way to go." She said as she cleared her throat with a slight breath." Oregon?"

Jeb froze slightly in his seat." Where?"

"Yer kiddin right? You dunno where that is?" She asked him.

"Kid. This is my first time for the whole six years of my life I stepped out of Teufort. I don't know where anythin is. I may have Dell's memories doesn't mean I know everythin." He said as he placed his foot on the petal to get the enormous hunk of metal moving.

"Y'know what? I think I still got my wallet in my pocket. I think I got just enough to get us a one way ticket to Oregon. If you manage to get us to a town I can grab us some tickets." Jenna reached into her pocket for the wallet. Overlooking the overall contents to realise she didn't have her wallet. That whole time she had Mundy's wallet. His driver's licence was worn. Torn and coated in blood. She couldn't remember how that happened but looking in his wallet she found eight hundred dollars. And an extra hundred to spend on food and god knows she needs new clothes. She could smell the B.O on her and it made her sick.

"Y'know I think a night in a real bed and a shower wouldn't hurt too bad-" she muttered as Jeb kept his eyes ahead.

"Sounds like a good plan. I'm tired of smelling like I rolled around in a fuckin pig pen."

"Oh man…" sitting in a corner, the young man sat in a jail cell. The orange jumpsuit he wore labelled the words 'Teufort Jail' on the back." How is it I try to get my money and I get arrested with you, Spy.." rubbing his hands into his head as a masked man sat at a table in a similar jumpsuit. Partaking in a fine meal too small to provide any real nutritional value. But he took savouring bites out of the tiny chicken dinner.

"I do suggest that you remain calm Timmothy." The French tone said as he patted his mouth with a tiny napkin. Lifting his mask just a tiny bit to shave the beard that was growing on his face under the balaclava.

"Stay calm!? How in tha hell am I supposed to stay calm! They think we robbed the bank!" Tim rubbed his hand over his face. Tattoos covered his arms now. One on his left arm that said Boston. The first 'O' in Boston held a strange interior design to it. On his right arm 'Bonk'. Sleeves rolled up tightly as he looked at the third person in the cell. A massive man he didn't know. Someone the jail took to calling 'Snuggle Pete'. Though he looked anything but cuddly. He even tried talking to Pete once. Only to nearly get eaten alive." That or these crazy people just don't know how to treat people who are tryin to WITHDRAW THEIR EARNIN'S!" Tim yelled into the hall. Wanting anyone to hear them as Spy rolled his eyes.

"Merci Tim. Jour not helping by screaming like a child."

"And your actin like this isn't yet first time in jail!" Tim paused as his arms lowered to his sides." This ain't yer first time in jail is it?"

All that got him was a sly smile from Spy." Please. I'm a Spy. It's what I do as a Merc. Get arrested, get out. It's nothing I can't handle. Jou however-" he looked him over a few times as Tim glared and crossed his arms.

"Yeah, y'know what Spy? I hope they hang you first." Tim grumbled under his breath. Barely noticing Pete approach Spy from behind as his massive hands almost stretched around him. Till a gargled breath left his throat before he collapsed. Spy standing over him with a shiv in his hand that was coated in blood. And Pete having a massive hole in his neck as Tim screeched.

He of course was used to seeing death. But considering he's never been in jail before it made Tim panic far more than before. His heart sank as he screeched like a woman.

"Dammit Spy! How does that help anything!? You just killed the 'nicest guy' in this place!"

"I'd rather be friends with Soldier's rabid Racoon den let dat filthy man lay any finger upon me." He spat.

As they argued, a heavily armoured police officer in a swat uniform stood in front of their bars as he eyed the body on the floor with a sneer as he spoke in a deep southern tone. "Attention inmates! Mayor wants to have a word with ya!" Nodding his head towards the corpse he raised his brow towards Tim who awkwardly shrugged with a forced smile. The sweat running down his face didn't help his case." What happened to Pete?"

"De idiot fell." Spy said as he shrugged casually. His hands weren't bloody and his shiv was hidden. So there was no proof that he was the one that killed the perverted man." Do I look like someone who could kill someone his size?"

"What about you princess?" The officer turned his attention back to Tim." You see what happened here?"

"You heard him man! He fell!" He snapped as he crossed his arms over his chest as he nodded. A small man in a business suit approached the cell doors with a small smile.

The mayor clapped his hands together and nodded. "Ah I knew we made a good catch! You're the fellows that worked out at Teufort. It was thanks to you that our water supply got lead in it. Oh and let's not forget the economic imbalance of money in the town. Six years. Six. Sadly no more for you."

"What!? You're blamin that on us!? I was just tryin to get my money! I was gonna leave!" Tim said as he pointed at the mayor. Spy clearing his throat as he leaned his forearm against the bars.

"And where is jour said proof?"

"Oh we don't have any." The mayor hummed casually. This made Spy's face droop from the stupidity.

"Then what are we here for!? We didn't steal or kill anyone innocent." Spy snapped. This was corrupt what the hell!? Tim couldn't believe what he was hearing.

"We just never liked mercs running around here. Causing trouble and such. Made me want to puke so. Here's the deal. I'm going to kill you. Tomorrow you will be hanged for simply existing! Make sense?" He asked as Spy gripped the bars tightly. His blue eyes narrowed down the man closely.

"Mr. Mayor. Jou cannot just kill people who had committed no crimes!"

The mayor held his hand up as a piece of paper was handed to him. "Oh oh wait there is a reason! Hold on here for a moment- ah yes! Your under arrest for killing fifteen small santas during the Christmas of sixty three. What say you!?"

"Dat was Soldier! We had nothing to do with dat.!" Spy bore his teeth, and it was partly true. Soldier had probation and needed to play Santa for a day or two. But he was taking the piss when he decided to bring live explosives into the mall as a means of 'truly lighting the place up for the holiday spirit'. That resulted in fifteen small Santa's dying.

"Oh I'm so sorry. But you were there that day. Along with you!" The mayor pointed to Tim." So execution by hanging. It's simply something I can't stop."

But that wasn't him that day. That was Jeremy in the mall. And with such time being his own person. Tim piped up.

"B-but that wasn't me! That was my twin brother!" It made him choke up a bit calling Jeremy his twin but it only got him a raised brow from the Mayor.

"Dis is ridiculous!" Spy rolled his eyes as guards came in to carry Pete's body off someplace more appropriate." How long have jou morons been drinking de lead infused water in dis shithole!?"

"Since six years ago? Or was it five? I can't remember." The mayor shrugged towards them. It only made Spy slam his head into the bars. The people in Teufort were always dumb. Not everyone but they had no brain function other than to breathe, eat, and have strange boners for public executions such as hanging as if it were still the eighteen hundreds. Nevertheless Spy was left in absolute bewilderment as the Mayor genuinely seemed sorry. For idiots that drink lead infused water he didn't want the Mayor's pity.

"Just go away man.."

The mayor looked to Scout then back to Spy. "Well the trial will be tomorrow. I hope you have a public defender!" As the Mayor left Spy sighed and turned towards him." I suggest we go with the public defender."

Tim crossed his tattooed arms. His hair still held back by that same blue sweat band as he rubbed his arms nervously together. "And what!? We don't got any money to our name! They confiscated it! And my locker at the damn Bank was filled with nothin but Tom Jones memorabilia! I don't even think he's dead. So the stuff is worthless until he actually dies! We gonna pay a public defender fuckin scraps!? I didn't even do anythin!"

Spy blinked a few times towards him as he panicked and simultaneously began hyperventilating. Spy doing the best thing he knew to get Tim's attention. And abruptly smacked him. First with palm then with back hand.

"Ow man..you gotta slap me with both palm and back of tha hand?" He muttered as he rubbed his cheeks with his fingers.

Spy rubbed his temples a few times. "It was dat or I risk listening to you die from a panic attack. I much rather have silence so I can think clearly." Tim rolled his eyes as well. Crossing his arms as he sat on his cot.

"Oh yea smartass? What's the plan then huh? You got a mini lock pick in one of her teeth there? Oh oh wait. Lemme guess! A grenade!?"

"If you would just shut up for a moment I can think of something!" Spy shouted. Fingers coiled around the bridge of his nose as he breathed in and out to keep himself calm. He honestly wasn't expecting to see anyone else there in Teufort. Let alone scout back about a week ago. Six months without seeing the others and he just happened to be stuck in jail with Tim of all the Mercs. Collecting his money for a trip to Nepal to Saxton's mansion. That was currently occupied by Gray Mann. That was conveniently ruined when he and the scout were arrested whilst collecting what money they had left. It only made Spy sigh as he shook his head. If soldier was there he'd gladly execute the moron himself for getting them into the mess they were in to begin with.

They only had so long to live. And the execution was tomorrow.

"Look Jeb. They got a restaurant." They had been walking for miles. The Tank had been low on gas. Needless to say it was better to walk than to drive into a motel with a tank and gather attention. Just when you think you have time to relax your tank breaks down. But Jenna was beginning to grow more used to her new legs. Her legs didn't tire like Jeb's had. She was the one waiting for him a few times over.

Jeb wiped sweat from his brow as Jenna looked at the near run down motel in the middle Of nowhere. "Got food? Good. Almost sun down and I'm gettin bloody tired of carryin the Wrangler."

Jenna laughed slightly as she playfully pointed at him. "Y'know I did offer to carry it for ya ten miles back."

"True but the guns gotta curse on it." Jeb muttered as they approached the doors.

"Yer kiddin right? Curses don't exist." She said with a cocked brow as she opened the door to the lobby. Where a man with a handlebar moustache sat and read a newspaper. As he looked up he wasn't expecting to see two dirty people come into his motel. Putting his paper down. Not to mention one appearing like a city girl with no shoes and metal legs and who he could only assume was her father.

"You folks alright?" He asked as he looked Jenna up and down in concern as she gave him a casual wave of her hand and a friendly smile as she pulled out a wallet and laughed. Her cheeks were red. She had forgotten that she had nothing to cover her legs. Thankfully the man she was talking to was the only one in the lobby.

"Oh yeah man we're fine! We just got here after a costume party! We'd like to have one room with separate beds please." She said as the man took her money. Looking at it he handed her back ten dollars and grabbed a key from behind the desk.

"There ya are. Umm.." Jenna followed the lobby guy's gaze and watched as Jeb awkwardly looked around. His gun was on his back as the lobbyist spoke." Your pa alright?"

A sad smile formed on her face as she came up with a lie on the spot for Jeb's odd behaviour. "Oh yeah! He just has a hard time with social interactions, Y'know." Walking up to him she gently placed her hand on his shoulder that made him jump slightly."Common dad. Let's get to the room, yeah?" She asked as Jeb looked to the lobbyist and then to her. Then nodded.

"R-right. Sorry."

"Your fine. Common. We gotta shower and.." she leaned in close." Maybe find some new clothes?" She whispered to him as she looked around. Pushing the door open she began to lead Jeb to the room. Labelled as '24' on the key it was near the back of the motel. Opening the door she was greeted with an average room with two beds and a TV. A bathroom in the back and a crappy microwave and ice bucket sitting on the dresser.

"Well it's better than the bunker." Jeb muttered as he threw his gun on the bed. Looking at Jenna he looked to the bathroom." You wanna shower first?" He asked. Jenna looked at her legs then back to him." They won't rust if that's what you're wonderin. I'll see about gettin us some new clothes. Who knows they might have a laundry machine or a lost and found." Shrugging he removed his sunglasses revealing his eye that made her squint at it's strange colour. She knew it was strange. But she wondered about the story behind it. If he did it to himself or he had someone in his team do that to him. But she bit her tongue for the time being as she grabbed a towel or two and smiled.

"Thanks, Jeb."

As Jenna went for her shower Jeb looked around. The vision circled around the area looking for any sign of clothes. Eyeing the rooms he caught sight of a hoodie. And a pair of Jeans that looked to be Jenna's size. Along with a T'shirt.

He found it easy to kick the door into the next room over. No one was in it so the door gave way easily. Grabbing the clothes for her he smelled them. They were washed and clean. Folding them up he shut the door and folded them. Leaving the clothes outside the bathroom door. Though he could see through walls he respectfully kept his view away from the bathroom for the time being.

"Alright..now some clothes for yerself.. and a pair of new glasses.." he muttered as he grabbed his broken glasses and tossed them into a trash bin. A huff leaving his lips as he eyed the parking lot of the diner for anyone who had any luggage in the back. There was a group of motorcycles. One having a biker jacket that looked to be too big. The white cowboy hat that hung off the handlebar matched his perfectly. Taking his hat off his head he looked at it. Holes littered it and the stains were really rubbed in. He grinned slightly as he tossed his hat into the garbage with the glasses.

"If I were clothes.." coming across a pickup he jumped at the snarling barks of a dog. He had never seen one for himself. Like a curious child Jeb looked at it. Its jowls pumped with drool as it barked and snarled at him. Looking over the other cars he came across a van painted in psychedelic colours. There were people in there doing something and it made him crane his neck.

And when the door opened a young man with long hair and tie dye shirt looked him over with a lidded smile." Ohh…hey mannn.." the way he said it made Jeb look around then point to himself.

"You talkin to me son?" He asked as the skinny man nodded with a grin. Leaning back into the Van two women and another guy leaned out to take a look at Jeb who was still covered in dirt and blood.

The man laughed in a strange manner. "Corse man..no one out here other than you.. man you look like shit! Oh.. I should probably be cool and introduce myself. I'm Kyle! Cool dude back there is Richie, Sarah and Abby."

"Hey man!" The one he could only assume was Sarah waved to him. Blond hair long and wavy with a flower crown on her head. The other woman who had dark hair twiddle her finger as Richie gave him a piece sign. He didn't know what these people were but he rubbed the back of his head as Kyle leaned in close to him. Looking him in the eye with a wide smile.

"Woah..dude..your eye is like…totally cool. Dude, come in!" Being dragged into the Van by his arm Jeb didn't protest or argue. He was awkward and experiencing freedom like this made him feel odd as the girls and the other man looked him in the eye.

"Jee man! That is really cool! What happened to you that got you such badass threads man!?" Richie asked as the girls who sat on a rug placed their heads in their hands and looked at him as if he was going to tell a story.

Abby chuckled lightly to the guy who dragged him in then to Richie. "Oh Rich. This man has clearly been to Vietnam! Look at him! He musta lost his eye there!"

"Uh..yeah..Nam. I've been there.." jeb nodded awkwardly. Having to look up at them being as short as he was he felt like he was being judged despite how much hospitality these goons were sharing with him." Look boys…ladies..I'm kinda lackin money but..do yall got any clothes that..fit me?" He asked awkwardly as the girls smiled brightly.

"Corse man! We got some money here. And we got some extra clothes! Their my dads but eh. They don't fit any of us." Kyle shrugged lightly as he pulled out a ten dollar bill as Abby got a plaid red shirt and a pair of jeans." Ten dollars is for the washer and dryer in the motel! I could only assume you were staying there!"

Looking at the clothes he smiled and looked back at them." Thank ya kindly. Really.." he was thankful as Kyle gave him a salute.

"Anything for a dude that served our country! You need anythin else we will be here." He hummed.

"Really? How long we talkin?" Jeb asked as Kyle turned to the others.

"Day or two? Just got here today. Now go on there! Get those rad clothes of yours cleaned." Kyle urged as Jeb nodded and left the Van. Hopping from the step he made his way into the diner. A bar sitting in front of a large kitchen with drunk bikers drinking heavily. Going into the bathroom he entered a stall and put on the clothes. It was weird not wearing his signature outfit. But something was better than nothing. And as he sat on the toilet looking at his clothes and the ten dollars he had he sneered and balled up his clothes. All except the holster and the cuffs he had for his pants. He wasn't getting rid of those any time soon. Yet he heard the door open to the men's room.

A pair of black boots stomping into the room as they burped and entered a stall to Jeb's left. Shifting his bionic eye he looked through the stall to the inferred man on the other side. The outline of a beard, bandana, and biker jacket made him sneer. Yet when he looked at the sinks he saw a pair of sunglasses. A sharp smile turning on his face as he swiftly left his clothes on the floor of the stall and grabbed the glasses. Leaving abruptly as he put them on. Yet when he left he noticed the cowboy hat wasn't white like his. But brown. Brows twitching slightly he sighed.

"You'll have to do." Putting the hat on his head he looked at himself in the reflection of the motorcycle and smiled." Not bad Hoss..not bad."

Making his way back into the main lobby he had his revolver stuffed kindly in the back of his pants. Wrapping up his cuffs he approached the counter.

" Can you was this?" He asked the man who helped them earlier.

"You dunno how to work a washing machine?" He asked him as Jeb shook his head.

"Nah. Not ones like these."

The man looked at the cuffs as he was handed a ten dollar bill. The moment he was handed the large amount of money made the man's eyes widen with excitement." I can do that. If ya come back in the morning they'll be all clean for ya. You sure you don't want the money back?" He asked as he raised the bill.

"Nah. You can keep it. Don't got much use for it. In the mornin you said?" Jeb asked as the lobbyist spoke.

"Yes sir! In the mornin. I'll get them for ya when you come in to drop the key off."

"Just what I was hoping for. Thanks." Nodding he left. The moment he left he huffed. His comfort was low there. He felt out of his element and the one that seemed to keep him together well was Pyro. And she was…he didn't even know where. Most likely everyone believes he and Jenna were dead. Not a big surprise if that was the case. Heading back to the room he kept his holster off of him and dropped it on the bed as Jenna left the bathroom. Hair was wet and dripping. Bit the new clothes seemed to fit her well. The Jean's hid her legs.

"Coulda found a pair of shoes." Jenna chuckled. Teasing him. But the feet showing were better than the whole leg.

"Sorry. That's all I could really find." Jeb said as he got up from the bed and made his way to the shower. Not that he had hair to wash. He was bald. But to feel clean was better than staying dirty.

After the shower he settled into bed. The door is locked tight by Jenna. Who took the liberty of turning the TV. On to the news channel. Nothing much was happening news wise. Mostly boring shit she couldn't bother with.

"Man..Tv has nothin good on. You wanna try it?" She asked Jeb as she tossed him the remote. Flinching it landed on his lap. Picking it up he looked over the buttons." Uh Jeb?"

"Y-yeah?" He asked as he shook his head to look at her.

"You do know how a TV works. Right?"
All that got was a shake." Man..ok here." She crawled out of bed to dit next to him." There is the volume button. Channel button is here. And the power button is here. Those are the most important ones. And mostly the only ones you really need. Go ahead. Give it a try." She urged as Jeb pressed the channel button.

The channel flipped to a cartoon about a cat named Felix. The rough art and movement made Jeb lean forward in his seat as he watched the cartoon in pure wonder and bewilderment. Completely dumbfounded that a TV had this type of power." Holy moly..this thing is somethin else-" looking over to Jenna he smiled." Can we watch this?" Almost like a child asking for permission.

"Felix the Cat? Sure I don't mind. Didn't really take you for a cartoon person!" She chuckled as she patted his back going back to her bed. Getting under the covers as she groaned. Jeb had to agree in a way. Beds were better than cots. And he practically felt tired as soon as he started relaxing on it after his much needed shower.

It was only a matter of time before both would fall asleep. The tv left on for light but the noise faint and the room dark.

They had a long way to go before they reached Oregon.

Chapter Text

Placing hands on a van door the masked individual lifted the pesticides into the back and slammed the door shut once the chemicals were placed in their correct place. Face covered by a thick black visor over their face. Silence filling the air as the person who approached them reached their hand out and shook their hand firmly.

The man was young. Skinny. Wearing a blue button up shirt and tan pants. He appeared pale and almost nerdy. "Thank ya kindly. Those Hornets have been gettin bad lately." All the masked person did was nod. Reaching out to them and gently shook their hand in return.

The great thing was that no one questioned the silence or the fact they hid their face consistently. They were happy where they were at. They moved on. Got a home despite not knowing how that would work. A job as an exterminator working for a pest control company. It all fell together as the perfect cover. And when they happened to sit down in the front seat steering wheel they were silent in thought.

Till a knock on their window caught there attention. Turning their head they saw someone they recognized almost instantly. Awkwardly placing their finger on the rotator to lower the window they only lowered it a crack as their hands waved slowly in sign language.

'Miss Pauling..?" She knew her from her original's memories. The asylum and signing up for the job at Teufort. She never spoke to them. But by all means she was willing to listen to her. Beneath the mask her eyes narrowed slightly as she nodded.

"Yes Pyro..it's me." She smiled lightly as Soldier pushed her aside, giving the pyro a large smile.

" Oh hello Smokey Joe! It's been ten years!"

"It's been six months Soldier." Miss Pauling said simply. Pyro tilting her head slightly as she waved towards Soldier.

'What is it..? I thought I made it clear I wasn't getting involved with Mann Co anymore..I was fired remember? We all were and the guy who fired us wanted us dead.' Slapping her palms down on the steering wheel she slammed her forehead on it. So much for being happy. She lost that now that Miss Pauling was knocking on her door.

"I know pyro." Miss Pauling kept her hand on the van.

'Please call me Jesse now..' she shook her head. Getting out of the van. Behind Miss Pauling was Soldier holding his fingers up doing terrible maths regarding how long it's been since they last saw each other. Paying no attention to the conversation in the slightest.

His eyes wandered as he placed his view on a newspaper left on the front lawn of a decent house. His fingers wrapping around the paper. Attempting to read it was hard for someone with 'no brain'. He however did recognize the faces on the newspaper. Walking over to Miss Pauling and Pyro.

"Men, is that Scout and Spy?" Pointing at the picture Pyro shook their head at the sight of Timothy's mugshot. Grabbing the paper from his hand Jesse read the paper. And when they were finished they handed the paper to Miss Pauling for her to read.

"Scout and Spy are going to be executed in Teufort!?" Looking over to Soldier his expression was flat as he removed his helmet placing it on his chest.

"They're dead, that's good amen."

That only resulted in Miss Pauling placing his helmet back on his head as she grabbed him. Yanking him to the car as Pyro got out of her van and followed.

"Pyro? Your coming with us?" A small nod in response that held a twinge of determination and concern.

'Yes! Timothy is family to me! What would I be if I let him die..?' Their shoulders went lax for a moment as they tightened their fist tightly into a ball.' I lost my Engineer. I'm not losing my Scout to.'

"Get in Pyro. I have your clothes in the trunk. You can get dressed when we get to Teufort."

Pyro shook their head.' I got money. Going by plane will be faster. Just..don't scream..' she muttered as she removed her helmet. She sat in the back as Soldier watched her remove the mask to reveal her jawless face. And as he looked at her. He shook his head. Not in disgust or disappointment. But more in awe.

"That's why you can't talk, Smokey! You got yourself one of the greatest battle wounds in the history of battle wounds!" Her mouth couldn't say much. Her short term gargle leaving her throat between the pads that collected drool and her eyes began to water. A small sob leaving her as Soldier blinked and reached out to wipe the tears from her eyes." You are god damn beautiful!" Being gentle wasn't really something Soldier was used to. But nevertheless he didn't like seeing women cry. Especially Pyro now that he's seen her face.

"Are you ok Pyro?" Pauling asked curiously as she looked at pyro. She didn't look disturbed by her face. And with such a thing. Either of them being barely fazed by how she looked. The sudden nausea of such acceptance made her sob.

'I'm ok..I just wasn't expecting such…' she paused. Her cheeks raised as if she was smiling.' Kindness..I've been so scared the only person to ever see me was Engi..it's…refreshing to be accepted without fear..'

Reaching into her pocket she wrapped a bandana around her mouth and raised her cheeks once more. Wiping the tears that Soldier didn't get before. 'I'll get plane tickets.'

Jenna slipped out of bed and stretched her arms for the sake of releasing her stiff joints as Jebediah did the same. The TV was left on all night to share the sight of Popeye the sailor man eating spinach to save the girl once again. They both lacked toothbrushes sadly. Jenna hadn't brushed her teeth in a full six months and the stuff on her mouth made it apparent that a toothbrush and toothpaste were needed to relieve the disgusting taste of tonsil stones and bacteria that sat on their tongues.

"Man I'm hungry.." she sighed as she looked at mundy's wallet and then looked to Jebediah who was already slinging his gun over his shoulder and checking his revolvers bullets.

"Theres a bar next door. Better than nothin." He placed his new hat on his head along with his sunglasses and hummed. Rubbing his chin as he splashed his face in the bathroom to wake up faster.

"Yeah. Rather eat here than walk another hundred miles to the next town. After all, we're here so might as well eat while we can. Got the money from Mundy. All the more reason to find them." She said as she waved the wallet towards him with a slight grin as Jeb returned the grin as he nodded." Next town we get to. We both get tooth brushes." She sighed as she smelled her breath and huffed with slumped shoulders.

"Smell like ass huh?" Jeb chuckled lightly as he grabbed the door knob and dropped the key off into a box left on the side of the door that said 'leave key here thank you!' And made his way towards the bar. He took notice that the hippies were still there. Noticing kyle he tipped his hat towards him as he waved before he took notice to Jenna at his side.

"Yo you got a daughter!? You didn't tell me ya had a daughter!" Kyle said as he jogged up to him. Eyeing Jeb with a satisfactory nod of approval." Looks like it fits ya pretty well man! Hey names Kyle. Gave your dad those clothes here." Reaching his hand out Jenna shook the hand kindly with a smile.

"Names Jenna." The instant she spoke Kyle clapped his hands.

"Man, you're from Boston!? I'm from there myself!"

"No shit?" Jenna asked with a smile as she threw her thumb over her shoulder towards the bar." Gonna grab some food. What's ya name? Mines Jenna." Placing her thumb on her chest with a prideful smile as Kyle nodded.

"Names Kyle! Got a few other guys ya pops met last night. But I'll let ya guys go! You must be very hungry." Turning he made his way off to the van as Jenna and Jeb went to the door as Jenna held it open for Jeb to make his way through. Upon entering the bar the bar was lined with bikers. A jukebox playing music in the corner of the building making classic rock echo through the place.

No doubt these bikers were from a wannabe biker gang. All sorts of scum and lowlifes that rule the west like it was still the early nineteen hundreds with bandit gangs galore. but she digressed. The best thing to do was to ignore them. She waved Jeb over to a table on the side away from the bikers as a woman with a white apron walked up with a notebook in her hand.

"What can I do for y'all?" She asked in a thick southern accent that Jenna seemed to wince at but smiled lightly.

"I'll take a water. Jeb?" She asked as Jeb scratched his head. He seemed to be ignoring her as Jenna laughed lightly. Water for him to please." She said as the woman nodded and went to the back for their drinks as Jenna placed her hand in front of Jeb's face to catch his attention before he blinked and shook his head." You okay man?"

"Yeah.. just not used to this Y'know?" He shrugged awkwardly as she looked at him with a small frown. She didn't know much about his life on the BLU's side. But she could tell that he was rather nervous.

"You want me to order for you?" She asked him as Jeb looked at her for a moment then nodded as he placed his shotgun on the chair next to him. As jenna read the menu her eyes stayed on the paper as she spoke. "How does Eggs toast and bacon sound?"

"Got hash browns with it?" He asked as she shook her head before speaking once more.

"Nah but we can ask for a plate of it on the side for ya." She hummed till she paused for a moment to look up. She felt the hairs on her neck stand up. As if someone was watching her. It made her feel uncomfortable as she glanced over her shoulder to a man that looked twice her age. Greying in his beard, fat and ugly. Her face turned white as Jeb noticed it. But he didn't ask. It didn't take a genius to know that she felt uncomfortable as hell with that guy staring at her.

As the woman returned Jenna chuckled lightly with a shutter as she placed the order and got up after she left to go to the bathroom. Little did she know she was being followed. Jeb watched as not only the fat biker got up. But two other men as another approached Jeb and took Jenna's spot at the table. A sharp grin. The man had a shaved head with the clear outline of where his hairline was with various tattoos coating his bare arms along his biker jacket. His jacket clearly listed the name 'Francis' with 'Hell's Legion' on the back as he rested his elbow on the table. 38

"Nice glasses old man..I had a pair just like it the other night in the bathroom." He leaned in close as Jeb eyed him down through the sunglasses. His jaw twitched as he reached for his revolver at his waste before he stopped.

"You don't wanna do this son.." Jeb said sternly towards Francis as he only leaned in closer.

"I think I do..you stole my sunglasses."

"And my hat!" Another man hissed as the nameless bloke cracked his skinny knuckles with a grin." I'll bust your teeth in for stealin' from Hell's Legion!" He snapped as Jeb tried to get to his feet before he was forcefully pushed back down by a pair of hands behind him.

"Now. You wanna make this hard?" Francis hummed as he plucked his sunglasses from his face and put them back on his face." Or am I gonna have to beat you up old man?"

"I don't know. They both sound like the hard way." Jeb hissed. His eyes glowing brightly as he bore his teeth. Clenching his fist as he eyed his shotgun. There was no way to not keep a fight from happening. And not to mention Jenna was in danger in the bathroom." Not like I mind.."

"You're okay Jenna.." She was cold. Splashing water on her face as she sighed in relief to be away from them. Just for a moment. As she splashed her face one more time. Before the door opened. But..not to a woman.

"Oh? Not happy to see ol me, princess?" The fat man asked as two other men came in behind him. Wearing similar biker jackets as her face ran white.

A flash of memory entered her mind. The beard of greying and glasses. The sensation of her innards twisting in pain as she backed away. The clack of her feet against the floor. Backing herself into a corner as the men closed in on her. Her breath hitched before the fat one's hand touched her wrist. Pulling her in close. His green eyes pinned on her. And thanks to her skinny frail stature and height being five foot six inches she had to look up at him. And when he grabbed her wrist…

And before he knew it. Her foot met his chin. Teeth flying from his lips as he fell to the floor. The men looked at each other and then back to Jenna who looked angry beyond belief.

"So that's it!? You pussies runnin' around like ya ain't losers and I knock your friends fuckin teeth in! Get over here!" She demanded. Her foot flexed forward as the man to her right squealed in pain from where she stomped. She could hear a mighty crunch as the other collapsed screaming in agony.

"T-that crazy bitch broke my foot!" Writhing as he rolled on his side. Holding onto his foot where the bones looked to be exposed. His ankle was practically destroyed. Jenna simply wasn't expecting her new legs to be that powerful. And as she realised it she rolled her shoulders.

"Jesus what's her feet made of!? I-I'm out of here!" The last standing man sobbed as he scooched away from her. Till he took off out of the bathroom into the main room in a full sprint. His eyes wide from the sight of a full fledged bar fight taking place with the old man winning!?" What's happening!? Francis!?"

"Old guy just lunged at em!" A skinnier man said as he held a broken leg of a wooden chair as another tried to swing a bar stool at Jebediah before he ducked to place a strong punch to the face of Francis who stood over him.

A tap on his shoulder resulted a fist to his face. Jenna's fist meeting his face instantly results in a similar fate to his fat buddy in the bathroom. Though his fat friend no doubt had a brain bleed at that point and would die soon.

"Jeb!? You alright!?" Jenna hollered as she jumped on a table. Kicking the stomach of any biker who tried to grab her.

"I'm fine! You Alright!?" Jeb asked as he swung the but of his shotgun into the face of one man to then be grabbed from behind as Francis, who seemed to be the leader of this little posse, cracked his knuckles. His smile wide.

"Glad you chose the hard way, old man! Now I'm gonna enjoy punching your teeth in and take that fancy eye of yours as a trophy!" He laughed gleefully. His face was partly bruised from when Jeb started the brawl. But he barely seemed fazed by it as he raised his fist and landed a hard punch straight to Jebediah's stomach. He heaved and gagged on the air he lost. And it only got worse as he was punched again." What's wrong old man!? No fight left in ya?"

"Dunno, boy.." his tone had a bit of a bite to it. A bit of blood ran past his lip as he smirked." Figured someone like you would know how to punch like a man! Turns out yer punching is weaker than her's. With a name like Francis it makes sense!" He snarled as he reared his head back to slam it into the bridge of his nose. The sunglasses flying from his face onto the floor as he flexed his leg. Trying to get free of the other bikers grip. Till Jenna came up from behind him. Wrapping her arm around his throat tightly to drag him off of Jeb. Throwing him to the ground to where she gracefully stomped on his crotch. A sharp high pitched squeal reverberated through the room. Blood seeping from where she stomped indicating she completely euthanized him the most painful way possible.

"That's what ya get bitch!" She pointed down at him. Walking over to Jeb to help him up." Ok. I think we're even now." She smiled lightly as Jeb chuckled. Picking up the sunglasses from the floor as he placed them back on his face. Wiping the blood from his lips as he shook his head.

"Darlin please. I was cloned for fightin. This is my kind of thing!" He looked to be in his element. His fists were bloody and bruised as he punched the nearest biker to him. The Jukebox being crashed into that changed the music from hard rock to an ironically fitting tune.

' Fight dirty.
That's what he said
After 7 pints of beer and 30 cigarettes.
Cue ball corner pocket
Blue chalk on his chin
Some lonesome balls
In a sky of dents
Gotta throw them a curveball
A swing and a miss
Play nicely-'

With a bar stool used in the past by a biker was now being swung by Jebediah who Instantly knocked another biker out as he slung the wrangler over his shoulder. Dropping the stool he stuck close to Jenna. The waitress no doubt was hiding from the madness that took place. Neither blamed her for that.

"Yer gonna pay for breaking my nose!" Francis yelled. His eyes were wild with anger as he looked at Jenna who was fighting a man. Like a breakdance her legs sweep the floor. Knocking over three bikers all Leaning loud groans before Francis approached her. His arms are wide." I'll start with you. Maybe that will teach that old bastard a lesson when his little bitch gets a fi-!"

"Yer gonna do what?" Jeb asked. His fist almost hit him before Francis managed to catch the attempted strike. His elbow met Jebediah's chest. A sharp cough left him as Jenna ran up to him surprisingly fast. Her eyes somewhat wide as she managed to drop kick him away from Jebediah. As Francis landed he got back up. He gathered his bearings.

"You bitch! The fuck are your legs made of!?" he wheezed as he gripped his stomach. He felt something in his chest snap and twist in a bad way. A rib must have been broken. And ribs don't usually break that easily. Do they!? He gagged as he tripped on his feet and coughed up blood mixed with mucus. His face looked no better. His left eye was swollen shut already. And his nose was broken as well as a broken rib. And he refused to go down along with his posse of sorts. They just kept getting up. So Jenna did one thing she knew how to. And reached into the pocket of one of the unconscious bikers and withdrew a key with a small teddy bear on it. It made her brow raise slightly as she looked to Francis as if to say 'really'?

Francis being the dumbass he was made him withdraw his set of keys. But on his keys there was a unicorn instead of a teddy bear." Ain't nothing wrong with unicorns!" He snapped towards her as Jeb laughed.

"And I just lost all respect for a man who has unicorns on his keys!" Jeb jeered mockingly before following Jenna outside.

"Which one!?" Jenna wondered in a frantic panic as she looked at the twelve bikes lining the front. Each one is unique from the others and when she saw a teddy bear logo on the motorcycle she pointed at it." That one Jeb! Go!" Her legs carried her faster than she thought. Though it resulted in her getting a bit tired from it. Jumping on the front she slammed the key into the ignition and readied it up. A sharp VROOM from the engine made her smile as she kicked the kickstand up and revved the engine.
questioned as he hopped in the back.

"Y'know how to drive this thing?" Jeb asked as Jenna chuckled nervously and shook her head.

"Not a damn clue. But I gotta learn fast!" As she pressed forward the bike shot forward with a screech of tire on concrete. Shooting forward she leaned to the side the same way she would ride a simple paddle bike. Instead of steering the front tire which no doubt would make them flip. Jeb held on tight to her. Looking behind them to the door of the bar as an injured Francis slowly waddled out of the bar. An old man wearing a barrette and camouflage looked at him before shaking his head.

"I'm too old for this shit."

"We made it-" Jenna smiled. The wind shot through her hair as Jeb hung on tight. A sign on the side of the road listing 'Route 66 California next two hundred miles' a sharp sigh leaving Jeb's lips. They had to skip out on breakfast but nevertheless they weren't dead. In his mind Jeb knew that was what he was made for. To fight an endless war. And when he finally got into that fight it was hard not to go shooting at everyone. It was in his nature and it didn't stop in his head. He was addicted to adrenaline. It was hard to admit it but that was the first step to curing your addiction. Admitting you have one to begin with and it was a bad one. It was the thrill of the battle. Thrill of blowing holes in people and killing them. But they were just that. People. not clones. Not merc's. People. And that was what prevented him from straight shooting everyone.

"Jenna." Jeb said rather loudly to ensure he was heard. His voice shaking slightly from his adrenalin dropping so suddenly.

"Yeah?" She asked as he lifted his head to see the road ahead. The speed gained on Route 66 to near one hundred miles per hour. A quicker approach on their destination meant more time to eat and rest. God knows they already got screwed out of a meal.

"They didn't hurt ya did they?" He asked. Referring to the people in the bathroom that had tried to do away with her. Her lips curling into a cruel smile as she shook her head.

"I kicked their asses with these awesome legs ya made me, Jebediah. They didn't touch me. Broke ones nose." She giggled only slightly till she cringed at the thought of straight crushing that man's balls and dick into nothing more than a pancake back at the bar." Aside from euthanizing that one guy- I'm good physically." If only she managed to forget that part. But she digressed. Shrugging, she spoke once more." How the hell did that start anyway? I know it wasn't me because my shit was..y'know. An isolated incident."

"I may or may not have..taken one guy's hat and their- leader's sunglasses-" he cleared his throat as Jenna pressed on the break. The motorcycle slowed to a stop.

"You what now?" She asked. And as a result Jeb repeated himself.

"I stole their leader's sunglasses and a cowboy hat."

"Jebediah Conagher! Dammit man! Because of that we lost breakfast and we had to beat the shit out of a shit ton of guys in there!" She raised her hands annoyed as Jeb rolled his eyes.

"We'll be fine. Ain't like we were gonna die." He said so nonchalantly as Jenna went seemingly slack jawed towards his words." What?"

"Your kiddin me right? Sure we may not have died but there was still a chance something bad would have happen-" she paused. A thousand yard stare crossing her face as Jeb rose his brows.

"Jenna? You alright?" He asked as he waved his hand in front of her face. A moment of silence before she shook her head and stared back at him." Blanked out there.." He muttered.

"I'm fine. Just..thinkin.." she muttered as she tried to start the motorcycle back up. And yet. It didn't. Her arms revving the engine only for it to die in her hands. The engine stopped running. Her arms falling to her sides as she got off with Jeb." Damn thing! Jeb can ya fix it?"

"Me fix it? Why me?" He asked as Jenna stared at him.

"You're kidding me! You can't fix an engine!?"

Jeb turned to face Jenna. His arms crossed looking as if his pride was shattered from that question. "Hey. Dell has eleven hard science PhD's. None of them were mechanics. SO when I tell ya I can't fix it. I mean I can't fix it. So if you have any weapon or anythin else for me to fix. I'm your guy. But it looks like we're walkin to California from here."

"Or we could just hitchhike." Jenna said as she pulled the bike over to the side of the road so no one could run into it. And upon that and the heat of the Arizona sun she could see what looked like a van coming towards them in the distance.

"Excuse me?" He asked. Clearly have never heard the term before as Jenna held out her hand. A sideways thumb pointed in the direction they were travelling in.

"Hitchhike. Get a ride with strangers. I'd think as long as they aren't bikers we should be fine." She smirked towards him as he awkwardly joined her and put his hand out like Jenna had. And with the van getting closer. It looked familiar. Jeb smirked to the sight of Kyle in the driver's seat. Pulling over. His arm lazily hanging out the window as he gave Jeb a salute.

"Hey dude and dudette! Saw you guys run out the bar and steal that motorcycle. That shit was bananas! Hop in! We're going to California! Beach day guys!" He said as he looked in the back towards his friends that Jeb was already introduced to. A loud cheer of two other girls and a man could be heard as Jenna and Jeb hopped into the van to come face to face with the familiar sight.

"Thanks a ton Kyle." Jeb nodded towards him as he took a place somewhere in the back of the van. Jenna doing the same as she came face to face with the two women and a man sitting on a rug in the middle of the can drinking beer." How's it goin?"

"Oh hey man!" One of the girls hummed as she raised a beer towards him. Handing it to him as he popped it open with his revolver which made everyone cheer once more as the van started to move again." So.. you his daughter?" She asked jenna as Jenna rubbed her head.

"Yeah. More like he's my step dad but might as well be my dad." She smiled as the girl nodded.

"Doope.. you can call me Sarah!"

"Abby!" The other woman hummed as the man tried to give her a beer to where she politely declined.

"Thanks but no." Waving her hands she sat down to where Abby pointed out her feet.

"No way! Your legs are gold!?" She asked as Jenna's face turned red.

"Yeah. Was an accident. It's just spray paint. Nothin more y'know." She shrugged as Abby and Sarah scooched closer to Jenna.

"You gotta tell us the story. Names Richie by the way!" Richie said as he pointed the mouth of his beer towards her.

"I dunno.."

Sarah reassured her it was okay and no one was going to judge her. "No no you totally should, girlfriend. It's like..totally badass! Your dad fought in Nam! We need to know how that happened."

Jenna sighed as she shut her eyes. Head lowered as Jeb swigged his beer and watched Jenna closely." Ok..I was in a train accident that resulted in both of my legs being amputated." Everyone's smile faded. Richie placing a hand on Jenna's shoulder as he shut his eyes.

"My man..you are a hero with an awesome as hell daughter. No matter what you guys have a place with us!" He said as he hugged Jenna along with Sarah and Abby. The high made Jenna's eyes water. She's been through hell..and the only hug she got was from a man who was too confused about the world. The warmth from the hug was what made her feel welcome. At home as if her team was hugging her. Her mother was hugging her again as she began to sob outright.

"Man guys..you're so nice.." Jenna sobbed lightly as she squeezed them. She only just met them and she was being treated as if she was a family member.

"It's no problem man. You're struggling. We're here to brighten people's days up with the power of peace!" Kyle hummed from the driver's seat.

"Yeah…thank you.."

Chapter Text

The old man stood before a door. His eyes wander the door built into the side of the mountain. Something felt off to the old man bearing such clothing of a cover he had over his mouth. Black in colour coated in blue camouflage. He could see two sets of footprints he didn't recognize and that made his eyes narrow as a somewhat younger man approached him from behind.

"What's going on..?" He asked as he watched his coworker look at the footprints leading out of the forest.

"Nothin good so far.. someone found the boss's stache." He couldn't really say for sure. But as he opened the door his hand fell.

"Shit.." the young man murmured under his breath. Rubbing his fingers through his finger facial hair. Holstering his double barrel he entered the vault. There was nothing there except a few things that seemed to be left behind by whoever made their home there." What are we gonna tell Boss? He ain't gonna be happy about this one bit." Shaking his head as the Spy loomed over a pot where they would usually melt their bars of Aulstralium for injection. replaced with what looked to be a makeshift soup.

"What do you mean 'what do we tell him'?" Spy asked as he got to his feet. Somewhat nimble despite him appearing to be in his early seventies, maybe late sixties." We tell him its fuckin gone. Eighty bars down to nothing but a mere five isn't what the boss saved, Scout." He said as he picked up a bar and placed it in a bag the other was carrying. Despite it appearing like gold australium was rather lightweight.

"Damn man..who could have found it? Boss made sure we chose someplace remote where the Mann's would never find it." Walking over to a hammock the Spy studied it." What are you doing?"

"My job." Spy said rather stoically. His cold demeanour made the Scout shutter slightly inside as he nodded." What's this..?" Spy asked himself as he looked through a trash can. On a piece of wood in that trash can was what looked to be a blueprint for a pair of mechanical legs. Pulling out a light with a purple glow. He shined it on a flat surface. And when he did the place lit up like Christmas. The sight made the Scout almost gag but the Spy barely reacted towards it as he pointed it towards the door. A trail of very old blood was leading back out into the forest and Spy began to follow.

Following the Spy scout logged the five bars they had left with them and slowly followed behind Spy. The smeers and drips of blood moved along the dirt till it disappeared. Upon doing so they took sight of a massive train graveyard. Train cars littering the field. Mud replacing what might have been clear grass at one point.

"Ew god.. that's a corpse-" Scout gagged slightly as Spy rolled his eyes and pulled his mask down. He didn't care about the burnt corpse turned to bone or the skeleton wearing a blue balaclava. He was more focused on trying to figure out where the stache went. And he made that abundantly clear to the Scout as he seemed to Express shame in his squeamish stomach.

"Sorry Spy."

"You're a damn Merc. Deal with it or get the hell out and retire. I'm staying." He snarled as he looked over the area some more till he came across the building they made into a base. A cross and a mound of dirt he couldn't bother to pay attention to as he entered the building.

"Well it looks lived in" Scout muttered as he looked through each room in the hallway as Spy turned into the Engineer's workshop.

"This looks like Conagher's handwriting." Spy said as he looked at an actual blueprint that time. Rolling it up into a roll he put it in the sack Scout was carrying and looked back over to Scout." You still have the button?" He asked as Scout nodded.

Pulling out a small red button from his pocket as Spy placed a hand on his shoulder. Pushing the button their bodies slowly vanished. Evaporating into the sun.

"Its what..?" Cheavy gritted his teeth. Shooting around to look Spy and Scout in the eye as he spoke. It was meant to be a quick transfer! And all of the aulstralium was just gone!? He didn't believe it..but when he saw what else they had he growled. Yelling in anger as he drove his fist into a painting. Pulling his fist out of it he approached Spy and sneered.

"We found this. Blueprints. Looks like Conagher's handwriting." Grabbing the Blueprint from Spy Cheavy sneered. But he knew that his man wouldn't betray him. He's been with them since the classics were formed in the thirties and not to mention the handwriting was off.

"He had a kid, remember?" Cheavy said as he placed the blueprint on the desk in front of him. Spending time in Nepal was making him itch for something to happen. But losing his stache wasn't what he was really aiming for in the terms of 'excitement'." Get Conagher in here." He said as Spy nodded. Scout following as Cheavy merely sat in waiting for his Engineer to show his face. As much as he hated to tell him that they were not only hunting the other mercs but it included his son Dell. He saw the boy when he was only three. No doubt he wouldn't know him or his father. Considering how young he was. But being who he was he wasn't going to let a man just get away with his aulstralium.

Since the thirties he had been stealing stacks of aulstralium under Redmond's nose back in the day. Storing it in that very bunker since he learned that aulstralium was the key to eternal youth so his team as well as himself would get paid even better. That over time became an obsession. A very unhealthy one. But now that the addiction didn't have what it needed. Cheavy became stressed.

The skin is becoming older. It was in his mind they were taking a good supply. They only needed a dose every other three months. And with only five bars they were low until they either found the team and Helen to lead them to more. Or find the thief or thieves that stole his original stache from the start. And as the thoughts grew more stressful. He looked up to see the old man in overalls. His goggles are sitting over his hard hat so his blue hues could make better contact with his boss.

"Ya wanted to see me, Boss?" He asked. Approaching the desk.

"Yes. I'm afraid that your son is on the death list." He said simply as he crossed his arms." The supply was gone. Seventy five bars gone and only five left. In its place we found a blueprint. Looks like your boy became a merc."

Mr.Conagher looked at the blueprint for a moment before pulling out his wallet and placing it down on the table. A picture of him when he was younger with a young boy sitting on his shoulder. He was right. Till another blueprint was placed on top of that one. Spy carrying it in that caused surprise in both Cheavy and Conagher." That's odd.." Conagher added as he pulled the blueprint written on the wood closer. Laying all of them side by side. Pointing at the real blueprint written on paper he looked to both Spy and his Boss." This is my Son's handwriting. But this isn't." He said as he pointed to the wooden board." It's off. Whoever stole your stache boss.. it wasn't my boy. It must be someone trying to incriminate him."

A father knew best. Knew their kids better than strangers and he trusted Conagher." Is that so? Mmm…" Cheavy rubbed his chin before his arms crossed again." That just means we have to find either the thief or the team faster before we run out." Looking around he smirked slightly as he snapped his fingers." You're free to go, Conagher. Henry. Bring the new guy in here.

The Spy nodded as he walked out. Minutes later he returned. Behind him was a fairly tall man that looked younger than them. Wearing a red medical coat, red gloves and a pair of rounded glasses over his eyes. He was also greying on the sides of his head. The look of nervousness wiping across him as he approached the desk. Cheavy's smile was cruel and evil as he cocked his head.

"Z..zu vanted to see me Herr, Cheavy?" His voice stuttered and wavy ever so slightly to the internal dread Ludwig was feeling." In result Cheavy wrapped his large fingers around his chin as he tried to avoid eye contact with his…'boss'.

"What's wrong Frankenstein? Not happy about hunting down your old team?" he asked as he pulled him close. A sharp yank that made Ludwig go as stiff as a statue.

Ludwig's story on how he got there was a short one..the tank never exploded. He remained trapped in that tank for days before he broke himself out. Wondering for miles before he was…forcefully picked up by a massive armoured ATV that looked to carry nine people. Low and behold..he was there. More a prisoner strong armed into the job than willingly signing up for it. He remembered him. And that's what made him a target.

"Zu know I'm.." he paused. He couldn't quite figure it out and couldn't really speak when he was being smothered. Was this how his clone treated his team and he was getting a taste of it? But their medic was dead. He refused to consume the aulstralium like the rest of the team. And thus died at the age of eighty seven. So he was the one to replace the native American medic he had met so long ago.

Cheavy. Didn't like Medic. Not in the slightest, and yet like a crazy bastard he was obsessed with him. He couldn't get enough of his stuttering fear. His attempts to keep his cool around him that eventually failed, and turned into sheer silence." You're what, Princess?" He asked as his large hand yanked his head back by his hair. He towered over Ludwig like Heavy did. It hurt. Made Ludwig wince in pain as he reached back to wrap his hands around Cheavy's wrist." Well?" He asked once again as he leaned in close." Speak."

"I-I don't care about zem herr Cheav! Ze're dead to me as far as I know!" He gave a nervous smile as Cheavy let his head go. Deciding that was a fair enough answer as he nodded.

"Oh?" He asked as the medic rubbed his hair back into place. Cheavy standing over him not bothering to give him space to instil his dominance over the other mentally wise. " You know for a schizo it makes me wonder how a man in his sixties like us is still so young looking." He tilted his head as his brow formed a line. The speculation of his youth was rather unusual to him." Do you know who took what was mine?"

Ludwig looked at him confused. He didn't know anything of his aulstralium stache and as he asked him. His hand found its place around his neck." I-I don't know vhat zu're talking about!"

"Bullshit, Frankenstein!" He snapped towards him." Who was it from your team? Which one stole my shit!?" He snarled. Lifting up his body by one arm. Hanging him there like a pinata Till the sound of the door opening made Cheavy turn to face Pyro who stood in the doorway.

"Am I interruptin somethin?"

Dropping medic Cheavy smacked Ludwig on his ass." I'll be talking to you later princess." He spat. Slinking past Pyro with his tail between his legs. Rolling her eyes she shook her head." What is it Gloria? Got something?"

"Yeah I got somethin alright. Check this out." She said as she slipped him a grainy picture of a short statured man stood in front of the camera wearing a dirty ten gallon hat with sunglasses. In his stache bunker." This is the guy that took our shit. But there's more." She turned around. Her body facing the door." We got him on camera performing surgery on this girl."

The mention of surgery was something Cheavy wasn't expecting." Your telling me someone is wearing my aulstralium?"

"Seems so Boss. We did a scan on her face." Handing him a file there was a picture of a malnourished girl in a red T-shirt. Hair in a ponytail with an awkward smile." Turns out she was just hired a year before by Helen. A Jenna Jessica Finch. From Boston Massachusetts. Ran away from her abusive father with her mother to Teufort before she got the job as a merc. As far as I know she has no real merc experience in the slightest." She chuckled lightly as Cheavy smiled in amusement.

"How the hell did a girl like this become a Merc!? She's so malnourished I'm surprised she can even stand." He laughed outright as she walked out of the mansion into a ATV that sat idly at the front. Snow covered it. Pressing a button on the vehicle a hatch opened to reveal a computer room. Walking over to a screen she pressed the spacebar as the video played.

A cowboy crafting legs out of bars of his aulstralium. Crafting them into legs. As she moved the video along. It got to a graphic scene where he was grafting aulstralium into her spine. Blood coating the table the girl was laying on. Cheavy had to admit this cowboy was impressive.

"We learned that this guy is actually a clone of Dell Conagher. Conagher's son. Since technology for the Mann's upgraded over the years Blu Mann had Dell make a cloning machine so he didn't have to find his own Merc's like Redmond did." Turning back to face Cheavy he nodded as he spoke." They left the bunker a few days ago. From a conversation they had he goes by Jebediah Conagher."

"Clones that are independent huh? Now that's new to me. Anything else?"

"Not really. But they're looking for Saxton hale."

"Him? He's useless. If anything, the guy is Yeti chow by now." Rolling his head he paused." Charles Darling. Get him on the phone will you?" He asked her as Pyro gave him a look of confusion.

"Charles Darling? You haven't spoken to him since he built his Oregon Zoo."

"I'm aware of that Gloria, but if I'm going off a hunch. They're gonna go to him for info." Slamming his fist into his palm he chuckled." We can craft an ambush for them in Brazil when they go to rescue the damsel in distress."

"Why not just get her in Oregon?"

"Simple. Stuff like this takes time. We don't want them getting suspicious." Placing his finger to his lip Pyro suddenly realised it and joined him in a smile.

"Makes sense boss. I'll get him on the phone right away."

He covered his mouth. Ludwig's ears listening in on them. Bit unable to see what they were looking at but when they said Jenna his face turned white. She was alive? It was both a relief and a mess.

"Hop in boys. We have work to do. You to Princess. Move out." He said as he grabbed him by the wrist. Yanking him into the ATV with everyone else..

"Soldier, behave yourself! We need to get to Teufort tonight! They're going to execute them tomorrow morning!" Wearing such odd clothes Soldier was intact causing a scene. He had never officially been in an airport as far as he could remember. His gaze raising and falling to all of the small shops built into the airport. Everything caught his attention like a man with severe ADHD. And every time he'd be pulled away and restrained by both pyro and Pauling.

"This is where America takes to the skyscrapers! Dear god..these metal eagles will grant us our salvation by rescuing Scout and Pyro!" His eyes wide with childish glee as he pressed his face against the nearest window before being forced onto a conveyor belt that began to pull him to their gate. New Mexico.

'Do you have any xanax?' Pyro asked. Her not wearing her mask was different but the breath of air made her feel less stuffed up. The bandana does the majority of the hiding when it comes to her face. Getting past security however was rather challenging thanks to Soldier's erratic behaviour.

"Afraid not. But I can't just put him into a sleeper hold." Pauling sighed as she pulled him close." I should have gotten a child leash!"

Soldier paid no mind to them as he sat idly on the conveyor belt that carried them across the airport at a quicker pace. And once they reached their terminal they urged the Soldier to sit down and remain still as Pauling pulled out a brick phone that was ringing and pressed it to her ear.

"..Yes, I have Soldier and Pyro. I'm in the midst of retrieving Scout and Spy as we Speak."

"Good.." the old voice on the other side of the phone. Her tone is old and rather cool.."When you find Scout and Spy I want you to meet me in a specific alleyway in Teufort at exactly two PM. No sooner or later."

"Administrator- I.." Pauling paused. Biting her purple painted nail as Soldier looked at her with Pyro.

"Oh?" The old voice on the other end asked as Pauling winced.

"It will be done. I'll be there at two tomorrow." She said as a small short term sound of cigarette smoke being exhaled slowly engulfed her ears before Helen spoke once more.

"Good. And I thought you were going to go against my word, Miss Pauling. I'll be waiting for you." Then the line went dead. The dead tone left Miss Pauling to think as she pinched her nose. Working for the Administrator was a hard and unforgiving job. She was her servant. Pulled strings when the merc's got into trouble. But when she learned Helen left the merc's to die in Sawmill she took matters into her own hands and sent a drone of weapons to them under the Administrators nose. At the same time getting her coffee and taking care of witnesses. She hated Helen. Despite the old bat practically raising her. No. She would rephrase that completely.

She hated her Mother. Despised her for the things she's done and the people she hurt. She left the RED's to die and many more things she could list. But it was something she couldn't just do. Killing her mother was impossible because of her manipulative ways. She raised her. Taught her what she knew and she can't put a gun to her head. She's tried to picture Helen as one of her targets. Target practice involving pictures of Helen with a target on her head. But nothing worked. She'd shutter.

She could remember when she tried to pull the trigger in front of her. She looked her in the eye and tried to pull the trigger. But stopped before it happened. All she said was 'Killing your mother is harder than killing strangers isn't it? You don't know them. But you know me. No matter how much you hate me. You don't have the strength to pull that trigger.' Smoking her cigarette. Legs crossed as if she knew. Knew she'd try a stunt like that and let her walk away.

"Are you Alright Miss Pauling?" Soldier asked as he placed his hand on her shoulder to turn her around to face him." Is it the Japanese Mafia? I told those chinks to leave me alone! I have nothing to do with Merasmus' bullshit!" He snapped as he shook her. Her head loosely waved back and forth with his shaking.

"I'm fine, Soldier! I'm fine!" She gagged as she latched onto him." I'm just worried.." She smiled sluggishly. Almost tired as Pyro held up the tickets. Handing one to Pauling and second guessing her option to give Soldier his. Which got her a frown from the male.

'ATTENTION ALL PASSENGERS! FLIGHT 556 FROM CALIFORNIA TO NEW MEXICO IS ABOUT TO BOARD! PLEASE LINE UP IN A SINGLE FILE LINE. AND PRESENT YOUR TICKET!' The announcement made Soldier jump. Pyro was unmoved by it but being a man who felt like everything was bound to explode at some point in time. Pyro took her ticket and got into line with the others. Soldier gripping tightly onto her shoulders as she handed the ticket collector her ticket along with Soldier's.

"Jane Doe?" The ticket collector asked as she looked at Pyro. Before she shook her head and pointed to Soldier.

"No ma'am this is Jesse. This is Jane Doe." She said as she patted Soldier on the back." He has…mental problems. That's why we're having Jesse here hand you his ticket."

Raising her brow she nodded and took both tickets and handed her the seats. Then Miss Pauling followed in from behind down the ramp into the small jet airliner and searched for their seats. Pyro sat with Soldier while Miss Pauling asked the man who had the third set across from them to switch spots so she could help Pyro with Soldier if he happened to lose his shit mid-flight.

'You have a plan?' Pyro asked as Miss Pauling started to wave her hand to start sign language herself so as to not draw suspicion from everyone. Last thing they needed was to be arrested for 'terroristic acts'.

'I think I do. The people in Teufort are mentally ill thanks to the poisoned lead infused water in the pipelines. If I happen to say why they can't execute them they should believe it.'

'But Miss Pauling this is something impossible..' Jesse shook her head as she covered her head.' Are you positive something like this would work?'

'I'm pretty confident that this would work. Their mayor is just..' rolling her fingers over her head she rolled her eyes and shook her head before giving Pyro a smile.'Crazy.'

'What would be your proof then?' She asked as Miss Pauling had a sly smirk.

'They have a library with the laws of Teufort in a specific book. And since the eighteen hundreds since the town was built. The laws hadn't changed since. And since then executions weren't allowed in Teufort. They considered it disrespectful. If I show them this Spy and Scout should be acquitted of all charges.'

'And if it doesn't work?'

'Don't worry Pyro.' She reassured her. If there was one thing her mother Helen taught her. It was manipulating high ranked political forces and blackmail. Manipulation was something Helen could do to anyone. Weather with body or mind. While Pauling only ever was capable of getting dirty things on people and handling the problems that way. She never really felt the need to be in a relationship. So using sexual advances on people wasn't her thing.

There were countless ways this could work. The only thing out of the question was a prison break. The last thing they needed was to be executed as well. So the thought came to mind. Embarrassing the mayor would easily get them out. Miss Pauling managed to get Soldier Parole over a live sentence for the Mall Santa incident. The thing she could do it be able to get two men they were holding illegally set free. As for the case of double jeopardy in state law. If one isn't convicted of a crime the first time in court meaning not guilty, then brought back in for that sale crime. They are eligible to walk free. And with Soldier having had served his sentence as well as the rest of the team since they were included. This was an easy rescue. Only made worse by the fact she picked up Soldier first and Soldier was a complete nutbar.

Yet he was already asleep by the time they were taking off. Drool leaving his lip as Pyro would gently move his head to lay on the window. Light muttered breaths of annoyance and racially destructive words were sputtered. But nevertheless the flight went smoother than expected.

It took only two hours to get to New Mexico. Driving to Teufort from there was only an hour drive. Renting a car was easy.

Jane smirked. Clapping his hands together as he looked intensely at the back seat as if it was calling to him." I call Rosa Parks!" He snapped as he threw the back seat passenger door open and jumped in. Slamming the door behind him as Miss Pauling rolled her eyes. It was like babysitting a special needs child.

Pyro took shotgun with Pauling driving. With it being midday they would make it to the city of Teufort just before sundown and make rest in a hotel before morning.

"Miss Pauling! I am a man of war! If this is a prison break like the POWs in Nam! If I need to crack some skulls I will." Fist clenched tightly to convey his point. Perhaps a bit too tightly as blood began to drip down his sleeve.

"That won't be needed, Soldier. There are ways of getting people out of trouble without using violence." She said as Soldier sat back in his seat and grumbled.

"Negatory! I being a lawyer will simply talk those apes out of killing my teammates. With the element of Prostitution!" He raised his finger into the air. A eureka moment in his head. But to Pauling and Pyro, they both choked back a laugh. Pyro giving off a more muffled gargled giggle.

"I think you mean Persuasion, Soldier. Not prostitution. How did you even become legally qualified to be a lawyer anyway?" She asked him as he rubbed his chin quizzically.

"I believe it was the summer of nineteen sixty nine in India-"

"Soldier-" Miss Pauling interrupted the story as soon as he started it." It's nineteen sixty five."

"Mmm…" Soldier once more rubbed his chin." Oh I remember now! Merasmus gave me a PhD in law! Said it would 'get me out of his life faster'! Oh Merasmus what a great friend-"

"You do realise he was trying to get rid of you right? If you have your 'PhD' he gave you, can I see it?" A bright smile formed on his lips as he seemed to reach into his pants and actually withdraw a folded piece of paper. Handing it towards Pauling who was stopped at a red light. And as she looked through the paper of the PhD. She was amazed to see that it was all legitimate. As if he actually studied to be a lawyer at one point. It had his name. Nothing written and crayons or some joke. He was being honest and that made her hand it back. Watching him stuff the paper back into his pants she looked at her hand and gagged for a moment. Soldier didn't stuff it into a pocket. He stuffed it into his boxers. Rubbing her hand on the rented car seat she drove." Apparently those papers are real, which I'm surprised it is."

"I told you Miss Pauling! I also have five others! One for- Oh wait no. That's just a ticket to one of Tom Jones' concerts I forgot about-" pulling out piece after piece of paper from his pants made Miss Pauling try not to vomit while she drove." Oh! Miss Pauling! Miss Pauling!!" He cheered from the backseat as he leaned his head into the front. Hanging between. The two seats as he stared at her." I will be Scout's attorney!"

"I don't think that's a good idea, Soldier. You may be a certified lawyer but you don't really have any actual skill in law, no offence."

"Non taken, Miss Pauling! For I am a gentleman with STANDARDS!" He smirked. His hand slamming into his chest as he spoke with such pride. But with Pauling being the only one who could understand Pyro. Pyro was left in an awkward spot in between the two of them. Miss Pauling gives attention to a mentally challenged man with the mind of a violent toddler. All she could do was sit quietly and wait till they were in Teufort. Her fingers gripped onto the rolling window crank as they drove. Her eyes lidded and tired.

Why did she agree to join back..? Oh yeah. Because her friend was about to be executed for something he didn't do. And she wasn't just going to let him die. She almost forgot. Her mind was hazy. Six months of living alone made it a bane to live and breath without her true closest friend Engi. He was dead. There was nothing she could do. One engi died and the other she wanted to kill herself. Watch him burn for the shit he pulled at Sawmill six months ago. The thought of Dell made her heart ache. If she had her bottom jaw she'd be clenching her teeth tightly.

What makes the world a terrible place was the people who walked in it. Young, old, small, large it didn't matter. Everyone had a chance to be evil and Dell took his. Abandoned and left to die. She thought of him every day. And dreaded the day she'd see him again. What she'd say and do. She not only dreaded it. She dreamed of it. Setting him on fire to just watch him burn and suffer.

Her eyes shut. Blocking out the sounds of bickering as easily as she blocked out the sounds of torture from her days in Teufort. And let the much needed sleep catch up to her..

And began to sleep.

Chapter Text

She couldn't stand it.Spending time in a van was so clostraphobic. But as soon as the mention of bright city lights in the distance was blurted out by Kyle, Jenna sighed in relief as Jeb glanced up at her with a huff as he picked up his gun and slung it back over his shoulder.”I know a great place to drop you guys off at man!” Kyle hummed as they passed countless cars on the city streets. Looking out the window it was the environment Jenna was most used to. As for Jeb this wasn’t. Looking was one thing. The fact he was now in the jungle, he felt small and vulnerable. The only way he felt safe was with that shotgun on his person at all times.

“Where ya thinkin exactly?” Jeb asked as he slipped into the front seat. The lights were so bright it looked almost like day time to him. He had to squint and his eye couldn’t stand the intense colors so he kept his eye shut while keeping his regular eye open to look around.

“Oh dude it’s a totally awesome hangout for concert lovers! A badass rock band by the name of the Midnight Riders."

"Did I hear Midnight Riders!?" Jenna asked as she piled between the two in the front." Haven't seen them live! But damn I love their music!" She hummed as she bobbed her head in the thought of a song she had in her head."I'm full up and about to explode!
Got my hammer held down, and I, I'm Texas bound.
My fightin' hands are itchin' to fight!
Well every lady's crazy when her daddy's not around!"

"All right there. No need to lose your marbles so fast." Jeb sighed as he pinched his nose before turning to look at Kyle." Drop us off there." He muttered as he reached his hand out of the window to fix Kyle's mirror. His eyes narrowed slightly as the sight of the bikers on the horizon hit his eyes. The optic view of his eye zooming in closely to the infrared view of Francis leading the pack. His face was bloody and beaten. But he was determined to find them." We got company.." he hissed with a raised lip as he stood up.

The vehicle slowed to a complete stop at the front of the stadium. The countless people showing up there made Jeb feel uneasy but didn't show it. His hand patting Kyle on the shoulder as Jenna did the same. Her eyes pinned on him with a thankful smile as she spoke.

"Thank ya Kyle. We gotta go.." Leaning in she kissed him on the cheek as he blushed. Rubbing his cheek with a wavy grin.

"Woah..did I just score?" He asked himself as Jenna and Jeb left the vehicle. Closing the door as they waved him off.

"Get in." He said. Walking towards the door as she looked at him. Stopping him as her legs seemed to hold her in place as Jeb looked back at her." What are ya doin!? Can't ya see their comin?"

He failed to remember she didn't have his eyes." Who? What's goin on Jeb?"

"The bikers followed us."

"How!? There's no way an idiot like Francis could track us down!"

"You'd be surprised how well the stupid can track." He snarled. Walking towards the bouncer who was guarding the door. He raised his hand and grabbed him by the collar. Pulling him in close as he growled menacingly.

Tipping his sunglasses down towards him. His blue eye glowed as he bore his teeth." Boy if you don't let us into that concert. I'd gladly tear your throat out with muh bare hands.."

The words tore into the bouncers head but didn't affect him as he pulled his arms back and shoved Jeb off of him. As he rolled his sleeve up he was stopped once more by Jenna.

"What!?" He asked as Jenna waved Mundy's wallet towards him. And withdrew two twenties and walked up to the bouncer and slapped the Bill's into his palm.

"There you go. That's how you get into a concert with bribery." She said as the man stepped aside with a sharp grin. Counting the money as Jeb slipped in with Jenna leading the way down the corridor into a large stadium full of people. Countless. A stadium full of a good few hundred people.

"I want those two found and brought directly to me!" Francis yelled as he hopped off his bike. Barely even taking care to park his bike in a proper spot. He merely pulled it up onto the sidewalk and hopped off to where he conveniently approached a bouncer. His large frame was little to deter the bald biker from backing down." You see a woman about yay high with a stupid looking cowboy with a brown cowboy hat and sunglasses around the same height?"Yet his question only got him a slight flare as the sound of heavy rock could be heard from within." I won't ask twice." He sneered as his biker buddies took their place around him. Mobbing him completely till they threw the door open with what was left of the bouncer's unconscious body.

"Err..boss. What makes you think they're here of all places? Midnight Riders are usually for the city folk." One said as Francis stomped his way into the corridor to the interior. His blood boiling. But for the first time in his life. He grew smart. As one would put. Grew a second brain cell. The girl spoke with a boston accent. There was no way she couldn't be here. Just no way..not to mention. One of his lackies spotted the cowboy hopping into the hippies van. His gut was sure about it. His body flexing with rage as he pushed a few concert goers over. His eyes scanning the crowd till he saw the two of them pushing their way through the crowds. The cowboy hat sticking out like a sore thumb. Yet before he could start pushing his way through the crowd. A hand and a fist met his face. The bouncer and some of the other party goers are losing their cool.

Out to have a good night ruined horribly by wannabe bikers pushing them back? Not on their watch. Especially the bouncer who was barring a black eye and a broken nose. His expression shared distaste and adrenaline as the group of men who outnumbered Francis five to one had been horribly stomped on. And thrown back out into the street. The doors locked tight.

"Dammit! No!"

"Boss we gotta go! Cops are coming!" His eyes wandered around as he counted his men.

"Wait. Where the hell is Marcus!?"

"Through the realm of midnight! Common Jeb! Loosen up." Jenna smiled as she danced through the crowds of people. But Jeb was having a hard time. The people bumping into him. His eyes were wondering. So many heat signatures it made his head hurt. Even with the sunglasses on that usually dulled it. But this was painful.
"Huh? Jeb..?" She stopped. Turning to look at him.

He was holding his head. His teeth gritted tightly as he growled." We need yo get the fuck out of he-" a fist hit him on the back of the head. A biker who managed to break through the crowd. Jenna's eyes widened to see Jeb wasn't getting up. Nor was he even moving.

"Jeb!" She clenched her fists. A circle of people forming. Women and men cheered with a thirst for blood as she furrowed her brow. A line forking over her forehead as a skinny man came into view. Not as muscular as Francis but only slightly smaller. Jumping up and down with a ready fighting stance.

"What's wrong, girl!? Never taken a punch?" He asked as Jenna ran up to him. Her fist shot towards his face only for him to grab her wrist. She wasn't ambidextrous. Throwing a punch with her left fist wasn't as hard as her right. It was her dominant hand and that was restrained. His boot stepping on her aulstralium foot. His expression shifting as he leaned in close. As his other hand clamped around her wrist until a voice piped in from behind.

"Hey punk! So you like beating up girls and innocent badasses carrying guns huh!?" Ox said. She didn't even realise the band had stopped. Everything was so numb she was terrified of this guy. And as she looked back at the band. Smitty came up beside him with a bottle of vodka. The glass didn't shatter but it was enough to knock the biker out completely. His grip on her slipped as she sobbed. Running over to Jeb as she was stopped by Jake the Lover. His smile was calm as Dusty had picked up Jeb in a bridal carry.

She hugged Jake. His massive arms wrapping around her in return as he placed his hand on her back." Common. We got a place in the back for you." He smiled. One thing Jenna knew about the Midnight Riders. It was that they had big hearts. Despite how they dressed and acted on stage. They were family men. And Jake was one of the best of them.

She was handed a tissue. Blowing her nose deeply as Jeb was laid on a couch in the back. A stage producer showing up as Ox rolled his head and told him to tell the crowd the concert was over. It was free anyway. But they closed the doors after the first song started playing. They had a bouncer posted. But they got in. It was the last song of the day anyway.

"Is he alright..?" She asked as Rusty checked his pulse.

"He's fine. The blow to the head knocked him out cold." He said as he pulled out a stick of amoena and waved it in his face. The stench making Jeb instantly awaken and start coughing. Grabbing the stick and throwing it across the room. His eye glowing brightly as he took deep breaths.

"Awww look at what ya did! Ya got amoena all over the wall!" Smitty snapped as he shook his head and took another swig of a beer." Oh well. Ain't our crib. I ain't complainin."

"Who are you!?" Jeb hissed. His eyes shot around the room at everyone until his eyes landed on Jenna. He had his gun raised which got raised hands from everyone else bit Jen and Smitty who was too busy drowning his bottle of beer." Jenna..?"

"You're ok Jeb. Midnight Riders helped us."

Jeb arched a brow."Wait..The boy band helped us?" He asked as Smitty stopped drinking.

"Hey pal. We aren't a 'boy band'. We're just a band..Alright?" Ox said as Rusty shook his head in disappointment.

"Well sorry! Ain't my fault I'm a born and bred country boy!" He snarled as he threw his gun over his shoulder and made his way over to Jen. Sarcasm was lacing his lips as he nodded.

"We lost our wallets.." jenna sobbed. She wasn't necessarily lying. She didn't want to use up all of Mundy's money. And plain tickets were expensive.

"Where ya live? Maybe we can get ya there." Rusty asked as Jen looked up at him.

"Portland Oregan.."

It took Jeb a moment to read what she was up to. Was she..manipulating them like a spy.? He narrowed his haze only slightly. Her heartbeat was as calm as ever. And usually people who lie were showing signs like avoiding eye contact or skips in heartbeat but there was nothing.

"Portland! Ya gotta be shittin me! That's just a two hour flight by plane!" Ox laughed as he twirled his drum sticks in his hand a few times." We can do that for yah. First class flight on our Jet."

Jenna choked up slightly. The fact they were willing to help was something that caught her off guard. She was expecting a fat no. Or maybe a damn RV with the Midnight Riders faces painted on it. But not a jet.

"You'd..let us use your jet to get home?" Jen asked as Jeb crossed his arms.

"What's in it for you? What do you want out of this fellas?" He asked as Ox placed a heavy hand on his backs." Get yer damn hand offa me.." he snarled.

"Dad! Common! Their willing to give us a ride home!" Jen yelled as she looked at him disapprovingly.

"Its alright lil lady. We don't want nothin. We're good folk. Not a bunch of assholes." Dusty started with a smile as he nodded his head and pulled out a brick phone from a dresser drawer. And pulled the antenna free.

"We'll take ya to the airport. We got the perfect time. We gotta go to Montana next. Just a little detour. Need gas for it anyway." Smitty said in a drunken slur.

It took them only a few minutes to get to the airport. When they saw the jet they saw the colour black coating it. A personal pilot waved them in as the limo pulled to a stop next to it. Getting out first was the band. And coming out last was Jeb and Jen. Jeb was more intimidated by it than Jenna was as he held his gun tight.

"Metal birds..christ.."

"You Alright? Common. We gotta get to Oregon." Jenna whispered.

"Yeah yeah! I know." Snapping slightly he rolled his eyes and approached the jet. Climbing up the stairs into the cabin of the plane. Rows upon rows of seats where they faced each other. A table on each side with fast food being placed in front of them. Food..something they didn't have a chance to have yet. And he drooled at the scent and sight of it. A cheeseburger with two patties. And a side of curly fries.

"Have you ever flown before?" Ox asked as he ate. Jeb looked up at him as he cocked a brow. Mouth full of food.

"What do you mean?"

"On a plane? Y'know?" Dusty said.

"Dad..has never flown before. We got a rental and he put the keys in his wallet. That was stolen." Jenna sighed. As she looked at Jeb who raised a lip. He didn't like the fact Jen was pointing the blame towards him for so called 'losing the keys' to their 'car'. The reaction alone earned him a wide eyed stare from Jenna. Almost asking what she could have said better.

"I see. First timer huh?" Ox chortled. Taking another bite as he put his belt on as the lights above them indicated. Jeb rose a brow as Jen followed the lights and eventually. With some struggling he put his belt over his lap into the connector and clammed it shut with a click. Perfect. And yet. He still wasn't expecting to feel this metal bird move. He felt himself jolt as he was about to take another bite of food and indulge in its flavor.

"The fuck was that!?" He asked as the band merely started to laugh." What's so damn funny!?" Jeb yelled as Ox looked to Jen.

"I think your pa needs to take a much needed chill pill. He freaks out during take off we're gonna need to tie him down to the chair." That being said it made Jeb huff and put his burger back in the wrapper. He wasn't in the mood to eat if he was merely going to be the butt end of the joke here. He was hungry but he wasn't going to eat it in front of them. Not if their acting like fucking children. If anything it reminded him of his time at BLU. the times Medic would poke and prod at him. Looking for a reason to see weakness beneath his rough and tough exterior. To no avail. Soldier being the moron he was he couldn't tell what was what with that temper of his. Sniper was just simply the side boy who enjoyed tormenting anyone who came close to him. And Spy..god that manipulative narcissistic son of a bitch always made him twitch more than medic ever could because of their class differences. He'd play the kind angel before playing around with his feelings. He didn't trust anyone. So this made him revert back to something he was used to. Hiding his weakness through anger.

Slamming his fist on the table the force was enough to knock Jenna's drink to the floor. His glowing eye scanning each and every one of them. That climbing rage hid the sensation of taking off into the air as everyone stared at him in silence. Jenna however looked at him differently. Not angry at him. Or even slightly irritated. She looked sad. That look brought him back to that day..

'She wrapped her arms around him. Sobbing and sniffling like shes been through hell. She had. She had things removed from her. Innocence stripped by that Medic. If he could even call him that. More like the team's torture specialist and self proclaimed leader. The sounds of heavy footfall slamming all around them as they were flung back and Jenna's legs crushed to the point they were merely stubs by the time he got free of some debris.

It all happened so fast and she was unconscious. He was conflicted..save himself..or save them both. If he tried to save her he'd more than likely be caught. It was night by the time he woke up and there was nothing around him. Such a pain. But looking back at her. Seeing her breathing. His eye reading her vitals. He couldn't just leave her. That would make him no better than his dead 'teammates'. It would make him a monster. A devil just as bad as Spy. Medic and the rest of them.'

"Jeb.." Jen snapped him out of his thoughts. The look of anger shifting as the sound of the seatbelt sign being turned off with an audible 'ding'. As it did. Jeb took off his belt and got up. Storming his way to the back of the plain where the bathroom was. Turning to face them Jen sighed." I'm sorry.. he's got some…issues. It's hard to explain." She uttered as Rusty nodded.

"Don't worry. It's fine. People have their ticks so if anything. We should probably apologize." It was funny to hear such a buff looking man say something like that. But after all. Him and Jake were the kindest of the band. Both equally a teddy bear with love filling their bloodstream. While Ox and the other were rather rough and hardy.

"No it's fine. I'll talk to him." She murmured as she unblocked her belt to go to the back where Jeb had locked himself in. A gentle knock on the door as she pressed her ear to the door to hear Jeb grumble." Jeb. I just wanna talk."

"Go the hell away Jenna. I ain't in the damn mood to talk." He snarled as she sighed. Her head hitting the door as she smirked.

"I'm not goin anywhere. Less ya wanna throw me off the plane yerself. I'd say you and I are stuck together. Alright?" She asked as silence creeped into the bathroom. That told her he was listening." Look man..I'm sorry that happened. I know you ain't used to taking jokes. In fact it's clear to me that you only take everything literally and jokes with a grain of salt. But ya gotta know.." she choked. It was something she didn't want to mention." You gotta know..this ain't your team. These are people. Not monsters. Their just havin-"

"Fun. I get it. Just go away…" the interruption only earned him an eyeroll from Jenna.

"Ain't leaving you that easily. We made it this far together. Least you can do is follow back on the promise. You said you had no idea what to do with yourself so sick it up and get the fuck over it!" Slamming her fist into the door she sighed and sat on the floor in front of it." Look Jeb. I had a horrible life to. I've been abused by my stepfather for years before I got to Teufort. I get it. I do. But you don't see me acting like a bitch over jokes. You gotta learn that everyone ain't yer team. They're their own person." It felt so damn cheesy for her to be saying such bullshit but it was true. How else was she going to get through to him?

"Look kid. How I live my life is different to yers. Ya hear? I got my own life to live. My own problems to sort out. You wanna but into the problem? Here's her answer. Don't." A short term pause as his voice seemed to choke up a bit." It's better that way.."

She kicked the door in frustration before hissing. "The fuck it is Jebediah! Suffering alone ain't gonna solve anything! Talk to me man! Come on!"

But the silence was disturbed by the door opening up. To see a grown man cry like he was. It made Jenna choke just as bad. Her eyes looked into his. The redness buildup under his eyes with streaks of tears." You don't got no idea.. what it's like to live six years under that bearded assholes rule with a fucking iron fist. He was fine the first few days. But when he found out who he was he remembered everythin and revealed in the pain and sufferin of others. It hurt to watch us torture ourselves! But I knew if I showed weakness. I'd be thrown aside like trash!" He spat. His fists clenched as he took a shuttered emotionally strained breath as he looked away." You just had a taste of what I went through. A little league style run around on what life for us weak ones was like in the BLU base!" He grabbed her tightly by the shoulders. Hard enough to bruise her as he placed his head on her chest. Sobbing deeply as the guilt for exploding on someone innocent made him feel like shit. Why did he care what she thought of him? He shouldn't. Like she said he was only following along for the ride. Nothing more. But he was conflicted…it reminded him of his daughter..not his but Dell's. Merabell. She'd be her age at this point. Perhaps a year or two younger than Jen as she wrapped her arms around him.

It hurt her to remember such a tragic time. Though it was short. It was traumatizing. The feeling of him rummaging through her organs like a play thing..using her intestines as a scarf while she lay there. Strapped to a table. Forced to watch and struggle as he fucking raped her and stole her of the ability to bare children.

But Jeb suffered worse. Not that he didn't go to the table under Medic's hand. How else did he get his eye? He stole his eye no different to how he stole his Pyro's jaw. He had to make an eye to help him see. One wasn't good enough to get the job done. Hours of pain. He stole many parts of people. His eye, Jenna's uterus, Dell's hand, and his Pyro's jaw. Not to mention stealing organs from heavy. His kidney, appendix, etc. Almost like he had something planned with thoes body parts and never got through to using them.

"By god he still haunts me..they all do Jenna.." he sobbed. His grip grew tighter on her as she did the same.

Her sons grew slightly as she let out a sad chuckled with the sound of snot growing in her nose. Gross but she couldn't help it. "He does with me to man..he never leaves my mind..like a Nightmare that never just…fucks off y'know..? He's a stain..that's impossible to remove." He was a Nightmare of a Medic. A living monster that made Ted Bundy look like a teddy bear in comparison. And the scar with that menacing lisp never really left her. She thought of medic for a moment. And froze.

The time to put two and two together made her clench him tight. Her medic was that monster..not that he was that monster but BLU's Medic was cloned with his dna. If he was to remember everything from his past. Something must have drove him to embrace what happened back then. What was Medic..? Ludwig..? A wolf in sheep's clothing? If she sees him again shes most likely going to confront him about his past.. if she sees him again. What his intentions were. If he proves to her that he's a capable man to trust. She'd wipe it from her mind for good. Nevertheless it was like The Medical fucker. Wouldn't leave her mind.

It was then the seatbelt sign turned on again with another audible 'ding' as she raised her head to the speaker of the piolet speaking.

"Good evening Midnight Riders and Fans. We are currently lowering our altitude to twenty five hundred feet. If you could put on your seatbelts we will be landing in Portland's national airport in just a few minutes! Thank you for riding air Midnight."

Jen walked over to the nearest set of seats and put her seatbelt on as Jeb slowly followed behind. Taking the seat in front of her. Wiping the tears free from his eyes before putting his sunglasses back on. It was only as they said. No time at all as they felt the minor jerk of their plane hitting the runway. Such a jerk it made Jeb flinch as jen merely put her hand on his shoulder in reassurance that everything was fine.

"We made it.. y'know. My ma needs some company back in Teufort. If you have no where to go. She'd be happy to have ya as a roommate." She said as she placed her hand on his. Gripping it tightly as the plane merely slowed to a stop. His eyes were still watery. Teaching into her pocket. She pulled out an unused napkin from the diner they stopped at and handed it to him. Wiping his eyes from under the sunglasses he let out a slight tisk of thanks and blew his nose after relieving his eyes of the salty tears.

"You guys alright?" Ox asked from the front as the plane finally parked. Rusty and the others following suit as they got up. Jeb walking to the front as Rusty stopped him. No answer from Jeb revolving around the question.

"Mm?" He furrowed his brow as rusty blocked his path.

"Look. I wanna apologize for the shit we pulled. We didn't know that was something that hit home for you. So..I'm sorry." He said with a honest tone. Jebediah's eyes shutting as he inhaled deeply with a hint of a smile. Momentary. But it was noticed.

"Thanks..partner." nodding as he extended his hand out. Grabbing Rusty's hand in a firm handshake before being pulled into a side hug that caught him off guard. Glancing to Jenna for a bit of help. She merely urged him to hug him back. Which he did. Reluctantly and awkwardly but he gave him a pat on the back. His lip curving in disgust. Affection was something he still wasn't used to. But he was learning. It felt oddly nice to hug him. Warm and almost like a mental blanket that made him genuinely smile.

"Alright you two. We're here. You ready?" He asked both Jeb and Jen as Jen took ahold of jeb and patted his back. As he looked at the reflection of his own eyes through his sunglasses. His glowing eye pinned on Dusty as he smiled. Not losing it this time as he rubbed his neck.

"Yeah we're ready. Thank you. So much for getting us home. We can just walk home from here. Thank you guys." Jen felt kinda bad manipulating them. But even so. In the end. Ox pulled off his leather jacket. And handed it to her. Her eyes wide with excitement as she took the jacket into her hands and looked up to him." Common man…the plane ride is enough.." she muttered as tears swelled in her eyes.

"Nah. No buts. Its yers kid. I got more back at home. Trust me. Keep it clean." He said as Jenna threw herself into his arms in a deep hug before she slipped it on. Its size was a little big thanks to her measly skinny frame." Common kid yer ruining my image here." He joked after slipping through the hug.

It was a little big. But she loved it either way. The official Midnight Riders logo stitched into the back of it." I love it! Thank you!"

"No problem kid. Now get outta here. We got places to be. Rusty and Jake gave friendly waves goodbye as Jeb nodded lightly to them and then to her. Leaving them on the blacktop close to the entrance to the airport.

"Alright. Where to Jen. We got a asshole to find." He sighed as he cracked his knuckles. Fixing his gun to his side. He forgot his damn food. But he had a good few bites before leaving.

"Well I honestly think we should eat. Properly. The damn trip in vegas kinda sucked ass to the point we couldn't eat. So. I think in a nice public place like this we won't be fucked outta a meal this time." She said as she flipped open Mundy's wallet to see the money they still had. They barely spent any.

"Sounds good to me. I'm fuckin hungry still.."

Chapter Text

Tapping his foot against the carpeted floor beneath him he tapped his foot impatiently as he looked up at the jury. Who so happened to be the mayor himself. Very impractical and ridiculous that they were doing this. They were hundreds of miles from the town and yet..there was a feeling in the back of his mind that he hadn't felt in a long time. He was still yet to tell his wife..that her little girl was gone. He couldn't bring forth the spine to admit that he..couldn't protect their only child. His flesh and blood. That guilt was deep inside him and he thought maybe dying by noose like in the eighteen hundreds wasn't so bad. It was what he deserved after all. A good decent stab to the intestines. Anything. He should have died at Sawmill.

He was barely even paying attention as their lawyer. Who happened to be Tim forced into a suit and tie spoke about their innocence.

"Y-yer honour. I'd like to say we.. I mean..me and the defendant are not guilty. We did nothin wrong!" He said as he slammed his hands on the table.

Spy had to admit that the mayor was crafty despite his insanity due to the lead infused water. Forcing a boy who had no idea how to be a lawyer into being the one to try and ease their way out of a problem. It was almost like he was a fish out of water.

"Tim. Dis is just entertaining to dem. For de love of god just sit down." He sighed as he covered his face with a slight droll tone to his voice. Tapping his fingers as Tim looked over to him with a raised brow.

"Yer kiddin me right!?" He yelled. The Judge slammed his gavel on the mat to demand order. Clearing his throat he leaned in close as he spoke in a whisper to Spy." Look man. Our lives are on tha fuckin line here. You get fucked. I get fucked alright?" He said as he looked over towards the judge. His smile was cheesy and wide as he cleared his throat once more." As I was sayin your honour. There is no way we could have done anythin at the mall! I wasn't there! I was back at Teufort with my team! That right there is my..twin brotha." He said as he pointed at a grainy photo of a scout. Different hair but no sign that it wasn't him. Hell it was him in a way. Calling Jeremy his twin was the best possible thing to call him there is no proof that we-"

He stopped. What was the point? He was going to die. So was Spy. He looked at his arm. His expression shifting as he sighed. But his mind was blank for too long as a man seemed to kick open the door to the court hearing with a briefcase and a momentary glance the man seemed well sized. Tone in shoulders. Till they both went slackjaw. Spy's face matching Tim's as Soldier walked into the room with gusto and pride. Wearing a tuxedo like a professional lawyer would. He wasn't wearing his helmet so he appeared different to how Spy and Tim were used to seeing him.

"Ladies and gentlemen of the jury! The voices in my head told me that these two maggots are headed to the gallows! Am I or am I not correct on that forefront!?" Soldier asked as he slammed his briefcase on the desk where the judge sat. Making the mayor jump in surprise as he turned to face the crowd." You are all to adhere to this!"

"Uh…yes." The mayor said with a rather strong poker face that seemed to make Soldier smile." I'm sorry but who are you?" He asked in utter confusion as Soldier turned to face him with a strong grin.

Marching up to the podium where the Mayor sat Soldier's hand met the tabletop. "Maggot..I'm your worst nightmare compared to the commies buttfucking us on our front doorstep as we speak! I am Cornel, lieutenant, Sargent, jesus fucking christ himself do you understand me!? I am Jane Solly Doe!" He snapped as he quite literally snapped his fingers towards him and pointed a finger towards him as both Spy and Scout looked in disbelief.

Spy's head on the tabletop while Scout ran his hand through his hair." We're so dead.." he muttered. With soldier somehow finding them it seemed like he was just making the whole situation worse as the Mayor rises from his seat and bangs his gavel on the padding.

"Mr..Doe..are you qualified to represent these two as a lawyer?" He asked as Soldier ripped a pair of papers from his pants and slapped them on the table. Watching the mayor as his eyes glossed through the papers a few times before smiling and giving them back." Very well. Their authentic! Alright. Tell me why I shouldn't have these two hanged for the Mall Santa incident?"

It was then that the Soldier strolled out into the middle of the courtroom. There was one thing Pauling knew. It was how to beat fire with fire. To allow Soldier to play Lawyer in this circumstance she was sure his stupidity would outweigh theirs.
Watching from the booths along side Pyro she looked to Jesse and nodded.

'Are you sure this is a good idea? He's making a fool of himself up there..' Jesse waved as Pauling looked down for a moment.

"I'm sure this will work. It has to. If it doesn't I have a plan B." She whispered to her

Jesse's eyes narrowed slightly from beyond her bandana a gargle could be heard. But quiet. 'What's the other plan?'

"You'll see."

"Ladies and gentlemen of the Judge Judy's augmented tits! These two men are innocent! Why!? Because they were not there at the mall that day!" He said as he marched over to Tim. Grabbing him by the shoulder in a tight grip that made him wince. Turning the pages of many exhibits to a picture of what looked to be CCTV footage of the mall that day. Focusing on a picture of Scout. Who was actually Jeremy wearing a red T-shirt and other various clothing. His arms were showing. Unlike Tim's whose arms were always covered." Does that look like this!?" He asked to everyone as they all nodded in unison." Oh wait..dammit." he snapped his fingers as he opened the briefcase. Slathered glue on the back of a picture of Jeremy and plastered it on the CCTV evidence without thinking." How about now!?"

They squinted. Even the Mayor himself looked between the two for a moment as he crossed his arms and shook his head disappointed." This proves nothing Mr. Doe. They are both the same person."

"Wrong maggot! Behold!" With a moment he forcefully ripped the sleeves from Scout's suit clean off to reveal tattoos that covered His arms. Listing BLU instead of RED." This maggot is not the one in this picture. See! No tattoos! Tattoos!" Pointing the Mayor blinked as he bit his lip.

Mistakes were something the man didn't really like making. And looking at him and over to Soldier."I-I. This Is a great misunderstanding. Jesus.. I..wait. what about him?" He asked as he looks to Spy. Yet the CCTV footage was covered by the picture of Jeremy.

"What about who?" Soldier asked as he looked through the evidence only to find nothing incriminating Spy. He was always a sneaky man. Slithering around. No doubt went invisible when the chaos broke out. Miss Pauling smiled. Her hues pinned on Soldier who looked back at her and gave him and gave her a thumbs up as the Mayor himself sighed and shook his head.

"Well fuck..there goes my five million on that antique gallows I bought. Your free to go Gentlemen. Just don't fuck up. Actually, do. I want to use my gallows on someone at some point!" He said as the guard from the jail leaned in and whispered into his ear." Nevermind! Everyone to the gallows! We got other death row inmates to hang!" Everyone but the gathered team cheered in excitement before leaving the courtroom. Leaving Tim to stand there just as flabbergasted as Spy who was Slack Jawed.

Spy couldn't believe it..Soldier..with no knowledge in being a lawyer..saved their asses. It was a dream? He didn't pinch himself. He punched himself in the stomach as hard as he could from where he realised his mistake." Okay den..I'm not dreaming..Dat actually happened.."

"Of course it happened." Pauling said as Tim rubbed his arms a few times and looked st Soldier.

"How'd you know I had tattoos?" He asked as Soldier just shrugged.

"You had tattoos?" Soldier questioned as he rubbed his chin. A moment's thought made him smile like an idiot.'I love you brain. We work so well together. Never leave me!' He told it as his mind seemed to answer back.' Wouldn't even think about it Soldier!' Patting himself on the back with his eyes shut he shook his own hand and bowed as Tim blinked and stepped away.

"I knew Stupid would beat Stupid." Pauling said as Tim looked over to Jesse who seemed to cower awkwardly behind Miss Pauling.

"Pyro..that you?" He asked. He was a she the whole time? She stepped out slowly from behind Pauling as she waved. Before a tight hug was given. Their blue eyes wide as tears welled. Slipping to the bandana that covered her mouth as she hugged him back." I thought I'd never see ya again.." He was a good friend. All she had left till they got Murdoc. If he was still alive that is. But he had to take a moment to figure out who the woman in purple was." Uhh..Miss..Paulin…right?" He asked with a rather cheesy smile. His smile was awkward. Jeremy knew her..he remembered him talking to her..flirting. But he felt not as attracted to her as his original was.

"Yes Scout. Nice to meet you." She held her hand out for a firm handshake. And as he took his hand into hers she had a decent grip on her. Shaking as if it were a business meeting.

"Ermm..please. call me Tim. We ain't exactly employed anymore." He said as he looked at Spy who seemed to raise a brow towards Pauling under his Balaclava.

"We're being hired again aren't we?" He asked as Pauling rubbed the back of her head a few times.

"Yes..we're being hired by the Administrator to find the last remaining stache of Aulstralium on the planet. I need the team for this. Because theres something bad going down. A group of mercs. I don't know who yet have been hunting down other merc groups around the world. And as far as I know retirement meant nothing to them..so we need to find the stache before they do. Because Gray Mann is more than likely the one hiring them to destroy the competition."

Tim blinked before shaking his head." No! Nuhuh! I'm not doin this again! I've been out of work for six months to spend thoes six months in jail awaiting a death sentence for somethin I didn't even do!" Tim jumped. He wasn't happy, then when Miss Pauling shut her eyes. Spy spoke in her stead.

"Tim. She said that Retirement meant nothing to dese people. If I were jou. I'd say yes. Jou'd live longer with people by jour side than alone."

Tim's arms slumped. More..so much more fighting with no rewards from it. Only reward was having all of the evil fucks on BLU Die horrible deaths. Sure he was free. But his insecurities still remained. He felt trapped in a loop. But he sighed as he looked to Pyro who nodded towards him. Giving him a pat on the back he really needed. To think if Soldier..his Soldier was here. He'd have his teeth kicked in by now for showing weakness. But looking over to the RED Soldier. His smile was goofy and almost adorable for how stupid he looked. Especially in a lawyer's suit as he pulled at the tie around his neck.

"Fine..I'll come along. But after this! I demand a damn raise for what I'm going into!" He sneered as he shook his head before crossing his arms." Alright. First, I need real clothes. This shit is makin my ass chafe. Second. Who will we be gettin next?" He turned to Pauling as she frowned.

"We could split up at this point. Spy and I can go and get Sniper in Australia. Which will take a while. Along with Heavy. And he'd be the hardest. Soldier, Scout. You two are the best option to find Heavy. Pyro. You get Demo. He'd be more welcoming with you. Considering you two are far more acquainted. And we can all meet at a designated point. I need more time.." she sighed before she continued on." To come up with a plan. Whew..that was a lot of stuff to say. Okay. What do you say Spy? Let's get you some clothes."

"Dat would be most appreciated. I'm tired of orange. De will has begun to give me a rash." He sighed as he made his way to the car. No doubt it would be full considering there were now five people as cheers in the back of the courthouse made Tim rub his neck at the thought.

Pauling smiled at them. Unfazed by it. "We have a long ride ahead."

Cheavy looked down into the animal cell in amusement. The dishevelled man in the corner of the cell made him chortle in amusement towards him. Saxton Hale..what a complete joke to witness someone so strong be taken out so easily. He felt proud of himself. Why not? He beat someone who fought lions with his bare hands. He killed many with his bare hands.

"You're a fucking disappointment.. when Gray Mann said that I'd be fighting you. I was hoping for something. A bit of grit. Anything. But no. You just went down like a fucking waste!" He kicked the bars. His fingers wrapping around them as he looked at Saxton Hale with disgust and aggression." But you have your uses. That Yeti of yours for example. And..being the target of a thief who stole my stache. Don't worry..I'll make you look real pretty." He chuckled lightly as Hale lifted his head. Brushed and beaten.

"Who is it then?" He asked. The question making Cheavy's smile grow darker.

"Curious now are we? Lonely in that cell and you're already asking questions. I'll humour you. The new Scout girl you hired about a year and a half ago. Jenna Jessica Finch." He cocked his head as he studied Hale for any sign of fear. And he did seem a bit worried. He had a soft spot for women." You look a bit pale there Hale." He rolled his shoulders as he slammed his fist into his hand. Twisting it with a rather viscous intent behind it.

"Don't hurt her mate..may not know her myself mate but please.." he begged. Begged him!? He had a soft spot and the moment he saw it Chevy relished in the fear he held for a young child. She was barely even a woman to him. To him..she was nothing more than a wannabe merc travelling around with a clone. It was laughable. So much so he actually did start laughing.

"Begging!? You!? You see how weak you look right now? I don't know whether to find it funny. Or pathetic." He spat. Taking a bowl of rice and haphazardly tossing it into the cell to where it fell apart on the floor. Tasteless. He looked deep into Hale's eyes. And sneered." I won't have to hurt the bitch. If she just hands over the Australium. Then there will be no problems. She'll live happily ever after." He had no interest in that. He was desperate for what was his. He wasn't a monster. Well..it's what he thought about himself. And he instantly turned to see his Spy.

"Boss..." He withheld a rather strong expression that he never saw on his Spy before. A moment of shivers. He saw the change in him. He looked older..it made his face pale a bit as he walked over and handed him a vile of glowing yellow liquid. He popped the quark and tilted it back. Only taking a sip for too much would make for a problem. They had to share the vial. He could see the wrinkles shorten and almost vanish as Hale got up from the floor to witness this change. It was ingested. Not injected like it was meant to bw. It had a seemingly different effect when injected. He's only seen it a few times when he was having meetings with the Mann Brothers. Hale wasn't smart. But he watched in awe as Henry handed the vial back to him." Last thing I needed was to use my last vial..you're a lifesaver." He nodded seemingly emotionlessly but still thankful as Cheavy nodded as he took the vial back from him and stuffed it back in his pocket.

"We need it. It's why I melted down five vials to spread between us. At least the new guy is still oblivious to what this shit does. It makes me wonder what he does to make himself look so young.." Cheavy sneered with a hint of suspicion as he rolled his shoulders." Is the trap ready?" He asked as Henry nodded.

"Follow me.." he muttered as he waved his fingers. Turning away and pushing his way through a set of double doors as he made his way past countless cages with animals still in them. Snarling and growling in hunger." The trap is set. Simple ambush. Tie Saxton in the middle of his stadium he had built and surround them."

Cheavy smiled as he nodded towards Spy. "Simple is how I like it. Sounds good. Keep the ATV running just in case they happen to make it out." However, that made Henry look back at him.

"They most likely will be coming on foot." Spy started with a rather stoic tone as he continued down the hall to what looked to be a waiting room. Inside machines were set up. Pyro used a blowtorch on something while Scout and Soldier worked hard on configuring a regular chair into an Interrogation chair. They already had one done as the one they currently worked on had iron straps attached to the wooden armrests. Most likely using screws.

"Are you questioning me?" Cheavy furrowed his brow as Spy turned to him. His expression did not change as he shook his head.

"No. I'm merely stating that it would be overkill. But it will be done."

Cheavy looked to Ludwig for a mere moment." Hold that thought." He kept his goggles off. Tightening the blue bandana over his head as he approached him." Frankenstein!" He snapped. Ludwig instantly snapped at attention as he stood up straight in front of him. To watch him cower. How cute.." When they get to the compound you are to start the ATV and keep it running. That understood, princess?" He asked as Ludwig shuttered. He could barely even muster a nod as Cheavy placed his thumb and index finger under his chin. Something he always did..To keep Ludwig's attention on him and solely him." I asked you a damn question, princess. We use our big boy words here." He hissed as Ludwig visually gulped down the lump in his throat.

"J-ja! Of course, Herr boss! I-I vill do exactly zat!" He said with a nervous smile. He was intimidating…Ludwig found it impossible not to keep quiet when working around him. If anything he felt like a play thing. It's exactly what he was..a play thing. Everyone else on the team either ignored him completely or mocked him for being weak around their boss.

They were loyal. It showed that much. Don't follow the herd and you get punished. But Cheavy seemed satisfied with it as he nodded and walked away as he sighed in relief. Fixing his Medigun was easy. Till Vergil approached him and crossed his arms. His expression is almost similar to the Spy's.

"Ja..? Can I help Zu..Herr Sniper?" He didn't answer. Only nodded his head towards a set of double doors to the outside and that was all he was going to be given.

His long white beard reached rather far down. Well kemp and groomed as he fixed the brim of his hat but only wore a camouflage long sleeve Shirt with his usual cargo pants. Considering Brazil was humid as hell Ludwig was impressed by the resilience the old man had.

Ludwig shifted his eyes at a view over what looked to be a Colosseum made for fighting. His gaze not paying attention to it more than he was paying attention to the old man before him. "I-" he couldn't even utter another word as Vergil's fist met Ludwig's stomach. His eyes wide. He wasn't expecting such a thing. Especially from a old man who looked frail. But that wasn't a normal punch..it felt inhumanely strong as if he were his age or younger. Just wearing the skin of an old man. Pulling off a facade as he crumpled to the ground and coughed."I-i don't..understand.."

Vergil's hand met the back of Ludwig's head. Grabbing a fist full of his hair to yank his head back. "Let me make one thing clear to you, new blood.. you are not a medic. Not my medic. You are just A medic. Compared to ours you're no more than deadweight trash that I'd have no problem shooting in the gut when they least expected it." He spat. But..he wasn't done." I know you worked with this girl at some point. I saw the look on your face when I watched you spy on the boss and Gloria back in Nepal."

"Z-Zu misunderst-" Ludwig's words clearly meant nothing to this man as he wrapped his hand around his throat to throw him to the floor. Straddling him while he's on his back to pin him there.

"I didn't misunderstand shit. That girl has something we need. Desperately. And if I see even an inkling of hesitation from you. Any notion that you are going to help that girl escape with what's ours.." Withdrawing a knife he placed it against his throat. Pressing it into his skin to the point it choked him as his skin turned visibly pale from this threat. No..this promise." I won't hesitate to make an example out of you..we all know our place here. But you..you're just a meger replacement for our Medic. You understand that? Or am I going to have to beat it into you?" He snarled as Ludwig looked himmin the eyes.

"Nein..I..understand fully.." he hissed as Vergil removed the knife from his throat. Getting off of him but not even bothering to help him up.

"I'll keep quiet about your eavesdropping. For now.." He hissed at Ludwig before Ludwig reached out and grabbed him. Which resulted in a look that spelled death." The fuck do you think your doing?" Tone low and disgusted that a runt of the litter dared to touch him.

"Don't tell him..bitte.."

Vergil's eyes narrowed deeply as he crossed his arms and tilted his head." Why not? Just for that I should tell him right now. Unless you're willing to give me something in return?" He asked with a narrowed gaze.

"I..don't really have anything zat zu vant..but name it! I can give it to zu!" He pleaded. He would much rather not have Cheavy skin him alive. Eavesdropping was harmless but when it came to Cheavy he was the one with a deep hatred towards Ludwig. But was it really the best plan to go ahead and offer something to a sadist..? He smelled of blood. He was someone who clearly relished in others suffering…much like he did at one point.. much like…him. When he first realised.

"That so?" Vergil gave a light chortle of amusement with a tilt of his head. Arms crossed tight over his chest. He could see him thinking deep about it. Long and hard about what he could want. And he did so enjoy the fruits of blackmail. He smiled through that beard of his and spat out a wad of flem on the floor." Head."

"Excuse me!?" Ludwig asked. Appalled at what he was asking for. He clenched his teeth in disgust as Vergil laughed.

"It's that. Or deal with what the Boss has in store for you. You said. That. Or I play with you a little." He smirked. Ludwig wondered what he meant by that. And it made him shutter.

"Vhat does ze..other option consist of..?" He almost regretted it instantly as Sniper hands him a revolver, not before putting one bullet in the chamber and spinning it before closing it shut." I.."

"You play Russian roulette. Though. We both know how that would play out. So I figured I'd make the game a little interesting. Considering you're a medic after all. You can patch yourself up no problem." Vergil slapped the gun in Ludwig's hand as he explained how it would work. Taking out a coin he showed it to Ludwig." I choose two body parts. The leg or the arm. Which doesn't matter. Flip of the coin if it lands on heads it's the arm. Tails it's the leg. We go until a bullet lands." He hummed as Ludwig looked at the gun then back to Vergil with a nervous glance before swallowing it down. And changing his expression.

"Just..flipped ze coin.." he muttered as he pulled the hammer back on the revolver. Flipping it in between his index finger and his thumb it landed on heads.

"Heads, Frankenstein." He said as he watched Ludwig without hesitation pull the trigger..it was empty. He didn't even flinch, which impressed Vergil just a bit." Not afraid of the bullet. Shame." He muttered as he flipped it again. Slapping it on the back of his hand." Leg." Again..nothing.

"Flip." Ludwig gave Vergil a squint. Finishing it on Arm. He took a breath. And pulled the trigger. Blood squirted on the ground as the bullet went all the way through his upper arm and out the other side. He watched as Vergil's gaze met Cheavy as he started to run into the building from the Coliseum grounds.

"Looks like he's on time." He muttered as he pulled out another gun. Shooting Ludwig in his leg which made his eyes widen as he crumpled to the floor in a heap.and shooting a bullet just behind him to stage a scene. His revolver was still in Ludwig's hand as Vergil bore his teeth. Hearing the doors open to Cheavy taking witness to the mess.

"What the hell is going on here!?" Cheavy yelled as he looked to Vergil to the answer. His gun pointed at Ludwig who writhed in pain on the ground as a pool of blood started to form around him. What happened!? He did what he asked!? He did nothing wrong! If only that were honestly true in Cheavy's eyes.

"Slimy bastard got his hands on my revolver when I wasn't looking! Tried to shoot me with it!" His lie..it was almost like he was a spy who's been lying for years as Cheavy did not only sneer. He took Ludwig by the back of the neck and lifted him up." I shot him in the arm and leg. Last thing we need to do is lose another medic." Vergil said as he shook his head.

"I..didn't.." Ludwig tried to explain himself through the searing pain in his body but was only forced into silence as Cheavy dragged him by his neck into the animal pens. Back to where Saxton Hale was being kept as he unlocked the cage and flung him in the cage with the dishevelled aussie." Herr Cheavy! Bitte! Listen to me! He made it look like zat! I did nothin-"

"Shut your fucking hole, princess!" He spat as he pulled a med kit from the table and threw it into the cage." Wrap yourself up. Your staying put in there like a fucking good boy. So I know you're not causing any trouble. Trying to fucking shoot one of my men. I ought to kill you now but you have your uses. Consider the bullets and this to be a lesson.." Hissing through his teeth he slammed the door to the room shut behind him as Ludwig struggled to open the med kit with just one arm. Only to feel a large hand take it from him and open it for him. Handing him a bandage.

"You Alright mate?" Saxton Hale asked as Ludwig looked at the man with raised brows.

"Ja..I'm…I'm fine.."Truthfully he had suffered so much worse than that in the past. He was blown to pieces almost on a daily basis but now he was stuck in an unsanitary cell with his former boss." Could zu help me wrap my vound on my arm, Bitte. I vasn't as fortunate vith mein leg vound.."

The bullet was stuck in his lower leg. He felt it. No exit so he'd have to pull it out as Hale began to wrap up his arm. Not before he instructed him in pouring some of the peroxide on it first which made him hiss in pain. Around and around as Hale wrapped him.

"Its no problem mate. Were trapped in the same cell together. Might as well help each other. You aren't that weak! I'm impressed ya took that!" He laughed as Ludwig gave a light smile through the pain.

"Ja..suppose zu're right ze're, Herr Hale. But being a merc..it comes vith ze job." As Hale finished wrapping his arm the blood already sulked through the bandages as he tore it free from the rest of the roll with his teeth.

"What about yer leg mate? That looks bad." Saxton said as he looked to Ludwig.

"Ja..und I'm going to have to get ze bullet out von bay or another..are zere tweezers in zere?" He asked as Hale rummaged through the med kit once more to shake his head." No? Shisse..alright..I need two pieces of vood. Und two of zu're crocodile teeth, Bitte."

"My crocodile teeth!? Wot for?" He asked as he took his hat off looking at his lucky teeth." Me and these teeth went through hell together mate."

"Its zat or my death bill be on zu're hands. Und vith how smart my new boss is. I'd get ze feeling he'd point ze blame at zu for me dying. So I suggest zat zu give me vhat I need." Ludwig tried to sound as calm as possible. He's already been shot and tossed like a ragdoll with little to no rest in between them. So Saxton sighed. And nodded. Luckily pieces of the wooden toff in the corner was flaking apart. So hale just pulled two sticks free from them and rubbed them like chopsticks.

"Alright mate. Got her sticks and you got my teeth. What exactly are ya planning here?" He asked as Ludwig took some stralw that littered the floor and tied the bone to the sticks. Making makeshift tweezers. Pouring peroxide on them to sterilise them the best he could he took a deep breath without answering Hale. And lowered the teeth into the large bullet wound in his leg.

He growled deeply. Baring his teeth as the bone and sticks entered into his leg. Pushing deep he knee he should have taken his belt off for this. But he was already halfway there and had no time to stop now. He felt the makeshift tweezers make light connection with the bullet made Ludwig hold his breath as he clasped the tweezers around them.. The agony dammit all.. Damn Vergil for this shit.. if it wasn't for him he'd be keeping his head down and avoiding Cheavy. But now he was wounded in the most unsanitary places he could have chosen to lock him up in. He was pissed. Very very pissed as he pulled the bullet free with a yank as it bounced out of the cell's bars and making connection with someone's boot.

"Bastard!" Ludwig howled towards them. Vergil's cold gaze didn't falter. But. It looked almost like he was smiling as he watched him do a shitty rundown of a surge on his leg." Zu set me up!" Ludwig hissed as he got to his feet. Limping over to the bars as his fingers wrapped tightly around them in anger.

"So what if I did? It wasn't like anyone wouldn't hear the gun go off. You could have just sucked me off and been done with it. But if anything, I just made things far more interesting between the two of you." He hummed as he picked up the bullet and stuffed it in his pocket. As if it were a mocking momento for the occasion. It disgusted him to his core.

"Interesting!? He didn't trust me enough to begin vith und now zu just fucked me!" He spat. If there was going to be a man he wanted to dissect. It was Vergil. His eyes went wild with an undying fury as he clenched the bars. The bars themselves slowly started to heat up with that inner fire he was granted long ago. but before it got worse he stepped back.

Vergil chortled lightly before he began a fit of manic laughter before speaking. "That's some mighty fire you got there doctor. Use it for something useful. Spying is meant for Spies. Not the…medically inclined." He said as he lit a cigarette and took a deep inhale. Blowing it towards him with no attempt to play nice. Not even trying to blow the smoke away from him as he coughed and made his way out of the room, but before he did. He stopped. Holding the door open as he looked back at Ludwig who was struggling to stand.." Honestly, Doc. I look forward to the day he kills you."

"Verdammter Hurensohn!" He yelled, cursing in German like a roaring animal. Picking up a rock from the cell floor he threw it at him as hard as he could only for it to miss. His glasses were cracked..great. now he needs to get his spare if he ever got out as Hale placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Rough mate..sorry that happened to ya." He said as he motioned him to sit down." Common. Let's get the rest of that leg bandaged up. Last thing we need is for ya to get gangrene from infection, yeah?"

"Danke..Herr Hale..I..appreciate it.."

Chapter Text

Jenna stretched her arms. The airport food was something left to be desired. But it was finally food in their empty stomachs as she smirked. "Alright! To finally eat without crazy bikers getting on our back really makes me feel better!"

"You ain't wrong there, Jen. Now where's this Zoo you were on about? Up in the mountains right?" He asked as Jen rubbed her chin. She had to be honest she hadn't been there in years. Since she was just a little girl. So remembering exactly where it was made her smile nervously. Which only made Jeb cross his arms and roll his head towards her." You don't remember, do yah?"

"Fuck no, I don't remember!" She snapped as she shook her head." It's the most famous zoo in America and I don't remember where the fuck it is!" She sighed. Rubbing her forehead a few times as she looked at the various other stores that surrounded them in the airport. One eventually caught her eye. A tourist store. Running up to it as her metal feet clanked across the floor Jeb followed behind her with his gun whipped behind his back. Her body slowed down as her head whipped around for the nearest map. And she nabbed it from a small brochure collection that said 'free to take'. Reading through it she tapped her finger against the upper corner of the city." There! Got our target. Now we just need to get there!"

Jeb rose a brow. "Oh? And how do you suppose we do that?" Asking that question was silly. Jen looked back at him. Opening her mouth to say something they heard whistles go off. People in security uniforms approached them as Jeb narrowed his gaze. No doubt he thought it was more trouble. But of course being two people who not only didn't go through security. But one is openly carrying a weapon such as a gun. She didn't realise the attention that had been thrown on them as she tried to settle down Jeb.

"You two! Don't you move!" A security woman said as she pointed a taser at them. Hands raised high as Jeb bore his teeth." Sir! Drop the gun!" She demanded. Her taser mostly focused on him.

"Ain't no way in hell I'm droppin this!" He yelled. His grip on his gun was like iron. Tight. Never going to break unless they committed to the saying of 'prying it from his cold dead fingers'." I didn't do shit.." he snarled as Jenna's hands waved wildly to get the woman's attention.

"Common! We're good folk! We didn't hurt anybody. We're just gonna leave." Jenna's gaze shifted between Jeb and the security woman who was clearly on edge before she sighed and lowered her taser." There we go. No sudden movements.."

The woman sighed before giving Jen a look. Eyes squinting deeply. Her hand slipping into her pocket to call security. "Problem resolved.. Alright you two. We will escort you two out of here. But know that if you come back. You're going through security."

Jenna chuckled nervously as Jeb kept an iron grip on the Wrangler. The shotgun wasn't ever leaving his side Jenna knew that much as she gently wrapped her arm around his inner arm to guide him. "No problem! Just had a ride from the Midnight Riders private jet that's why there's no. Y'know."

The male security officer piped in for the first time. His tone was serious as Jen and Jeb followed them past security to the main entrance to the airport. "Don't matter who you got a ride with. We could have shot you. Last thing we need is a fucking lawsuit because someone walked around in a airport with a open carry shotgun." The man's shoulders rolled back deeply before pushing the door open." As she said. You come back, you go through security like everyone else. Capiche?"

"Yeah yeah we get it asshole." Jeb sneered as he walked through the door. Jen only giving him a short apology before following him out to the busy bustling airport entrance where she rubbed her chin." Well?" Jeb asked as Jens mind tried to search for a solution as she opened the brochure.

Jen laid the brochure map down on the ground. Doing this got some eyes pointed towards them. But it was an easy thing to ignore. "The Zoo is here. Says it's at least fifteen minutes by car to get there." Pointing up towards a fancy looking picture of a zoo in the upper most corner of the map. Labelled the C.D. Zoo of wonders.

"I know just how to get there." She said as Jebediah rubbed his eyes." The eye?" She asked as she watched Jeb nod in annoyance. He removed his sunglasses and with his finger pressed on his eyeball. The eyeball no longer glowed like it did but it still moved.

"There.." he sighed as he shook his head. The vision he had in that eye he was so used to. Constant xray vision with heat signatures that made his head hurt now that he wasn't just dealing with nine people. He was dealing with crowds of people that go up to the hundreds the more he'd look around. And he now had to make use of one eye for now. It wasn't like he needed to use the vision. He wasn't dealing with spies anymore. It was a severe habit. His sunglasses usually mitigating that downside. But not when his vision is over encumbered with countless bodies." So how exactly do you plan on getting us there?" He asked as Jen merely smirked.

"Taxi!" Raising her hand a taxi instantly pulled up in front of them on the hustling walkway parking on the curb with a fat Latino man sitting in the front. His large glasses and weird looking beard made it evident that he drank a lot. Jen cringed slightly as she tried to get in next to him only for Jebediah to shake his head and tell her to get into the back.

"Man, fools, how's it goin my men and women!?" The Taxi driver asked as Jeb placed his gun at his feet and gave the driver a look. Silently asking what the fuck was wrong with him before Jen spoke for him.

"We're doin fine. Uh. Quick drive to the Charles Darling Zoo of Wonders please."

"Ohh man! You hear the zoo is closed? It's for a new exhibit that's being added in! You hear!? He found a yeti!" He snapped with excitement as Jen and Jeb extended looks between each other before nodding.

Jen cleared her throat. "We'd still like to be taken there. Please."

"Alright fools. I'll get ya there in no time! Buckle up y'know!"

"Buckle up.. right." Jeb muttered as he clicked the seatbelt on as well as Jenna. He should have sat in the back. This man more than likely would have been shot there if he so happened to be a weird motherfucker. Well. He already was weirder than shit but he was their only means to get to the zoo. Fingers tapping impatiently on the dashboard he looked out the window towards the trees that began to surround them. It was crazy to think what once was a barren area would turn lush and green so fast.

His life changed so fast that one day. He escaped Teufort in the middle of the desert of New Mexico. To then be moved up to possibly the most green country he's ever seen. The Sawmill was one thing. But the trees were pine. These trees held a mix of leaves and pine. It made the areas look like they were dancing. A sway like a hula girl doing a dance when the wind hits their branches.

"Oi Jeb. You got a pen?" Jenna asked as he snapped out of the thoughts he was in.

"A pen? Nah I don't have one on me. Sorry, Jen." He wondered why she became a merc to begin with. She barely has any experience in fighting. He was silent furthermore as he sat there thinking about Pyro. His expression was cold and thoughtful as he rolled his head. And for a moment..he bore his teeth as he got lost in a moment of PTSD.

A cold sweat formed on his forehead.

' The fucked up bastard stood over him. His body held down with velcro straps that made him hiss in anger as his mouth was sharing his rage. His body being so short it was like the sadomasochistic fuck who happened to be his medic stood over him with a calm smile at first before it grew to a deep manic grin of what looked to be excitement. What he could only describe… as the German stood over him. Studying him like a piece of meat. Or a bug that he wants to poke and prod at as he rubbed his stumbled chin. He hadn't shaved. He saw him clean shaven but since he snapped it was like he didn't care about his wellbeing. Or..anyone's for that matter.

"Ah..ze sight of zu on ze table makes me shudder vith seer excitement, Herr Engineer. Or..vas it Dell Conagher?" He asked as he studied his expression. To see if he knew..but at that time he didn't. Hearing his name..it made realisation flood into his eyes. Every moment in his life. Every conversation and hug he got from HIS grandfather..no..he bore his teeth as he shook his head. A trickle of blood falls from his nostril in a desperate struggle to mitigate the agonising headache that coated his mind. Like every memory flooded into him all at once as he glared at him.

"T-the fuck did ya do to me!?" He spat. His fists bleeding. His wrists experienced burns from the velcro as he spat at him.

"Don't zu see?" Medic asked as he approached the table filled with blood riddled tools he never bothered to clean anymore as he slammed his hands on the table space that was clear of his body." I opened zu're eyes Herr Engineer..like mine vas vhen I heard..MY name.." he smiled madly." I vhitnessed ze beautiful past I had. Ze con he casted avay like a coward! Nein..not me..I vill cherish every moment I spent.." he cleared his throat as he stood up straight. Removing his gloves as he grabbed his scalpel he had hidden in his hand. And loomed over him.

"Fuck off ya crazy Kraut! What do ya know!? I'm my own damn person!"

"Zat vhat zu think. A..momentary thought..Raza natural to experience denial." He chortled as he lowered his Medigun and set the heal setting to low. No healing too much..but just enough so he could survive it. To stop the bleeding but not close the wound. That would be..too kind. He isn't blind anymore. Not like how he started. He didn't see people as people anymore..only mere pawns. A mass of ants for his boot to step on. And as he opened his eyes.. it revealed a darkness that was so dark it swallowed all sane thoughts and turned him into that monster Ludwig was so long ago. Fingers wrapping deep around Engineer's throat in a tight squeeze as his cheeks turned red in a deep blush.

"Wha!?" He couldn't finish as Medic punched him hard in the head. His head spinning as he forced his head to look back up at Medic. His ears ringing as the distance muffled manic laughs and tangents of the madman filled his ears before a surgical instrument clamped around his right eyelid and opened it forcefully. The lack of being able to blink made his eye water slightly as the light pats of Medic's hand snapped him back to reality.

"I'm sure zu can replace zis..I mean. Zu are a man of science, Ja?" He asked as he waved his Scalpel over his eye. Involuntarily following the shine of the light." Have zu ever heard of ze phrase..an eye for an eye?" He asked as he drew the blade closer to his eye. "Cross mein hEveryhhopeto die...shtick a scalpel..in zure eye.." Every inch making his eye dilate and shutter in fear." Vake up Jeb..ve're here."'

He blinked back to reality as they were pulled up to an empty parking lot. Jenna was already out with her metallic feet clanking across the pavement as Jeb left the taxi.

"I played the..taxi driver already so we can go. We just need to get in to speak to Charles Darling." As she said that the large entrance had a banner in yellow saying 'NEW ATTRACTION COMING THIS SPRING!'. It looked exactly like how she remembered it. A prison looks at it. Electric fences everywhere. It made Jen feel sad. Such pain these animals are going through. Stuck and looking so sad. It reflected back at her as Jeb shook his head and approached the rolling guardrails. Looking around he nodded his head towards Jen for her to follow as he simply slid between two of the turning entrance blocks to slide in. It was eerily quiet. Jen was expecting there to be at least one guard posted out by the entrance. There were cameras everywhere but he wasn't exactly being stealthy about it as he marched up to a penguin exhibit and methodically watched them paddle and stomp around on their fake glasure and splashing in the water as a automatic dispenser relieved live fish into their enclosure.

"Jeb. We gotta move. I don't like how quiet it is." She muttered as Jeb nodded in silence and turned his eye back on. The inferred goggles gazed through the zoo. So many sights that weren't human. Till he saw a loan dot on what appeared to be the second floor of a massive mansion-like structure in the back of the Zoo.

Jeb flexed his arm in the direction. It looked like someone sitting at a desk writing papers. "Think I got him. He's there." Of course Jen couldn't see what he saw. But she took his word for it as she didn't start going. But leaned down in a crotch that made Jeb raise a brow." The sam hell are you doing?" He asked as she looked at him.

"Little weird. But I wanna see if I got the strength to carry ya to the mansion." A one hundred and twenty pound man being carried by the likes of Jenna made him blush slightly.

"From what I remember it's the other way around. But hell. If you think you can do it. Be my guest." He shrugged as he slung the gun over his shoulder as Jen wrapped her arms around his thighs and lifted. Her legs lifting the both of them up easily. The only thing was maintaining a decent grip on his thighs to keep him supported." Looks like strength is good. I'm impressed your holding me up for so long." He praised lightly. The awkward feeling of not wanting to fully wrap his arms around her so he stuck to his hands on her shoulders for support as she didn't walk. But began to jog at a decent speed at first. It could have been mistaken for a full sprint for how fast she was going from point A to point B. Jeb had to blink. He didn't think the legs would be that strong. Then again he was a man who invented weapons. Not prosthetic legs. He was going to have to make some tweaks on the legs later when they get a chance to rest.

"Common. You ain't that heavy. I used to lift weights before I became all skinny n shit." She laughed.

"How'd you turn out that skinny to begin with?" And he noticed her gleeful smile lower to a hurt frown. As fast as that smile appeared. So did the smile disappear.

"My moms abusive fuckin boyfriend..he was controling..and very physical..let's just say..he didnt have a fun time when I was done with him…" she spat. A thing she wouldn't..didn't want to go into full detail." He fucked with my mom..that's the last thing he ever did.."

"Don't gotta go into it. We all have our demons. No one's past was ever..good..his was..no better." She knew he must have been talking about Dell.

"Yeah. Besides..if I had a good life I wouldn't be here." She smiled knowingly towards Jeb as she walked up to a set of stairs and let him go." He's in here right?" She asked as Jeb nodded. Jogging up the stairs slower than Jen who already rocketed up them faster than he was running." My god how much juice did you put in the joints! I feel like I'm just running faster than the speed of light right now!" She said as her feet stomped. It was still weird to not feel them. But she felt the vibrations in the stumps of her upper thighs.

"I need to tweak them later. If you want me to, that is." He said as he finally climbed the staircase and ended up at the top.

"I think we should keep it the way it is for now. You never know. Besides we're here." She said as her hand reached for the knob for it to only jiggle and not budge." Fuck..locked?" She thought for a moment before she stepped back and kicked her leg into the door knocking it open with a swift motion. It hit the wall before falling to the floor as she blinked." I was just tryin to kick it in. Not off its hinges Y'know?" She asked as Jeb merely shrugged towards her. And as they entered. They were met with a sight.

Walls upon walls of animal heads mounted. From rare species such as the snow leopard to Jaguars and cheetahs to other minor animals. Stuffed tigers sitting on displays and rhinos stuck in an eternal prison of taxidermied hell. It made Jen clench her teeth deeply." Sick fuck..not only are the animals miserable but hes a fucking poacher."

A british accent exposed itself from an upper balcony. It was hard to make out where at first as both Jen and Jeb looked towards a door that opened. "My dear, that's rather rude of you to say..I am no poacher. Not to mention. You kicked in the door to my home. You are aware you are trespassing on my property?" A old middle aged man with grey hair and a goatee fixed a tie to his finely tailored suit whilst carrying a glass of wine in his hands. She could tell just by watching him move that this man was one of those bastards who thought they could walk on things. Ignoring the eggshells and just bulldozing through them.

Jen sighed as she looked to the door for a moment before back to Charles. Well..who she could assume to be Charles Darling."Yeah. I know. I'll pay for the repairs on your door. We just need answers. Then we're leavin. You Charles Darling?" Asking to make sure her assumptions are correct before continuing.

"Indeed I am. And you might be?" He asked as he lifted his glass of wine to his lips as Jenna placed her hand on her chest.

"Jenna Finch. And this Is Jebediah Conagher. We're mercs that worked for the Mann's and Saxton Hale. We need to find him." She stated as Jeb watched him closely. Eyes narrowed under his sunglasses as he lowered his shoulders. He swore he saw his expression shift to something almost like recognition.

"Mercs that worked for my old student, Saxton Hale? Now that's a name I haven't heard in a long time. Till he left me for 'her'." He sneered slightly as he took a deep breath and made his way down the stairs." Tell me. What is it you want to know about Hale?" He asked as Jen took a breath and nodded.

"We need to find him. He's missing. So is my team and I was thinking with his help we could find them faster. You have to know where he is." She said as Jeb narrowed his gaze deeply towards Charles as his eyes narrowed.

"I do. It's a shame that he went missing. But, I believe he's just fine in his Brazilian sanctuary at Yeti Park."

Jeb shook his head slightly as he thought to himself. He didn't trust this..it was too easy. Hes opening up too much and it made Jeb feel increasingly uneasy." What's your game here, Tea drinker?" He asked. Which earned a look of shock from Jen but not Charles.

"Pardon? Whatever do you mean? Cowboy?" Charles asked in return that only seemed to piss Jeb off. He said it so mockingly..condescending. He pushed past Jen and grabbed him by the collar of his shirt. Yanking him in close as his eyes widened.

Jeb's voice was like venom dripping from the fangs of a snake. "What I'm sayin is that this place is a little too empty for a plage that's supposedly under construction. There's no guards posted at the gate. There was no one coming to get us when we jumped the gate. Explain..before I break yer fuckin arm!"

Charles did not cower. In fact he answered his question." I believe you haven't heard of the word 'vacation' before. Have you Mr. Jebediah Conagher? People have families to spend time with." He explained with a light smirk.

"Motherfucker.." he threw charles to the floor in disgust as Jen pulled him back off of him.

"Look. I know ya don't like him, Jeb. Neither do I. But beating up old men is not exactly a good thing." She sighed as she shook her head. He could see him stare at her legs. Studying them closely as Jeb grabbed him by the hair.

"Starrin ain't polite..why are you lookin at her legs for?"

"I was merely intrigued by their design. Never have I seen gold legs before." He states as if he seemed almost amazed." Tell me. Where did you find that much gold?" He asked Jeb who was uninterested in giving anything away.

"We got what we need, Jen. Let's go." He was in fact very suspicious of this bastard. The talk between them was making him feel sick and uncomfortable. Till a loud roar of what sounded like a war cry could be heard from the second floor.

A woman. Twice Jenna's size stood in the middle of the room wearing shorts , a hat covered in teeth from some sort of animal,with braided hair and such dark circles under her eyes.

"Ya come crashin into our home ya bloody Wanka's? I aught ta gut ya with muh bare hands!" The accent was Australian. Something that made Jen think of Mundy for a split second before the women's fist met her stomach out of nowhere. Her eyes widened as she went flying back with what felt like the force of a freight train hitting her. She could feel the pain of what felt like ribs cracking. Her body flying onto Jeb to where his body hit the floor hard and painfully with her on top of him.

Jenna coughed as she spoke. Winded. "S-Sorry Jeb..that was out of..nowhere.."

Jeb's eyes flaired as he pulled himself from under Jenna. "Damn fuckin.." Jeb got to his feet and tossed his gun away." I ain't one for hurtin women. But if one of them punches first I'd be happy to return the fuckin favor!" He yelled as he cracked his knuckles.

Charles chortled lightly. His wine glass empty and on the floor which was a shame but no bother. He had more like it up in his office. He clapped his hands as he wiped the dust from his suit and nodded. "Ah Maggie. It's about time you showed up. Our guests have been rather…aggressive. I'll be in my office making phone calls when you're done throwing the trash out."

"Ay." She nodded. A lackey of some kind but she hit and packed a massive punch as Jebediah Conagher threw himself at her. Not like a stereotypical dumbass. No. He drop kicked her with his boots. Digging his heels in to where he let out a massive barrage of quick and hard punches that clearly made the woman groan. Spitting out a tooth she raised her hand to grab his arm and twisted. Making Jeb drop to his knees before her knee met his nose. It still burned from a few nights ago at the bar. His eyes watering slightly as he was dazed and winded from the blow.." That's all you got!? I'm disappointed, texan!" She howled as she raised her hand to knock him down. But before she could. Jen's golden leg shot up from out of nowhere. Blocking the blow..and not only that. The woman reared back in pain. Her swing was meeting metal.

"How's that for a wallop!?" She asked as she danced on her toes. Her fists moved as fast as her legs." I'm gonna show you how Boston bitches fight!" She smiled. Her confidence boosted as she tore a bone from what could have been an endangered species before swinging it at the mysterious aussie woman. The woman however had countered this with a block. The bone breaking almost instantly as Jenna quite literally ran circles around her before ending in a foot swipe from under her. Knocking the woman to her back with a deep grin forming on her face." That's how ya do it Boston Style." She said as she raised her foot. But purposely missing the woman's head. Cracks formed in the ground from the pressure she had put on them. As if to silently say that it was best if she didn't move.

"Alright..who tha hell are you?" She asked as she raised her hands in surrender.

Jen huffed as she extended her hand out towards the woman. Helping her to her feet with a yank. "Just a few people who needed answers from Charles. We didn't want any trouble. Who are you?" She asked as the woman's angry look turned soft as she laughed.

" Maggie Hale." The last name made her choke.

"Yer..Saxton's Wife?" Jeb asked as he grabbed a stuffed animal to help himself up.

"Aye. Well..let's just say our relationship has fallen a little low.." She sighed as she gave Jenna a playful punch in the arm." Have to admit. You got quite the kick on yah."

"Really in all honesty I don't wanna kill ya. Last guy who got stomped died-"Jen sighed as she looked up at Jeb. He looked unsure. Quizzical and almost….she couldn't put her finger on the word but it was best described to be a sense of disbelief." To be honest with you Maggie. Me and Jeb here worked for your husband. We're trying to find him and from what Charles said he's in Brazil. You want to come with us? Maybe talk with him y'know. Because from what I heard. He sounds like a decent guy."

"My husband is a decent man. He's one however..one who prefers the job over the woman. Punchin animals to death with his bear hands and makin habitats into Coliseum's to keep fightin animals into extinction. I do that to mainly defend myself against em. But.." she rolled her shoulders as she sighed. Placing a hand on Maggie's shoulder in comfort as she smiled at her.

"Girl. I know what yer goin through. You tell him how ya felt?"

"Uh..no. not yet. I never found it in myself to do that."

Jenna chortled lightly as she poked her finger into his chest." You have that chance if ya come with us! Easy! Do it like ya did those punches! But..verbally y'know?"

Maggie turned to Jeb and rubbed her chin." Gotta say. I respect a man who knows how to fight like you. If I wasn't still married I'd go for ya." She chortled.

This comment made Jeb blush heavily. His eyes under his sunglasses hid his drifted gaze as he looked over to the pile of bones on the floor." M-much appreciated ma'am." Tipping his cowboy hat towards her in thanks to her complement. Could he even call it that? He didn't understand it. He himself had never been flirted with before. In a..nice way to say the least. It made him feel..warm? Jenna gave a deep knowing smile." What?" He asked her. And yet she didn't answer back." Jen answer me.. why ya lookin at me like that?"

"Common Jeb. We gotta plane to catch. Ya comin Maggie?" She asked as Maggie looked up to the balcony then to them.

She nodded. Crossing her arms. She looked determined to see him. "Y'know what? Fuck it. I want to see him again and tell him. I'm gonna admit how I feel and give him a choice. It's me. Or the fuckin animals."

Jen pumped her arm almost childishly as she cheered. "Atta girl! Let's go!"

"Couldn't agree more."

Sitting in his office he tapped his fingers on the desk. As soon as he couldn't hear them anymore Charles picked up the rotary phone and rolled the numbers till a voice picked up on the other end.

"You get the girl?" The voice was Cheavy's. Cold and almost distant when Charles heard it. Twirling his cord he looked up to the figure in the corner. A tall man with an old wrinkly face wearing tactical gear with bombs that coated his vest. The other was a man with a long finger goatee that looked younger than the other.

The one in the Demolition outfit approached the british man and held his hand out for the phone. As he obtained it he spoke.

"She's headed your way. Give or take a day or two." He said as the classic Soldier nodded.

Cheavy chortled lightly on the other end." Good. Tail her. Don't care how just don't let them see you. Make sure they get here in one piece. Last thing I need is for the goods to be blown to pieces."

"Problem, Boss." The Demo said calmly as a deep rumbling sigh could be heard from the other end.

"What is it, Conrad?" Cheavy sighed.

Demo cleared his throat. "Hale's wife is accompanying them to Brazil. What's the plan for her?"

Cheavy audibly growled in frustration. "As I said, I don't care. I just want the girl here in one piece. If the others die or don't I couldn't care less about the cowboy and Hale's bitch."

"Aye. It will be done." He said as he handed the phone back to Charles and handed him a briefcase." Pleasure doing work with you Charles." Was all he said before they both took their leave. With a big smile on his lips Charles placed the briefcase on his desk. Rubbing his hands together with utter glee.

"More money could never hurt. Especially when you're rich.." as he said that. He realised his mistake a second too late. A massive explosion rocked the upper part of the mansion. Knocking countless picture to the ground as Conrad smirked.

"Told you the old briefcase bomb trick would work." He said as he looked to Soldier.

But the soldier shook his head. "Deeds done. We need to keep up with those three. Don't want to lose them. Or else the boss will get on our asses."

"Ehh..yer probably right. Common." He waved as he started making his way behind the mansion.

Yet..little did they know..Jeb was watching them from the parking lot…

Chapter Text

Another plane trip and another sigh of annoyance from Dell as he looked behind him. Every time he did so it made Jenna cock a brow with an uneasy sense that something was on his mind. He shut his eye off for the sake of preventing a headache as Maggie would collect belongings and such from the conveyor belt that not only had her stuff but Jeb's gun he was forced to relinquish to the cargo hold instead of holding onto it. Same went with his revolver that Maggie had tied tightly to her suitcase to assure none would be dumb enough to take it.

But even with that. Two old men stood silently a distance away as they crossed their arms. Dressed in tourist clothing. One's eyes watching Jebediah as the other had his eye on Jenna. Leaning over to his comrade he nudges him lightly." I don't like the cowboy.." Conrad whispered." Something about him has me on edge. I don't know, but he keeps looking at us."

Ross sighed. Rolling his eyes as he punched Conrad's arm." I told you, you were making it obvious for them! Dumbass." He sneered.

Conrad rubbed his arm from the pain."I didn't do shit! If anything he's the only one who's been watching us since we got to the airport behind them. I don't think the girl even knows! Besides we're dressed like civilians!" He snapped as he punched him back. As hard as he could, which only made Ross lose his temper even more.

"Quit fucking around, Dumbass!" He snarled as he forced Conrad to look towards the doors. Watching as the three left the airport into the Brazilian city of Rio De Janeiro. It was a straightforward shot and all they had to do was follow them as Conrad took a brick phone out from the bag and dialled a number. The voice of Cheavy popping up on the other end as Ross snagged the phone and began to speak." We landed in Rio De Janeiro. We should be there later today. He muttered.

Cheavy chortled on the other end. "Good. We're waiting. Make sure to start the damn ATV. Because the new guy pulled a fucking stunt two days ago and I can't trust him to do anything right without shooting one of my own men." As he spoke each word grew in frustration towards mentioning the medic.

"The hell happened over there!?" Ross asked as he heard Cheavy sigh. Most likely sneering as he usually did.

"Frankenstein took Vergil's revolver off of him and tried shooting him with it. In return he got shot in the arm and leg. Got him locked up with Saxton Hale for now. Gonna be moving him in cuffs to the ATV when you all near the damn park. We need him alive but I want at least one of you keeping an eye on him in the ATV while me and the others talk to the lady of honor."

"What's he saying Ross?" Demo whispered. It annoyed him to no end that he was clueless.

"Apparently our new medic shot at Vergil." Ross huffed through his lips as he stared back at the cowboy with a strong narrowed gaze." We also have an additional problem, Boss."

He knew the boss had to be even more annoyed now thanks to this additional problem added on from the last one. This one is a little more serious than before." The hell is it this time!?" He heard him grit his teeth as Ross looked into his glasses.

Ross sighed deeply. "I think the Cowboy has an optic eye of some kind. He's been aware of us since we got to the airport despite the amount of people." We need to fix this somehow."

Cheavy cured deeply under his breath. A small hiss of frustration but it was something calmer than Ross expected as Cheavy spoke once more. But also for the final time. "Fuck..we'll figure something out on our end. I'll call you once we've made a plan to get rid of that eye of his. Keep me updated." After he spoke the line went dead as Ross haphazardly put the phone in his bag and slung it over his shoulder.

Ross punched Conrad hard in the side again. "Keep up dumbass. We need to keep on them unless we want to have our dicks peeled like bananas for it."

Conrad hissed. Rubbing his shoulder he nodded then did the same. They had to act the part of Civilians. Tourists going on a ride through the Amazon. They knew how to get there. So they smirked lightly when they noticed a familiar face.

"Henry. What are you doing here?" Ross asked. Annoyed but Conrad smiled towards him.

The Spy not dressed up in tactical gear but a blue Hawaiian shirt and cargo shorts crossed his arms as he looked over to the trio that consisted of their targets and back to them.

"Boss sent me. He figured you two would screw shit up. So he sent me to make sure everything went to plan. Tell me. What's the problem?" He asked as Ross nodded in return to his explanation.

"Cowboy over there has eyes like Vergil's. Can see us from a fuckin mile away I suspect. We need to get them to Yeti Park without leading them. How you reckon we do that?"

Henry rubbed his chin as he thought before putting on a pass to yeti park over his neck. And passing two similar passes to the others stating they were employees of the park's tour team. It made both Ross and Conrad smile deviously at each other as he rocked his head towards them.

Henry rolled his head towards a tour jeep that had the park's name listed on it. As the trio approached it curiously as they looked around. As for the cowboy he kept staring. "This way they won't go at us instantly. It will give us time to come up with a plan. More than likely I'd have to use the emp.As long as the cowboy keeps his mouth shut we should be fine. He looks like the one to not trust newcomers."

"Can tell. But the others are clueless. Who are they gonna believe?" Conrad rose a brow with a few raises. Yet it only garnered a poker face from the others. His shoulders slumping in rejection as they nodded." Who should do the talking? Ain't like you two to pull off welcoming smiles and positive emotion."

"You." Henry grabbed Conrad by his arm and shoved him towards the group. Sweat poured down his face as he huffed." Get going. We'll be right behind you."

"A-are you sure!?" He asked with a stutter.

"Yes! Now get going." Ross snapped as Conrad swallowed a lump in his throat. Slowly making his way to the trio with a fake but convincing smile as he clapped his hands together. Fixing a safari hat to his head he cleared his throat.

"Ah! I see you two are interested in the Yeti Park official tour!" He hummed as the girl and Mrs. Hale turned to face him. The cowboy however only crossed his arms and furrowed his brow.

"Ah! Yeah we are! Convenient timin man!" The girl said with a smirk as Mrs. Hale nodded in approval as the Cowboy merely glared in silence towards the older man's approach.

Jen suspected that this guy as possibly in his late sixties early seventies. Harmless to her eyes. No weapons and a safe enough smile. She also suspected that he was nervous. First day jitters no doubt as she reaches her hand out for a handshake with the older man." Jenna. Nice to meet yah. This is Jebediah and Maggie. We're definitely interested in tha tour."

Jen turned to Jeb. His hand clenching his gun tightly with a hum of distrust.
"Little convenient that they followed us all the way from Oregon." He muttered as he leaned in close to the man who introduced himself as Richard Nixon. A clear lie as he saw his body heat grow hotter.

"I assure you that was a coincidence indeed! I am employed by both parks and I was just getting my stuff from my pocket at Charles Darling's park to move back here to Yeti park before winter hits. I'm no stickler for cold weather!" He chuckled.

Jeb huffed. "That so?" He asked which earned him a nudge from Jen. A moment of silence as Jeb grabbed Jen by the arm and pulled her to the side." Do not go nudgin me, Jen. I dont trust this guy." He said with a stirn tone.

"You said that about the Midnight Riders and they turned out to be great help gettin us to Oregon. Your too pent up. Common!" She sighed as Jeb shook his head. Pointing his finger in Richard's direction.

"I know you don't know. But I learned how to read liars. And this guy is fuckin hidin something. You don't know it but I watched these two baboons follow us from Charles' zoo to here! It's no coincidence."

Jen's brow formed a line as she frowned." Jebediah Conagher. That! Is a old fuckin man! What is he gonna do exactly to hurt us? You know that we are on a fuckin mission to find the team right? We need Saxton Hale and we have no goddamn way to get there or where exactly in the Amazon Yeti Park is! So either ya fuckin suck it up and deal with it. Or I can just leave ya here and I'll go the fuck alone with Maggie to find him." Her words were clearly final to Jeb.

His eyes switched between the lying old man and Jen who seemed convinced that an old man wasn't a threat. So he huffed in the last bit of his pride and nodded." Fine. But know if we get into trouble. It's on you." He said as he roughly pushed his finger into her shoulder. She'd have slapped him by that point but he wasn't worth the effort. She learned by this point that he was a stubborn mule with a short temper and severe trust issues. It did get her thinking. But it only resorted to her pushing it to the back of her mind and ignoring it. She was confident that these guys were no threat as two other men walked up. One with thick sideburns curling into a moustache and another clean shaven man with a rather stoic expression.

"I got this guys. Not enough room in the jeep for all of you." Richard said with a thumbs up as they nodded.

"Be right behind you Richard. Make their tour a pleasant journey." The old clean shaven man with snowy white hair said as he seemed to stare Jenna down intensively. That did make her feel uneasy but the world was full of odd folk. She knew that much as she hopped in with Maggie. But noticed that there was only room for Maggie and her. The other seats were completely covered with what looked to be animal food.

"Uh..Jeb. you mind hitching a ride with those other guys?" She asked as she looked at the two other men who nodded in unison.

"We can take him. We got plenty of room in our jeep." The old more muscular looking man said with a twitch of his upper lip as the more stoic man merely kept silent as Jeb seemed to hold a look of distrust on his face. In fact he looked uneasy.

"Jeb. You'll be fine! They couldn't hurt a fly! We'll meet you there. Promise!" She said as she jumped out of the jeep one last time and wrapped her arms around him in a tight hug.

But he didn't hug back..she played it no mind as she sighed and nodded." Just go." He said with an unmoving tone." You don't need me slowin you down. Like you said I'll be right behind you." He murmured as she hopped back in and gave him one last look. What was going through his head? She knew he could see things she couldn't. But he had to be paranoid.

As he watched her leave he remained silent as he turned to face the two older men behind him. Eyes narrowed deeply as his lip quivered.

They said nothing as Jeb approached the jeep and jumped in the back seat." Well? Don't want to leave your demolition expert behind, do you?" He asked with a hiss as Henry and Ross looked at each other and shrugged.

"You are a paranoid guy." Ross stated as he jumped in the driver's seat while Henry took a spot in the passenger's seat. Jeb however kept his hand not on the Wrangler. But on his Revolver he's kept concealed since the train accident. At times he's forgot he even had it.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Jeb asked with a hint of venom to his tone that could make anyone shiver. But not these guys..they laughed. The drive was quick to reach the road leading into the rainforest.

"Means you got a right to be.." Ross stated. Without warning Ross Jerked the Jeep into a stop. Jebediah's body flying forward due to him not wearing a seat belt. His head hitting the front console with a dangerous thud as Jeb lifted his head to withdraw his Revolver. Only for Ross to send a deafening punch to the side of his head making his eyes shake as the gun went off. Narrowly missing Henry in the passenger's seat. Grabbing his neck and pressing a button he had in his pocket. An electromagnetic pulse surges through the area as Jeb screams in agony. Henry and Ross watching sparks fly from his eye. It gave off a loud popping noises before it exploded in his eye. Blood seeped from his socket as he went completely limp. The eye was damaged beyond repair." Jesus. We just kill him?" Ross asked As Henry placed his fingers against Jeb's throat to check for a pulse. He shook his head as he pulled out a pair of zip ties and started to bind the cowboy. Pushing him back into the back seat.

"He's not dead. Just unconscious. Wasn't expecting his eye to go off like that. Doesn't matter. Call the boss. Say we got the cowboy taken care of."

Looking in the back Ross took not of the blown out piece of his sunglasses as his robotic eye hung loosely from the socket. Blood streaming down his face in an endless pool as he laid back there motionless. Pulling out his phone he dialled the number and the Boss picked up just on time.

"Update Ross. How close are they?" Cheavy asked.

"The girl's close. Coming up within the next half hour. We got the cowboy handled. Blew his eye out with the Emp Henry had. He's taking a nice nap as we speak." He said as Cheavy seemed to take a liking to what he was hearing.

"Excellent. We got leverage. She's more than likely going to just hand herself over. Sooner we get the australium back sooner we can get our correct doses back on track. Use him as a hostage. Ross you start the ATV. Henry, you take the cowboy in behind her. Make sure she gets a good look at him."

Ross verbally acknowledged his request and hung up the phone. The groans of pain from the one who called himself Jebediah made themselves known as he started the Jeep back up onto a dirt path. Henry held onto Jeb's weapon. The shotgun was placed in the passenger's seat with him as he tapped his fingers.

"So..Jenna was it? What brings you out here to Yeti park eh?" Richard asked as Jenna smiled at him from the passenger's seat. Tapping her metallic foot against the carmat on the floor.

"Gotta say we're lookin for your boss Saxton Hale. I mean. If he is yer boss y'know? We just need to talk to him." She said as Maggie leaned between the seats and the console.

"Oh really? He's a busy guy but I'm sure he's got plenty of time for you two. Especially you Mrs. Hale!" He cheered lightly as Maggie stared at him for a moment.

"Lad..I didn't tell ya my last name.." she said with a rather blank tone before she noticed Richard began to sweat. Not from the humid heat of the forest. No. It was nervousness.

"Well ya see he spoke quite a bit about you! He's got pictures of you in his office and all. Hard not to pinpoint the wife of the face to Hale's Yeti Park." His explanation made Maggie lean back in her seat as Jenna looked back. The inability to see through the dense overgrowth of the forest made Jenna squint in an attempt to see the Jeep Jeb and the other two tour guides were in. But she couldn't. Not past Maggie anyway.

"Somethin wrong?" Maggie asked as Jenna placed her head in her hand despite the vicious occasional bumps they ran into on the dirt road.

"I feel like somethin isn't right..hard to pinpoint it but I feel like..I'm in danger along with Jebediah. I feel…uneasy." She huffed. Crossing her arms she curled her legs in on the seat towards her.

"I'm sure he's fine! Probably just needed gas real quick." Richard stated with confidence on his lips. Drawing closer to a barbed wire fence with a sign plastered over it. Much like at Charles Darling's zoo it instead had a picture of a Yeti on it saying 'WELCOME TO YETI PARK!' In all caps with a side photo of Saxton Hale himself giving a thumbs up. A cheeky smile on his lips.

Jenna studied his looks. He looked incredibly muscular. The brown moustache over his lip that seemed to bend with his almost contagious smile made Jenna smile at it in return.

"That Saxton Hale? Gotta say you're a lucky guy, Maggie." Jenna laughed. She couldn't keep her eyes off the handsome muscular aussie. In a way he gave Mundy a run for his money but she loved him more than a man like Hale because Mundy knew her better than anyone on the team. She never even spoke much to Dell Conagher about her life. The only one with that luxury was Mundy and it would stay that way for as long as she could help it. As they drew closer the gate opened automatically to their presence. Slowing down they waited patiently for the gate to open and went in without a problem. As they kept driving Jenna's eyes wondered.

Jaguars in open roaming habitats. They looked happy compared to Charles Darling's zoo of depressed animals. This was more like it and seeing them have proper space to run around was all she needed. Even though he kills them- he at least has the heart to give them space to run around in. That logic however was to be second guessed in the future no doubt.

Didn't matter. As they looked ahead a building drew closer. A helicopter pad was visible but lacked a helicopter on it. It appeared very very…empty for what she expected to be a packed place filled with tourists. But nothing. Nothing but two or three jeeps labelled for the tour service parked in the parking lot where it said it was for employees only.

Richard pulled up to the nearest parking spot. He pulled the keys free from the ignition and stuffed them in his pocket. Not before spinning the keychain on his finger a few times.
"You guys head on in. I got some things to do. He should be in the Coliseum." Richard said as he went up to a door labelled storage closet and opened in. Then shut it behind him. Leaving Jenna and Maggie out in the open.

"Should we wait for ya da?" Maggie asked as Jenna kept her eyes on the road they just left. Nothing..it made her eyes droop with uncertainty as she pondered the choice. Yes or no..

"I'm sure he can find us somehow. Let's go find Hale." Jen said calmly as she opened the main doors into the building.

Henry sighed as he opened his side door. "Turn right. We need to get back into our gear. Less the girl has any guns on her we can't take any chances."

"Spy spare me the details I know how to do my fucking job." Ross snarled as he pulled to a stop at the side of the building. Less chances of being seen as Ross looked in the back at the unmoving cowboy who hadn't made a noise since they left." What about him? Can't just leave him in the jeep. Need him in there when Boss signals us."

"You get dressed first. You wear heavier gear. I'll watch him." Henry said as he nodded his head to the door." Go."

"Alright alright. Asshole.." as Ross went into a side door where they stored their gear Henry leaned over the back portion of the jeep. His eyes pinned on the slumped body before a raspy voice asked a question.

"Who..the fuck are you..?" It took Henry a second to process it as the cowboy was the one who was asking it. As he lifted his head. His face was bruised. Almost burned completely. His words slurring slightly as he spoke.

"Finally awake?" Henry tilted his head. Leaning over to pull Jebediah's sunglasses from his face. His eye socket was burned to hell. The eyeball hanging from a wire that led up into the now bloody socket.blood no longer running as heavily down his face as it did before. He took a good note of the intact eye. It was a deep oceanic blue." You really are Dell's clone."

"Fuck off..I'm my own fuckin person.." Jeb spat. Hawking up a loogie to where he shot it at Spy's face. Just narrowly missing him thanks to his foggy mind and pain his head was in. He couldn't even think straight.

Henry rose a lip for just a moment. "That so? Tell me. What made you think it was a good idea to use australium that didn't belong to you. To construct a pair of legs on a girl mm?" The question only got silence for its answer. Leaning over he grabbed Jeb by the collar of his shirt and pulled him closer. That strength on him made Jeb almost snapback to reality. Almost." Answer cowboy. Less you wanna see the girl suffer more than she is."

"I ain't tellin you shit!" Jeb yelled at him. Jerking his body away he fell back into the Jeep as Ross left the door and marched his way out. Making his way to the jeep as he took notice of the awoken cowboy.

"He tell you anything?" He asked as his partner shook his head.

"Not a damn thing. Get the feeling this one is going to be a tough nut to crack." He uttered as he sighed." Try to get him to talk. I'm getting back into uniform."

"With pleasure.." Ross said with a deep grin as he cracked his knuckles.

As Henry entered the side closet door he opened a box on the floor to reveal his uniform. Starting with spandex. As he removed his shirt the underside of his shirt revealed a canvas of whipping scars on his back. Trailing from his shoulders and upper neck down to his hips. His chest was coated in bullet and knife scars. Stomach holding a scar that ran from his left hip in a slant up to his right pectoral. Running his fingers along it he shook his head and started to place the rest of his uniform on. And as he finished he heard groaning and heavy thuds. His eyes widen slightly as he pushes the door open to see Ross slamming his fist into Jebediah's head. Full overhead swings as Jebediah struggled to breath until he was stopped from pulling another swing by Henry.

"The fuck are you doing!?" He asked as he punched Ross. His cheek warbled from the punch as Spy walked over to Jebediah and looked him over. Then looked back up to Ross who was baring his teeth." I told you to get info. Not beat him to the point he can't."

"Fucker tried to warn the girl. We got here ahead of Conrad. Had to teach the mouthy asshole a lesson or two." He said as blood dripped freely from his bare knuckles. Henry, despite his skinny appearance, was actually strong. Throwing Jebediah over his shoulder.

"No excuse. Cover his damn mouth. Now he probably can't think straight. You no doubt concussed him." He said as he kicked open the door to the facility.

"Hale!?" Jenna yelled. Her hands cupped around her mouth to try and make her voice louder as she walked through the empty hallways with Maggie behind her. Boots clanking behind a layer of her metal feet clacking on the floor." He did say he was in the Coliseum.."

"I feel uneasy about this." Maggie said as she clenched her fist. Fingers crossed as she stuck close to Jenna. Her size was rather big. Not fat but overall taller and wider than her. It made Jen a bit jealous.

"Me too. I get the feeling Jeb was right.." Making their way to a set of double doors the light from the sun hit their faces. Shielding their arms with their eyes. And within the middle of the Coliseum floors. Was a metal post with a half beaten man tied to it. Face bruised and hung defeated as Maggie gasped In shock. Her legs carrying herself to Saxton's beaten body as fast as she could. Tears flying down her eyes as Jen tried to follow behind. But a rifle going off made her skid to a stop as dirt was kicked up. And a Large man from out of nowhere came up from behind the thick pole.

He was large. The best way Jen could describe him was that he was just as big as Heavy was. But her Heavy had more fat..this man despite how old he looked was pure muscle. It showed in his exposed arms and how much his bullet proof vest puffed out from the muscle underneath. His smile is calm and optimistic.. her expression shifted from concerned to pissed.

"Who the hell are you!?" Jenna asked as Maggie turned to look at him. Yet she couldn't even hit him. His hand catching her fist as he effortlessly seemed to lift Maggie into the air by back and legs and slammed her into the dirt in front of Hale.

"M..Mags..? Are..you a-alright?" Hale asked as Maggie coughed. Shocked and almost scared as Jenna took a step back. As she did, their tour guide entered the arena. Wearing similar clothing. It was a fucking trap and she didn't see it. Not only was Jeb right..but he was probably in danger as well.

"Doesn't matter who I am. You've been running around with something that doesn't belong to little girls." He said as he pointed at her. A pyro entered the arena as well to Jenna's left. To her right. Her eyes widened at the demolished sight. Jebediah's limp body being tossed to the ground by a masked man and the bearded older man from before. The blood running down his face made her face turn pale in fear for his safety. He wasn't moving. Till the masked man spoke.

"He's alive. Barely." Kicking him he rolled him over as she looked up into the bleachers where a bearded man kept a sniper rifle trained on her. There were eight..these were mercs. They had to be there was no way they weren't mercs.

"Your legs, little girl. What they're made of is made from my stache. Australium. What did you think your little cowboy here made your legs from gold!?" The large man asked with a mocking laugh as he stepped closer towards Jenna who was trapped in the middle." Eighty years and I've never felt fucking younger. But without it. We're fucked."

"You're in your eighties!? Bullshit! Ain't nothin on earth can be used to lengthen one's lifespan!" Jenna yelled as he drew closer. Her legs spread apart as she clenched her fists. He was..unnervingly big. And the closer he got the more she grew terrified. Her sure angry expression turned to fear as he stood over her. Fists clenched as her legs moved. The speed on her legs catching Cheavy off guard before he turned around to face her as she came from behind. Before she could stop he grabbed her by the throat and slammed her into the ground with a heavy thud. His hand so big it engulfed Jenna's throat as he pressed down into her. Her expression sharing fear mixed with the inability to breathe. How..how was this possible she moved so fast and for an old man he moved with the reflexes of fucking jesus christ himself. Scratching and clawing at his gloved hand, Cheavy spoke with a demented laugh.

"You know. I like it when they don't cooperate. Makes it a lot of fun to beat it out of you. I don't care if I have to rip your goddamn body in half to get back that australium. You're no merc. Your just a fucking little girl playing pretend." He whispered into her ear as she just kicked her legs. As she did it hit a spot that made Cheavy lose breath. But not let go as he raised his fist. Slamming it down on her stomach as she felt a rib break in her chest. Blood left her lips as she gasped and coughed." Bitch..I'll teach you a lesson in fighting.." he hissed as he lifted her to her feet. Her body swayed as she coughed from the punch. Her chest hurt worse than anything she felt as Cheavy waved his hand towards her in a mocking beckoning motion.

"Rule one..know how to fucking fight in the first place.."

Chapter Text

Her chest ached. Her body wobbled from the punches. This guy..was a fucking monster in human skin. His lackeys called him Cheavy. Not the same as Heavy but damn near close enough. She leaned over and puked. What was left of her last meal hitting the floor as the brute stood over her with his arms crossed. Such a..sadistically pleased smirk watching her struggle. He reminded her of the medic..but far less…crazy. He was smart and sadistic..but not crazy. She knew that he was teaching her a lesson..for stealing something that was his..

"I..didn't know that..t-this shit was yours! I-I just thought it was fuckin stached gold!" She looked to Jebediah. He was looking up at her from the ground as the Spy lifted him up by the collar of his shirt."d-don't hurt him!" She pleaded. Jebediah's gaze never leaves her's. Her expression turned horrified to see how bad his face was. His robotic eye was hanging freely from the socket with burns going up and down the eye like it just exploded.

"Tell her." She heard the Spy say.

Jebediah's voice was wheezy. Weak and sounded as if he was bobbing in and out of consciousness as he explained the details."I..m-made..yer legs from an australium stache..that stuff makes people live longer..r-reverses ageing.. makes p..people stronger..faster..and it was all I had..to save you.."

Jenna held back her urge to tear up. "Jeb..please that don't matter now just save yer breath!"

"Hes right girl. May not have been your choice but you are the one who is wearing it." Cheavy said as he grabbed Jenna by her arm. Yanking her towards him. Stumbling on her feet she almost fell into him as he simply started to lift her up by that arm." Let's see how far these legs go." He said as he lifted her shirt. And as soon as he saw her spine. It made his brows furrowed in irritation." You connected it to her spine!?" He yelled towards Jeb who glared back through a black eye.

"I had to get the legs to move somehow, dickhead..last thing I had time for was to fuckin carry her everywhere.." Jeb muttered weakly.

"Well cowboy. You just signed the girl's death certificate. Congratulations." He said as he looked to Jenna. Her eyes wide as he smiled at her." Don't worry. We will..Make this relatively painless."

"Jebediah!?" Jenna's gaze met his. Despite her arm being held up she noticed that he looked guilty. Incredibly and painfully guilty for putting her in this mess..getting her killed.

"Run, Jenna..Forget about me..just run.."

Cheavy covered her nose and mouth with his hand. He intended to suffocate her to death. She began to panic. Her eyes watering almost as if she was pleading with Cheavy. But he made up his mind. Kicking and swinging her only free arm. Her leg hit him in the gonads. His stance struggled as his grip weakened. And when it did. She was set free not by her own will to fight. But by Maggie who jumped on his back. The Classic Spy stepped away from Jebediah as he worked to get the woman off of his boss. And as he did. Jenna made her move. And ran to Jebediah's aid. They were out matched and severely outnumbered. So she threw his gun over her shoulder. Only to hear him say 'forget the shotgun'.

"I ain't leaving you.." she said as she looked at his side and noticed the revolver sticking from his holster at his right side. She grabbed it. And shot the restraints free till the rifle fire sounded off behind her. Her body moved to the side as the bullet narrowly missed her back and hit her leg as it ricocheted off and into the ground beside them. His wrists free she dragged him into the building away from the commotion and worked to fix him onto her back like before. He was limp..so damn limp it was hard to affix him to her back like at the damn zoo. She looked back out the door to where Cheavy was rushing to the door. Taking the shotgun she instinctively brought with her. She placed them between the doors knobs and as he pressed into the door it buckled but didn't open.

His stare was cold and hateful. His words borrowed into her soul..

"I'll hunt you down..run little girl. Run as fast as those legs can carry you. Because you'll eventually be right back in my goddamn hands!" As she heard the final word escape from his lips she pulled Jebediah onto her back and fixed his arms around her waist for support as she started to run. Her legs are not jogging. But fully running. In seconds they were out of the door, out the side door and back into the parking lot. She couldn't think of where to go. Her head moving back and forth as she huffed in utter confusion. Everything was a mess. And she was losing her composure more than she was losing her friend..

"Jen..the..forest..run into the forest.." Jebediah Conagher weekly pointed to the forest. No road. Nothing. And hearing the arguments from the merc's she turned to see a large vehicle round the corner. Cheavy standing on a rail guard as it held a large bulldozing contraption attached to it. No doubt to uproot trees and get through the forest with ease as the old Sniper with the long beard took aim at her and fired a shot that once more narrowly missed her.

"Run Jenna! Run as fast as you can!" Cheavy bellowed. That terrible voice that made her feel horribly cold inside. He had no interest in playing with her like the medic did. He had one goal in mind and that was to kill her and get his metal back. Her legs started to run. Into the forest without so much as an argument with Jeb at the speed faster than a car. It scared her at first. But her legs made it like she wasn't pulling a lot of weight. Bobbing and weaving through thick overgrowth on top of thick trees as she looked over her shoulder. Avoiding the one she had Jebediah resting on. And as she did. She regretted it.

Cheavy hadn't moved from his spot on the guardrail. Neither did the sniper as he kept his sniper in an upright position. It was catching up fast and it also pushed trees aside like nothing. It was a fucking disaster as she patted Jebediah's head.

"Stay with me Jeb!" She yelled. Feeling him groan as he would fix his position on her back. Pulling out his revolver that had so many bullets left in it he leaned in a way to where he could see Cheavy. And aimed at him. His vision was horribly warped from the emp. And the vicious beatdown on his face. Taking aim with such a black eye was hard. Shooting the bullet hit the metal to the ATV beside Cheavy's head. His expression going from a sadistic smirk to a disgusted expression.

"Fire the rockets!" Hearing that made Jenna's blood run cold but it wasn't Cheavy who said it. It was the guy with the sideburns and moustache. Standing up on top of the ATV at its highest point. A rocket launcher that hung over his shoulder in the shape of a black box was pointed towards her.

"The fuck do you think your doing Ross!?" Cheavy asked as he jumped from the bottom platform onto its uppermost platform where Ross stood with his rocket at the ready.

"Stopping her! What do you think I'm doing!?" He asked as Cheavy ripped the rocket from his hand and threw it back into the hole down below them.

"Looks like your trying to blow our fucking stache sky high! I want her in one piece dammit! No fucking rockets or explosives! Do I make myself fucking clear!? Vergil! Take the damn shot!" He yelled as he looked down to him. His expression holding straight focus on it as he stared through his scope.

"I'm tryin boss. The damn ATV ain't exactly going steady enough to shoot without missing!" He sneered as he clenched the barrel and fired. The bullet whizzing past her and into the trunk of a tree. Her legs moving so fast the flanks and stomps echoed through the forest wildly as she would eventually start tripping on them. The overgrowth of the plants growing denser as Jeb would try to take another shot.

This time a bullet would land on the Sniper. His arm shot back with an odd coloured blood. It didn't look red. More like if red was placed and mixed into yellow paint.

"Jeb!? Are you alright!?" No answer. No change. Only his audible grunts. Fingers moved to fix him but had no time to stop. She had no choice but to slow down to fix him to her back better. But doing so she looked behind her one more time. The ATV was closer. So much that she got a look at the Classics. Cheavy was leaning over the railing where his hand was about to grab her collar. His smile wide revealing his perfectly polished teeth behind the wrinkles.

He believed he had obtained his stache finally. His hand was so close she felt it on her back. Yet before he could. Jeb grabbed his arm. His revolver pointed at his head as Jenna held on tight. Both Jebediah's arms no longer hanging on but she kept him tight on her with a grunt as the revolver fired. Hitting Cheavy three times in the chest. First bullet was blocked by the vest. But the second and third one hit skin and made Cheavy stumble back with a yank from the Soldier. His teeth baring as he slammed his fist into the ATV as Jenna slowly started to gain more distance.

"Get Frankenstein out here!" He yelled. And as he did. Jebediah's only good eye widened to the sight of Jen's Medic. His expression filled with fear and pain as he pointed the Medigun over to Cheavy as the bullets fell free from the holes the bullets made in his chest.

They both made momentary eye contact. His eyes wide noticing that they were alive..two people who he watched die..alive in front him. Jenna's legs made from Australium aanother Engineer..Dell's clone with her. Defending her. Knowing they were alive made him feel horribly conflicted..he wasn't working with them. He was forced to do this. And the longer he and BLU looked at each other. His throat clogged as he was punched in the face by the sniper. He couldn't focus anymore as he was forced to heal the Sniper's arm wound..

There was nothing he could do but do as he was told..keep his mouth shut and do it. And as Jenna's gaze shifted just for a second. She squealed at the sight of an oncoming tree. Her heels digging deep into the soil as she switched positions on the ground. Skidding slightly as she took a hard left where the ATV followed suit. The path became clear beyond that point as Jeb turned back. His gun was not aimed at Cheavy or the sniper. But at Ludwig. His eyes behind his glasses widened as Jebediah's gaze was lacklustre. Pulling the trigger it only clicked. Indicating it was out of ammo.

He sneered visibly as he weakly turned back into Jenna's shoulder. A nap..wouldn't hurt..just one..he was tired. He couldn't think straight and thus he let Jenna take the wheel. Hopefully she'd stay farther from the Merc's. He was going to have to tell her what he saw. When or if they happened to get out of this mess.

Their recent turn had ended up next to a river. The violent Rapids leading down river as she dodged trees and rocks wherever her footing would be most appropriate. At times the rocks beneath her would break from the strength she was putting into her sprint.

Holding onto the railing of the ATV Ludwig looked to Cheavy who was facing away from him. His attention focused on his target. And a thought came across him. They were moving fast. He clenched his fist. He was nervous. He couldn't. But..his mind was racing. A sharp laugh coming in the back of his mind as he shut his eyes. Tightly.

"Nein..nein nein nein..not now!" He sneered through his teeth. Gripping his head he shook his head. Dropping his arms. It felt as if something took hold of him. A grip on his body he couldn't quite shake as he smiled evilly. Crazy and unhinged as he approached Vergil. And snatched his rifle.

"What the fuck are you doin!?" Vergol asked before his look of anger shifted to shock. He wasn't expecting to see the Medic hold such a crazed smile. As if he was sadistic as well? He knows that look. He used to pull it off in his younger years. He let him take it at that point. And without a word. He shot a single bullet. Not at her back. But at her leg. And as he did. The bullet spun.

The bullet flying through the air with such velocity it was almost in perpetual slow motion that when it hit its target. Everything slowed to a near crawl. And Jenna's right leg gave out beneath her. Her body falling forward in motion as Jeb went flying back with nothing to catch him. And Jenna followed suit as she screamed. Her body went over a ledge where the ATV was jerked from the brakes being applied to them. And as the heavily armoured vehicle stopped with it sliding on it's side. Cheavy as well as Ludwig made the sight of the river they followed leading to the edge of a waterfall. A large pool of water below as two splashes could be seen below. And as Ludwig looked. He felt Cheavy's hand wrap around his neck. His smile is still there. Cold and distant as Cheavy looked into them. His nostrils flaring. But after a moment. The more he looked into his eyes. The more he felt…attraction. He…blushed. He felt the heat grow hotter before he started to speak. He'd blame it on the anger. For now he'd smack some sense into the Nazi.

Raising his massive hand he slapped the medic. Snapping him out of his still minded state as he rubbed his cheek and looked at him.

"Wake up Frankenstein. You fucked up." He didn't snarl however. He actually seemed conflicted between being pissed and somewhat…proud? His stunt of taking the girl's leg out stopped her. But sent her flying a good one hundred feet below into a pool of water. And as the two held their one way conversation. Beatrice nudged Cheavy.

"The girl's alive.." she said.

"She's what!?" He snarled as he dropped Ludwig and went to the guardrail to see a small figure in a leather jacket pulling a limp bodied cowboy from the water. His teeth clattered together in frustration as he yelled." Fred! How fast were we going!?" He turned to the old male with a hard hat on. The greying stubble shone as he pushed the hatch up to speak more clearly. His southern accent was almost flat.

"Thirty five, boss. She was running the same speed except when she gained distance to where she went five miles per hour faster." Something was on his mind. No doubt because he witnesses a clone of his son beaten nearly half to death in front of him. Christ what a fucking shit show. He was gonna have to talk to Fred Conagher about it later. For now. He had to play the part of boss.

"Get this damn thing down there now!"

Jenna coughed. Blood pumping and shaking as her only leg kicked both her and Jeb to shore. Dragging herself to land she looked at the joint behind her knee. She had no idea how to remove it. She assumed the thing was removable considering they were prosthetics. But she didn't need to.

Feeling around with her wet pruney fingers behind her knee joint she felt an object lodged between it unlike with her other leg. So she plucked it free with a yank. It was a sniper's bullet. Crushed in like a tin can as she threw it into the water with a grunt before she realised Jeb hadn't spoken. Her eyes widened as she crawled to his side. What was she thinking!? She could have done that after! Placing both hands on his chest she started on CPR as best as she could.

"One, two, three. Jebediah, common man, don't leave me like this!" She sobbed. Yelling out to him as she plugged his nose and blew into his mouth after thirty pumps. He was pale. His chest wasn't rising. She was terrified to lose him. She couldn't. As much as they had their differences she grew close to him despite his background as a BLU. He was a complex but good man.

One two three. One two three. Repeated over and over. Until after the fourth try and bound to give up and bury him there. The sensation of loss filling her lungs as she. Sobbed. He coughed. Water spilling from his mouth as he took a deep gasping breath before rolling on his side. The whiplash of the sudden stop made his optic eye fly out with the rest of the wire that was connected to it. It was no more than a hole now in the side of his head mixed with mud.

"J-jen..?" He stuttered. He couldn't help it as he looked around. His finger bent in another direction thanks to holding onto his revolver the whole time. He didn't lose it. But it would rust if he didn't happen to oil it. Dropping it he gagged in pain as with a quick pull the socket to his dislocated pointer finger popped back into place as he clenched it a few times. As far as he could tell nothing else was broken besides his missing optic eye and his pride.

"Jeb…yer eye..what did they do to you..?" She asked as Jeb shook his head.

"Emp..blew my optic eye out of my damn head! I..can't think straight..'' The headache was still prevalent as well as the severe ringing in his right ear. Snapping his finger a few times he coughed. No change." We need to get out of here. Back to the city..or..somewhere..away from them.." he coughed again." I remember him.." he said as he looked up to Jen who was getting to her feet. Her face is half beaten in. No different to him but she still had both eyes. Bruises and blood coating arms and legs as he placed both hands firmly on his shoulder." I saw him..I'm sorry to say it Jenna..but I saw your medic healing the big bastard."

"Medic..?" She asked with a deep frown almost asking why? But no answer could be given. Jeb was no liar. He hadn't really lied. Only really lying to himself that everything was fine before the wake up call Jenna gave him on the plane." Fuck..it don't matter. We'll discuss this when we're not being ruthlessly hunted by these bastards. Hop on. We can't go back to Rio. We need to go forward. Follow the river and we should be fine.." She ran her hand over his face. The wavy sensation of the burns made her worry they would scar. The eye was bad. But somehow his hats always seem to just come back to him as he picks the hat up and places the wet mess on his head. The cold water cooled the hat down significantly. Giving him an ice pack on his head as Jenna picked him up. And started to run once again.

Cheavy slammed his fist on the console of the ATV out of rage. "Forget about the Hale's. I couldn't care less about a bunch of Aussie's! The girl is a fucking worm slithering between our god damn fingers every time! Either lady luck had a threesome with her mother and father! Or we're just that fucking incompetent!" He grabbed Medic by his throat. Pulling him close once again as he snarled." I don't know what the fuck came over you with taking Vergil's rifle. But your stunt caust us the fucking stache!"

Ludwig didn't speak. He only stared at him. The fuck got into the German? He hadn't said a damn word since that point. Only starring in silence which unnerved him slightly. That was before he started speaking." Oh? Und how exactly vere zu going to get her? I did what half of zu're men failed to do. I stopped her." he said as he grabbed Cheavy by his collar. Unnatural strength behind it as his brows furrowed and eyelid twitching." I'll gladly put zu on ze table. See how vell zu vork without zu're organs." His voice was cold and calm. The threatening in return didn't make Cheavy angry..it made him smile. As if that was what he was looking for in him the whole time. Not a coward. Not a fucking pussy hiding behind his lab equipment like Frankenstein. But as if he grew some sort of 'demented backbone'. The stare down garnered looks between the rest of the team. Vergil looked to Fred who in turn looked to Conrad and Ross.

"I think you all should leave the vehicle." Cheavy muttered. But when no one moved he turned his head as he let go of Medic and shoved Conrad towards the door." I gave you all a fucking order! Go! Out!" He snapped. As Beatrice started to guide Fred out. Who seemed far less lively than he usually was. And when everyone left. He stood over Medic with his head cocked to the side. A smirk on his lips.

"Vhat?" He asked with a sneer. He wondered what was going on in the German's head. Ever since the years back when his medic was still alive he remembered this German well. Coming in from out of nowhere asking for a job. He still had no trust for him. No respect. But he felt lust for him. This German man with his crazy side. Fingers wrapped around his waist as he pulled him close." Vhat are zu-"

His mouth was covered instantly. Hand coating his throat in a tight squeeze as his hands wrapped around his large hand." I admire Frankenstein. I can't understand your thoughts. But I admit. When you grow a pair, Frankenstein. It turns me on." He chortled. He didn't want this he could tell by the look on Ludwig's face as he pinched the doctor's cheek between his thumb and index finger.

"Nein! I-I-" he didn't even remember what happened. Only a sharp laugh..and..now he was there. The sudden nausea that hit him when the older man placed his lips against his. His grip was tight to where he couldn't escape it. He couldn't bite down. Risk his life. And the dizzying array of sensations as his cheeks flushed a deep red.

It was impossible to read his head. He hated him..but it also seemed he had a Romantic toxic obsession with him to the point he was doing this..it confused him. It was confusing and terrifying for someone to be obsessed with someone they hated. He saw it in his eyes as he forced his deep connecting kiss with him. He was enjoying this..To the point he didn't want to be awake for it. He was seen not as a person..he was seen as a play thing. And it hurt.

Pulling away he chortled. To the big old man he tasted mint and a hint of spice behind the interior of his captive medic.

All Medic could think about was Heavy..he thought he was dead..what would Misha say to him if he were to show up out of the blue with Cheavy…he was traumatised and conflicted. Confused and consumed with dread as the massive man would roughly push him to the wall. His single hand wrapped tightly around his binding him. Leaving him with no room to move. No room to squirm or beg. Just…sit there like a statue.. hands wandering up and down his body. His trough callused fingers exploring every crevice and muscle he had. Medic was no skinny man. Not a weakling. He was tone.

Ripping Ludwig's shirt from his body he threw both a lab coat and undershirt with it onto the floor of the ATV. His smile is bare. Animalistic. His mouth showed teeth." Gotta admit Frankenstein. You're far more muscular than I thought you were.."

"Bitte..do not.." he shuttered. His cheeks are red and awkward. His fingers clenching. He refused to make eye contact with him. Not one ounce of space given. No respect..nothing.." Vhy!? Vhy are zu doing zis!?" He asked as he bore his teeth at him.

"Because I can, Frankenstein. I don't see you fighting back. Why is that?" He asked in a whisper. His cheeks were growing redder." You like it don't you? I admit I hate you..I fucking despise you. But that look in your eye got something to come out of me I haven't felt in years." He hissed as he squeezed his throat so tight to the point his eyes rolled back and almost turned blue. No doubt was going to break apart as a burly chest of massive muscle and pectoral pressure would press against Ludwig's." I'm going to enjoy every moment of this..but I know you won't. Nah..this is the only way to really teach you a lesson aside from your fucking bullet wounds." He purred. His finger circled the hole in his arm that writhed in pain as he gagged in agony from the touch. His finger didn't just touch it..he inserted his full finger into it. His eyes widened as Cheavy's hand would cover his mouth. Stifling the screams from the german as he punched the wall behind him." I'm going to break you..show you who you follow. By the time I'm done with you.. you'll think twice about fucking with me or my fucking men. Who knows..despite that Russian boyfriend of yours. You might like me more.."

"Fred. You alright?" Vergil asked as he walked up to him. Everyone from the team kept their distance. They couldn't bother. They didn't want to hear it despite them not knowing what the hell was going on between them in there as Fred looked at the long bearded man with a frown.

"I'm not alright.." He murmured. His legs tucked in by his chest as he hissed. Practically Ill tempered at the moment as he threw his hard hat on the ground." That was my fucking son!" He snapped." I can't..not my boy.." he was out of it. Despite it being a clone. He looked exactly like his son. From head to toe. He was a spitting image of Dell and he disregarded it into reality. Denial.

"Fred hun.." Beatrice placed her hand on his shoulder. But he pulled away with a sneer.

"Don't you dare.. tell me that wasn't my fuckin son. That's Dell..my only flesh and blood I had and hope that he's not fuckin dead. If he is. I'm done..fuckin done!" He yelled as the rest of the team looked at him. Henry's gaze stoic as usual but he sighed.

"You're not listening." Henry said." He's not your son."

"Like hell he's not!"

"He's not dammit! Listen!" Ross yelled. His brows formed a deep line between his eyebrows as he scrunched his face in aggravation." That. Was a fucking clone!" He jammed his finger towards the pool of water below them." He looks like him because he's a fucking mockery of your boy. Blutarch ended up becoming a fucking lazy piece of shit. You remember he made you develop the fucking respawn machine. Your son made the fucking cloning machine! Every new merc hired was cloned so Blutarch didn't have to fucking look for his own mercs!"

"Doesn't change shit. No matter what. That..clone or not. It is my son..if anything..Dell's brother?" He rubbed his head." A father should die before his son…I can't kill my own boy.." je muttered as he sobbed. Shaking his head as Beatrice sighed and nodding.

"Common guys. Let's leave him alone.." She muttered under her breath. And as she does. The door to the ATV opened to reveal Cheavy. His arms crossed firmly over his chest with a smirk. He looked proud before his eyes met Fred.

"Fred.." he paused. Looking at everyone else." Get in the ATV." He said. But stopped Fred who was last behind them. His hand gently pushed him back to keep him moving towards the ATV." You and me. We settle this. Now Fred. And you need to listen closely. Do I make myself clear?"

As the rest of the team entered the ATV. Vergil smirked in amusement to the sight of a half naked Ludwig stuck on the floor in a suggestive position. Eyes shaking. Tears streaming down his eyes as everyone crowded around him." Looks like the boss made his way with the princess." Vergil chortled as Conrad laughed.

"Damn! He fucked him hard!" On his neck was bruises and hickeys as blood seeped from the bullet wound on his arm. He was embarrassed. Cold and silent. He didn't say anything. He just got up. And silently put his shirt back on and went over to a corner. But he didn't sit down. He refused it. His underside was in pain. It was fast but it was also rough and painful. No sort of preparation…and it showed in how he walked and how he refused to sit. And it only made the other mercs cackle in amusement. The begging was stifled by his captor's hand. He couldn't do anything..and it burned inside how much he felt…weak and vulnerable.

He said nothing. Didn't react. Speak. Ludwig only stood there and shook. Vergil ate this up the most as if his suffering was a fine meal served on a silver platter ready to feast upon. His sadistic smirk hidden behind his bushy white beard. It wasn't death. But watching a man be dominated and taught a lesson by a man with much more to him than met the eye.

"That's more like it.." he muttered as he walked over to Ludwig." His eyes looking into the pain stricken man before him." Not exactly death. But it's an improvement. To see you walking around like he just shoved his dick in your ass. Oh wait.."

"Leave me alone.." he snarled. Turning away from him. Only for a firm hand to turn him around. This didn't get any self defence. Not even a raise of the arm. Just seer tenseness in his body as it was Cheavy to do it.

"Be a good boy, Frankenstein. And go work on your Medigun." Nodding his head to a table Ludwig nodded with slouched shoulders and scorched his way awkwardly to both fix his shirts and jacket back to his body..though he didn't show it around the rest of the team. He certainly let it out when his back was turned to them. Tears streamed down his eyes as he looked down at the medical equipment comprising both his and Dell's genius. Cheeks red as he clenched his fist tightly. Looking at the sparking tube sticking free from it. Stick it in his neck..it could free him of this..he was a prisoner. He wasn't an employee of the merc's. He was a prisoner amongst a team of sadists. Calculated crazy people. Everyone on his team had their quirks..Soldier was a different story but everyone else had a slightly unhinged but almost tolerable and friendly side..these men have been in the profession for years. As if they could never immigrate into society then merely kept rolling as Mercs after they were fired. To be hired by the next person with enough money for a job.

But as he looked at the Medigun. He looked at the corner towards a bag in the corner. His eyes narrowed deeply as he looked at the team who was all gathered around a table. And Cheavy giving the spiel about losing the girl because of him. Wiping the tears from his eyes he tiptoed over and clasped his hand around what looked to be an old file. He flipped it open. The file highlighted Dell Conagher. In bold lettering 'M.I.A.' Is written red. With a picture of Dell and a Picture of his clone next to it. He skimmed through it. It started to say things he never expected to read about Dell Conagher..

'It has come to my attention that Dell Conagher is the man behind Helen's Helen's australium stache being located somewhere near the equator. Dell Conagher is the son of Fredrick Conagher and grandson of Radigan Conagher. His father and his father before him were the caretaker and right hand man to Helen. I know for a fact that the last Stache of my australium has to either be in Australia or somewhere beyond its shores. Somewhere from under our nose. And I believe that if either Dell or his clone are alive. Capture him. And get him to talk. His memories are Dell's.

-G.Mann'

He flipped another page. A series of medical diagnoses on himself.

'Patient has several hallucinations daily. As well as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Dr. Ludwig Kaiser is a former German doctor. [Redacted]' the rest of the page was blanked out as he turned over the page to where it was blank. Did he know? Or was this a joke? The more he skimmed through the more he realised it was not just him. But his team mates. List of every merc. From RED to BLU. Pictures of the main four of BLU. The sadistically evil grimace from the Soldier holding his pickaxe. The manically unstable and violent smile from…the medic made Ludwig stare at him. They were…just like him. If he never left. The stamp of 'deceased' next to his bearded face. The Spy is no different. Medic, Soldier, Sniper, Their own Heavy. It made him shudder while reading the files. Their studies.

'Soldier, Clone of Jane Solly Doe. It appears that his overall emotional state is incredibly unstable. His behaviour both on and off the battlefield showed he is an Ill tempered man with no regard for the lives of his own men. He's been witnessed physically abusing the BLU Scout more often than the others. He also was witnessed treating the engineer more like a pet than a person-' other notes explained other behaviors that made Ludwig feel sick. He stuffed his Clone's file into his pants before the troup could see him snooping. He'd be seeing that later. There was no way around it..his curiosity got the best of him. So he by all means was willing to wait. He was terrified to read the horror this man committed for the six years he's been working at Teufort.

"Partner.." The silent murmur of the old cowboy made Ludwig look to him. He could never look the other Merc's in the eye. And he never realized how much like Dell he looked like. He knew Fred was Dell's father. But he never saw how alike they were." You..need some help with that?" He asked as he pointed at his ripped Medigun that clearly had been through hell and back.

"Nein.." Ludwig said with a monotone expression." Danke."

"Please..let me so this. I need to get my mind off of what just happened." Fred almost pleaded. Ludwig could see it in his eyes. And thus he sighed and pushed it towards him as he felt the ATV start moving with a heavy jolt. Something Ludwig grew used to over time." Thank you…let me ask ya somethin.."

"Vhat..?"

"What's your story?"

The question from the cowboy made Ludwig send him a side glance as he placed his Medigun on a table and sighed." Zu don't vant to 'know mein story', Herr Fredrick." He said in a dark tone. He didn't earn that right. His story was a dark one. Darker than any other man in that vehicle. It only garnered a look as Fred chuckled. As if he was going to speak. He didn't want to hear his life's story but it seemed like he was going to.

"I was born into it. My father worked for a woman named Helen. He made the first aulstralium injector machine to make the Manns live foreve-" he was cut off by Ludwig. His gaze dark and cold as he spoke in a gruff tone. Slamming his own fist on the table to catch his attention.

"I know of ze story. I worked vith zu're son at Teufort for six fucking years! If zere is anything I vant right now. It's to be left alone.." His tone is low. His pride was stripped and he wasn't happy. He was raped…and thus he was emotionally fucked.

"Alright..but.."

"Vhat!?" He snarled. His blue eyes are wild with his teeth showing his demented rage." Vhat could zu possibly vant from me!?"

"If you see the Engineer with the girl again….heal him please.." he paused. Ludwig's look turned to a look of Regret. His eyes held a look of sadness as he listened to him speak more." That man..is a clone of Dell. And so I consider him..my son as well. If he lived through it. Please..help him. Because I know you know him..he's. The most important thing in my life after my wife died.."

"I..okay..okay I'll do it..but I'm not doing it because zu asked me to. I'm doing it because it's my job.."

"Fred the hell are ya doing talking to this waste basket?" Beatrice asked as she laughed. Her scarred burned face was always an eyesore to Ludwig.

"Nothin, Gloria.. Just…talkin." He said as she wrapped her arm around him.

"Common Hun. Get into the bunks. Think you need some rest." She said in a sweet tone. But the glance she gave Ludwig was a mocking one. He hated it. His eyes narrowed deeply as he placed the broken tube to his medi gun and sighed. He needed some time to himself. Till he heard the Soldier and Demo began talking to each other. He took a moment to rehash his decision to head up top. And he hid behind a box in the room.

"Where are we going?" He overheard Greg ask Ross as Ross punched him hard in the stomach. A deep wheeze formed as he leaned over and coughed.

"Dumbass. Were you not paying attention during the meeting?" He asked as he shook his head in disgust." Ok. Listen closely.. we're leaving the girl and headed out to track down Miss Pauling. Boss believes she's the key to finding the bigger stache we were hired to look for by Gray. Got it!? Or is the dementia getting to your head again Gregory!?" Ross asked as he knocked on his head a few times.

"Quit it, asshole!" He snapped before Soldier's arm wrapped tightly around Demo's neck.

"Or what!? Gonna cry to boss like an infant!?" He asks. The mention of the other's name being Greg made Ludwig squint. They go by middle names. Gloria is actually Beatrice. Conrad is Gregory. It made him ponder..what was Cheavy's name? Cheavy was merely a nickname given to him by the team besides 'Boss'. He's the biggest mystery out of them. No pun intended. It was honestly a mystery he was trying to unfold without going through…that pain again..he missed his team. His lover..but no doubt they believed he was dead along with the rest of them as he shook his head and climbed topside to get away from them..none of them gave a shit..Fred perhaps. But other than that..it was bitter silence…

Jeb held his revolver tightly. Pointing it at the man who was working on his eye. The scrunched looks the Brazilian doctor made showed his eye was in bad shape as he held a bloody cotton swab with tweezers and cleaner on it. Jen sat on the side holding a ice pack to her face. Watching him reach and actually put the swab into the eye and on the burns that coated his face made Jenna cringe. As if the phantom pain made her eye hurt with him.

"I'm doing the best I can, Jebediah was it..?" The vet asked nervously. He refused to go to the hospital. So they had to settle for a vet. It was closing hours at five in the afternoon. Animals barking in cages so loud and annoying. It hurt Jebediah's head even more as the doctor cleaned him up.

A scowl crossed his lips as he looked the doctor in the eye past the glasses he wore." Don't fuckin act like you know me.." people adting like they knew him..kissed a spot that made his blood boil. A thing his medic consistently used to do. He pretended to ignore them. But he wished to one day drive a shotgun into his chest and pull the trigger. His finger pulled on the hammer to his revolver and pressed it against the Veterinarian's forehead.

"Cool it cool it cool it.. I'm sorry sir! I'm just trying to make conversation!" He said as Jebediah leaned in close and sneered.

"Never..act like you know me.." but before he could do anything else Jenna's hand met the gun. And forced it to her own forehead. She was traumatised for hours after that ordeal. And remembering what the old man said made her pissed. They were both on edge but the one thing that pissed her off the most was the fact that Jebediah killed her..she wasn't dead yet but she was going to be if those old guys found them again. The action made Jebediah pull the gun from her as he looked at her with his only remaining good eye." The hell are you doin!?" He yelled at her. But then a sharp punch to his face shocked him. His head whipping to the side as she glared at him.

"You fucked me over Jebediah! You made my fuckin legs from their stache of such rare material it's even rarer than daimond! You took their stache and put it on my body! Now we're..no..I'm bein hunted like a fuckin elk on open season because of you!" Tears rolling down her eyes in turmoil to the realisation. Her mother. Mundy..her…father..she'd never see them again." Why didn't you just leave me!?" She sobbed in anger. Jebediah jumped from his place on the medical table as he grabbed the prepared bottle of burn cream and from his pocket. An eyepatch. Jenna recognized it at her Demo's.

"I couldn't just leave you!"

"Why the fuck not!?" She yelled.

"Because if i did i would have been no better than those good for nothin fuckers that tortured you! I didn't know you were fucked until thoes guys showed up! I just assumed the damn bars were from the Mann's. Not a stolen stockpile!" He looked away in shame. He fucked up..big time. He practically killed her by putting a target on her back and now it was hitting her like a hammer as the Vet looked to the door and tried to scoot away before he was halted by his revolver being pointed towards him. Stopping the doctor in his tracks." We ain't done here, hoss." He hissed." Sit her ass back down and wait!" He yelled as he wrapped the eyepatch over his eye. He won't admit how he got the eyepatch. But as much as it looked like demo's, it was actually given to him by Medic..he hoped he'd never have to use it but it was all he had as he looked Jen in the eye and clenched his fist." I wanted..to save you..because you deserved so much better than being tortured the way you were.."

"I'll never forgive you for this Jeb..ever. ya hear me!?" She yelled. Storming out Jeb looked to the Brazilian then to the door where she stormed out and sighed.

"Tough.." the brazilian muttered as Jeb turned to him.

"What do you know, Beaner?" He asked. Intentionally being racist out of anger as he cringed slightly.

"First off. Ouch. Second..I don't know what you two are going through. But I'd go after her before she gets hurt." He wasn't sounding frantic. He in fact was as calm as could be from what he noticed as Jeb shook his head.

"Oh yeah? And what do you intend I say to her?"

"Well..you love her don't you? Like..she is your daughter correct?" The mention of Jen being his daughter was something he was growing used to. He wasn't really her father but since she woke he was playing that role. Kind of. He was bad at it.

"What kind of father puts a target on his own kids back huh..?" He asked as he shook his head." What should I say?"

"Well. First you need to be there for her. I have a son. I'm hard on him for sure, but no matter what I'd always have his back. You should do the same for her."

"So.." Jeb put his revolver away. His hand meeting his head as he lathered some cream over his eye." I just..go after her? Be there? I'm not the best parent in the world as you can tell."

"Just be there for her, Sir. And the rest will take care of itself in time. Show her you're trying. You'll at least be showing her that you care about her and don't want her to get hurt." The man nodded towards the door flaps where she left through." Go. Find her. And. Don't worry. The police won't be called. And no charge. I'm a man of faith." He said as he crossed his heart." God will forgive you sir."

"God..right." he muttered as he nodded towards him." Thanks for the advice..I'll..give it a try. For her sake."

"Good luck, Sir."

"You to. Uhh..what's yer name..?"

"Hose."

Nodding respectfully he sighed." Say..I got no phone but..could I get your phone number?"

"Sir?"

"You got a phone number? Thought you spoke good english. You not know what a phone number is?" He asked as Hose reached into his medical jacket and withdrew a card and handed it to him." The hell is this?" He asked as he took it.

"The number to my clinic. It's not my phone number but this is as close as I can give you, Sir." Hose smiled as Jeb nodded.

"Thank you.."

"No problem. Now go!"

Chapter Text

Deep red aviators shine in the blistering sun. What's coming in mid spring to early summer in America is coming to winter in Australia. His expression was cold. The rifle he held focused on a kangaroo out in the midst of the desert brush.
No food for miles. The closest town was five hundred miles from where the hunter sat. The home was old and run down.

It used to mean something to him. His parents are gone. He just barely scraped by with his life. And at that point. He was just surviving. Lonely and deserted. 'I'd die here'. He thought.' Better than bein killed by robots'. Just mere months of being back. And he already had to bury his parents. Died in their sleep. One could only be so lucky. As he took the shot the Roo fell. Body flopping over as he holstered the weapon and approached it. Withdrawing a knife and began the process of removing the intestines and organs and skinning the prey. And as he did so. The sensation of someone getting close rose on his neck. His eyes narrowed deeply. From time to time there are people out in the outback that dared to try and steal from his parents ranch. Though there was nothing left to take he heartlessly killed them. They would attack first so why would he care about giving them a chance to live? His six years in Teufort taught him that much as he drew his knife and swung it behind him. The knife met with a hand that had grasped onto it. Firm but not to the point he would have to drop it. His look of anger on his withered face changed.

"Mundy.." it was Spy. Maskless. The greying in his hair travelled a bit farther over the months. His expression was almost sad. Almost. But he scowled as he turned his head away from him and yanked his arm free from him.

"What? Come to drag me back..?" He asked as Adrian would clear his throat.
"I thought I told ya I didn't want any part in this shit. RED is gone. So is Mann Co. Why the hell do you insist on showin yer face here?"

"I know..but it's that or jou die." Fingers lacing around his tie he tightened it.

"Threatenin me now, Adrian?" Mundy bore his teeth in anger. He's gonna play that? Play with fire? He had nothing else left. Why would he back down?

Spy frowned. Shaking his head sith hands raised in surrender which made Mundy lower his hand with the knife. "It's not me. Nor anyone in de team. I haven't seen dem yet. But I know dat de threat is dangerous. Where is jour parents? We need to move d-"

Mundy raised their hand to stop their blabber. He didn't know. But he would. "Their gone Adrian. They died in their sleep before I made it home..didn't even get tha chance to say goodbye to em." Most painful thing in his life was not making it back home in time before they died. Second was witnessing someone important to him die in such a brutal way.

"So jou sit here like a hermit?" He asked as Mundy sent a distinct look that held a scowl.

"I ain't sittin. I'm survivin and keepin my family home safe from the bandits that run around here. Ya want me to go? That ain't happenin. Yer on yer own."

"Jou call this surviving!? Jou are withering away in solitude. With no one to give jou company but de dead bodies that has littered your front yard! Don't think I haven't noticed de freshly dug graves littering de fields."

He didn't get it. The bodies dug in shallow graves were not also warnings but also means to obtain meat. Bait for the wild animals. He would never subject himself to cannibalism. But in the life of living alone he developed his religious beliefs. He held a cross on his chest to bring him closer to god. But today he really needed it. This hell was coming back to eat him alive. He thought he left it but somehow for the third time he was being called back to it.

Spy shook his head as he grew closer. His eyes on level. On par with him. Describing this danger clearly made a man of danger like him appear spooked. "I'll have jou know dat dere is a group of mercs dat have been hired to take out de competition. Dat includes us! You won't last."

"I can handle myself, Adrian. Ain't like I haven't survived the worst."

"Wrong." He said as he shook his head. Through years of working. Since his youth. He has seen and done bad things. But files Pauling gave him on the threat made him nearly vomit from the way these men tortured their victims for info. Tapes of past interviews with the men revealed one's love for his gut shots. Performing the enemy to go out slow and painfully. Another violent and trigger happy.

He handed him a case file. On the page was printed 'BLU'. Flipping it open it revealed a picture. Dusty and old but enough to see a young man wearing red Goggles. He was physically built. And flipping it over was a newer photo.

'Classic heavy, real name Chevy Cohen, leader of the Classics and an influential man in his art of intimidation and strength. He is known to give the orders and participate in interrogations for what he needs.'

"This guy?" He asked as he showed the picture of the present day man."I think I can take em." He sighed as he let the paper slip from his fingers." Now if you don't excuse me. I gotta roo to cook." He said as he threw the carcass over his shoulder and passed Spy.

"Wait. Don't jou think it's a bit concerning that half de other merc groups in de world have been taken out?" This made Mundy stop. He declined to mention it. Not one bit. And it definitely caught his attention.

"Yer tellin me this old man took out modern day merc groups with little to no trouble? How?" He asked as he approached his former coworker." I know of the old being more experienced. But he looks like he's too old to even be a bleedin' merc!" He snapped slightly as he shook his head lightly towards him." Christ..again..their always fuckin somethin."

Spy huffed. "I'm sorry. I know it must be hard. But if jou want to live. You'll have to pull yourself out of de hole you dug yourself into." How many? Three now? And compared to the others he spent those six months of freedom from Sawmill in a jail cell. But he learned from a young age that life was one to throw disappointment after disappointment at anyone that isn't on top.

He felt the pocket he kept the phone miss Pauling gave him vibrate. His lips curling into a quiet thoughtful frown. Pulling the brick phone from his pocket he pressed the button and answered it. But didn't bother asking who it was.

"Uh..Spy? You there? Have you acquired Sniper?"

Spy smirked slightly as Sniper merely rolled his head and made his way back to his home. "I have him. Jou called me because jour lonely?"

"No. I called because I found something that…you might not believe. But.." he could hear her pause. Something was on her mind.." I don't know how to say it but…" something makes her pause. He cant quite hear it but it sounded as if she just ducked under a desk.

"Pauling?"

Silence. No word, until the line broke. Hung up from the debilitating sound of disheartening silence. He sighs. He would have been worried for the little lady but she was more than capable of defending herself. Walking up to his house he found Mundy already carving into his rations. Splitting the intestine from the body and being careful as to not to burst the stomach.

"One night Adrian. One." He said simply. Plainly as he threw the organs into a bag and tossed it aside. On a mantle two urn's sat. One of a feminine design as the other held a old hat that was no doubt worn by his father.

Spy sneered slightly in annoyance through his balaclava. "I know what it feels like. But are jou really willing to just sit here and wait for these mercs to come and kill you!? Jour too young! Jour twenty six!"

"Twenty seven," Mundy corrected, snapping at him as he threw the meat cleaver into the kangaroo's calf. Blood splattered across the blade as he sighed. At this point he was a mess. A broken shell of a man after Sawmill." It don't matter. Jenna is dead and so are my parents. I ain't nothin more than a bloke with the type of bad luck that gets almost everyone around me fuckin killed. Do yourself a favour and leave before ya die to."

Adrian's eyes narrowed. Grabbing the cleaver by gripping onto Mundy's wrist. So much they've been through and this is when he gives up? He looked him dead in the eye. Leaning in close as he spoke in a sharp honest whisper. "Truly. Jou have fallen far from my expectations, Mundy. Jou used to be de man with ambitious dreams to make something out of jourself after jou left. But now jour just wallowing in self pity. Jou disgust me."

"Get her fuckin bloody hands offa me!" He yanked his arm away. His knife flying back onto the floor with a metallic clang as he looked at him." I'm not losin my home. Not to tha government. Not to tha fuckin slimy fucks who wanna use it as a crack house. And I certainly ain't having you fuck it up either. Leave! Now!" He demanded. Pointing his finger towards the door." Before I make yah.."

Teeth gritted with tension getting higher by the minute Spy shook his head." Fine! But if deserved mercs have dere way with jou it's on jour head!" By that point the phone rang again as he picked it up in annoyance. Practically screaming the 'what's he spat into the phone as miss Pauling hushed him.

"I was going to tell you before I had to hang up. But Jenna. She's alive!" A moment of silence as Spy had to mentally process what she said as he looked at the phone and cleared his throat.

"Repeat dat..?" A moment of silence again as she repeated her statement.

No.

No!

Jenna was dead and has been for six months. He refused to believe it. His teeth clenched in anger as he spoke through the phone. But mostly had it directed to both Pauling and Spy.
“I swear to god if yer fuckin with me just to get me to go with yew, I will lose my shit.”

Pauling sighed.” It's not a ploy Mundy. I swear. She was spotted at the abandoned sawmill just a few days ago.. If you don't believe me you need to make your way to a computer. I can send you the footage I just found.” She said as Mundy sneered and flipped the phone closed, hanging the phone up as he stuffed it in his pocket.

His glare cold as his aussie accent bore fruit to his anger. “I swear Spy. If I'm wastin my fuckin time on this. I will..” he couldn't finish it. But the more he looked into Spy's eyes he lowered his shoulders that were tense with rage and anger.

His look of surprise and confusion looked genuine. Like this was the first time he heard it and it wasn't an act to get him to go.

Spy spoke coolly. “I want to see it too. To see if what she's saying is de truth.” He said as Mundy sighed and nodded. Taking his sniper rifle and holding it tight he looked back at a family photo and lowered his head.” If she is alive. Den jou will have that second chance. We both can.”

Mundy smiled slightly. A pained smile.”I know I've been a dick since yah got here. My parents are dead. All I see it as, is my fault. I blamed myself for their deaths. All of em. So.. I'm sorry, mate. No hard feelin's?”

Spy patted his back with a momentary chortal.”Not at all. I can't be mad at jou. Besides, Jour de only one on de team I feel like I can open up to. But where exactly are we going to find a computer?”

Mundy was waiting for that. Something he rather didn't like as he would frown deeply as he turned out towards the front door and made his way out. Spy following behind as Mundy approached a RV. A new one that was almost similar to his old one in America. All this money he had stashed away and he never bought himself a real home. Not that he was bad off with his parents' house. But he just couldn't let it go like he thought he could. The obsession over the past was bad for him. He needed to get away. Or he'd be back to obsess over it all over again.

Sniper opened the driver's side door. Oddly on the other side of the RV compared to American vehicles. “I know a place. A navy docking yard. Yer not gonna like it but it's gonna be a long road trip there.”

“Why not just to da city?” Spy asked as he hopped into the passenger's seat.

Mundy chuckled akwardly. “Got reasons. I'm a fuckin wanted man there. Sydney ain't exactly fond of me for some..stuff I pulled in the past. Hard to explain but let's just say my pops had to bail me out of prison. We'd be better off at the naval base.” The truth was honest, just vague. It was honestly how he got into the profession of being an assassin.

Ever since he was born he was different from the other Australians. Down right rough and hardy men with pectorals the size of the continent itself. But he was average. So were his parents. Pergering to be at a distance. And when his family farm was in danger of being thrown out from scummy people who wanted to use the land for personal gain. He took his father's rifle. And killed them. Took their money and put it all in a briefcase and mailed it to his father anonymously. Before he knew it. His father along with the help of a nice young woman by the name of Miss Pauling bailed him out. That was seven years ago.

“Might I ask what happened back den?” Spy was curious. and Mundy respected it as he paused and got out of the RV.” Where are jou going?”

“Just wait here.” He said as he walked in. In through the old wooden door frame to the kitchen where his dad kept his oldest batches of moonshine. And smiled. A side business for his dad. He sold moonshine to local liquor stores. To keep the farmhouse intact. He took two bottles. One for himself. And another as he pressed on the tap. And opened the barrel as moonshine started to fill both bottles and then when he was finished. Pooled on the tiled checkerboard patterned floor beneath his boots. And stuffed one bottle with a quark. The other with a sock.

Before he forgot he grabbed his family portrait from the fireplace and stuffed it into his leather vest. Lighting the sock on fire he took one last good look around. And smiled.” Love yah mom..dad.” Then there the bottle he lit burst on the puddle of moonshine that was still leaking. He took his leave as fast as possible as the fire began to spread like a wildfire to cotton.

As he reentered the RV Spy's eyes widened as the windows to the house blew out from a ball of fire.” Did jou just set jour house on fire!?”

“Yeah. No point in it. If I just leave it it would get raided anyway. Best for me to pull the trigger before that happens, y'know?” He looked so sad. Like he didn't want to but he ripped the bandaid off of the wound. He needed to move on.” I need to start new..who knows. If jenna is alive and we do make it out alive from bein hunted by these blokes yer obsessin over. I might settle down with Jenna. With yer permission. Of course.”

“I don't see why not. Jou and Jenna from what you told me were like two peas in a pod while I was away.” Spy hummed As he rolled the window down.

“Yer not smokin anymore?” Mundy asked as he noticed the lack of cigarette smoke on him.

Spy huffed slightly as he looked out the window. Vast nothingness always was viewed differently depending upon where you lived. Isolation mixed with lack of trees truly was its defining meaning. “No. I quit six months ago after de escape from Sawmill. It only caused more stress den alleviating it. I couldn't do dat. Not anymore.” It still didn't mean he didn't suffer.” If Jenna is alive. I can give my wife relief. To know her child isn't dead.”

Mundy took a moment to think. Listening to every word. “True. I've been meanin to ask yah. What exactly happened in Teufort? How'd you get captured?”

“When Jenna got de briefcase she got it with help from my clone. He came up with a plan to take my place amidst jou to get my daughter to ‘hate me’ and get her to trust de BLU's. Dat's all I know. All I was told, before dey left me on de train.” He refused to remark on anything farther than that. He had his moment with the Blu Medic and he got revenge for everything he did to him. Not only that. But for Jenna. If only he knew the true horrors his daughter went through after his forced departure. He would have taken his time with it.

Mundy only heard some words from Timothy. He wouldn't share those either.” Ah. Smart bunch of blokes besides their inability to properly work together as a team.” He shook his head.

“Yes..to know dat we were clones.” Spy said, resting his head in his hand.

“It's funny. It kinda makes sense in a way. Dey were still us..but..our most hated parts about ourselves. Y'know? Spy was your cunning manipulative self.” As he explained Spy looked to him.

“He acted exactly how I did when I was in my early twenties.”

“ Then Pyro. The exact opposite to ours. Timid and quiet. Not that she could help that one. Same with demo, heavy, and, Tim.” Mundy counted his fingers as he listed them off.

Spy rubbed his chin as he removed his balaclava. Placing it on his lap to prevent it from getting any wetter than it was. “Engineer was hard to understand. Though dere battle tactics were different. Dey both seemed almost similar. Sure de BLU Engineer was a bit grumpier; he seemed just as secretive and distant as our Engi was.”

Mundy shrugged lightly.” Not sure what to tell yah there mate. But then we have me. God. That was an embarrassin time in my life.” he blushed as he rubbed his head.” He acted like me when I was fifteen. I went through a phase where I discovered-” he cleared his throat.” My dad's porno stache. Needless to say I kinda-”

Before he could finish Spy covered his mouth.” Do not..finish it. I understand da jest.”

“Got it mate. No explanation here. No problem!” he blushed harder. Only to lose that blush when moving onto the last two.” Then there's the medic and his guard dog, Soldier..the soldier was far more unhinged than ours. With an Ill temper. God.”

Spy's tone was dark. His thoughts running through his mouth with no filter. Every bad experience running through his mind. The only people who knew his outcome on that train before it left was him. The others were dead. The man who did the deed executed by his own hand. “Dat medic was a menace. A nightmare. If I wasn't mistaken I'd say Ludwig truly was a nazi and he enjoyed the job as a doctor back then a bit too much..that..psychotic personality with sadomasochism mixed in..” Just talking about it made both of them shiver. As if the RV got colder just by talking about him. A curse to even mention his accursed team class let alone a namd if the bastard even made one for himself. As if a cold shiver formed within their very bones.” His torture methods were unheard of..I understand why Dell froze whenever he'd run into him on de battlefield.”

Mundy looked at him. “Can we stop talkin about him now? I'm startin to get the feelin imma be havin nightmares about this wanker.”

“Right..my apologies. When one gets something stuck in dere mind it's hard to shake it out..” Spy murmured.

“Spy..somethin happened to you with him..you wanna talk ab-”

“No!” Spy interrupted. Mundy was unable to even get out the rest of his question as the piercing gaze was cold and stirn. He was adamant about not speaking a word about what bad stuff occurred in the back of the train.” As much as I would like to play twenty questions with jou I will never utter a word of what happened between me and that piece of marde!”

“Alright mate! Didn't mean to drag out some dark memories. Just tryin to look out for yah.” He sighed. A deep frown formed on his face as he kept silent.

That silence went for hours. No sign of talking in sight as they would occasionally switch off so the other would sleep. This drive took hours. From dusk to dawn in the midst of the desert. And before they knew it. Desert went off into a well wooded area filled with greenery. A sigh leaving Spy's lips as he rolled up to a gate that closed off the road from what he could only assume would lead to the place.

“Mundy. Wake up. I think we're here!” He said as he would gently rub his shoulder as he woke up with a snort. Removing his hat from his face to look at the fence.

“Oh shit..it's funny. I thought there'd be guards here..” he muttered through a tired yawn. Stretching his arms as he grabbed his sniper rifle and slung it over his back with a hum.” Just follow my lead.” He said as he approached the gate with a smile and pushed it open.” We can walk from here.” He said as Spy rose a brow with an audible ‘mmph’.

“Something doesn't feel right. Feels too quiet.” Spy stated as a means to get Mundy to get a grip and be on his toes.

“I..think I'm way ahead of yah mate..” he muttered as he looked at the mud at his feet. Blood coated the ground with signs of what looked to be bits of gold in it. This made Mundy withdraw his rifle and Spy pulled out his magnum as they followed the trail into a brush. A deep groan of pain from a man made Spy reach in and pull him free from the brush.

What was supposed to be a muscular man almost as big as Sexton Hale was half his size now. Skinnier and still bleeding as he was hauled into a position where he could use both Mundy and Spy as a means to keep balance.

“Christ mate. The hell happened!? Are you alright!?” Mundy asked as the man who was pale had clothes that barely stuck to his person anymore. His wife beater coated in blood as it clung losely to him.

“It looks like something was sucking the blood and muscle mass out of him. Sir. Can you talk?” Spy asked as the aussie lulled his head back. Eyes sunken in as he spoke with a weak tone.

“Machine..s. sharp implements..caught us off guard..sucked the..Australium from..my body..” he couched. The man was still alive but just barely as Spy and Mundy looked at each other with a sense of complete worry.” Blokes came earlier..demanding to know where..a stache of..Australium..went..one never..left…” he couched once more before he fell into unconsciousness in Mundy's arms.

” We gotta help him.” Mundy said as Spy looked at the man and then back to Mundy.

“We bring him to de base. After dat. Dere on dere own.” His words did make sense however cold they seemed. They didn't know this man. He was just a guard posted to watch the front. And this statement of a loan man being left behind made sense. This loan man was pulling the strings of whatever these machines were.

Lifting the man into a bridal carry Mundy nodded and started to jog down the dirt path that lead to a ramp overlooking a facility. Everything below was on below but it was almost as if no one was home. One foot after the other Spy looked around as a precaution to keep an eye out. They weren't sure how long ago this was. But the blood was still wet amongst the mud. It could have been an hour ago. Or just a few minutes. Whatever it did it was fast and efficient at its job. And low and behold the evidence was in their arms as Mundy looked at the victim and frowned. He couldn't hear him breathe anymore.

“Spy..” Sniper said with a saddened tone as Spy walked over and placed both fingers against his neck.

He shook his head with closed eyes.
“He lost too much blood..dere was nothing we could do for him.” He muttered as Sniper sighed and knelt down to place him on the ground in a respectable manner.

Mundy looked at the facility. Fist clenching deeply as anger filled his body. “I get the feelin that everyone here is just like him. Dead and or dying from loss of blood and muscle.”

He was beyond pissed. His expression held that anger he felt inside. Messing with his mind as he pressed his scope to his eyes narrowed deeply as he bore his teeth and took off down the path.

Whoever did this was a monster. These were people, his fucking people! His overall life ran off of them. One day he hoped. Prayed to make a difference in the world when his dad took him to the Sydney harbour. Watching the Australian navy wave at those who stood at the docks. He wanted to be an honest man. A good man. So he would drive to that very place to watch them come in. Aussies were always nice. A bunch of blokes who loved to have a good time. Always willing to show teens the way they did things. But now. Those he grew up with. Died. To some selfish fuck who wanted what made them strong.

“Mundy, wait! Don't let your ang-” He couldn't even finish his sentence as he would jump into a sprint to catch up to Mundy. He didn't know his life too well. But the fact that this man died especially with everyone else in the naval compound most likely drove him into a mental state I'll fit to go into a fight with. He knows what Mundy can be like when he's pissed. He has no true means to control it. It happened with Jenna. He was angry most if his mind was focused on her. But now his people were dying. Not that he knew it but he knew enough to know that this man was the catalyst of Mundy's explosive urge to kill whoever did this to them. He was no doubt going to get himself killed.

He had to catch him before he did.

“I got it.” Henry muttered as he tilted his head. Holding a vial. Of golden liquid up to his face to examine it. The robots did their job and lost their use so he sent them back. Twirling the vial around in his hand he nodded as he spoke to the person on the other end. Not Chevy this time but Ross who was taking his place for the time being.

“Every last drop from all of those bastards? And all they had was one fucking Vidal's worth of aulstralium!?” Ross yelled to the point Henry had to move the phone away from his ear. Keeping his mask on the last thing these aussies needed was a face if any of them did happen to live through the process.

Henry lulled his head with a sigh as he spoke calmly. “Yes Ross. Life is full of misfortune but it's better than nothing since the girl ran off. We can live with what we have for now.” He said with a slight bite to his tone.

“Did you just fucking talk back to me asshole!? I will kick your ass when you get back to base I swear to-” before his threat was completed Henry hung the phone up and chortled slightly. Although seemingly emotionless.

“I don't understand why He keeps that hothead on the team.” Though his attention was drawn free from the vial to movement to his left outside the window. His eyes narrowed as he crossed his arms, stuffing the vial into his suit. Cocking his head to the side as whoever was down below him was staring back up at him in return.” Ah..I wasn't expecting the remains of the team to show up so soon. One less to worry about.” He said as he withdrew a firearm. A silenced upgraded glock nineteen as he racked the slide and pressed a button on his sleeve and his body turned invisible as the door below was kicked open. Their Sniper. Then after that their Spy. A silent moment of thought.

Oh how easy it would be to pick them off one by one..

“No..” his head turned to look at the naval captain still clinging to life in a puddle of blood.” He's..invisible.. get out of h..ere!”

A momentary sigh escaped Henry's lips as he rolled his eyes where he stood. “Shit..”

Chapter Text

As they entered Spy and Mundy skid to a stop as the body of the naval captain had suddenly spoken of an invisible intruder in the building with them. Only to then hear a momentary ‘Shit’ be muttered by a low huff of annoyance. Then a loud ‘crack’ as the Captain's neck was broken with an unseen force.

“Cleaver. Lucky bastard was still alive.” Henry said as he declared his invisibility pointless at this point and decloaked himself. His boot was placed firmly on the captain's neck. The reason for his death. And needless to say that Mundy was fuming about it. His jaw clenched in absolute writhing disdain.” Looks like you two saved us the pleasure of hunting you down.” He said with an emotionless British like tone he couldn't stand. His face couldn't be seen but the facial expression shared by his white eyebrows and the slight wrinkles of ageing had made itself known as he drained his neck to the side almost like the asshole was smiling.” Oh Mundy. To tell you how your parents died would be a pleasure. Alone. Worried and terrified that their boy was dead.”

Every word made Mundy get angrier.
“No! Do not play into his hands! Do jou not see what he's doing? He's trying to get jou to fumble. You'll mess up easier!” He snapped as the stranger looked at Spy equally. His expression shifted slightly. Almost as if he was more excited. His gaze meeting.

Henry snickered slightly “The way your daughter screamed and begged for the boss to stop..”

“Non. Jou didn't!”

“I didn't. But her cowboy companion really didn't like having his skull fried.” He hummed as Spy sneered and lunged. His knife in hand. The one to attack first was Spy? Mundy was taken aback by the sudden change in Spy's demeanour. From calm to fierce in the matter of seconds that resulted in a knife fight between the two Spy's. Henry withdrew a military grade knife. Effortlessly twirling it in his hand as he waved his hand towards Spy. Beckoning him to attack as Spy breathed heavily to try and get a grip on his mentality.

Spy hissed in anger.“Come den! Prove how good jou are with dat toothpick jou call a knife!”

“Now this is more like it, boy. Come now!” As Spy swung his knife the older man wrapped his arm tight against his chest. And with a swift yank a loud popping noise clouded the inside of Spy's head. His arm went limp as he screeched in agony, his head shooting back as he dropped the knife to plunge it into the other Spy's thigh. His blueish green eyes narrowed as he grunted in pain. Removing the butterfly knife as his leg throbbed. Stumbling slightly as Adrian took his chance to drag the bastard to the floor. His eyes widening as he heard the vial.

‘Ting, ting, clang.’ A subtle rolling sound mixed amidst the struggle as Henry's gaze widened at the sight of it. The glowing vial of golden liquid mixed with blood landed at the tip of Mundy's boot. Picking it up he examined it. Studying it with confusion as the Spy aggressively slammed Adrian's head into the floor. The textile flooring cracking beneath the aggression and strength as he got off his feet and pointed his knife towards Mundy.

“Give that to me..now boy!” He was pissed. And the more Mundy looked at it the more the Spy furrowed his brow in rage. He stuffed the vial into his vest and beckoned him forward. “Damn idiot.” He snarled as he trusted himself towards Mundy. grappling it was like grappling with someone his own age than a mere old man to Mundy. Whatever the stuff in the bottle was, it was very important to this killer. Seems he was willing to even risk his own life to get the vial back. Not that Mundy cared. He was more than willing to grant him the wish of killing him as he would try his best to stab Mundy.

“Dirty move, wanka!” He snapped as he stepped back from the other. He pulled his sniper to his chest. Taking aim to try and get a good shot on him. His shots winding up missing each time. The first made sense. But the closer he got the more he was unable to get a good aim on him. And before he knew it the Spy was taking a strong unwavering hold of his rifle and forced it upwards aimed towards the ceiling. The shot sending a bullet into the floor above them. Trying to pull it back his teeth bore as the Spy tried to take swings.

Each swing only met air as Mundy dodged the swings. The attempted stabbings with them as he would grab ahold of the Spy's wrist and twist hard.

‘Crack, snap!’ A sharp cry of pain as Henry raised his boot and kicked Mundy. Only to go toppling with him to the ground. Arms going at each other in twisted ways. His shoulder was dislocated it hurt like hell as his body was rolling and tumbling around with no real goal. It was like the boy was struggling to get a good hold of him the rifle on the floor as Henry tried to reach for it. His back on the ground as mundy tried to stop him from getting to his weapon. And yet.

Spy's fine shoes covered in mud pressed against his wrist. Crushing bone beneath sole as he cried out in pain. His blue eyes meeting the barrel of the rifle at his head. He squinted as Mundy ripped his mask off of his face.

It was one thing he never really saw coming. An old man. Far past his middle aged years it looked like. Possibly in his early seventies with wrinkles and white hair as snowy as the Himalayan mountains. His glare was cold as he was helpless in his position.

“Speak. What the hell did you do to these blokes, ah!?” Mundy asked. Remaining planted on top of him to prevent him from fully escaping.

“I'm not talking.” He spat into Mundy's eye. The twinge of anger the mere moment that spelled an action he wanted to do to this man since he laid his eyes on him. And as a result he followed up on it. His eyes they saw the man dead. So he would make what he saw a reality.

He saw read. To make the red rubies flow like a river. He didn't deserve a quick death..it had to be slow. “I'll kill yah for the lives you taken here, I'll make sure it fuckin hurts!” he was breaking like a weak twig. And Spy had to stop him before he killed him. His hand reached out to stop him.

“Don't do it! We need answers!” Spy snapped. His fingers clamped tight around his shoulder while the other kept a steady aim at the Spy with the other.

“Don't think I don't know dat!” Sniper snapped back at him. Heath bore like an animal.

“I know deserved people you admired and such but dere gone!”

‘Bang!’ Glass shatters around them. A bullet narrowly missed Mundy as he rolled off the Spy. His heart falling free from his chest with Adrian following suit. A scape along his cheek made him shutter as blood trickled down his cheek and Henry took his chance to run.

As he broke into a sprint Mundy grabbed his rifle and pointed at the window from behind cover. The window directly above them as he narrowed his eyes. He lost track of his weapons and needless to say he was very irate about it. He couldn't reach a knife feet from him. All he knew was that he wanted to catch that damn Spy.

So he did one thing: he took his rifle and took off down the hall after him. The sounds of bullet fire going off. And as Mundy took off after the Spy. Spy heard the heavy almost leather footsteps and almost laboured breathing of someone behind a mask. He was sweating. His blue eyes wide as he grabbed his watch and pressed the button on it. And invisibility instantly took over as a figure entered the room. Dressed in a deep dark blue and black rubber suit. A mere 19/11 rocked in their hands as the Pyro looked around.

The sound of rubber on concrete floors. Spy was scared. If there was one thing he hated. It was Pyro's spychecking. His gaze was pinned on the Pyro. He couldn't move. If he did his invisibility would end. And behind the mask was the voice of a woman with a heavy southern Drawl behind it.

“Where ya at, bud? I ain't gonna hurt yah.” She said with a teasing tone as he held his hand over his mouth. A drop of sweat falling to the floor. The sound of fire building up and spewing its flames like a form of purity. “I honestly missed burning yah rat ass Spy's to a crisp.” She hummed as the heat drew uncomfortably close to him.

Mundy's eye twitched slightly. His eyes wander around the dark kitchen and cafeteria area. Dark lights that have little to no access to power remained off as the sounds of pans clattering was a definite sign. His rifle pressed tight to his body as he moved slowly. He was dealing with a strong spy who should have retired years ago. Doesn't mean the bastard wasn't dangerous.

“How does it feel!? To be the family failure!?” The slight British drawl of the Spy made his teeth show in rage. The echo made it sound like he was everywhere. Looking around he pointed his gun and just as quickly as something moved shot the object out of the sky. A tossed soup can that now no longer held its contents as the mix of tomato soup with bits of cheese hit his face blinding him. Making him flail. Growling in rage as he coughed and wiped the room temperature food from his face as a Fist planted itself upon his face when he finally could see again. The crunch of his nose breaking beneath the punch he gave him made Mundy yell in pain. Falling back as a knife just narrowly missed his neck to where Mundy fired a shot. The flash of the bullet stunning Henry mid swing downward which gave Mundy the chance for the attack. An opening as he lunged and pressed his gun against his neck and pushed. Lining his back into one of the islands that made up for food prep. Back arching as Henry slowly reached. And pulled a cast iron skillet from the counter and swung the makeshift weapon. Into his head. A tooth flying from his mouth as every ounce of his vision spun in every direction.

He stumbled and shook. His eyes wide but in his point of view they couldn't stay focused as Henry came up behind him and got him into a chokehold. A sincere scenario that he'd been in before. BLU Spy had pulled a move on him. Distracted and when he least expected it he was unconscious. And as he struggled. Mundy coughed with weakness. Pressing back and stumbling to make the Spy's job at gaining the upper hand harder.

“F..fuck off!” Mundy gagged as Henry didn't seem to talk much. He was working to piss Mundy off so he would slip up on his cautiousness. His cautiousness crumbled the moment he mocked him. And thus as a result got him his so-called ‘win’. Choking out his target. And as he reached into Mundy's vest to get the vial his eyes widened. Where was the vial!?

“Where is it you little shit!?” he spat. Squeezing harder as Mundy finally reached what he needed. A kitchen knife. Reaching for it he swung it into the assailant's leg once again.”Shit! Bugger all!” Cursing he jumped back. He couldn't see what he did to do it. But the bloke turned invisible before Mundy could get a proper shot on him.

“Coward! Fight like a man!” Mundy yelled as he reached in to check for it. It was gone. Wherever the vial was he hoped Spy had it.

“Come out wherever you are! I know you're here! No Spy would ever leave without his trusty Gun!” her boot hit his magnum he dropped. His hands clinging to the gold and crimson mixed vial. This was important to them. And these were definitely the men hunting them. As Pauling put them.

‘The Classics’ they went by. Highly trained mercs with more experience under their belt than the meagre six years he spent in Teufort. He had years of experience being someone who killed for a living. But these people lived life like it was their last day every day. They didn't retire. They kept going. And now they were being paid a great amount to hunt them down. But they went here for them. No. Them walking in on this mess was a complete accident. Even the Spy seemed surprised that they were there.

Was it the gold fluid that gave them energy? Was it like an adrenaline boost? He couldn't look at it. And as he sat there. He thought. His expression shifted slightly from sulking in sweat and fear. To recondition. He got up.

Slowly as the cloak wore off. His mind racing. Heart pumping like mad in his chest.

The Pyro tilted the flat mask they wore with a hum.” There ya are. Now bu-” before she pulled the trigger on the flamethrower she gasped. Loudly as Spy produced the vial. The gold liquid sloshed around as she lowered the weapon.” You have no idea what yer doin, son. She said as Adrian smiled through his balaclava.

“I think I do. It took me a bit to realise just how important this stuff is to jou and jour friend. I have a few questions.” He said with a cold unfeeling smile as he tilted his head. Something about holding something that keeps someone from killing you made him feel like he was on top of the word. And the Pyro didn't exactly like it very much.

“Spill 'em then, Spy. Then I may or may not answer em.” She spat as she kept her flamethrower pointed towards him. Finger on the trigger but no aggression.

The Pyro hissed as Spy took the lead with the first question. “Why were you here, Really? What's in this vial?” holding it up the faceless woman nodded her head towards it.

“Ever hear of the fountain of youth?” She asked as Spy arched his brow.

“I have.”

“Yer holdin it's blood. It's called Aulstralium. But I know that pretty little bitch in purple knows more about this than you do.” She smiled behind the reflective mask. She was being Vague. On purpose for reasons he didn't quite understand.

“Jour not telling me what jou know.” Spy said as the Pyro chuckled lightly.

“My ain't you a smart man. Why do ya think I'm doin that eh?”

“Jour stalling..”

“Boys will be here any minute for that vial. We're already down so much. So if you want to live. I suggest givin that there vial to me. Before things get real ugly like.”

“I think I have better chances with dis!” Spy shouted as he raised his hand as if he was going to smash it. Making the woman flinch. The action making her curse outright as Spy extended his foot in a kick that kicked the flamethrower from her grip.”Jour bluffing!”

“Am I?” she asked. His eyes were pinned on where he thought hers would be. Studying his own reflection in her mask. She had to be lying. And as he reached to pull the mask free panic set in. He looked down. He got too careless! The nozzle of a flare gun pointed at his chest.” To be honest it's just me and him out here. If I wanted backup I'd wager they'd be here in fifteen minutes give or take. Maybe less.” She said as she reached for the vial. His stiffness was strong as he watched the weapon and her at the same time.

“Jou won't get away with what jou have done!” Spy yelled as she laughed lightly. Holding the vial in her gloved hand. Inches from pulling the trigger and setting him on fire. He shut his eyes tight. Waiting for the pain to engulf his body and render him nothing more than a charred corpse. But it never came. Instead the sound of a body hitting the floor made his eyes open.

The Pyro a crumpled heap on the ground before him. And Sniper behind her holding a cast iron skillet. His face was swollen and bloody. His own blood mixed with gold. Spy couldn't tell. He looked at Mundy.

“Mundy? Is dat jou?” Spy grabbed the vial. The aussie quiet as he breathed heavily. Then nodded.

“Yeah..yeah..I'm good..” he muttered as he coughed. A bit of blood leaving his nose still from the last hit. A tooth missing. “Need proof?” He asked as he held out his hand.” Give me the vial. I'll smash it.”

“No.” Spy said clearly. Defensive and distrusting. No way this was Mundy. Spy's are always ones to pull this. He should know. He has the same job. And studying faces was what made him a good sniffer when it came to Spy checking. And the vial was his leverage.” De vial stays with me. We need answers!”

“Give me the vial!” He demanded. And much like before. Spy knew. His gaze cold as Mundy or who he thought was Mundy gripped the skillet only to drop it. Like a pile of rocks crumpled as well as his disguise as his body fell on top of the Pyro.

Behind him was the real Mundy. Face looking the same as the Spy who stole it. Swollen and bloody.” Yeah mate..This time it really is me..” he hissed as he dropped the object he had which was once a jar of cookies. Chocolate chip cookie and their crumbs coating the two as he limped over to the control panel and grabbed a laptop.” Let's watch this and get the hell out before the others show up.” He said as he opened it. Spy sighing as he looked at the two unconscious bodies on the floor.

Spy opened up the slip of paper she told him about before his arrival in Australia. A paper he knew about but didn't know the purpose of until now. He skimmed it and talked Mundy through it. “She said that we have to put dis code into the password and we'd see de video. The log in name put in MrsPauling567, Then the password is five, four, apostrophe, five, pound, ninety nine. To be honest I don't know how dis even works.”

“Neither do I. But if the damn thing gives me proof that Jenna is alive. I'll have a reason to live.” Mundy's fingers typed fast. The words glided across the keyboard effortlessly. And as the last number was entered in the exact order Pauling told him to put it in, the screen turned black. Then loaded up a video with footage that made him almost scream in anger..

A girl being tossed around like a ragdoll in the middle of an open dust pit. Looking around on the screen two people were holding a man dressed like a cowboy as the largest there punched the girl with golden legs mercilessly. Gags and grunts made Mundy slam his fist into the controls. Spy was just as speechless. That girl down there in the pit was his daughter..and she was suffering.

Watching this large man just decimate someone not even half his size sickened him. And yet by the end of it a woman jumped on the taller man's back and pulled him away from her. Saving who they could only assume to be Jenna as everything went to hell. She ran off screen with the cowboy before they could get a good look. And yet mundy rewound it and paused at the point where they could best see her face through the shitty footage.

“Its her! She's alive! She is alive!” Mundy celebrated. As much as that's good. The matter is that she was being hunted down just like the rest of them it seemed. The shine on her legs though..it was strange. He shrugged it off simply as a glitch in the footage.

“It's good..so relieving to know that she lived through it.” Spy choked on his words. The last thing he wanted was to start crying.he covered his mouth knowing his child. His only daughter breathed still. She lived. He felt as if fifteen tons of bricks fell free from his shoulders like an avalanche. His wife would be pleased as he picked up his magnum he dropped and placed it back into his holster. Mundy doing the same with his rifle and machete he lost during his tussle.

Mundy spoke with a smile. Having found a box of zip ties to his advantage he zip tied the Pyro and Spy to each other. The thought of being followed or back up being on the way was still looming over their shoulders. “So now that we know she's alive. I'll go. I'm satisfied and not to mention she needs us now more than ever if she's being hunted down to.”

“I agree. I got this and jou have jour proof. I suggest we leave. Now.” Spy said rather panicked.

“Why not just ask em questions and kill their asses here and now?” Mundy asked as he kicked the foot of the Spy hard.

“Because, A. We don't know if dey actually called reinforcements or not, and B. If we kill them and they find out they're dead. Dey will know we killed them and will escalate things from what feels like ‘capture and interrogate’ to ‘kill on sight’! So we leave them here. Alive.”

As much as he knew he was right he still wanted to go and put a well placed bullet into his head. In both of them. But he shrugged. He wouldn't argue with them as the sound of a grumbled voice cursing from the Spy's pocket. Spy shook his head.

“Don't. We don't need more eyes on us.” Spy said with insurance.

“Fine. Won't touch the damn thing.” Mundy scoffed. Placing a hand on his head to wipe sweat from his brow as Spy removed it simply because he was hot and sweaty. His body shifted under his weight as he stuffed his mask into his suit for safe keeping.

“Let's go. I know where to go now that I have you willing to actually play along instead of throwing fits.” Spy threw a jacket over the dead general and crossed his heart.

“I got that. Back to the RV before they show up!”

“Anything at all from Henry and Beatrice?” Cheavy sneered as he stretched his arms. Sleeping in hammocks in a military grade vehicle like bus always called for back pains. His back stretching as frantic types from Ross regarded a grumble.

“I didn't get shit from Henry after he told me he got a vial's worth of Aulstralium from the aussie navy. And that was fuckin five hours ago!”

Cheavy grabbed Ross by the throat. His eyes from behind the wrap he had over his eyes made the old Soldier gag in fear as he grabbed at his boss's hand.”I-I'm sorry bodd! I-I didn't mean to disappoint you!” He stuttered through a gargle as Cheavy spoke through gritted teeth.

“You didn't think to wake me up!? I'm right here it's not like we have damn rooms in this hunk of metal!” His raised voice didn't really make Ross quiver. But the tight grip on his neck did. it made him pull on his hand repeatedly to get it off. Only to fail as Medic watched the display. His eyes narrowed from where he slept. Playing asleep. Meant for more info. He dropped Ross and shook his head.” Go to the god damned base now! No defences, it should be an easy retrieval mission. Find Beatrice and Henry and get them and the vial back here!” He demanded as he walked over to Medic and like a cat grabbed him by the back of his neck and pulled him out of his hammock. A sharp gag leaving his lips as he held the fingers that really pinched down on him before he was placed on his feet.” And Vergil. Do watch him this time.” He said.

Medic's eyes widened as Cheavy seemed to enjoy making his cheeks flare. His anger mixed with a sense of submission pissed him off and Cheavy knew it. A stumble was given when his large hand smacked his ass to get him moving. And he gave him a flare in return.

“Stück Scheiße!” He curses under his breath. Rubbing his bottom a few times as he tiredly walked over to his medical jacket and put it on over his dress vest. Grabbing his medi-gun he slung the backpack over his shoulders. And he looked at Vergil with a disgusted glare. Which only got him a mocking ‘huff' in return as he was the first one out of the vehicle. Frank followed Ross and Medic in the back, into the Australian forest that surrounded them. He hated this..everything about this. He felt trapped once again. And this time with a team that

Frank raised his head looking at a piece of tech that blinked “Virgil. You see anything?” he asked as Vergil looked around. The high powered scope mixed with his own implants heightened his sight by 40/20. He shook his head.

“Clear. Any aussie nearby is dead from the blood loss and muscle mass. We're clear.” He said. Medic cringing at the nonchalance of basically calling innocent military men objects at this point. It made him glare daggers. His blue eyes looked at Vergil in seething silence as he clenched his fist.

“Zey are people! Innocent men zat have nothing to do vith zu're mission!” Medic spoke up as Vergil gave him a cocked brow. Fixing his hat to where his eyes would truly give off his ‘really’?

“You really don't know shit, do yah sauerkraut?” Ross asked as he shoved the medic in the shoulders making him step back and momentarily lose his balance. ” Those people have what we need to stay alive.” Before he could continue, Vergil harshly nudged him to get him to shut up. “I got an idea. Why don't you go first?”

“Zu all disgust me..” medic hissed as he shoved Ross back. Which only got a smile from the older man.

“Cute shove, ‘Princess’.” He mocked. Medics' back was turned to him. He couldn't make out his hus face looked bit nevertheless he knew he was seething and boiling inside from that one.

But Ludwig knew they all wanted to push him. Get their boss to punish him in ways that break him. No. He won't fall there. He'd make it through this as he grabbed the nozzle of his Medigun and held it tight. Dredging through the forest bodies of innocent men either still clinging to life or dead from the puddles of blood and the holes that coated their flesh.

It was no better at the base. Stepping in he saw bodies of men littering the ground. Shutting his eyes he opened them again. In that moment of shutting his eyes his face went pale. Overlooking the iron fences of Auschwitz. Bodies of comrades, Russians and jews littering the floor with puddles of blood pooling around them. Yells in German hitting his ears as he looked down at his uniform. No longer dressed in his medical jacket he grew paler.

“Bitte! Help me!” Crying in agony from within. The building before him as he held his gun tight. Wait..gun? The long barrel of a ww2 grade pistol confused him. But his job as a medic took over. He didn't question it..it wasn't real. The war was over. He was an American citizen. He was fine. Entering the building amidst the bodies of the dead his black uniform swayed under him as he kicked the door open with his boot.

“Ja!? Keep yelling! Vhere are zu!?” Looking each way the hallways stretched for miles. And as the german screeched for help again. He rushed up a flight of stairs. And up the stairs wasn't even a German. He had snapped out of it.

Ziptied to a chair screwed into the floor was Henry and Beatrice. Both staring at him as Beatrice struggled.” Mind quit starin at us and get us the fuck out of this!?” Bea asked with a hiss as medic nodded. Vergil doing the same for Beatrice as he pulled out a knife and broke her free. Medic doing it with a lighter he found on a countertop as he looked at Henry. He was stabbed. Gold mixed itself in with his blood which was odd. A puddle of it forming around him as he wheezed.

“Here, Herr Henry. Breath zis in.” He said calmly as he gently manoeuvred the gun under his nose. Henry was met with the sent of what smelled like a sent of strawberries and raspberries mixed together. A sweet delectable sent that seemed to have not only closed his wounds. But feel absolutely rejuvenated as he did the same with Beatrice. As much as he hated these monsters it was a job.

But sweat from the hallucination still had him spooked as Vergil crossed his arms.

“Who the hell did this!?” Ross yelled as Beatrice removed her mask. Her face wet with sweat from being stuck in a breathless suit for a night.

“Redmond's spy and sniper were here.” Henry took the lead as he gave Medic a thankful nod despite it being rather unfeeling.” It was unexpected. They just showed up after we got the vial.”

“Speakin of the vial. The bastards stole it!” Beatrice yelled as Ross paused and turned to face them.

Ross exploded. “So..you're telling me..that we sucked these good for nothing Aussies dry to only lose the damn vial to a dead beat kid with nothing else to live for, and a fifty year old man with a magnum!?” Each question resulted in an object being broken or thrown.

“Yes! Christ Ross you gotta throw a fit every time somethin goes against us!?” Beatrice asks as she approaches him. Slapping him across the face, that stopped him pretty quick.

But as this happened Ludwig took a breath. Walking over to a stray laptop that caught his attention. The screen holds a picture of a girl running with a cowboy in her arms. She was alive. And got away.. he sighed as he looked around outside and shut the laptop. And unplugged it from the wall and stuffed it into his medical jacket.

Tonight he'd find whoever was still alive and heal them. None of these men deserved this fate. No one does. From the most evil of man to the sweetest of children. Medics did their job with a sense of purpose.

Punishment or not. Innocent lives weren't meant to be taken by merc hands. It was in their code.

And they violated it..

Chapter Text

DESTINATION: SIBERIAN TUNDRA

TIME: 4:30 AM

DATE: [ REDACTED ]

TEMP: -10°F

Tim's teeth clattered like crazy. The cold was sucking the breath from him every second as his mittens struggled to give his hands warmth to the point he huffed on them to warm them up. But Soldier?

He marched through the snow like a damn mountaineer. No struggle with the cold unforgiving weather, just a man on a mission and that man was going to complete the mission. Each step he took was casually followed by a whistled toon of ‘We'll meet again’ to the best of his ability that eventually turned into a marching toon over time.

“Yo Soldier! Y-yah mind slowin down!? I'm freezin here!” He yelled as Soldier rose a brow from under his helmet he refused to switch out for a proper winter hat like Tim bought at the airport. As much as they wore everything possible it still froze everything on his own body.

Soldier turned and raised his hand.

“Son! In my day I wrestled bears for fun when I was your age! I'd jump into the bear enclosure and wrestle the beasts with my bear hands! Then from that. I gained the ability to speak and communicate with them! I am a bear!” he let out a roar. His fist slammed his chest with pride as he wrapped his arm around Tim.” If I know one thing! No one leaves a soldier behind! Up!” bit instead of simply allowing Tim to use him as a crutch. Soldier instead picked him up fully and slung him over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. His chest aching as he flopped on his shoulder. His breath escaped his lips.

“Dammit Soldier! I can walk! We've been doin it for hours! I'm just askin for a break! Or at least a fire! A bed..” he moaned into his back lightly as his arms were haphazardly kicked by Soldier's legs.” Common Soldier, cant we just..y'know? Make camp for the night and pick it up in the mornin? Please?” He asked as Soldier simply kept walking with him on his shoulder with no signs of changing.

He spoke with a harty tone. “No can do son! Our country needs us! And by Jove I'm going to do it till icicles start coming out my asshole and my hairline vanishes from the face of existance!” But gradually he grew slower with each step. Legs almost giving out under his own body which made his lips sneer and hit his own leg.” Listen here body part! The whole damn squad of my whole body is lagging behind because of you're sorry ass! Move it! Hup hup hup one two! Come on ladies we have a communist to find!”

Somehow. And in Tim's mind couldn't understand it but it was as if his motivational demanding approach of talking his own bodypart into working with him worked? He shrugged it off and felt as though the fact Soldier was carrying him. Tim slowly but surely dozed off in a rather uncomfortable position. Arms hung loose in a ragdoll like swinging.

All around him was a cold black. A deep sense of calm. Then..calm turned to a violent form of panic. From black calmness of a dreamless period to a scene that carried on like a nightmare that fiddled with his psyche.

He laid sprawled on the floor. Red paint and bullet holes had drenched his arms and they bled mercilessly. A BLU Turret sprawled out in front of him as it had lost its life but also its ammo all to his arms. Sinew barely held his arms together as he sobbed. His head was hanging loose. A nearly rough hand that felt it's wear through the years lifting his head up. His face was bloody. Beaten. Across from him was Demo. Tears streamed down his face as well as his own.

Demo wasn't the one being tortured physically however. He was tied down to a chair with velcro. Forced to watch this horrific display bestowed upon his weakest friend. The declared weakest on the team. Blood was all that filled the wooden panel around his arms. And as he stayed there. Squeaks and rattles of something large trebled down the hall into the main room.

His eyes were too bruised to properly see but he could make out the formation of Medic's medi-gun and a travelling tray. A light whistle filled the room as it grew closer. A random made up toon to Scout. But to the man doing it. A classical toon of his generation. Almost cheery as a flipped switch had him inhaling the vial scent of vinegar and chlorine. His eyes squinting deep to its disgusting scent as bruises would heal. Something he didn't want. His arms healed like gold. Bones that were broken regenerated as quickly as it happened. And as vision was regained. He gagged. His blue eyes meeting the rugged handsome prideful look of a monster staring down his pray amidst the room.

Demo screamed behind a piece of duct tape that reduced his ability to speak as Tim's breathing grew all the more panicked.

“Gutenmorgen, Mein Haustier.." he never knew what it meant. But it burned into his mind. He called him it like a mocking nickname. His tone was not mocking but happier than usual. Something that kept Tim quiet. To see him happy wasn't a good thing in the slightest. If one could imagine a snake smiling it would be his face.

“How vas it?” He asked. Which only got silence in return. It looked as if he was hurt. A mockery. He wasn't hurt..” I asked zu a quvestion, Scout.” His tone was stern. Which is out of instinctive nervousness. Scout replied with a wince.

“I..I want to go…back to my room now…please..” he muttered. His tears swelling up in his eyes like a waterfall bound to burst. “I..it won't happen again..I swear, s-sir!”

“Sir!?” Medic looked up from where he was at. And started to laugh.” Nein. Sir is not mein title.” He spoke with a clear tone. Focused yet almost as if he was constantly thinking. Planning.” Tell me, hurr Scout. Vhat could zu call me? Mm?”

The question made both Demo look at eachother then back to Medic with a shiver. A choke in his words as his red arms had regained colour to their missing points in his skin.” D..doc?”

“Need I repeat meinself?” He asked with a snarl. But Scout knew no matter the answer. He'd be made an example of.

“No.” Then somewhere deep down. His courage outdone his fear. His eyes furrowed which made Medic raise a brow.

Was the American incell actually gaining a backbone? Maybe he would fix that the hard way..

“It hurt like fuckin hell you crazy bastard!” He couldn't tell why he was there. But somewhere deep down he was almost aware of where he was. And that..it wasn't real. It was just a dream. Almost like he had full control with a sense of pride. He stared the kraut in the eyes and smirked.

“Vhat has gotten into-” he stopped as Tim started to talk. Each word that left his lips would get a strong handshake from Demo. Not that he saw it. He was just too into giving the Nazi a piece of his mind.

“I ain't afraid of you. Yer a hack. A damn coward that can't do shit without keepin yer damned victims tied down! I'd kick her ass of you didn't fuckin put me down! And you! You expect us to do our best when you torture us put of fuckin boredom..”He went on and on. Each word only made the medic cross his arms and nod as if he understood every word. Each problem and painstaking thing done was listed and shoved back at him. And in the end. All Tim got was a nod.

Taking a deep breath, the Medic removed his blue gloves. Fingers ever so gently running through his finely groomed goatee he grew out, throwing the gloves into the garbage. His slight hints of greying shined brighter from the light that shined above him. And as he spoke his tone was droll and almost soft.

“I see..” nodding lightly he chortled as he shook his head. His sharp chuckle turned to a deep laugh. His height became ever more imposing as his form shifted to something inhuman. Fingers cracking. Shaking as they grew elongated and gnarled. As sharp as knives as his form cracked and bent in inhuman ways. A form so inhuman he couldn't comprehend it as his face turned white from where he was. A form that stared back showed no face. But a helmet clouded in fire within his eyes. A fine dark almost mangled version of his medical jacket. Black with various articles of clothing preventing his body from being seen.

Deep breaths and a noise he couldn't describe. He couldn't take his gaze from the demonic red eyed devil before him. His eyes wide as tears continued to stream. The appearance was one thing..but the voice..echoed deeply into his soul. Feel it's reverberations. Cold and icy.

“Zu're confidence is admirable, but I'm far too gut to have a cockroach shpeak down to me..” he hissed? No. It..its sharp claw pressing against Tim's exposed side. The claw alone was larger than his arm as he was merely frozen in fear. And as he was stuck. Blood dripped freely from his side that made him yell. “Vouldn't vant to fall off ze cliff now could zu?” A breath from the Scout…a moment of pause..He woke up..

Frozen icy air had hit him in a way that made him jolt from his lingering slumber. His eyes opened to see himself not on Soldier's grip being lugged through snow. But his body was hanging over a cliff. The only thing having saved him was the snow that coated the edge. His arms hung loose as he gagged and jolted back. The hell happened!?

“Timothy! I've left you with one job! Not to go sliding!” Soldier's tone raised as he jogged over to him. Where was he? Soldier didn't give him much choice as the area had changed and he overlooked the cave in front of him. Was he sleep walking?

Tim wiped sweat from his brow as he hobbled over to the cave where a fire was raging. “Soldier. Did somethin happen to me?”

“Like what?” He asked. As he poked the fire awkwardly as Tim looked around to study the cave.

“Like..did I get up and do anythin? I walk out there?” He asked as he pointed towards the cliff. A sharp collected hum from Soldier as he rubbed his chin in thought.

“Nope! I was scavenging for food! I left you next to the fire when I went to the back of the cave! It's not good though. I've only found jars of this gold liquid! Its useless! Other than that I came back and you slid outside! Got no clue how you did it without ice!” He said as he held out a jar of something. And when he took it. He smiled.

“Soldier this ain't gold. It's honey! Where'd you find this?” He asked as Soldier got to his feet and waved his hand. Leading him to the back of the cave where boxes were. Not just boxes. But a pile of shaken up bones with torn clothing. Leaning over he took ahold of an old cracked air force hat with goggles. The tag was torn by claw markings. But he could just barely make out ‘Amelia’. He couldn't think of anyone by that name. Only felt momentarily bad for whoever died and put the patch back on the ground.

Opening the boxes he was met with nothing but honey. They were in pristine condition and beautiful sheen. He opened his Hale he picked up and took a lick. The sweet delectable tang he almost forgot about his nightmare. Almost.. the more he thought about what Soldier said he kept his jar of honey. Marching to the front he looked around for any sign of ice. Nothing? Just footprints leading in and out of the cave. and the distinctive track indentations his shoes usually left behind. Being at the end of the cliff where he woke up.

He gripped his side. The thought of that nightmare made him shutter..trauma. that was all that was..trauma..he couldn't remember if what happened to him was real or just a sense of his old life crawling back to haunt him. He shuttered at the thought as he began to unsettlingly eat his honey. Not before almost simultaneously spitting it out at the sight of Soldier. His eyes wondering away as his face went undoubtedly red with embarrassment and awkwardness akin to a child seeing something strange happen.

There next to the fire stood Soldier. A wide smile on his face in a triumphant position. But going just below the jawline Soldier had completely lathered himself in honey like it was sunscreen. No clothes on in the slightest. Not even underwear. What the hell was he thinking!? It was negative seven and he was coating himself in honey that's been there for a hell of a long time as Tim looked at his jar of honey, put the cap back on. And gingerly stuffed the jar of the sweet stuff into his deep jacket pocket and placed both hands on each of Jane's Shoulders.

“Why..in the name of Tom Jones did ya have to fuckin lather yourself in honey?” He asked calmly as he looked him in the eye through his helmet being dramatically lifted up. To make proper eye contact.

“Son. If there is one thing I know. Honey is a natural bear repellent! Trust me when I say I know exactly what I'm doing, Boy scout!” He hummed with confidence as Tim felt every fibre of his being snap. He never spoke to Soldier for many reasons. And one was the fact he had his face. Two however was much harder. And Jane wasn't unaware of this look. He looked him in the face and he could tell something deep inside was stirring and he's seen it before somewhere.

He was cracking under pressure. Tired from the nonstop abuse from not just the company, but for his life as well. His voice choked up as he shook his head.

“Why'd they put me with you!?” He asked with a rather broken tone.” The man who's scared me the most! Every damn time I look at you I see him! A batshit crazy person who hates me because I'm the weakest! But…you ain't him..” he paused. His look of tense anger was immediately dropped. His eyes held such broken sadness as Soldier looked at his body and then back to Scout. His body squirming between Soldier's arms in a sticky awkward hug. His body squashed like a sandwich as Soldier hugged him.

“I know I'm a naked man wearing honey as a means to repel bears. But I want you to know, I ain't that bastard. That blue son of a bitch had no real control! Not a real soldier dammit! Stolen valour I say! He said as he pulled away. Well. Pulling what skin he had stuck to Scout's thick warm jacket that was now super sticky from the honey. His expression shows disgust but almost thanks.” You from now on have my permission to call me Jane or Solly! Do you understand me!? Also you're promoted to private!”

“What is wrong with you..?” Tim asked as the Soldier tilted his head.

“What!? Is it my battle armour?” Jane patted his bare skin fused with honey.

“Soldier yer fuckin naked! Its negative ten with it feelin worse thanks to tha wind! Did you get fuckin knocked on yer head!?” He asked as he poked Soldier's head. A moment of silence as Scout began to cry. He told Mundy his inner trauma. But he has never split it like this..” I was hated by my parents. My dad always sayin I'd never amount to anythin. Then when the BLU Bastards went crazy they treated me like shit the most! You got any idea what it's like to have ya damn neck broken slowly!?..now I'm all fuckin sticky! In the middle of Siberia! With no food! Sticky! And stuck with a crazy person!” he sniffed. He was tired of sounding like this. Afraid. Scared. And as he kept going. A slew of agonising pains and Soldier huffed. “I'm sorry..”

“Son. War is hell. And it's worse when those you work with are your worst enemy. It's a deep agonising experience.” He said a look of tenderness forming in his eyes. Something deep inside his own mind..it felt so familiar as he looked at Tim and frowned.”I..don't remember much of my past..don't know if I even have a life outside of this. But I know one thing. Crying is not going to get you anywhere private. It's going to slow you down to the point you're going to risk everyone else's life. Do you want that pain on your shoulders, son?”

The question alone was one that made Tim stop and think. His thoughts shifted from his horrible life to one where Demo would be dead by his own hands.” I..don't want anyone to die because of me..no one..if anything I want to keep them safe..I couldn't save that girl..” he stopped. His eyes were wide with tears. Thinking back to the screaming..those few nights were the worst of his life..Heavy was killed and he and Demo were shoved into the back of the train.

“You need to stop focusing on the past soldier!” Solly said as he smacked his face.

“Will you stop fuckin slappin me! I know! I know!” Dammit!” He snapped as he rubbed his cheek with aslight sneer.” I need somethin man..sonethin that I can be proud of..!” He clenched his fist.” I wanna fight like you.” He said slightly with some shakiness. A request he was waiting for the decline of but instead. Soldier smiled wide. His eyes were almost as large as his own smile as he laughed.

“Son! All you had to do was ask the master of hand to hand!” he may have been over reacting in the means of his request by stroking his own ego he never even knew he had.” I will teach you the ways of Sun Tzu!”

“Thanks..all this time I've been lookin at you as your original.. but yet a good man-” a momentary sense of recognition in Tim's words was deep inside his core as his expression of happiness remained seemingly frozen before he paused. His head almost going crazy as his nose began to bleed just as bad as his did after he realised it. He narrowed his gaze as Tim raised his hand. His expression shifting slightly. No..”soldier.. are you a-”

He couldn't finish his words. His expression shifted slightly as a massive shadow hovered behind him. Soldier's body was getting tense as he clenched his fists and yelled. Grabbing a piece of flaming wood to swing it at what Tim initially thought was a single bear. But no. It was a family. Three Grizzlies side by side. One was worse for wear with a missing eye and a knife stuck in it's side. Blood dripping in the snow while the others don't look as bad.

“You got any tips for bear attacks, Solly!?” Tim asked as he stepped back. More like pulled by Soldier as he swung the stick and yelled like a wild animal. Slamming his sticky fists into his very muscular bare chest that seemed to have a good few scars on his body from past tussles that didn't heal quite right. His teeth bore like an animal of the soul that just unsheathed itself and decided to go out on a rampage.

His expression shifting as the bears stared at him. Their snouts shifting with the scent of honey as they tilted their heads as Solly got closer. His threatening stance meant nothing. It only got him a deep seeded lick from the bear he was closest to. The disgusting smell from its mouth made Solly cringe and wave his hand over his nose. His expression plating a game of twister for how rancid it's sent was.

“Great lady liberty! You need a mint!” He snapped as the bears got closer. Solly raising his hands as Solly let a slight ‘yelp” leave his lips as another bear started to lick a spot he didn't really want licked as Tim watched. Dumbfounded in many ways as Soldier covered his parts with his hands that were licked clean. Each lick makes his cheeks grow redder.” Son! A little help! They're lucky I'm not pulling out my ultimate attack! Hey my nads are not a chew toy, Soldier!!” He said with a rather urgent tone. But with bears licking him. Tim choked on his laughter as he took the phone that Pauling gave him and took a photo. The flash makes the bears stop their licking. Making Tim pause from his attempts to keep taking pictures

“Uhh..I'm just captionin this-” he choked on his own sense of laughter as he pressed the send button. The caption reading ‘Goldy Red and the Three Horny Bears-’ the photo only sent to Spy, Pyro's, and Pauling's phone. He didn't bother to check the other texts that popped back at him.

“Nyet!” The sudden high pitched scratch of a deep Russian tone caught Tim's and Solly's attention. The bears however did jump at the yell. In the entrance of the cave was a large man dressed from head to toe in black mountain gear. Almost haphazardly slapped together with a bearskin hood that didn't excite the bears in the slightest.

The appearance of the man larger than either Tim or Solly made the bears suddenly turn from curious wild animals eating and licking at Soldier's honey suit to foaming at the mouth with rage towards the man who seemed to be holding nothing more than a knife that seemed to match the one lodged into its flesh. He couldn't get anything else as two of the bears lunged at him. One staying back. It's attention is drawn towards Tim. Black eyes vibrating with violence as Soldier jumped on its furry back and wrapped his still wet but sticky arm around the bear's exposed neck. His arms moved back as the bear roared. Body rising as it threw itself around to get Solly off of it's back as Tim ran towards the fire and grabbed the flaming stick. And looked at the honey. A smashing noise of his honey jar smashing against the wood of the fire next to him.

‘Woosh!’ Up in flames it went. Making the once small fire in the cave into one he couldn't breathe in as good as before. Then..he got an idea. “Hold on Solly! I'm commin!” He said as he sighed. Grabbing one of Soldier's socks and grabbing a few other jars of honey from the back of the cave. And began to unscrew a cap. Dunked the sock in. And lit the sock on fire.”let go of it man! You ain't wrestling a bear!” He snapped as Solly looked at him.

“I got this one son!” He said. Still clearly struggling. And yet his own statement would backfire on him. His side getting horribly scratched up by the claws and his back stabbed into by jagged rock and being dragged against it. His eyes wide as he gagged and fell to the floor as he held onto his side. The bear opened it's mouth to try and devour his head. Yet it screeched. A glass breaking at its feet like a molotov and its fur burst into flames. Out of fear it ran out. Throwing not only itself but one other bear over the very cliff he woke up next to earlier. The roars echoed down the cliff until they couldn't be heard anymore. The honey being as sticky and as flammable as it was it stuck to spots the snow couldn't reach. So by the time they're put out, they'd have been dead anyway. The stranger was then also momentarily safe from death. His jacket was torn to shreds as Tim reached down to hoist Solly to his feet. His stance leaning more on his wounded side as Tim grabbed Soldier's other sock and stuffed it into the jar.

He didn't just want to assume this was Heavy. He was big but a lot of Russians were huge. Dumb of them to go picking fights with bears, unless it was the only source of food for miles.

A raised hand from the stranger. Grappling with the massive animal. The one with the knife in it's shoulder.” Nyet! Bear is mine! Already wasted two!” He snapped towards them. Goggles and a scarf of what looked to be various fur types sewn together. He couldn't make out his face.

Solly groaned. Pain was overwhelming on his side. The gash was deep. Thankfully not so deep to the point the intestines were struck but still pretty deep. His body was shaking from the cold. Dammit honey! You failed your country! He stayed huddled to Scout. Teeth clattered together as Tim threw his jacket that was crumpled on the cave floor, over him. Its once cold sense was replaced with warmth as he sighed. A bit of relief on his aching body.

Blood is still dripping freely from his nose after the conversation regarding something he can't quite remember. It was about something…he can't remember anything after it.” sweet lady liberty! I've been hit!”

“Little late to be sayin that, Solly.” Tim tried to figure out what to do. He couldn't think. The roars of the bear fighting the stranger was heavy on eachother. Soldier watched in pained awe as the massive stranger happened to take the knife from the bear. A sharp roar of pain when paw attempted to connect with them. Fur and stuffing spilling from where the stranger's chest was. No blood. A sigh of relief from both Tim and Jane.

The two knives the stranger held were in a downward stabbing position. His movements are heavy and strong. A crackling swing that connected with the bear's jaw, teeth raining freely from its mouth onto the snow with spirts of blood with it. As it opened its mouth its roar was silenced by a final blow. Both knives plunged into its head. One in the left temple. The other matches its opposite end. Dropping its body the stranger turned to look at Tim and Solly. Tim swallowed hard in nervousness.

“ Misha?” Tim asked.

The stranger stopped feet from the fire. Fists clenched as the claw markings were far easier to see now than before. And he gulped as the stranger removed their hood, googles, and wrapped around their mouth. A greying old man with a white eye and a scar that ran through his eye through the other end of his face. A beard blocking the rest of its physical view as he cocked a brow.

“You know my son, da?” He asked as Tim looked at Solly who looked back at the stranger in unison.” Must be ones from team he talks of so much.” He laughed. Just how old was he? As far as he knew, Heavy looked pretty old himself. At least in his sixties. This guy looked fifteen times older than him. No wonder why he mistook the big guy for their comrade so easily.

“Uh yeah. You can say that-” Tim said as Solly looked at him.

“I know a commie beard when I see one! Are you here to kill us!? I'll have you know I won't go easily!” Solly yelled. Mostly because of the pain his back and side were in.

Heavy's dad glared at Soldier. “You are absolute idiot for thinking fighting three medvedi cubs, lathered in honey was good idea. Luckily honey is natural healing remedy. One smart thing done from dumbass like you.”

“Woah woah woah! Hold up!” Tim said as he looked the old man in his oldly good eye. Pointing outside towards the body on the ground.” Yer tellin me that, that…is a cub!? C.u.b?”

“Da. Bears grow larger in Russia. You are not in America anymore boy!” He laughed deeply as he took out a pipe and lit it. The scent of weed in the air as he took a puff.” Call me Boris! Come. I take you to home. Not far from here. Wife stitch up wound and leave!”

Tim shook his head before talking.“Woah woah! Boris! We can't just leave without Misha! We need him! There are dangerous people out there that's huntin him down! We need him so we can stop him!” Tim said as he helped Solly to his feet. The stranger most of the time after taking a few puffs strapped the bear to a few ropes to his own back to pull it.

Boris looked sad..“Son..misses team. He does truly miss you. But..convincing him to leave family will be hard. Gulag life has frightened him. Doesn't wish to outright leave us for save but different reason. Da?”

Tim smirked as he jabbed his own thumb into his chest, “We got this! We just need some help first. And..new clothes for Soldier here if possible?” He asked as Soldier smiled like a child who took their pants off for attention.

His thoughts wandered slightly. Tim took a moment. Eyeing Soldier's bloody nose streak. He thought he knew that happened but it seemed immediately forgotten to Soldier. Why was his nose bleeding..? He remembered how each one took it differently. The realisation learning you were a clone and all of those memories flooding back.

Jesse had a seizure, Him and Demo both had nose bleeds and massive headaches. Was it just a coincidence? He didn't know. The proof was there but with no memories for him to even grasp onto was it even worth it? Must have just been the dry air? He wanted to ask what he did remember. But he knew in a way that would have been a pointless thing that would get him nowhere.

Boris waved. “Come. I take to home. Can put naked man's clothes on bear.”

Tim nodded lightly. “You can call me Tim. And this is Jane.”

Jane raised a brow.” Son. I did not give you permission to give this commie my name! What next!? My badge number and rank!?”

Tim rolled his eyes.“Soldier! Without him you would be bleeding out. There is no hiding it! He is not callin ya ‘Soldier’! You wanna be called Soldat?” He asked as Solly bit his lip.

A momentary moment of protest but he grumbled.” Fine. But the commie better not wear out my name! Or I'll sue him with my own two hands!”

Chapter Text

The cold was unbearable on his skin. What made him think that lathering himself with honey would not only repel bears but protect him from the cold. Your life just fucked up ten times worse than before because of the commie country! A master at many things but apparently he grew rusty with wrestling bears. Especially when they were merely Cubs to the Commie man yanking him through the snow as he laid on top of a bear.

He should be the one to March through snow in a shit as outback good for nothing- need he continue? His mind was angry amidst the grey skies that just clouded his vision as he held his side weakly. He was still bleeding and thanks to Tim's jacket he wasn't as cold as he was with nothing on. But Private was freezing. Lad put hard work into this March along the frozen tundra. Even saved his damn life from a bear! He'd give this kid a training lesson or two in fighting. A punch. An arm bar or two. As much as he was a brute fighter Soldier knew his way around a form or two. Wrestling or not. He was gonna keep it to the kid as he nodded lightly. The road got bumpy as he groaned and muttered. Going up hill now are we!? This damn commie was trying to outplay him while he was out of commission!? Why he'd gladly show him a thing or two once he was back in the damn commission!

He sat up. Almost instantly as he realised the grey skies changed to a deep red ceiling. One that hurts his eyes worse than the sight of a Nazi or even the Commie as he rubbed his eyes. Face pale and cold as banter in Russian could be heard from the other room As Tim walked up to him and knelt down to check his wound.

Honey coated it and was almost like glue. The blood didn't come out as bad. And as Tim looked at it. Soldier got up to his feet and raised his hand.” I need that!” He said. Pointing to a bathroom in the corner. But Tim?

Tim grabbed his arm making Solly look him in the eye. “Woah Soldier. You need to get Stitched first! You can't just go take a shower!”

“I'm not showering! That's for hippies! I'm using the Loo!” He said as he nodded his head over to the open door made from wood no doubt cut down in the area with a cute picture hanging next to it of heavy and his father holding axes together. Prideful smiles on their faces. And yet his father didn't seem to have the same scar he did before. Heavy however looked younger and skinnier back then. Around maybe his early twenties. Buck ass naked he saunters his way into the bathroom and shut the door. Rubbing his hands together as he actually considered it…he locked the door and looked at his wound.

Commie said that his honey suit heals him? The wound was clotted and stopped bleeding. But the fact it was as open and as deep as it was almost not recommended but shrugged it off and turned the shower on. A hum left his lips as he took his helmet off and placed it on the sink then got in.

Commie water didn't burn as bad as he was expecting it to. It was warm and nice despite the horrible burning from his wound. His eyes twitched as he covered his mouth. Stifling the pain as he wobbled on his feet to the pain as honey and blood were then washed away. Whatever blood dried within the wound and such. His eyes watered slightly. It was an involuntary thing. The motion of actually having his wounds be cleaned like this. He didn't intend to let tears of weakness leave him. If given the power he'd suck them back into his tear ducts and sing hail Mary at the top of his lungs from repelling such a thing from his face. Crying was for babies! And Soldier was no baby!

He yelled in his head. Getting up he merely wanted to rinse the honey from his body as he shut off the short shower. He didn't have much to wash anyway. His expression shared anger but it wasn't..it was pain as he looked down at the wound that now began to bleed again. His eyes twitching as he got out of the shower and put his helmet on and reached for the toilet paper. Grabbing a wad. Its paper sogging up a bit from his wet fingers but stuffed them onto the wound as he grabbed the nearest towel and wrapped it around his waist as to not terrify the other commies with his good looks. His smirk of amusement was fused with pain.

Taking his leave he looked up at not Tim. But up at Heavy. The rugged older face of his comrade made Solly smile gleefully as he chuckled.” Heavy!”

Misha shook his head with a sn“Nyet. Do not ‘Heavy’ Misha Soldier.” he said disapprovingly as he looked at Soldier. Blood dripped onto the wooden floorboards as he sighed. His head was shaking as he huffed.” I told Scout. I tell you to. Leave after dark at dawn. I will not come back.”

Soldier paused despite the pain. And sniffed slightly. The bloody streak is now gone but he didn't understand why Heavy was being like this. “Negatory! I was told to drag your big ass back to America because of this! I got my ass handed to me by a damn bear trying to find you! And now I'm bleeding all over your commie floorboards because of you! I will not stop until you say yes! So say it!” He groaned as he glared at him. And yet…took pause once more. Waiting for his answer only for Heavy to sigh.

“No means no Soldier. Family will help. After the sun rises again you leave! You and scout!”

Soldier glared at him. His teeth exposed as he huffed before his stomach growled. And the scent of something delicious filling the air. His ears drew a blank on heavy's words. No doubt something about commies eating babies no doubt. No judgement as long as their cannibalistic communist ways stays in stalingrad. But whatever it was his mouth watered as he seemed to rush down the hall despite the bleeding and pain on his side. His body aching as he hobbled into the kitchen to find his prize. Low and behold a drumstick of meat sitting on a countertop. His mouth watering as Tim was sitting at a table with two other women. A young woman around Scouts age. And another only slightly older. No doubt around Sniper's age of twenty six or seven. Laughing as the Soldier grabbed the meat by the bone.

As much as he would love to listen to the great stories Tim was telling he didn't really know where to go after. Everyone around him was muffled and fuzzy in his ears. A dull ringing almost. His head spinning as blood continued to be tracked through the house. As much as there was a lot of people in there his mind thought he was back in Teufort. The wood was now the metal walls and red and white corridors he was used to. A sense of peace. And as he rounded a corner. A woman reached out and stopped him in his tracks. She was taller than him by a fucking foot almost. Solly standing at only five ten. And yet this woman was almost as big as Heavy!

Wearing a blue almost grandmotherly nightgown. Her hair tied back in a ponytail that hung low with bangs that hung over a stone cold expression that showed she was not to be fucked with. If only Soldier could comprehend the look as what it was as he looked up at her through his helmet then back to his meat stick he ate quite a bit of. Food filled his mouth as he chewed it slowly.

“Can a Soldier help you, Lady?” He asked as he spoke through a full mouth. His mouth was smacking, he swallowed hard and held his stick close despite the pain he felt. She looked down. No words spoken. The more he looked at her the more he realised how old she was. At least just guessing in that aspect. She looked to be around his age. Her eyes were pinned on the streak of blood that was dripping down his leg and onto the floor.” It's not what it looks like I swear-” he muttered out of embarrassment.

“Nyet. Not that kind of blood, I know.” She said as she placed her hands on his exposed braid shoulders and began to escort him to a room at the end of the hall.” What caused the wound?” She asked curiously. Though her tone was deep. Almost emotionless and serious. Something Soldier didn't register.

“I fought a bear naked lathered in honey, sweetheart! And I won this fight! Not without some damage of course!” His smile wide as he took another bite. Its flavour was very tough but it was delicious nevertheless as he was shoved through another wooden door's small bedroom with a single bed in the far corner. A desk with a candle burning. And a wardrobe with a standing mirror in the corner. The white snow gave the room a soft glow as he rose a brow before throwing the bone in the corner of the room haphazardly before he was brought to the bed.

“ Brother was right. But it is impressive. Drop towel.” She said, his head tilted slightly before he shrugged and dropped them. He didn't bother covering his parts because with the helmet on it was like some sort of means to keep from being embarrassed? It was an unexplainable phenomenon that only Soldier's mind could fully comprehend.

Feeling warm smooth fingers had removed his shitty attempt to keep his wound from bleeding as she grabbed a small toolkit out of one of the drawers in her dresser and revealed a sewing needle and some twine. “Zhanna will fix up, Da? Sew wound. Make sure no infection.”

“Zhanna..” he repeated lowly before he blinked.” Hold up there- you have given me your name? What are you mad!?” Soldier said as he panicked slightly.

“Da? I'd way of saying ‘hello’, da? Tired of traditional Russian welcome. Gulag is all we get,” she spits on the floor.” Fuck Stalin..” She said as Soldier lowered his tense shoulders down to a relaxed standing.

His eyes wide almost in longing. He couldn't believe his damn ears! A commie!? Who WASN'T A communist!? It was unheard of. As she got the needle ready and even stuck it in. He blinked and stared at her.” Holy Jesus's second coming..”

She raised a brow. Clipping the strand of twine from his suture with a pair of old embroidery scissors” what is matter?” She asked.

Soldier, giddy almost like a school boy bounced on the bed.“You hate Stalin too!?” He asked as Zhanna smiled lightly. Her head lowered as she looked him over. Blushing. The concept of ‘getting to know the person before you' was on his mind. But the woman? Not a clue. But he was itching inside. Something struck him.” Are you a communist?”

Zhanna rose lip.” Nyet.” She shook her head.” Cannot stand communism. Is a wreck. Caused Gulags! Pain! My papa's eye was stolen from him. Would rather chew on poison cyanide gum den deal with it.”

Soldier blushed at her with complete fascination “My god where have you been all my life..?”

Zhanna tilted her head with a raised brow “Here?”

Soldier cringed. His head shooting back with an exasperated sigh. “Of god damn course you were..how could I have been so damn stupid!?”

Zhanna cocks her head in befuddlement, and suddenly, her eyes grow dewy. Conflictions pounded in her chest as she couldn’t discern Soldiers' confessing remark as a degrading joke or earnest sincerity. Soldier’s steely expression remains unwavering as it causes her to turn away bashfully “Nyet... I cannot be soulmate material. Have never mingled with men outside family for twenty years. I’d just be burden upon you.”

Soldier watched her turn away with a strange mixture of confusion and a rising sense of panic. His airheaded brain pulsed as he fought to find the words that would convince her otherwise. He reached out, gently taking her hand in his as Zhanna turned her back to face him. His expression changed to a soft and reassuring smile which was a rare trait to see coming from a battle hardened merc like himself.

“Zhanna," he began, his voice steady and sincere, "you are anything but a burden. You are a woman of strength and courage, someone who has faced unimaginable hardships and still managed to retain your humanity. It would be more than an honour to stand at your side as we shove Stalin’s iron fist up his skimpy little ass!"

Zhanna's eyes widened, her breath catching in her throat as he spoke. She felt a lump forming in her chest, threatening to spill over into tears. He saw her, really saw her. And not just as some sort of exotic curiosity or a tool for his mission. But as a person, a woman, someone worthy of love and respect.

The emotions swirling within her made it difficult to speak, but she managed to choke out a reply. " Soldier... I-I..." She paused, her voice cracking. "I don’t know what I’m doing.” Tears welled in her eyes as she mustered a quivering smile. “Been feeling so squandered by totalitarian regime, It make me forget humanity and passion still exist..”

Zhanna's words hung in the air, thick with unspoken desire and vulnerability. Solly found himself unable to look away from her, transfixed by the mixture of fear and longing in her eyes. Without speaking, he reached out a trembling hand and gently caressed her cheek, feeling the softness of her skin beneath his roughened fingertips.

Solly felt a surge of courage as his adverse thoughts dissipated in place of his raw feelings. He leaned in closer to Zhanna. His heart raced, and he could feel the warmth of her breath on his cheek. "Zhanna," he whispered, his voice barely audible, "I-I don't know what I'm doing either, but... but I want you…”

Zhanna closed her eyes, feeling the weight of his words and the strength of his touch. It was unlike anything she'd ever experienced before. Even in the face of the harsh reality of their situation, she couldn't help but feel a sense of hope and possibility. She leaned in closer, pressing her body against his as her breath ran rampant, "Make love to me. Now!"

Stalwartly up to the challenge, a challenge he knew next to nothing about, Solly addressed her with budding confidence as he elicited a sharp “Yes Ma’am!”

Without a second breath, groaning under the pressure of her urgency. The candlelight cast a soft glow across the room, dancing shadows across their intertwined bodies. Zhanna tentatively loosened Jane’s towel, and as it dropped, so did her jaw. It was incredible. Soldier’s phallus was nearly erection-sized in its flaccid state. She was itching to indulge in its long since desired sensation between her legs. Twenty years robbed. She got this with the perfect man that just happened to waltz through her home. Twenty years of nothing but her father, mother and sisters! No more.

“Great god!! ” Her cheeks flushed with a mix of excitement and apprehension. The male appendage was but an enigma to her until this very moment. A geyser of tantric and complicated emotions let loose as they guided her next set of movements autonomously. “You’re work of art, like Adonis!”

“Why uhh, much obliged, miss Zhanna” He muttered out bashfully, clearly feeling exposed this time around despite being a-okay with the honey streaking in front of a disgruntled Tim. “I t-take great pride in m-my figure..” he croaked, unbeknownst as to why she was wanting to admire his phallus, but he played along with the bit without much forethought.

Zhanna's fingers traced delicately along Soldier's length, exploring the contours of his member as if it were a foreign land she had only just discovered. Her touch was gentle yet curious. He arched his back as she found a particularly sensitive spot and began to tease it mercilessly. “Oh? You like this?” she hummed blissfully as she noticed his reaction, anticipating where it would lead.

Soldier's breath hitched in his throat as Zhanna's fingers continued their exploration, his entire being growing more and more aroused with each passing moment. He felt a heat building within him, spreading outward from his core, making his limbs heavy and his mind foggy. Her touch was unlike anything he had ever experienced. Familiar, and yet so foreign. He found himself utterly lost in the sensation, unable to think of anything else, unable to speak as waves of pleasure coursed through his body.

Soldier began to feel a newfound sense of urgency. He couldn't help but wonder what the rest of her body looked like, hidden beneath her nightgown. His mind was clouded with desire, and an involuntary primal urge welled up within him. He needed to see her naked.

With a voice barely above a whisper, Soldier finds the courage to speak. "M-m-m … May I?" He asks, his words stumbling over each other in his eagerness. He feels a strange, animalistic need to see her bare skin, to feel the warmth of her body against his own.

Zhanna's gaze flicks up to meet Soldier's, her own eyes gleaming with desire as she takes in his aroused state. A smile plays at the corners of her lips as she nods,knowing exactly what he wants despite not explicitly saying it. “Da.” She ushered sweetly. She slowly unbuttons her gown and slides it off her shoulders, revealing her perky breasts, toned abdomen, and the thick, dark curls of her pubic hair. "Like what you see, comrade?" she asks, her voice low and sultry.

Solly feels a sharp pang of desire in his chest as he takes in the sight of her bare skin. He can't believe this is actually happening. This woman, a Russian woman no less, is offering herself to him. He swallows hard, trying to regain his composure, and then traces his fingers lightly over the soft skin of her stomach. The feel of her against his fingers sends a shiver down his spine.

“...You’re perfect.” he faintly ushered out, marvelling at the surreal beauty of her form despite the hardships she faced. “Never change, sweetheart.”

With both naked bodies closing in on each other, the natural, primal urge seized their minds as they locked lips, hips, and arms into a rhythmic love-making seminar. Soldiers hands cupped her glutes as his knob swelled, worming its way into Zhanna's wet fold. She let out an uncontrollable, sonorous moan as she pressed Soldier close against her chest, with his face blissfully smudged in between the contours of her pillowy breasts. He wasn’t suffocating per se, but he couldn’t care less in his nirvanic state. For all he knew, he just died and went to heaven.

“Da! unggghh ! Da! Is good! Yes!!!”Zhanna continued to vocalize her bliss as the displaced weight distributed between her and Soldier’s thighs shook the bed mantle. She flipped to the side as Soldier slid out momentarily, the squelching of her wetness apparent as his cock sprung up, fully erect.

Zhanna lies on her back, her eyes closed and her body relaxed. She feels her partner above her, his muscular frame moving in perfect rhythm with hers as she feels the gooey warmth move in and out of her in rhythmic harmony. His breathing is deep and laboured, and she can feel the tension building inside of him. She knows he's close to release, and her own body responds in kind.

With one final, powerful thrust, Solly releases himself inside of her, their bodies locked together as he empties his seed deep inside her warmth. A shudder runs through him, his muscles tensing as he lets out a long, satisfied groan. Zhanna feels his weight pressing down on her, his sweat dripping onto her chest and stomach.

As the tension ebbs away from their bodies, Solly rolls to the side, pulling Zhanna into his embrace. He nuzzles her neck, breathing in the sweet scent of her skin, and whispers words of love and gratitude like never before. For the first time in his life, he feels truly connected to another human being, and it is a feeling that overwhelms him with its intensity.

“Zhanna…” He muttered slowly, his partner's head turning to gaze into his sharp pupils as she gently rubbed his chest. “Can you swear an oath to me?”

This caught Zhannas attention as her eyes glistened with a mixture of intrigue and concern. “What is it?” Her unpaused breath lingering in her throat as she awaited his response

Soldier’s breath cooled to its equilibrium as he caressed her neck, knowing the commitment he’s about to make. Without holding back, he makes his request known. “Promise me, you’ll stay with me. Please. I can’t endure the scourges ahead without a reason to fight for it…”

Her heart skipped a beat as she heard his words. There was something so raw and genuine about him, it was as if he was offering her a piece of himself. She stared deep into his eyes, feeling the weight of his request settling heavily on her heart. "I swear it" she breathed, her voice barely audible even to her own ears. "Will stay with you, through thick and thin. You are reason to fight."

The room was a cocoon of warmth and intimacy, the candles casting a flickering light that danced across their skin. Zhanna and Solly lay entwined, their bodies still warm from their passionate encounter. As they drifted off to sleep, she nestled her head into the crook of his shoulder, her breath soft and steady against his chest. He wrapped his arms protectively around her, holding her close as if afraid to let go. In this moment, they were both safe, they were both loved.

And, for a short span, the pains of their lives melted away. It was, by all accounts, euphoric.

Tim swallowed his bear leg, It's tough but amazing on the pallet. The flavors mingled well as his eyes met with one of the other girls. His cheeks flushing red as he swallowed the next bite a bit akwardly as they both stared st him with lidded eyes. Almost fascinated by him.

Tim chortled lightly as he put his most down on his wooden plate. “Uh..girls- please! I know I'm handsome but I'm not THAT handsome.” he said as one piped in.

“Da. Face like yours gets all women swooning!” the younger one said with a giggle as the older one piped in just as enthused.

“Tell me, tiny man. Is rest of team as handsome as you?”

Tim choked slightly as he laughed.” No no! I mean sure but..can we just be civilized for just a moment here!? Look. I'm Timothy. Just call me Tim.”

“Yanna!” The younger one chirped.

“Bronislava.” The other.

Both were muscular. Very muscular for women. Russia was apparently the place to be if you wanted a muscular woman in you're life. And both of them looked like they could grind his bones to dust despite him gaining weight. Hus blue hues staring at him.

But both women were described the faces of Heavy's comrades and as much as they stared at Scout they had their minds on different people. The image of a handsome Aussie man shirtless made Yanna blush. His body riding a kangaroo picking her up and placing her in the pouch with him as they hopped blissfully into the sunset.

Broni thought of a handsome dark skinned man wearing a Scottish Kilt.viciously playing the bagpipes as fire would shoot free from the instruments openings. Kneeling before her on one knee and kissing her hand as she hummed with a deep giggle.

A strange set of daydreams in their minds by it was boring there. As they daydreamed Misha stepped into the room. Taking off a pair of gloves as the girls would look up at him and glare. Tim noticed this and stopped eating his food after the girls got lost in their daydreams. But the silence was deafening as the girls would get up from the table and leave. His expression saddened.

Tim bore a face as if he was in pain from watching that moment slip by. “Hey..big guy..jeez rough croud man, I'm sorry.”

Misha raised his lip in a disapproving sneer.”Nyet..” his tone low and grumbled.” Will not go back to country that took Doktor's life.” He hissed as Tim gulped down his food as Heavy would snarl this to him. His mother raising a brow as his father would enter the room. His mother had a saddened gaze. “ Government hunts me and papa down. Family members included. No where safe. Had to leave dem once. Will not do so again.”

His father crossed his arms as Tim would sit back in the chair. “Syn. Do not come up with excuses! I have raised you better dan dis!”

His mother spoke with a sad tone. Her head shaking a few times. “Papa is right, Misha. Girls are stir crazy. I am tired of bear. Need warmth from something other den fire. Please Misha!”

Heavy hesitated as he looked at the table. He looked a way that Tim had never seen him before. Like so many thoughts were crossing his mind at once as he sat in silence. His parents were doing the job for him.

“Mama..” Misha sighed as he would look at them.” What of you and Papa? The girls? I go to help…What will happen to you?” He asked. His mother smiled.

“Misha. We are not weak. We are strong. Government men found us many times in absence. Killed them slow in basement.”

Each word made Tim choke slightly on his meal as he put what was left back on the plate and just sat back. Last thing he wanted to hear but he got it anyway.

Boris breathed deep. “Team needs you, Misha. You have been here long enough. Is fathers job to take care of house. Not son.” He placed a hand on Misha's shoulder. His gaze looking at the hand then to him.” Trust me. Girls will make it safe. Personally will take care of it. Will not be like Moscow Incident. No Mercs to hurt me.”

When Misha mentioned the ‘Moscow Incident’ Tim raised a brow at the mention of mercs. He stayed silent as he flipped the phone he got from Pauling. Texts back from Spy and Pyro from the pictures of Soldier getting licked by bears he hadn't gotten to reading yet. And his lips turned to a thin line as he looked up at Misha.

“I gotta hit the John Big Guy. take your time and think about it. Got our ticket outta here through this phone!” He said. As he gave the big Russian a smile before he made his way into the hallway. Sounds of something questionable at the other end of the hall made him clear his throat and move along to the bathroom. The bathroom soldier used and took notice of the wet shower curtain and blood stains in the white tub. No longer truly white thanks to the blood stains. His expression was disappointing at first. Then saddened gradually with each second.

‘Find something to fight for.’ He thought to himself. Looking at the broken man in the mirror. His eyes narrowed.

“Fight for myself..” he muttered as he took a breath and hummed. Pulling the phone back out and going to Pauling's number.

The phone rang a few times as he thought of the name. The phone picked up as a woman's voice picked up the phone.

She sounded confused. And almost disturbed. “Scout? Why did you send us all pictures of Soldier getting his…thing…licked..? And why is he naked covered in Honey?”

Tim cringed slightly at that. Brushing it off in a hushed tone as he locked the bathroom door.No time to talk about that Miss Paulin. Me and Soldier found Heavy. But there's a small problem, he ain't goin easily. Somethin known as the ‘Moscow Incident’ got him all sorts of spooked for his family. Can ya…I don't know..pull up some fancy files?”

Pauling hummed through the phone. “Moscow Incident? Sounds very familiar but I can't seem to remember the details..” rapid clicking on a computer keyboard and a few loud dings. He waited. Then his head raised as she began to speak again.” The Moscow Incident in Mann Co.’s eyes is a failed assassination attempt by..the Classic's Sniper Vergil twenty years ago in Moscow. He was told to kill someone else who was blocked off by Boris. As a result..shot a bullet straight through Heavy's dad to kill the target. The bullet went through Boris’ face. It missed his right eye but left through his left cheek which resulted in blindness..let's just say with that during a protest against Stalin..Got Heavy and his dad thrown into the Gulag for ‘disturbing the peace'.”

Tim took a breath.”So yet tellin me. These guys who are chasing us down..were working twenty years ago and he almost killed his father? Jesus what's goin on here!? Paulin this doesn't make sense! We don't even know what these guys are capable of! And I'm hearing you say that a member of the Classics worked how long ago?” He whispered loudly into the phone.

Pauling sighed loudly through the phone. No doubt still reading him info. “I don't know how they're still working. All I know was that they were the best Blutarch and Redmond had back in the Thirties. After World War Two started they disbanded from the Mann's and took Jobs in Germany and Moscow for money. Apparently Nazis paid them a hefty sum for assassinations in Moscow..The man next to Boris was a Russian Prime minister that fateful day in Moscow. Almost two hundred people died in the square alone.”

Tim made a shaky breath release stress. As much as he wasn't there nor did he see these bastards. They sounded worse than the BLU’s considering they were very willing to take jobs from Nazi's for Pay. His eyes shut. Running a hand through his head.” Shit..these guys are bad..” he hissed as he nodded.” Thanks for tha info, Miss Paulin..” He paused.” I'll text you. Let you know when we got the big guy.”

A small hum. Almost like he could physically feel the small smile she gave off. “Good luck, Scout. Look forward to that message.” the phone hung up. They were lucky Dell created such tech. Despite the bastards leaving them to die on the final stretch of escape. He shook off the thought. So much to be just boycotted to the back of his mind much like the civil rights movement to the government.

He left the bathroom. Shoving the door open to clear his throat. If he wanted Heavy to listen to him. He had to word this right. So he took a deep breath and cleared his throat one more time before he marched into the kitchen. Misha raised his head to look at him.

“Timothy? What on mind?” He asked. He could see it in his eyes.

Tim clenched his fist looking up at Misha's father then back to him. “I know who hurt ya dad.” He said as Misha's sad gaze grew cold and distant as Tim said this. Not angry towards Tim. But a determined look of rage built down into his Russian veins. Getting to his feet his father watched as his son would tower over the much shorter american.

Misha's tone was matching just how he looked. Angry and seething. “Who?” The only word to really escape his lips.

Tim gave him a furrowed brow with a smile in return. Clenching his fist tightly. “He's actually in the team that's hunting us down as we speak. Their Sniper. Vergil's his name.”

Bingo. As much as he hated using leverage to get someone to listen and accept it. Tim was satisfied. Short and simple. Heavy comes along for revenge. Gets his much needed revenge kill, boom! And they're all happy in the end.

Misha took a deep breath. “I will do it.. I will go not just for family. Do it for my damn self. Hired by man who took Ludwig away?” He asked.

Tim nodded,” That's right, big guy. Two birds-”

Heavy smiled as he smashed fist between palm.” One stone.. You have Heavy back!” He snapped with excitement. Honestly, Heavy loved his team. A second family in his eyes that never left him. So his arms lifted Tim into the air like a big brother would do a little brother. Spinning him around before placing him back down.” We leave in morning! Yanna! Broni! We leave for america in morning! Zhanna!”
Heavy had made his way into his eldest sister's bedroom without knocking. As he spoke with such happiness and vigour in his tone.” Zhanna! Get your stuff packed!” It was all he said. Didn't even bother opening his eyes to see Zhanna was in bed with Soldier. It was prompted by a groan of tiredness.” Papa..” he stopped.

Boris inhaled with a deep smile under his almost snowy white beard. “Syn. You are man. With life outside of family. When you find him..Make Cyka choke for what he did to my face.”

Heavy hugged him tight. “I will. Pay for years of pain he put on us. Papa. I know good place to live.” He said as he leaned in to whisper something Tim couldn't hear.

“Da! Is good! Have money for payment. Go boy! Rest in spare bedroom! We go off in morning! Were going bobsledding!”

Tim smiled.” Don't gotta tell me twice. I'm ready to get tha hell off this mountain!”

Chapter Text

Pyro's eyes narrowed through her sunglasses. The fact she wore a bandana parented some stares in america. But she stepped foot in Scotland's Airport. She only had a picture of the mansion to go off of. A frown would have been on her face as she looked around. A small group of people dressed in light brown plaid would move around the airport. A sketchy group despite the overall sunshiny vibes the country gave off.

‘Miss Pauling. Why'd you make me go alone!?’ She mentally asked herself as her eyes raised through the bandana. A small gargle muffling the silent nervous cry for help as she would feel a hand creep up on her shoulder. Her face went pale as she jumped but no audible sound of fear except for the sound of her feet hitting the tiled floor.

Before her stood a short man wearing a Tammie hat over his head wearing the same coloured matching clothes as the group that was walking around the airport scaring people. She narrowed her gaze as she clenched her fist. His hands raised instantly in mock surrender. “Woah wah! Calm down lass! Ain't no need to go loosen yer britches! Ya look lost. Need help?”

The offer was nice. She tilted her head, the picture of the DeGroot mansion in her hand as she thought for a moment. And then..shook her head. The movement made the skinny man almost raise a brow towards her.

A shorter man as well as the rest of the group came up to her. Her face growing red with fear as she hid the picture in her sleeve before stepping back. "What's wrong wid dat one?”

The one that was talking to her shrugged.” Dunno? Lass lookin kinda shaky.” They didn't seem bad.

The short man around maybe four foot eleven looked up at her with his hands on his hips and looked her over.” I know what da problem is lads. She's scared! Lost! Dis here Dame just needs some help. Don't cha?” He asked her. His tone was somewhat high pitched compared to the others as he nudged his buddy's side playfully. Her trust was a near negative.

She had no trust in people she just met unless she had time to truly evaluate their personality. The fact that people around these guys didn't look comfortable or happy made Jesse feel cautious. And they never seemed to actually let her ‘speak’. They were speaking for her. As if she was agreeing to everything.

They weren't wrong. She just got there and stepping out of the airport alone was hard. She couldn't leave it. Couldn't find its exit. But she tended as a hand was gently placed on her shoulder. Behind her stood a ginger man with a bushy beard. Large in physical stature that seemed so close to Heavy and yet still off by a few feet. Muscle and weight in his stature as he bore the same colours like everyone else. Long red hair in a man bun, and yet his hair still held curl with splotches of mess around that made it look like a lion's mane, still shaggy all around. He smiled at her. A feeling of calm as her cheeks flushed red. A deep blush as she stared up at him as the others cleared the way for him. He was the largest out of all of them and he took his large hand to give a handshake. The first real introduction from these men. And it was from someone who should be considered intimidating but actually came off as a teddy bear. She can get behind this for now as he shook her hand.

His voice was low..smooth like butter in the aspect a scottish voice goes to an American woman. “I'm sorry for tha lads makin ya uncomfortable, Lass. I'm Malcolm. Leader of tha Scottish Equality Syndicate in Wick. Pleasure.”

She tilted her head as she gently took his hand in hers. Her fingers clasped around what felt to be a lumberjacks hand. Rough and coated in calluses that yet to fully heal as she waved at him.

The first guy who showed up leaned in a bit to close for comfort as she tensed again. Her almost daydreaming look shifted as she spun to look at the ma “Aye. Why ain't ya talkin!?”

She waved her hand as she shook her head. No one probably knows sign language so she used the hand motion over her mouth area. Cutting off the area over her throat.

Malcolm smiled at her as he nodded in understanding. “Aye! Don't be rude, Kenneth. This lass has her reasons for not talkin. Let's try this for now. Mm?” He asked as he took a pen and a note pad from his pocket and handed them to Jesse.” What's ya name?”

She nodded and used her palm as a table.’ Jesse.’

Malcolm looked over the note and nodded, “Jesse, ah? Nice name for a pretty lady such as yerself. Tell me. Lookin for someplace in particular?”

She nodded as she pulled out the picture of the estate. The look he gave off seemed as if he's seen it before but couldn't tell if it was good or bad.” Aye. We can talk more if yer willin to follow me back to muh pub.” An offer she was curious about. She awkwardly nodded as she wrote down her new sentence, a line spaced below the other.

‘I'd love to. Thank you.’ She nodded as he snapped his fingers. The other men scattering off together as he offered Jesse his hand. Her cheeks hadn't become unflushed as soon as she saw him. And this was something she was embarrassed about. His expression is nice and warm. It made her feel welcome. Like a person. And she forgot almost instantly that she had to find Demo. As she got into the car. She didn't even have a chance to relax. She looked in and saw an old man staring at her with a short term smile. Next to him a large man with such belly muscles she grew pale. Trying to get away the large man in goggles reached out and yanked her into the seat next to him. His size almost consuming most of the seat as he tilted his head towards her with a narrowed gaze.

The large man looked to the man next to her. “Is this her?”

The old man hissed as he rolled his hand with what looks to be a tape recorder. Passing it to the large man “Of course it is HER you dolt. Give her the machine so she can talk without writing everything down. Saves time. Thank you for the help. Now take us to the pub. You'll have all the time you need to talk to her there.” The man said casually as the larger man didn't even regard her as they moved. Her eyes wide as she noticed the mansion in the picture on a hill on the other end of the small town. She could see it where she sat but she couldn't get out as the large man had silently slapped the recorder in her hand. She looked at it. Then she thought of a form of words.

“Who are you?” She blinked. Overlooking the machine with curiosity. And as it spoke she realised the machine read her mind as she thought of what she wanted to give as a response or question. And that question resulted in a short term stare from the big man that smothered her. Then a smirk. The ride was short. But as she looked around the cab of the car she was in she could see the look on Malcolm's face. He looked ashamed as hell. Almost forced to do this by the other's words. Was this Gray?

She thought of the question. Then it asked for it on the recorder.” Grey Mann?”

“Yes?” The man asked beside the larger man. Her blue eyes narrowed. Anger in her veins exploded as she forced the large man back in his seat. His eyes became side under his reflective blue surface as he physically watched her wrap her hands around the old man's neck and squeeze. His struggle was something he stopped with a harsh yank on the woman's hair. Her hands were listening around the old man's neck before shoving her back into the seat next to him once again. His expression is angry.

After a few minutes they stopped at the front of an old decrepit pub coated in wooden planks that hid the inside from view. Next to the door was an older man with a red moustache. Arms crossed as another glared down at her as she left the car. The large man grabbing her by her waist to force her into a strong arm bar that almost made her groan through her bandana. Malcolm follows behind obediently. The guy holding her was bigger than he was by a few inches nevertheless she was forced through the door and into a well furnished pub. A warm and cosy environment replaced with mercs around every corner. And working amongst them were the same men she saw at the airport. Then she realised that these men weren't working together willingly. They were prisoners. She could notice no anger on the lessers' faces. They all looked so sad as Gray spoke with a snide grin.

Gray rubbed his hands together greedily. “I believe she knows where her clone friend would be. Do as you please with her. The only reason I'm here is incase the Degroots happen to have a secret stache of Aulstralium under their estate as legends say!”

The large man rolled his eyes as he yanked Jesse towards him “Whatever you say. As long as you're paying us for this shit I couldn't care less about what you want. I just want the Clone. Nothing more.”

Gray rose a brow as he turned around. His stature was so short even Pyro had to look down at him.” Of course you'll be paid Cheavy. The plan worked didn't it? Our Scottish friends here were of great help to your overall endeavours so far!” He chortled before stepping closer. A cane he held gently tipped off against Jesse's chest.” Do enjoy your stay my dear. And if you want it to stop. I'd suggest telling him everything you know~!” clapping his hands a butler approached him with a dry martini and handed it to him.” I must be taking my leave. Do tell me when you obtain the Estate. I'm dying to see what's inside of it~ ta ta!”

She wanted to kill that little shit. Her eyes fueled by rage as the large man known as ‘Cheavy’ forced her to move down a set of corridors to an open room. A cellar. Wooden stairs leading down to where a loan chair was. Without much thought or care the man threw her body away from him at the top of the stairs. Her body falling and hitting so many edges in the staircase before the final step broke from her weight. The bandana had fallen off to reveal her lawless face. One that warranted no response from Cheavy as she scrambled to get the bandana back. Weakly crawling on the floor to reach for it. Fingers just barely reached the cusp of her fingertips before pain shot through her arm. The heavy steel toed boot pressing against her forearm.

Cheavy knelt down. Putting a lot of weight on her arm as tears began to fill her eyes from the pain she couldn't verbalise. “Shame what happened to you. But it does make me wonder just how far I can go till you're able to give me an actual scream..” he smirked. His look made her panic. She's seen that look before so many times and she struggled. The struggling however made her gag. The gargle forced the drool to pool up. But he held out the recorder she used earlier once more. And dropped it into her hand.” Fuck the formality. Where's your friend?”

She glared at him as she pressed the button.” I'm not telling you anything.” The voice the more she heard it sounded like her own. It expressed emotion. And as the recorder spilled her thoughts she pressed the button by accident as Cheavy's boot pressed hard on her forearm. A sharp pain made her press it again.” Fight me like a man, coward! Get off of me!”

“Oh!?” Cheavy laughed at her demand as he grabbed the bandana. “Now I like your spunk. You're not afraid to tell me where to shove it up my ass. Mm? I like that in a woman. But perhaps some time alone will fix that attitude of yours.”

He stood up. Stuffing the bandana into his pocket. He looked so old and yet held the strength of someone who took a shit ton of steroids. She glared at him. Her tongue remained stationary within her exposed oral cavity. Drool collecting on the pads she changes regularly. Thankfully once again as soon as she landed in Scotland. Eventually the gauze will become too wet for the drool.

‘Give that back!’ The recorder yelled at him. Not pleading. Demanding. This demand was something that made the big man pause. Standing still just for a moment before his foot raised off her arm too fast for her and slammed it down hard on her forearm. Loud audible ‘pop’ and ‘crack’ made her squeak in agony through her throat. The visibility into the back of her throat visualised the flex in her throat as if it was meant to scream but couldn't get it through.’You motherfucker!’

Cheavy snarled. Not before that scowl turned to an amused smirk on his old wrinkled lips. “I'll break you slow! Make sure you realise who the hell is in control here. Though I have to admit a ugly dame like you. You have spunk I can admire.” Tilting his head, his massive fingers collectively wrap around her throat forcing her to look him in the eye.” You talk now, I'll PROBABLY be a bit nicer. Now. Where is the DeGroot House?”

‘I don't know asshole!’ She raised her cheeks as if she was giving off the feeling of a scowl of disgust. Placing her finger on the recorder once the first thought was playing. The only thing that made it tedious was the fact she had to rewind the tape each time she used it.

the Massive man backhand her before he sneered. Knocking off her angry expression with something more along The lines of shock as he stood up.

“Fine. We'll get info one way or another. Fucking useless..” He spat as he slowly made his way up the stairs. Closing the doors to the basement with an audible ‘thud’. Leaving Jesse alone in the dimly lit basement for what felt like hours. She had spent hours destroying the basement. Her fingers worked at screws that mingled with pub wine and beer. Holding the beer and expensive drinks together.

She kept the recorder tight next to her as she opened every bottle of wine and keg of beer possible. The fseepicoated in puddles of beer in the corner of the basement.

She shuts her eyes from a memory.

‘She was locked in storage at BLU. Purposely locked away due to a mistake made on the battlefield that day. Something took over her. That primal need to start a fire.’

And she did. Dried dead wood sat idly Away from the mass of broken barrels and other various types of alcohol. Taking them in hand she starts to violently rub the dead wood together. Her breaths ragged with each violent rub as smoke started to form across its hole the other piece of wood was creating. And lit the fire. The smoke yellowing almost instantly as the booze took flame and traveled. With a swift dive she circled a corner where the stone bricks were its thickest. And..

‘BOOM’. A explosion formed from the Unopened kegs as the roof collapsed in on itself. Leaving an opening through the fire and the flames to freedom. Her eyes wide as she made a run for it. Clambering and twitching for freedom from who she xouldobly assume were the mercs hunting them down. Sweat coiling over hers she heard the basement door shake open. Then a yell of rage.Shshe didn't want to stay too long to know what the hell would happen to her. She ran. Through alleyways and buildings till her gaze was instantly laid upon a mansion atop a hill in the distance.

Bingo..

It didn't take long to get there. Considering she hadn't stopped running since her escape. Tying her bandana around her mouth to prevent suspicious eyes she approxhed the doors to the mansion. And hesitantly rang the doorbell that seemed to ring throughout the massive structure like a gong.

“Yes yes I'm comin’ ach.lazy boy..” she could hear the muffled voice on the otger end. Faint but readable and as the doors opened. Finely lit home almost blinding her as she came face to face with an old colored woman wearing sunglasses and holding a cane. Her eyes wide slightly to realizetgis was Travish's motheshe. She was blind. A slight sigh leaving her lips as she reached her cane out to tap Jesse's feet.” Can I help you? Are you here to give me boy a job? Finally? He won't stop talkin’ to that dumb sword o’ his.”

Jesse pulled out the recorder she was given. And thought of an answer.’ Yes. A job..may I speak to him Mrs.DeGroot?’ the recorder blurted out as the woman raised her head with a faint smile.

The woman turns around to start walking into the mansion. Jesse walking behind her as she taps her cane against the wall. Following tge hall down to a living room area where she could hear the tv blaring and laughter erupting from a familiar tone.”About time!” She said as she slapped her cane against the head of a man sitting on a couch. Each thank rendering the man a sharp ‘AYE!’ “Travish! Ay ya lazy boy! Get up off yer lazy arse and come meet yer new employer!”

“Ack. Mum. Please. Can't ya see I'm busy!?” Said the Scottish accent as he looked behind him to see Jesse. His eyes wide slightly. Though his eyes never seen her face. He's seen that stance.”Pyro..?”

She nods slowly as the glowing sword beside him squealed with excitement.

“Is that the fire breathing madman from the war with the tinheads!?” Jack Churchill cheered as he got up from his place on the finely furnished couch. And approached Jesse. Taking note of all the scrapes and wounds on her.

“Who did this to yah..?”

She pressed the button on her recorder.’that's why I'm here..I'm here to tell you that something bad is happening. We're being hunted.’

He was a bit taken aback regarding her newfound ability to speak. But brushed it off as he grabbed her shoulders. She had to admit he looked drastically different than she last saw him. He was bigger. Not by fat. But as if he was working out for days on end. His hair got longer. Dreads almost reaching his lower back as he wore a fine roab. He walked over to Jack and Picked the sword up.

The sword belliwed withva hardy british laugh as Murdoc walked over to her. “My dear friend! We'd be glad to slice the heads of our newfound foes together!”

‘We need to get You suited Up. Do you have your stuff?’ Pyro asked as the man who was their demolition expert walked past her. Following him close behind he climbed a set of stairs and opened a bedroom door.The room dusty and untouched By anyone for what looked to be years as he approached a trunk in the bedroom. opening it to reveal his BLU uniform. His eyes squinted slightly as he pulled it out and laid it on the bed.

“Give me a moment..” He mumbled as he shut the door. Leaving Jesse alone with the sword. Her hands wrapped around the hill tightly as the silence filled the room. Before the door opened again to reveal the dressed Demo. His eyes filledwith determination as he clenched his fists clenched as he looked down at her. His smile soft and welcoming. Fingers coiling back around the sword.”Now..Lass.Lets talk.”

Jesse spent the last few hours explaining what was going on. His head shaking in disbelief as he sat at the end of a grand hall dining room table.”Cripe..there's no way dis is happenin.. Lass. I'm in. If that means me mum is indanger to then I'm gonna go back into the battle.”

Jesse's cheeks raised lightly as she looked at her friend. Her last friend from her team that wasn't Scout. Her fingers tapping against the recorder as she stiffened slightly. The sensation of something about to happen coiling around her chest. His ears perked up as he hears a loud knock on the door.

“And there they are…Lass. We gotta go. Mum! Don't answer the door!”

“And why the hell nod, Laddy!? Could be more business opertunities fer ya!” His mother said in protest till he gently took her hand and lead her to a wall on the other end of the mansion. The sound of an explosive going off could be heard as they slipped to what seemed to be a dead end at first glance. Till Murdoc grabbed ahold of one of the unlit Torch holders. And pulled down.

Jesse's gaze widened slightly as they slunk into a staircase into the basement. Her eyes looking at the family tree of the DeGroots. Dusting and cobwebs filled the staircase. The false door slowly closing behind them. Leaving them to the darkness before they came face to face with a tunnel. leading farther back. His mother seemed to be unwilling to follow instructions at first. Till Jesse reassured her that Murdoc or..’Travish’ had gotten his old job back.

‘Where are we?’ Jesse asked as Demo looked to her.

“House is covered in old trap doors and such. Trav-” He paused as he cleared his throat.”I used to run around these escapes when I Was but a wee thing.” He said as he pulled his mother along. Each step going farther and farther into the secret entrence. Curiosity filling Jesse as she gargled lightly.

‘Do you have anything called Australium?’

Demo looked to her. “What? Never heard of that stuff before- mum?”

His mother hummed trying to remember at first. Anything to remember her younger years before she spoke. “Aye.. Said it looked like gold but it wasn't. A granted gift from a friend of his.”

‘The Mercs thought your father had a stache if that stuff.’ She pressed the button on her recorder to finish her thought.’They're gonna be very disappointed.’ a slight gargle that mimicked a laugh left her as his mother paused.

“Who's garglin!? You know better to gargle Travish!”

Murdoc sighed.

“I'm afraid that wasn't your boy my lady-” Jack said.

Demo shifted his gaze. “So how'd they find you..? How'd they know you were…well..Pyro?”

Jesse shrugged.’They were using a local pub gang as a means to scout people out at the airport.. next thing I know I'm in a car with two men and got locked in a basement.”

“Aye lass. This is bad…”

The farther they went the darker it seemed to get. Nevertheless they were safe from the outside danger of the hunting Classic mercs outside as Pyro pulled out her burner phone for any sign of a reception. Sadly nothing. But it soon faded as they started going upwards towards a basement hatch.

Demo went first. Then Jesse Went to assist Mrs.DeGroot up the stairs then Jesse after. The hatch leading to a clearing in a forested area just outside Of the town. Vines and overgrowth Had pinned the door shut but nevertheless it was broken open properly thanks to the sentient sword Murdoc carried around.

The moonlight shining through the trees as Jesse took her burner phone out one more time. A quick text to Miss.Pauling that she had the man they were searching for. Then instantly got a text back.

It was coordinated.

‘Meet here. We need to talk. Everyone.’

Demo approached Pyro. Holding his mother close. “Aye lass. What the boss say?”

‘We're going to Australia-’

“Australia!?” His mother squealed lightly as she smiled.” Oh.. Travish..you never told yer mum You were takin her to Australia!”

“Aye mum. Fer you. The best hotel.”

Murdoc looks at Jesse awkwardly as Jesse pulls out a wallet. A slight gargled sigh left her as she pulled out some money. A good two thousand dollars for his mother's flight with them. Knowing full well that he didn't have the time to grab his wallet. Luckily Miss.Pauling came prepared and gave everyone enough money to get Extra flights to where they needed to go.

He mouths A quick ‘thank you’ before stuffing the money in his pocket. Looking back down again at the mansion as fire seemed to be engulfing it. A look of shock and horror on Murdoc's face as he rested his arm on a tree.

“Fuck…there goes tha DeGroot Legacy..” He sighed as he slammed his fist into the tree he was leaning against. His home. Paintings, last pieces of his father all burned away now. A deep hiss left his lips as he turned to face Pyro.”We leave. Right now.”

“Oh Travish you didn't let yer mum pack er things yet!” His mother griped. Still in her nightgown that was the only thing truly protecting her at that time as Murdoc Nodded. A sad tone to him.

“Don't worry mum..I got enough to grab new clothes for yew.”

Cheavy exploded. "FUCK!” a massive crashing noise and the sound of tech around them can be heard. in His hand a single bar of Aulstralium. Nothing more. To simply say that Chevy was pissed? That was an understatement. First his first Merc Escapes his grasp. Then it turns out The ‘DeGroot Stache’ was nothing more than a hoax!? He was fuming. And it showed on his face as the mansion slowly burned outside.

“Anyone going to tell me what the fuck this is..?” He asked in a strained tone. Ludwig in the corner in silence as his Pyro approached.

“Single fuckin bar of Aulstralium. That ain't enough!” She hissed as the large man bore his teeth in agitation.

Chevy’s expression shifted as he clenched the bar of the gold material. “You fucking think!? Our desprate search for a stache turned out to be fucking bullshit!” He throws the gold bar. The seer strength of the throw was enough to embed the bar just inches away from where Ludwig was. His eyes wide as he looked over to where the bar landed. Reaching over he tore the bar free from where he was and placed it on the table.

“Boss. There has to be more somewhere.” Beatrice said as Chevy smirked.

“I did plant this nifty little tracker on the Pyro.” He said as he pressed a button to a screen in their military vehicle. Showing a map with a blinking target reading not far from where they were.”These morons will bring us straight to the Australium, boys.”

“I'm right here.” Beatrice hissed with disappointment as Chevy blushed slightly. Rubbing the back of his neck before he cleared his throat.

“Right..ahem. as for these good for nothing Scottish Drunks...” Chevy walked over to the tied up pubbers, pausing as he looked them over. Malcolm looked up at him with a bruised eye and bloody nose. The others were just as bad if not worse than the Scotsman. Two were unconscious and Kenneth was just barely on the verge of passing out himself.” Kill em.”

“Wait..” the entire group looked at the person who spoke out. Ludwig. Holding a bone saw in his hand he looked at Malcolm and scowled. His expression was cold. Almost unfeeling. As if something crawled into his flesh and took over his body.

“Well Frankenstein? What is it?” Chevy crossed his arms. Expecting Ludwig to plead for their case. But instead. He grabbed Malcolm and hoisted the big man to his feet.
“Woah what the hell do you think you're doing?”

“Executing him.” Ludwig spoke with such chilling Words it brought a uneven smirk to his old lips.”Move Dummkopf. Now.”

“You don't gotta do this..” Malcolm said through a wheezing breath. Being led to behind the ATV. Sweat dripping down his brows not just from the fire that consumed the mansion but the fact he was going to die by the hands of a German doctor? Who wouldn't be terrified to be hacked up by a bonesaw. But as he shut his eyes expecting to be feeling the sharp teeth of a metal blade hit his neck. But instead his hands go limp from those sharp teeth ebbing away at the rope around his wrists.” But…why?”

“Don't ask. Go! Run. Punch me in ze face quick!”

“B..but!”

“Just fucking do it!” He demanded. And as he did in his hurried whispered tone he fell back with a thud as Malcolm punched him hard in the face. His nose broke on impact. His back hitting the ATV with a loud thud as Malcolm ran off towards the town. After a few seconds he heard gunshots ring out. His eyes squinted where he laid. His eyes dark with thoughts of his past. Oh how he wished he could..just kill these bastards.. end their terror. End his own terror..but no. He was stuck. And he could only save one person.. out of a group of five. And that group..

A lone tear Left his eye.

He could see them as his former team..

Chapter Text

Silence. That's all the Soldier could hear since he took Zhanna with him. His beady eyes quickly shifted between empty vast deserts and the large base they stood next to. and it's overall sickening Silence made the mentally unstable man in black itchy.

Jane looked to Spy. His helmet tilted upwards as Zhanna followed his gaze with a smile. Though she didn't know what was going on. “Spy! What are we waiting for again!?”

“De go ahead from Miss.Pauling. do jou have to be so loud..?” He sighed.

The phone rings. The loud blaring noise of the phone ringing made Soldier flinch and scream. Zhanna following suit as they both dog piled the poor older man. Pain shooting everywhere on his body as Spy weakly reached for the still ringing phone where he was on the ground.

“I..need a vacation if I survive..dis..” Spy muttered as he shoved Soldier off of him. His glare was deep and unforgiving as he finally answered the phone.”Ahem. Pauling. We are in position.”

Pauling sighed on the other end. No doubt a sigh of relief by the sound of it as he listened to her speak. “Good! I got Scout and Heavy off checking another Australium mine out in the outback as we speak. We will be there in a few minutes.”

“Why did you have to pare me up with dese..”

Pauling interrupted Spy before he could finish his statement. “Spy.. we need him. He may be crazy enough to believe that lead infused water will make him bulletproof. But dammit he has some good skills.”

“De only thing he is good for is yelling and screaming like a pathetic toddler. De man was lucky to even have de job.”

“Oh? And what about you Spy?”

Spy froze for a moment. His eyes went wide as a cold sweat formed down his back. As Miss.Pauling continued to speak in a rather cordial manner.

“Abandoning your wife and daughter, leaving your daughter in the hands of an abusive father. Letting her get raped, and torn apart by the BLU’s Medic. You are no better. In fact..you're far worse than that idiot Jane Doe.”

Spy blinked. Was he really hearing this? His ears were ringing. How did she know about his past? He's kept that a secret from everyone. Even the Administrator. But as he blinked himself back to reality he awoke to the sound of his phone ringing. Was he sleeping?

Over his vision he could see Jane and Zhanna kissing in the bushes. Zhanna bore a necklace made from the severed ears of people. Wherever he got them he didn't want to know as he rubbed his face through his balaclava.

“In position Spy?”

“Yes.” This time he kept quiet on his insults towards Soldier. Unsure if he was dreaming again or not. His eyes never left the phone as she seemed to repeat what the dream had said. She sent Scout and Heavy to find the old Aulstralium mine and the rest of the team consisting of Demo, Pyro, and Sniper as well as himself and Soldier. Considering their old Engi turned out to be a traitor it was better left untouched at the moment.

“Okay. I'll go in and-”

“I will go in and snap all of their necks!” Soldier but in with a loud screech as Zhanna popped up next to him with a bright smile on her face.” And my future wife will join me!”

“No!” Spy yelled as he smacked him. Lightly making him gasp as Zhanna gasped with him. Her eyes wide as she leaned in and started to choke him. No doubt Pauling was giving a questioning look on the other end. Struggling against her, Soldier pulled Zhanna off from Spy with a tug.” Crazy imbeciles..” He whispered as he got his things and made his way to the front of the massive door. The door opened slowly without so much a question.

“Is that normal?” Soldier asked as Spy's eyes narrowed.

Spy looked up to the guard tower with a suspicious glance.“No..it's too quiet for a base. Dere should be a operator for de door. It shouldn't just..open like dat.”

“Could it be those guys again!? The ones that attacked you and Sniper?” Soldier hissed as he punched his fist into his palm. His eyes under his helmet twitched with anticipation to fight some other mercs. Especially since his adversary BLU Soldier was blown to pieces on the top of a train.
“I'll gladly throw down with some mercs! I'll show them what true America feels like!”

“No! We go in cautiously. No guns blazing, you hear me. Dat goes for you to..err..” Spy raised his brow.

Zhanna frowned with a deep furrowed brow. Her eyes are twitching.” Zzzhannah.” She hissed. Making Spy blink.

“Ah..right..apologies..” The last thing he needed was for her to go off on him in a violent way. She was a strong woman. Very strong but stupid. And he was cautious about that already. He's already been choked by her just a minute ago. Now he's playing peacekeeper.

He rubs his face and exhales slowly.

“Guys.” A voice pops up from behind them. Pauling with Sniper, Pyro and Demo at her side approached as Mundy narrowed his gaze.”Why aren't you guys in there? I told you we had permission to go in. What's the hold up?”

“It's quiet.” Spy says as he took notice of the look Zhanna was giving Pauling. Rolling his eyes he tapped his finger and looked inside. A mere peak beyond the open door. Till he noticed people walking around. Very skinny people. They looked weak and in pain.

“I say we go in and break some necks!” Soldier yelled as he shoved Soldier into the door, squishing his face between palm and frame as he marched in. Grabbed the nearest man who looked to be in his mid fifties. And before he could say anything. Zhanna joined him. A smile on her lips. At the same time they said ‘neck snap’. And twisted the man's neck so fast his neck cracked and he collapsed dead on the floor.

A sharp yell left Pauling's lips as she grabbed Soldier by the collar. “Soldier! Do not kill these people! They are allies!”

Pyro joined in on pulling Soldier away from the man. Dressed in her old Pyro uniform as she was back on Teufort. Clicking onto the machine that Gray Mann gave her.

‘They are good guys!’

“Allies..?” He blinked slowly from under his helmet and looked down to the man with the broken neck at his feet. And much like a child he grumbles out his mistakes to the wind and attempts to un-break his neck.

Till Zhanna grabs Pauling by the shoulder and pulls her aside.

“Don't dare talk to my man like dat.” She hissed. Her words immediately gave off a look of utter confusion.

Pauling snapped. “He just snapped an army official's neck!? How am I supposed to react!?”

“Not like dat. Cyka!” She yelled back as she smacked Pauling. Her face red from the impact as Sniper slid in between them.

“Ladies! Ladies! Calm tha fuck down would yah!? Can't you see we got more pressin’ matters to attend to!? Like..oh I don't know. These poor blokes havin’ their blood siphoned?”

Demo popped in beside him as he nodded.” Aye. He makes a good point. Look at these lads.” Demo gestured to the skinny bodies. Weak and frail with clothes that barely clung to them.

Pauling took a moment to collect herself to then notice the group of people gathering around them. Dressed in outfits that no longer seemed to fit them properly. Some even died on the ground from blood loss as those who did survive gave them weary looks.

“Paulin’?” One asked. His voice shaken and weak as he used a gun to hold himself up. His body trembled and shook the more he tried to move.

“My god..Shepherd? What happened..?” Pauling asked as she approached the one man she had contact with to grant them a submarine.

The soldier blinked. His head lowered. “Robots..blood suckin bastards..almost drained all of us dry for the Australium in our veins..they came outta nowhere.”

“Just like back at the other base..” Mundy said as he bore his teeth.” We shoulda killed those two while we had tha chance Spy!”

Spy's expression stiffened. “And what? Like I said the team of whoever these elites are would come barreling down on us ten fold if we did dat.”

Sniper growled.“And just leave them to killin’ more of my people?”

Pauling pinched her nose.” Alright that is enough! No more squabbling! We need to get this done before sunrise. Look I'm sorry Sniper but there's nothing we can really do for these people now. They're alive and that's all that matters. Shaepher. You have the keys to the sub?”

She turns to the Soldier who weakly slaps a pair of keys in her hand and walks them over to a dock with a submarine half submerged half above water. It looked big enough to fit them all in it. And that was enough.

“Thank you. I'm sorry..there's nothing we can do to help you..”

“It's fine mate..I owe you for that one time anyways. Go find New Zealand and get what you need. Stay safe.” The Soldier said. Leaving the group behind.

“Rough..” Demo muttered as he watched Shaepher hobble away with his fellow survivors in tow.

Jane however was still trying to undo what he had done to the Soldier he killed. Till a yell from Spy caught his attention. His head shooting up as he looked back down at the Soldier and gave a hardy salute. Jogging up to the group he smiled. His body pressed against Zhanna as he looked at the machine in awe.

“You see that Honey bunches of Oats!? We're going sightseeing!”

Zhanna had sparkles in her eyes “Da! Zhanna wishes she had camera..”

“Soldier jou idiot. Dis isn't a vacation!” Spy slapped his forehead.

Pauling pushed past them and climbed the ramp that led into the craft.“Common guys. Everyone in! We gotta find New Zealand before they do!”

“What if they already did?” Soldier asked as he followed with Zhanna practically glued to his side.

The thought of those mercs already finding what the administrator wanted was hot on her mind. It made Pauling sweat slightly. She shook her head as she climbed into the driver's seat and Spy took his spot next to her on her left while Sniper sat on her right. Demo with Soldier and Zhanna sat behind them.

“You ready Sniper?”

“No.” He spoke honestly. He figured out his biological parents were in New Zealand. His mind was warped by the mountains of information that had been given to him these past few days. He's just gotten over his adoptive parents' deaths, now he learned he had been adopted and his parents weren't even his biological mother and father.

His head spun with confusion as he covered his face and took a breath.” I'm gonna be honest with ya Paulin’. Learning that I was never an aussie to begin with..makes me feel..I dunno..not myself?”

Soldier piped in. His smile widened as he spoke. “Don't worry Sniper. At least you knew your adoptive parents. I never knew mine.”

“Err..sorry mate?”

“For what?” Soldier asked as Spy groaned deeply.

Pyro piped in as she looked at him through her Skull mask. ‘I don't remember mine much either, Soldier.’

“Alright enough! We're off!” Pauling started the vessel and pressed forward on the stick. The submarine tossing forward in the murky water. The sudden murky water slowly turned into a beautiful thing. A coral reef sprawling with sea life. Lights from the bioluminescent algae made everything so much brighter. Soldier was squishing his face against the glass with Zhanna.

Sniper too was enjoying the view as Spy was reading a newspaper. One collected off of one of the soldiers at the base.” Pauling. You should take a look at dis. It looks like more than two of the military bases have been attacked by an ‘unknown assailant’. Just who are we dealing with here?”

Pauling sighed as she kept her eyes ahead. Her attention was fixed on both Spy and the ‘road’ ahead.

“Paulin’.” Demo said calmly as he leaned in close.” Yew know more about this than yer lettin’ on, lass.” He said as Pauling gave off a look of dejection on her face.

As she spoke she sounded sad. “Who is hunting you down is the former mercs that served the Mann's before you. The Classics. They served the man's for thirty years till Blutarch Mann developed the Cloning system.” She paused as she shut her eyes.” They were brutal. Determined in battle and almost always obliterated whatever merc Blutarch sent their way.”

Demo shook his head. “So yer tellin me that we're bein’ hunted down by our predecessors?”

“Yes. They were RED's.”

Spy looked to Demo.“And apparently they were hired by Gray Mann to hunt us down. As well as de Australium.”

Pauling piped up again. “And your parents have the last remaining stache on the planet, Mundy.”

Mundy shut his eyes and slid back in his seat. The thought of his biological parents alone made him feel sick. But the overall feeling of them getting killed from his predecessors made the lump in his throat grow twelve times worse.

“Aye don't worry lad. I'm sure they're fine.” Demo reassured.

“I don't even know em and I feel like I'm gonna be responsible for their deaths..” he groans as he pulls his hat over his head. He couldn't help it. He felt guilty for something that wasn't even his fault. His expression unmoving as the hours went by. He was thinking. What would he say to them?

‘Mum, Dad. I'm yer long lost son. I may or may not be hunted down by these guys that want to kill me. And may kill you too if you're found harboring Australium?’

He squinted as the time went by. And before they knew it. They were there. Beneath the surface of the ocean was a large dome that harbored a city. But the city was underwater. His eyes scanned the city in confusion. How did a city manage to get this deep under the water? No doubt it was science but still. It looked like they didn't think the process through and something caused the city to become submerged.

They entered through a hole at the top of the dome and made their way through it. The city was empty. The buildings were covered in plankton and strips of seaweed that clung to the roof tops. This garnered the attention of everyone as Soldier was pinned on almost everything with his girlfriend. But there was a building over in the corner of the dome. One part that was separated from the others.

As the submarine drew closer the metal doors opened from above to allow them entrance. And Pauling took it. As she pulled in the water slid off the submarine back into the water. Leaving the cockpit with the others they were suddenly met with air. Cool air. They were thousands of leagues below the sea and they were breathing. Sniper took his hat off as he looked around. Walking into the large what looked to be a docking bay for other submarines. And entered a small warehouse on the left. Nothing but tools strewn about. And Pauling was taking the lead as she held out a device in her hands and followed a blip in the device's radar.

Everyone was quiet for the moment. Their legs carried them with her till they were all met with the sound of arguing.

“..Well if it wasn't for you! The city wouldn't be underwater!” A woman's voice rang out beyond the metal walls.

A male voice. Older soon followed.” Bah! How many times have I told you woman!? That was THEIR fault! Not mine! You hear!?”

“This is the reason why I drink! Because of you putting the blame on them when submerging New Zealand was YOUR idea!”

The woman gave off a slight ‘tch’ as the team drew closer. As they entered a room adjacent to the docking bay they looked upon two people. One was an old man. A long white beard and hair wearing odd green robes. The woman in front of him had gray in her hair but it was mostly white as she wore similar clothes to him but more fit for a woman. She held a glass of wine in her hand, downing it rather aggressively before she stopped. Her brown hues caught sight of the team as she pulled her cup away from her lips.

“Bill-Bell..are you seeing this?” The woman asked the old man.

Bill-Bell raised his arms with a wide smile. “By New Zealand's ass..its people Lar-Nah!”

“Oh uh..hi..hello!” Pauling waved as the old man and woman drew closer to them. Mundy however was caught off guard. They..were his parents..? He raised a brow and approached them. Pushing past Pauling as he eyed the old man. The old man leaning over to who he could presume was his mother.

He could hear him whisper, “Why's that one lookin at me funny, Lar-Nah..?” He asked as Mundy cleared his throat.

“Mum..Dad..?” The sudden words from Mundy made the two's law's drop.

“My god..Bill-Bell..its Mun-Dee!” The woman said as the old man smiled.

“It's our boy! How'd you survive!?”

Mundy gave them a confused look. His eyes narrowed deeply as he tilted his head.” Survive? What do ya mean?”

Bill-Bell approached Mundy and wrapped his arm around him. “Never mind! I have an important question for you!” He draws his face closer to his ear and whispers into it.” You got any money..?”

“What!? No, I don't have any money!” He yells as he shoves him away. His teeth bore as Pauling gave a nervous grin and pulled him aside.

“Ahem..ma'am..sir..where's your Aulstralium..?” She asked rather bluntly. As the two look at each other.

“Our what?” The man asked as Pauling groaned.” It looks like gold but it's not! It kinda glows.”

Bill-Bell gasped. “Oh! You mean our paint!?”

“Your..what?” Pauling asked.

Before they knew it they were met with a rocket painted in Australium. The whole thing was coated from top to bottom in the stuff giving it a slight glow.

“Can I have some of that..?” Pailing asked Lar-Nah as she merely passed her the bottle of wine she was carrying and allowed Pauling to take a swig out of it. Her hair frizzing from confusion and anger as buckets of Australium paint lay empty on the ground with frozen paint brushes. Her eyes twitched as Lar-Nah nodded.

“Now you understand my drinking. And it only took you what..? Five seconds?”.

Pyro walked up to Bill-Bell and tilted her head.

‘If you're down here. How did Mundy get out?’

“A long time ago, twenty five and a half years ago to be exact. I convinced the entirety of New Zealand to submerge itself under the ocean. I figured out the world was ending! So the only way to survive was to go under water.” He sounded so damn proud of himself it made Mundy sick thinking he was related to this man. His eye twitching as he clenched his fist.

Bill-Bell continued his story.” Needless to say I made another discovery. And the only way to escape was to leave on a space ship that I built for only one man. Me! But despite my greatest efforts. Your mother denied me this freedom and dragged me down with her. While we were fighting. You crawled into the cockpit. Kicked the activation lever. And off you went.”

“So what yer sayin’..is that you were goin’ to leave me to die down here!?” Mundy yelled as Bill-Bell raised his hands in mock surrender.

“What!? No no- okay maybe..but that's besides the point. How did you come back from space?” He asked finally. Mundy's expression shifted from angry. Too angry and confused as he grabbed his father by the collar.

“What do you mean? I never was in space.” He spat.” These past twenty five and a half years I've been livin’ a life both in Australia and as a merc! What in the fuck makes you think I've ever been to Space!? The rocket never made it there!” He yelled. Each word echoed through the room. Spy and Demo watching it all unfold with Pyro standing awkwardly in the corner.

“WAIT..”Lar-Nah piped in. Her voice was loud as she drew closer to him.” Your telling me there's no lava covering the earth's surface!?”

“No..” Mundy said.

Suddenly she ran. Up into the cockpit of the ship and pressed the lever. Everyone watched in shock as Pauling tried to run after her. But Spy stopped her before she could. The power grew higher as the fuel burst into the engine. And before they knew it. There was a gaping hole in the bubble they were in. Pauling's eyes wide as it all happened so fast no one could stop her. Her hair shaggy and unkempt at this point as water began to rise. Sniper let Bill-Bell go as he ran over to Pauling's side to assure she was okay.

Everyone was in shock.

“It's gone..all of the Australium on earth..its gone..” she was distraught. Her mother..what would Helen think of her now? Was she even capable of even being called a Daughter at this point for all of the failures that she's experienced. Sliding onto her knees she looked at the floor and sobbed. Her fingers warping into a fist and slamming it into the metal beneath her.

“Paulin’ now ain't the time ta be doin’ this lass!” Demo said as he looked down at her. Pyro activates her machine to express her thoughts.

‘Demo's right! We can't sit here. We'll drown!’.

“We gotta go.” Spy said in a solemn tone. Mundy tried to get the distraught woman to her feet as the water level was rising rapidly. The water is already at their ankles. By that point each second it got deeper. And when they reached the submarine. Mundy paused. His eyes wide as he looked up into the cockpit where Bill-Bell was sitting. His expression shocked then turned to a cheesy smile as he yelled in anger.

“You fuckin asshole! I find you, I'm gonna kill you!” He yelled. Not only did the last stache of Australium on earth get turned into paint. But it also got launched into space. And now? Their submarine was now being stolen. Pauling searched her pockets to suddenly realize that she left the keys in the sub. His eyes wide as the sub submerged into the water. Leaving them stranded.

“Wow! I didn't know your father was such a dick, Sniper!” Soldier said with a smile. Completely unfazed by the circumstances they were in as Zhanna hummed and nodded in agreement.

“Da. Stalin treated children better den dat.”

“Enough! Can't you see we're going to fuckin drown!?” Spy yelled as Demo took his place next to Mundy. Placing a hand on his shoulder.

“Lad. I'm sorry..to learn yer dad is such a douchebag. Gotta be hard..”

“Is now really the time for this?” Mundy asked with a raised brow.

“Ay..it's not. But still. Gotta put it out there before we do.”

Before they knew it. Something was approaching. Something big as it surfaced. Water spilling from it as it slowly raised from the water from where the sub left.

“Did he come back?” Mundy asked. His eyes looked up..before it happened.

‘BANG..BANG BANG.’

His body felt cold. His eyes wide as blood left the wounds that coated his chest. Demo quickly grabbed onto him holding him up as everything went in slow motion for him.

Pauling yelled. Soldier looked unfazed but not happy whatsoever. Pyro rushed over at his side and tried to put pressure on the wounds as Mundy looked up. His eyes meeting the team..them..the Classics. Medic..their medic. Ludwig at the side of the largest one as that one who could only be assumed to be their ‘Heavy’. Smiled evilly down at them. As a Sniper on the highest platform held a smoking sniper rifle at his side.

“I hope the rest of you Rejects don't die that easily!” Cheavy chuckled as he leaned over the guard rail to their sub. His smile grows each second in amusement.” So.. who wants to go first~?”

Demo looks down at Mundy. His head goes limp as he groans in pain from the impact. “I don't..wanna go..” he mutters to Demo. His eyes and head lulled back as Pyro presses into his chest harder but to no avail. The wounds were too grievous for them to do anything. His expression went cold as his eyes grew heavier.” At least..I'll be with Jenna..and my parents again..”

“No lad! Common, don't die on me!” Demo says as he hoists him into his arms bridal style. Trying his best to keep him above water since they were above waist height by that point. But he got no answer. Nothing. Not even a grunt as Mundy's eyes were lifeless and cold. Demo's eyes wide with tears as he looked up at Cheavy and yelled.” I'll fuckin kill yah! You heartless bastards!”

“Oh? And how are you going to do that, clone?” Cheavy asked in return as they lowered a platform into the water. Demo looked at it with a sneer as everyone but him raised their hands. Their heads lowered.” That's what I thought. Now be a bunch of good prisoners and get your asses onto the sub. I have questions.” Cheavy said as on the ramp stood a man with a beard holding a shot gun up towards them. At his side another man with a pistol stood firmly between them as they all marched their way up the ramp into the sub.

Last was Demo. Carrying Mundy's lifeless body in his arms with everything he could. And he fell to his knees. Dropping Mundy onto the floor once he reached level ground. His body fell limp like a rag doll onto the floor as his back was slammed into with the butt of a gun. A sharp groan left his lips as he looked at Mundy. What was left of him. His body sprawled out like a puppet.

“On your feet!” Ross hissed as he kicked a boot into Demo's side as a pair of hands grabbed his wrist and attempted to put them behind his back. The others were far ahead of him by that point. Murdoc was left behind. But when they least expected it..Demo fought back. His head shot back head butting the man who was trying to bind him. His eyes wide as blood spilled from his nose as the other man, Greg tried to subdue him only to have Murdoc grab him by his throat in rage. His eyes filled with anger as he punched at the other man as hard as he could.

“I'll kill yah! All of yah! Ya hear me!?”

His body lifting itself up he felt high on adrenaline as he kicked at the body of Ross. His body fell back with a grunt as his back hit the metal wall.

Greg grabbed the radio and radioed in, “We're having some trouble with the Demoman down here, Boss!” His voice was desperate as Ross got to his feet and locked hands with Murdoc. Pushing into each other as Ross tripped on Mundy's body. Sending him sprawling to the floor.

Murdoc has a target in his eyes and he fully intends to kill. He never felt such rage in his life. He felt hyped up on drugs that give him numbing pain and other opioids to fuel his rage. And it showed as he bore his teeth and wrapped his hands around his neck to choke him. Greg trying to get him off of Ross failed instantly as Murdoc threw him back. Ross’ hands wrapped around Murdoc's hand.

Till a massive form overtook him from behind and grabbed him by the back of the neck. His hand was large. Cheavy bashed Murdoc’s head into the metal wall.

“Are you done?” Cheavy asked as he watched Murdoc struggle to get to his feet. Throwing a weak punch towards Cheavy who grabbed his hand and slowly pushed his hand back. A sharp punch to the chest made Demo lose all of the air in his body as he collapsed to the ground and suddenly. Lost consciousness as Cheavy kicked him hard across the head. A sigh leaving his lips as he looked at the mess and glared at Ross.” You let this,” he gestures to Murdoc.” Get the better of you?”

Ross stuttered. “B-Boss, I'm sorry..I didn't know he'd be that strong!”

“Look at him!” Cheavy kicked the man in the side for good measure.” We just got the girl and now we have the team except for two. And you. Let this..get the better of you now?” Cheavy leaned in close as he bore his teeth.” Don't tell me you're growing soft?”

“What!? No! I ain't soft!”

“Then act like it!” He smacks Ross upside the head, a slight groan leaving his lips as Greg lowered his head shamefully beside him.

“You. Take this trash to the cells.” He said as he gestured to Ross to pick up the Demo and move him.

“And Greg. You move him to the medical bay.” He grabs Greg and shoves him towards Mundy's corpse. As the two got their duties done. Cheavy made his sights set on a particular room. A deep smile on his face as he rolled his shoulders.” Now princess. Hows about a heart to heart..” he mutters. And as he opened the door. His eyes widened..

She was gone..

Chapter Text

Hours Earlier In Brisbane Australia.

Jenna walked freely. Her clothes changed. As well as Jebidiah who now bore an eyepatch over his right eye since his optic eye got fried. They got there via stowaway on a cruise ship. Playing the role of hard workers before they reached the port of Brisbane Australia. After stealing money and obtaining new clothes. Jenna believed that the team was somewhere in Australia. How? A hunch. That or it was the fact that Mundy lived in Australia somewhere in the outback.

They wandered the city. Tired but happy with full stomachs and energized.

Jenna couldn't help but feel contempt towards Jebidiah for his overall choices regarding her legs. It prevented her from going home to her mother. She was a girl with a target on her back for the second time in a row. And Jeb keeping secrets was something she didn't like. So as much as they stayed together. They rarely spoke to each other since Yeti Park. So as they made their way through the streets. Jenna looked at a restaurant and sighed. Looking at her reflection. Her legs were covered up by jeans and yet. She couldn't find a pair of shoes that could fit her robotic feet now.

“I'm hungry..” She said, pulling out the wallet she stole on the ship it only had a few dollars left in it. Not enough to pay for a meal. But Jeb placed hand on her shoulder and took a breath.

He spoke gently to her. “They aren't gonna accept American currency here anyway, Jen. Best not think about it for now.”

She pulls her shoulder away and walks off once more. His expression went cold as he shook his head. He was trying his damndest to make it up to her. But how could he? No matter how many times he tried to explain it to her she'd brush him off with a scoff. He tried taking advice the vet gave him, and it wasn't working. So much for that.

He followed her down an alleyway and to another street.” Jenna.” He said. Trying to get her attention. But to no avail. “Don't ignore me dammit!” Jeb yelled as he walked up to her. Till he felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end. He only got that feeling when he knew he was being watched by someone.” Jenna common. We gotta go somewhere more secure.”

“Where!? We're in Brisbane! There's no place secure enough!” She yelled in frustration before she stopped. Rubbing her temples she thought to herself. “What about the docks..? They should be empty. I saw them when we landed. There was nothing there.”

“Alright. We will go there.” He didn't want to scare her. But the thought of someone watching them couldn't be shaken from his mind. His head spun. His face probably never gets feeling back where his eye once was. He wrapped his arm around her and tried to lead her but she brushed him off once again. Her face showed her disdain for him. Appearing angry and distant as she began to walk far ahead of him once more. Here's making her move faster than him by a mile as she slunked into a crowd of people.

This wasn't good..

Jeb immediately lost sight of her. His eyes scanned the people as he cursed the lack of his optic eye at this moment. Pushing and shoving his way through the crowd.

“Jenna!” He yelled. But no answer. People looked at him weirdly as he continued his pursuit for Jenna through the crowd. Till he saw her enter another alleyway. A sigh leaving his lips as he rushed after her. His body went lax as he approached her within the depths of the alleyway. “Girl you gotta quit doin’ that!” He said sternly.”

As he approached her he was met with a swift kick to the side. His body being kicked down to the ground as he got to his feet quickly. His eyes wide as he looked up at the figure that assumed Jenna's form. The Spy. From the team of mercs that have been hunting Jenna down. No..how'd they find them!? He reached for his revolver that still remained with him. Considering he lost his shotgun in Yeti Park he had to polish the hell out of the revolver to keep it from rusting after their little dip in Brazil.

But it was swiftly kicked away as the gun skid across the ground. Spy kept his face hidden by his mask pulled over his face as he spoke.

“You know..it's easy to lose someone in a crowd.”

“Where is the girl!?” Jeb snapped.

“How should I know?” Jeb couldn't tell if he was being honest or not. His eye narrowed as he got to his feet and swung his hand. Only to be dodged by the much older man. How could a man as old as him move so nimble?

Henry cocked his head as he picked up the gun and cocked the hammer back. Jeb raising his hands. Henry's voice cold and unfeeling.

“Tell me, Cowboy boy..is it worth it? Coddling the girl like she was your own? We both know she isn't. Yiu could just walk away. I can let you go right now and never speak a word of it to the Boss.”

“Not fuckin’ happinin’. If it means my life protectin’ that gi-” he stopped. Rephrasing his words to something better as he said her name.” Jenna. Then so be it. And know I'm not going down without a fight!”

He luckily lunched forward in time for the bullet to miss his side. Pushing the gun up he kneed the man in his stomach and punched him with his free hand. His teeth bore in frustration as he worked his weapon out of his fingers. Each punch and kick from the Engineer earned a grunt of pain in response to his actions. Henry however was far from catching a death note that day. He grabbed a piece of wood beside him and swung it at Jeb. The wood broke into splinters on his forearm as he yelled in pain before he realized the impact might have broken the limb. It hurts to move. It mingled and he could have sworn he felt a sharp ‘pop’.

“You're running out of luck, cowboy.” Henry said bluntly as Jeb looked at his arm then back to the snake. He hated Spies. God on green earth he hated them within every fiber of his being. His eye was as cold as his expression. Till he dove for his revolver. Grabbing it with his good hand he cocked the revolver and spun around to shoot at the Spy…

Where'd he go? His eye and gun scanned every inch of that alleyway but nothing. Till a sharp blow to his cheek brought him down.

Henry knelt down next to the heavily damaged cowboy and took Jeb’s revolver into his hand and racked the hammer one last time before placing the barrel against his side. “Last chance to walk away. I'm being very generous here.”

“Alright!”

Henry raised a brow. “Pardon..?”

“I'll walk away..” he said. His voice laboured and breathless as he looked at the gun at his side.” I'll walk..”

“Cute..” Henry mused with a slight smile under his mask that covered the lower half of his face. Not before standing up. And giving him a sharp kick in the head. Rendering him unconscious.” As much as I believe that bullshit..I'll let you live.” He whispered as he took his cowboy hat off of Jeb's head and put it on his own. He held a watch over Jebidiah's body and scanned him. With a couple of taps. He turned into the cowboy. The size matching and all as he took his revolver and pocketed it.

Cheavy's voice rang out from his ear piece as he assumed the identity of Jeb. ‘Henry! Are you there!? You take care of the Clone!?’

His voice mimics Jebidiah's perfectly. “Clone's down, Boss. He won't be waking up any time soon.” He lied partly. As much as the man wasn't dead he certainly was out cold.

‘Good work. She's looking for you. Better act right. Don't fuck this up.’

“What do you take me for?” He asked mostly himself and not through the comm link. Now was the time to play a part.

Jenna looked and looked. Maybe she shouldn't have just wandered off. As much as she didn't like Jeb for getting her in this mess. He was the only one protecting her. And this was a big problem considering those mercs could be anywhere. Her blue hues wander the crowd for any sign of a cowboy hat. But nothing.

“Shit..shit shit! Why'd you do that!?” She shook her head as she spoke to herself. He's no doubt looking for her too. Now she just felt like a dick. She should honestly. Having a man who saved her life shouldn't be scorned over a mistake. He didn't know necessarily that the stuff he used to make her legs was the rarest mineral on the planet. Hell even rarer than diamonds apparently. And it scared her. But she wasn't alone to experience that fear.

He's been trying and trying to apologize. But she didn't want to hear it. Until it was too late and they were separated.

“Jeb! Jeb!?” She called out. Nervousness overtaking her as she attempted to rush into the crowd till a hand grabbed her shoulder. Making her gasp till she saw who it was. Wrapping her arms around him instantly she tightened her grip on Jebidiah.” Oh Jesus..there you are..I thought I lost you..” she started as she pushed back and sighed.” Jeb..I'm sorry for the way I've been treatin’ you. I shouldn't let it tear us apart like dis. It was a mistake. And besides..for right now..you're all I got.”

Jebidiah listened to every word and smiled. “Shucks..it's alright Jenna. Hell, life is full of mistakes to be made, right?” He asked as Jenna smiled back. Rubbing the back of her neck she nodded.

“Yeah I guess yer right about dat.”

“Now where were we headed? In that kerfuffle I lost track of where you wanted to head to.”

“The Docks. They're closed, I think.” She said as she looked beyond the horizon to see the beach not far from there. A smile crossed her lips.” We can come up with a plan to find the team there. Away from prying ears if ya know what I mean.” She nudged him playfully. As she led the way she occasionally had to slow down for Jebidiah to catch up. It was normal considering how fast her legs were. “You want me to piggy back you again, Jeb? Just like back at Charles Darling's Zoo.”

“Nah.” He instantly declined. His hand waved lightly as he shook his head.” Need me some exercise anyway. Keep goin’. I'll be right behind yah.” He chuckled.

Jenna's eyes narrowed. He's acting strange. Jeb rarely laughed. He wasn't much of a laugher and that made her feel a little off. But brushed it off lightly. Turning around she walked ahead and down a jogging trail that led to the beach. Her robotic feet dug into it as she took in the scent of salty ocean air.

“Okay..” Jenna sighed and smiled. The cool breeze filling her body made her mind clear up almost instantly.” I'm thinking..”

“No need.” She gasped as she looked back at Jebidiah. His revolver pointed at her from a distance as her eyes widened. His form shifted from a puff of smoke as she watched who she thought was Jeb turn into one of the men she saw at Yeti Park.

“Fuck! What did you do!?” She yelled at him. Clenching her fist as she stepped back. Racking the hammer he kept the gun pointed firmly on her. Her eyes wide as she bore her teeth.” What did you do to Jebidiah!?”

“Calm down, girl. He's fine.” He said coolly. As they stood there the ATV from Yeti Park approached from behind the Spy. Stopping directly behind him as Jenna glared at the big man who left the upper most part of the ATV.

“Good work, Henry.” Cheavy mused as he looked Jenna up and down.” Now..be a good girl. And get the hell into the ATV.”

“How about fuck you!” She rolls aside as Henry preemptively pulls the trigger to the revolver. Missing her instantly before she quickly turned to run. Cheavy yelling in rage as Henry hopped onto the ATV's side and climbed a set of ladders before the vehicle started moving.

She was headed towards the docks. Her legs moved quickly to the speeds she reached in the Jungle. This time there was nothing to slow either of them down.

Cheavy looked over to Fred who popped his head out of the door and held a small device in his hands.

“Will it work, Fred?” Cheavy asked as he took the device and looked at it. It looked like a sphere with a single red button on the top of it. Blue probes protruded from its sides as Fred spoke as quickly as possible to explain it.

“Garenteed. From what Vergil saw there apparently was a small mechanical piece connected to her spine allowing the brain to send signals to the brain. It should stop her legs dead in her tracks.”

Cheavy smiled darkly as he watched Jenna approach the Docks. Drawing closer and closer to the wooden floorboards. “Then let's stop the rat before she escapes.”

She made it to the docks. Her legs ran as fast as they could carry her. And as she looked back. Something unexpected happened. Her legs stopped moving. A deep shock trailing up her spine as she screamed. Her body tensed up like she was stunned by a taser from a cop. And as she fell. Her body fell off the docks into the water below. Her legs refused to move as she sank just to the point where water was over her head. She looked down then up. The salt in her eyes made her eyes burn and itch as she tried to get her legs to work but they were as stiff as a board. She couldn't breathe. She was running out of air as she looked around for anything to help her. Nothing. Her heart pounding in her chest. She was going to drown. And there was nothing to save her from it. Jeb was gone..and her legs were damned to her. And as she opened her mouth for a breath. She swallowed the salt water. Grabbing onto her chest clawing at it. She felt a large hand grab her by the back of her shirt lifting her out of the water.

She coughed and sputtered. Her eyes dizzy from nearly blacking out before she came face to face with the man. The big bastard that nearly killed her more times than she could count. Cheavy. His goggles hid his eyes as he chuckled at her.

“Look at what the cat dragged in. Our girl of honor fell right into our hands, boys.”

His entire team was looking at her. Her arms grabbing at his hand trying to claw at him to let go. But his gloves protected her from her attempts to escape. She glared at him. She didn't say a thing. Only glaring daggers to the point he tilted his head.

“Whats wrong? Cat got your tongue?” Cheavy mused lightly. “Tell me..are you ready for some fun?”

She spits at him. Her wad of spit mingled with some saltwater that entered her mouth from earlier the wad slowly crawled down his face as he bore his teeth and wiped his face with his free hand.

“Very well. I see how it is..” he whispered as he raised his fist and punched her square in the face. Strong enough to knock her unconscious for she wasn't all that strong. She went limp in his arms as he slung her over his shoulder and smirked.” Alright boys. Pack her up. I got news that the mercs are headed to New Zealand. Get the Sub ready. We'll keep her in the boiler room.”

Beatrice walked up to him.“Boss. What about the Medic?”

“What about Frankenstein?” He asked as she looked at the unconscious girl and whispered into his ear.

“He's going to see her. We should keep this from him I reckon.”

Cheavy laughed.“I got it handled. Frankenstein knows his place.” He began, “Even so I'll teach him a lesson he'll never forget. Only the classics have access to the girl until I get Frankenstein to cut the Australium free from her corpse. Got it!?”

Every merc nodded and gave an affirmative ‘Boss’. Before entering the ATV.

After a few minutes of travel they approached a large vessel. Larger than the ATV by a mile as they parked their vehicle and all made their way into the Submarine that was locked privately on a far off dock away from the main Docks of Brisbane.

Carrying her like a sack of potatoes on his shoulders he took her into the side room where Beatrice and Ross set up a chair and with zip ties. Tied her arms down to the arms of the chair. Keeping her snug in place as Fred placed the device to her spine.

“She tries to move this will give her a nice shock.” Fred said with a slight huff. Almost sounding guilty about it but Cheavy paid it no mind as he crossed his arms and admired it. The legs were his. He just had to make the medic remove them from her. Not that she'd survive the procedure. Not that he even cared. He just wanted his eighty bars back to their rightful owner. Him.

“Mnnm..” Jenna groaned. As her legs moved she tensed up immediately from the intense shock that made her body go stiff again.”AHHGH!”

Cheavy yanked her head back by her ponytail that was still wet from her dunk. Looking her in the eye through his goggles. “No where for you to run this time, Finch.” He paused as he smiled down at her. “Count your blessings. You're gonna need it.”

Her head was throbbing in pain from not just the punch but the shocks that shot up her body. She was trapped. She figured that out quickly as she looked around at the room she was in. The room was lit by a dim red light. Pipes lining the walls all around her. She was no doubt in the boiler room of. Somewhere. And as she collected her bearings she was caught off guard by the massive hand that rugged at her chin.

She tried to pull away but all that got her was another shock up the body.

“Don't fuckin’ touch me..” Jenna huffed as Cheavy chuckled slowly.

“You got spunk, kid. That's for sure.” He whispered.” Shame I'm gonna have to kill you.”

“Bullshit.” Jenna spat at him. This made Cheavy pause.

“Oh?”

Jenna sneered. “Quit actin’ like you like me. You don't really like me. Yer just fuckin’ with me at this point.”

Cheavy laughed as he put his hands on her arms. Slowly squeezing them to the point it became uncomfortable.” You're smarter than you look, Finch. You're right..I don't like you. In fact you've been a pain in my ass since I learned you're wearing my stache.”

“And what makes it yours!?” Jenna asked.

Cheavy slammed his fist into her stomach as he growled at her. “Because I spent the last thirty years serving the Mann's, stealing each of those bars from under Redmond's nose!” He wrapped his hand around her throat pulling her close. Her coughing and sputtering stopped as soon as she came face to face with the bastard.” I stole those fair and square. Each one was poised to be given to my team to make us live forever.” He whispered to her.” Or at least a good few hundred years each. Now..you're wearing them.”

“Not by choice! I didn't want this!” Jenna coughed a few times through the sentence and clenched her fists.

“Cry me a river, Finch. It happened. And now you're going to deal with the consequences of someone else's actions.” He said. Stirn furrowed to his brow as Jenna leaned back into the chair to prevent him from getting any closer.” Tell you what. I'll ask the doctor to put you under before the operation. Eh? Painless death for you.”

Jenna scoffed. “Fuck off. You seem like the type that enjoys a good scream.”

Cheavy wrapped his fingers around her chin to force her to look him in the eye. “You're not wrong, I do. Not my first time killing someone slowly. But you? I'll enjoy it more than the rest.”

“Sick fuck..” Jenna murmured as he took his leave. Then it hit her. The gravity of the situation. Guilt, fear and all sorts of other negative emotions filled her body as she began to sob. Her eyes watery and large from the weight on her shoulders. She was going to die. Her mother will never hear from her again. And if she does. No doubt she'd be sent back in a cardboard box wrapped in a rug.

She tried to move but the device they put on her back kept shocking her. Leaving her legs useless and inoperable. Something she didn't even know was possible as she yelled.

Minutes earlier.

Jebidiah was pissed. Beyond pissed as he watched Cheavy take her and throw her over his shoulder. He lied of course. He wasn't just gonna look away and let this happen. Jenna..was the most important thing to him at that moment and he'd rather die than let that happen. He clung to the ladder of the ATV and had it take him to where he needed to be. With her despite him being left on the outside into hiding. His eye squinted as they approached the submarine and took a deep exhale. Stealth was not his forte. He was better off dancing a modern jig than this shit. Fixing his eyepatch he sneered. And as they entered he cursed to himself and slowly followed them from behind. Using the connectors to the bridge onto the vessel as cover in case someone looked. He didn't pay any attention as to where they took her. The last he looked they took her down the corridor and to the right. The interior was covered in red lights. Dark and damp.

Just what Jeb hated in any place. It reminded him of Teufort. He slowly made his way down the hall and peeked his head around the corner. He saw a door close. It could be a gamble. There were eight of them and only one of him. If he got caught he'd be done for. Unless he had a weapon. In which he didn't. He made his way down a set of corridors and paused half way down. Till the sub shook. They were moving.

His legs wobbled a bit from the initial dive and take off. He was fine after. Each corridor looked the same. Each door didn't have a label till he reached one. His look of annoyance turned to a smirk. He was doing something right to gain this favor. The armory. But it was locked. Sneering, he looked at the handle and kicked it with his foot as hard as he could. And…bingo. The door creaked open to his liking. Entering he eyed the weapons. Countless it looked like. Grenade launchers to fine end pistols. And there on the table laid the wrangler. His shotgun. A smile crossed his face as he picked it up and examined it.

“Look at that.” Jeb said to himself as he chuckled.” They were nice enough to go ahead and polish her for me.” It looked practically brand new. He couldn't complain as he searched for the right ammo and stuffed his pockets to the brim with shells. Even loading the shotgun to its fullest before heading off in search for Jenna in the maze.

He eyed each room. Carefully opening doors a crack to peek inside for any physical sign of Jenna. Nothing. Till he reached a room where he saw someone he hasn't seen in forever. Well. His original hadn't.. Fred Conagher. Working on a contraption that seemed to glow a bright blue. The door having been opened caught his attention as he looked in Jebidiah's direction.

His expression was cold as he pointed his shotgun at him.

Dropping his wrench he got up from his chair and looked at him as if he hadn't recognized him.

“Dell..?”

Jebidiah scoffed. “You know very well I ain't that hack.”

Fred sighed. Sitting down at his chair for he knew he was in no room to argue with him. He had to follow instructions or he'd kill him.

“I thought they killed you.” Fred said with a calm voice. Cordial as if they were having the first family meeting in forever. His expression is calm. Something Jebidiah was honestly expecting.

“You don't seem all that thankful about it.”

“Despite you being a clone..I still can't picture my son being killed. I never thought Dad would rope you into the business with him. That woman..is a devil.”

“You're talking to the wrong man about this kinda stuff, Fred. I ain't Dell. Never will be. I'm my own Conagher.” He stated clearly. His words were a deep almost emotionless droll as he spoke. Cocking the shotgun he narrowed his gaze. “Tell me where the girl is.”

“I can't, Del-”

“Thai isn't my fuckin’ name! It's Jebidiah!” He slammed his fist into the side paneling on the wall. Denting it as he growled through his teeth.” Better count yourself lucky I'm not shootin’ you right now, Fred. Because the last thing I need is for your team to know I'm here.” He was fuming. Angry. Not just because Jenna most likely was being tortured. But he was face to face with the man who left his original when he was five. Leaving him to be raised by his grandfather. “You haven't changed. One bit. Always about yourself.”

“It ain't that..Jebidiah..”

“Then what the fuck is it then!?”

“He's crazy..” Fred muttered. His eyes looking away.”You see when I became a merc. The first in the family to be one. I was given an option. Fight with the best..or lose everything..Helen told me that if I didn't stay with the Classics..you'd die..by Chevy's hands.”

Jebidiah's lip raised to this words. Not beliving a single word he said as he got closer to him. Pushing the barrel of the gun against Fred's chest.” Believable. But not the person to be tellin’ the sob story to. He's no doubt dead as we speak. Or licking her boots. Either or. I want nothin’ to do with the family business.”

“Don't do this..okay okay!” Fred took a deep breath as he began to speak again.” S-She's in the boiler room. She has a device attached to her back that's keeping her legs from moving.”

“Where exactly is it?” Jeb asked as he pressed the barrel deeper into Fred.

“D..down the hall and to the left!”

Without warning Jebidiah slammed the butt of his shotgun into Fred's head and watched as his head hit the table with a ‘slam’. Running a hand over his burned skin he sighed. This man wasn't worth anything to him. He wouldn't even consider him his father even if he tried. He had no father. The closest thing he had to a mother was a tube. Family. The concept used to be foreign to him. Till he met Jenna on the train feild that day when she hugged him.

Without a crazy person to hold him down. Without four crazy people holding him down..he was free to express himself. And right now? He was rushing to save the second thing he cared about besides Pyro.

He went exactly where he was told. And with a swift click the door opened to reveal a disheveled Jenna. Wet and damp from nearly drowning. Her head slump as she sobbed. And he did not hesitate to get her out.

“J..Jeb!?” Jenna asked as Jeb raised a finger to his lips to hush her. Trying to get her to keep it down so the other mercs didn't hear. And made his way to the back of her chair where he took a hold of the device attatched to her back and pulled it off. Dropping it on the metal floor he stomped on it. Breaking it instantly. Then came the ziptie's. He didnt have a knife. But he reached into his pocket for a hair pin. And in between the little square bulb keeping the zip ties in place. Pressed down on the tab and pulled her hands free.

“Can yah move your legs Jenna?” Jeb whispered.

Jenna finished rubbing her wrists to then try to move her legs but nothing. Till the foot glitches and kicks upward. Almost kicking Jebidiah in the process.” I..I'm sorry. Whatever that thing was..it not only hurt but it took away my ability to move my legs.”

“It's alright..almost kicked me there. Common. Let's see if you can move.” He holds his hand out to her and helps her to her feet. Her legs twist and twitch a bit but they slowly begin to work in her favor as they did before. A smile leaving her lips she nodded. Jeb doing the same as he instinctivly reached to fix his cowboy hat that no longer existed. Shame..” We're good then. Common. We need to find a safe place to hide.”

Jenna rose a brow.“Oh really? Where? This place is crawling with Mercs that want me dead.”

“Common. I'll figure it out..”

As they slunk into the hallway she felt the sub slow. Spotting a window in a room on the left with no one in it. It was the infermery. Approched the window and peered out.

Her eyes met the group of mercs. Her group of mercs. Her team. Mixed with the BLU's. Wherever they were it was filling with water fast. Till her eyes met Mundy. Her smile grew…till it died in the matter of seconds. Three gunshots rang out. Opting Jebidiah to wrap his hand around her mouth diving to the floor with her.

He was nect to her the whole time. Her scream would have been heard by everyone if he didn't muffle her cries with his hand. Tears gathering in her eyes as she kicked at the floor and held onto Jebidiah with everything she had. This wasn't the first time..she thought she saw him die in Teufort. But that was a miss..these shots landed in vital places no doubt. And it was clear too them..that Sniper..Mundy. was gone. No respawn to bring him back..and he was right there. What felt like a arm's length away. Gone with the snap of a finger.

“Jenna..I'm sorry..”