Desolate 216

Jeku Member Posts: 32	Desolate 216 Jun 18, 2015 21:39:36 GMT -8 Share Select Post Deselect Post Link to Post Member Give Gift Back to Top Post by Jeku on Jun 18, 2015 21:39:36 GMT -8 Principal Authors: Jeku Who can post on this thread: Jeku I want to receive critical responses: No I will be using standard Universe rules here (e.g., canon-only, fleet limits, etc.): No

Jeku
Member

Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jun 24, 2015 20:22:01 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jun 24, 2015 20:22:01 GMT -8

There's nothing like fresh coffee in the morning. Jack sipped on his bitter coffee while the waitress set down a glass of steaming hot tea just in front of Simone. Although I'd prefer actual coffee and not this artificial crap we have here..

You're lucky we have the artificial crap, Jack. Soon we'll be running out of sugar and when that goes you'll also be eating artificial dessert. Enjoy! The waitress said to him after overhearing his conversation, he got her attention before she went to serve the other young couple sitting in the corner.

Wait. What do you mean we're running out of sugar?

He was surprised to hear they were running out of anything at all. These Vaults were self sufficient and the soil on the lower levels were still fertile since it was so far underground, able to grow a variety of different things to keep this colony alive. I'm only a waitress honey. All i know is that we've received less then half of supplies then last months shipment.

He looked across the table at Simone.
Do you know anything about this?

After all her mother was on the council. Even though they were all underground this Vault was still a big place and she rarely seen her mother throughout the day except for lights out which came at 10pm, use to be at midnight two years ago. You know I would tell you if i knew something. If there's anyone that would know anything it would be your uncle seeing as he works down there..

He fell back in his seat and sipped on his coffee.
I doubt it...he hasn't been down there in months. Well If we're running out of Sugar maybe thats a good thing for me, i drink to much of this crap. How's your mom these days anyway?

He said but before she got out anything the lights went out and everything became pitch black. He couldn't even see Simone. Don't panic! The waitress said then hit the generator a few times. She equipped a bat and gave the side of the generator a few hits making the lights spark then flare to life. Some places down here had their own generators most which were faulty but still worked. The main generator was shut down every night to preserve power except for the thermostats which gave the Vault a comfortable temperature. Simone chuckled, Jack looked from the waitress to her with a smirk on his face. Anyway. She's sort of become a stranger nowadays...I guess being on the council calls for your full attention.

She took a sip of her tea after blowing on it several times, it was a strong smell coming from both cups but right now this was the best they had down here. He finished off what was left of his coffee then stood up to reposition his belt with the 10mm pistol in its holster. He buckled his tactical vest which held more ammo clips in its long pockets. That's my break. Duty calls.

Have fun.

He chuckled before walking away since he was on radroach duty down in the lower levels. Where they came from? He asks himself everyday. Maybe threw the soil or threw exposed pipe lines, perhaps they were the reason why stock was so low nowadays. Either way getting to shoot was a lot better then most jobs given out down here, he was a Jr. officer for five years until he turned eighteen. Jr's assist those twenty and older but when they become of age they are on their own in various sectors. After two years of experience you take on a Jr. Officer of your own, and Jack was only nineteen. Months away from becoming a senior officer. He boarded the lift heading down to level twenty two, bumping into another officer in the lift. Evening.

The doors opened and officer Sheppard stepped off, but there was several more floors for Jack. The door opened to the sound of music playing down the hall, the light flickering on and off. Amongst the dark he could see the outline of someone laying on the floor to which he responded, snapping to life with his 10mm on aim. He's been gone for just thirty three minutes and it looked like all hell broke loose down here. Once the light snapped to life for a split second he spotted something over the body, someone ugly and ghoulish looking. He could almost feel the beat of his heart pressing against the inside of his chest, the lights finally turned off. He turned his flash light on as the ray of light from his gun shined on this nightmarish creature that responded with a menacing snarl. It sprang to its feet and dashed for Jack, he pulled the trigger but it kept coming. He backed up further and continued to shoot until he hit the back of the elevator, his breath rattled his hands shaken. He took a deep breath then pulled the trigger as it fell against Jack rolling to the floor. The Elevator closed on its leg and begun going up, severing the rotted skin apart and removing the limb altogether. Dazed with fear and blood all over him the doors opened to a small girl who screamed at the top of her lungs. People ran to the commotion to find him standing in the elevator. He looked back to all the people before slamming the elevator button to close the door, pressing the second floor button where the council room was located.

Still holding his pistol he grabbed the creature by the back of its brown torn shirt and walked casually down the hall before pushing open the council doors, he lifted it up on top the long table scaring few of the council members. They starred in shock, but the Overseer looked concern. Close the doors.

The guards behind Jack let go of him by the arms and closed the council doors.
I found this in the lower levels. I found another officer down there dead! I didn't - I - I didn't know what to do except bring it to the council. His face had blood on it, feeling sticky as the blood dried. He wiped it with his hands, the stench was overwhelming as some of the members covered their nose with a cloth.

Have a seat son. Tell me exactly what happened.
He fell back in the closest chair and starred at the overseer.

That is exactly what happened! I wasn't prepared for this...I kill Radroaches not these- these monsters!

He looked to the rest of the council members, even Simone's mother Clare.
I think we all can agree that level will be off limits until further notice.

You can't just close off that level...there might still be people down there!
The overseer nodded.

You're a fine officer Mr. Hopper. I think i can rely on you to keep this conversation inside this room?

Jack planted his hands on top the table.
People need to know about this! If they don't more-

If they do there would be widespread panic. How do you think that would turn out? Utter chaos, this Vault is the last of humanity as we know it. You know more then you should and now we are going to have to make up an excuse as to what people seen you with. You know more then you should, tell me Mr. Hopper how would Executive chief of security sound to you once you turn twenty?

He grew quiet, drew back in his seat.
Executive Chief? But-

You walked in here for the concern of the people. Single handedly took down a Feral Ghoul and came straight to us...now bringing it here wasn't the best decision but the point is you know your place in coming to the council, we've been grooming you for the position Mr. Hopper. Why do you think Officer Sheppard was so hard on you?

Jack was unsure of how much of that was to keep him quiet, but just giving someone a position like that must mean it was true. There had been talk of the chief retiring after forty years and everyone knew eventually the title would be passed down. I...i don't know what to say.

Nothing. Like you're going to say nothing about what happened here today. Is that clear?
Jack nodded just as the overseer motioned for the guards who opened the council door. Jack stood up and looked back to the council before leaving the room, thinking about what was to happen with that level. Should i do something about locking down that floor.

We already have people on it. Your job is to lie to people...sometimes the truth should not be told for the protection of the people. You have your assignment, your dismissed.

Last Edit: Jun 24, 2015 20:23:55 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
Member

Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jun 25, 2015 20:30:35 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jun 25, 2015 20:30:35 GMT -8

Another day, a different morning. From his home to the Cafe he had to pass the medical clinic then turn left and head straight down to the lift that would take him three floors down, the doors would open up to a set of stairs leading down into a small market. Here various things could be bought from stitched clothing to small trinkets, things that people just don't want anymore but it was mostly all garbage. The Cafe was just down the right hall leading out of the market to the west wing of this level, it wasn't much of a walk at all. Being a security officer and having everything so close to home made it even more worth it. Everybody knew everybody and the very spine of this Vault was built on the peoples trust to work together to make the Vault life better everyday...now Jack's beginning to think like the Overseer himself. He sat down in the Cafe and looked over the menu. There wasn't a variety of choices anymore, back when he was just a child his dad use to take him here and there was three times as much to choose from.

Today will be a good day he told himself. Just a fresh new day because nothing happened yesterday, nothing that would ruin his day. He picked up the menu again making his final decision with the butter bagel and the usual coffee. He looked around for Simone who was nowhere to be seen, she usually met with him every morning down here. It wasn't alarming but he liked the company. Then he thought about Clare's presence during the meeting last night, did she tell Simone to stay away from him? She said herself her mother didn't tell her anything about what goes on behind those closed doors so she mustn't of. What if Simone seen Jack with the Ghoul? It looked no different then a burnt up corpse. That's what he'll say then, an accident resulting in one burnt alive. It's believable if anyones missing.

What'll-yah be havin, the usual? He jumped in his seat after thinking about that monster leaping out from the darkness just as the waitress spoke to him. This wasn't a good start to keep things on the down low at all but he regained his focus and smiled at her. So...?

Oh,Yeah I'll take the usual thanks. Jack said and passed her the menu. Can I also get tea as well!

He said as if he were still expecting Simone to show up. He took a deep breath and tried to relax but there was no doubt that he was nervous, his eyebrow twitched when his nerves are shot. He rubbed his face with the palm of his cold hands but when he lowered his them she was just sitting down. I thought you weren't coming for a minute.

He said to her just moments before the waitress brought over the coffee and tea.
You must of since you bought me a tea. You look like shit Jack...get much sleep?

She said to him which he did respond with words, he shook his head and sipped on the coffee.
Long day yesterday, but I'm alright. There was an explosion down on the lower levels, it must of been a gas leak. Two people burned to death.

She wasn't use to this type of news. In fact no one was, there hasn't been an accident in years that resulted in death down here. She nodded then sipped on her tea reacting as if she had already heard the news, or she knew something more. This place is falling apart...

He thought about what she said and despite what the overseer said to him, he knew sooner or later if they couldn't handle what was happening down there this place would have to be evacuated. He would face the unknown instead of facing another one of those things any day. Who knows.

He wasn't the one to keep secretes. This time it came from the overseer and he had no choice but to keep what was happening from people. After leaving the Cafe he was on the lift taking it to the floor just above the one he was at yesterday. He took no chances with his pistol in his hands before the doors opened, but nothing seemed wrong down here. He took a walk down the hall and stopped in front of the mechanics shop looking over at Bill who was currently working on what looked to be some sort of engine. Just doing my usual checks today Bill...anything unusual happening around here?

He rolled out from underneath the Engine being held up by chains. Jack was curious as to why he had been working on an engine, its not as if there were any cars here. Bill stood up and brushed off his trousers, approaching Jack. I can't say there has been much going on. Quiet like always Mr. Hopper.

He looked back to the engine while he spoke.
You've known me since ever since I can remember, just call me Jack. Say, what're are you doing to that old engine? Hasn't that been down here for ages.

He said to him, last time he saw this piece of junk it was on the market. Bill loved tinkering with everyone but he learned much about old cars in the pre-war books and he had this vision that one day they would return. This is a symbol of what it was like before people lived in the Vaults. You see boy, just picture one these - He pointed at the dirty calenders dating back several hundred years ago on July 4th 1941. They called it the Lincoln Continental.

Like the president?

He pointed at Jack.
Exactly. Just imagine a variety of those cars in many shape and forms everywhere, this motor is a piece of history. One day I'll open up a museum down here...an Automotive museum! People need to learn about what life was like back then. Only until we all learn will we strive to shape a better future for all of us.

He thought about it, he couldn't deny that it did sound pretty amazing to drive one of those things.
Yeah if there's a future to wake up to tomorrow...

Jack mumbled then realized he had been thinking out loud, though Bill thought nothing of it.
Spread the word my boy! The future is NOW.

Jack chuckled.
Will do, Bill. Catch you later.

He was an old friend of Jacks father who vanished some years ago. Some say his body is somewhere down here, hidden by the mysterious murderer. He could anywhere and many of the foolish rumors have said that he was stuffed in the pipelines bit by bit. Or thrown in the furnace. Idiots. Or were they. Jack believed Robert Hopper, his father had found a way out of this Vault. He didn't want to think much of it. He continued his patrol just when he noticed Sheppard coming his way, his old mentor. Good evening Jack. He said briefly.

You to Mr. Sheppard. He replied. Officers usually greeted each other and kept walking. There wasn't much up ahead except for the lift on the other side of this floor where he was heading, he kept walking as he came upon an ajar door. This was Clare and Simone's place. The door must of been Malfunctioning so he gave the button a push, it tried to open but by the sound of it, the door was jammed. He got down on his knees and peeked inside to notice there was something jamming the doorway. H - elp . . . He heard the faint cry for help from within the room. He pushed the door to try and break whatever was jamming it but it was no use. He equipped his 10mm pistol, stuck his head and right arm threw enough to get point at what looked like a steel rod. He open fired several times, hitting the steel but the door did not give way. He shot a few more times causing the steel to break and the door to slide wide open.

Jack rushed in and looked around, room to room until he came upon her bedroom where she laid just beside the bed. He still had his 10mm pistol in his hand, setting it down on the floor as he got down beside Clare who had blood all over her chest. Bullet wounds. He thought to himself. You need to take - take her away from this place. Get out of here.

She said before her eyes went blank and her hand hit the floor. No. Jack said when suddenly Bill from down the hall rushed in to find Jack kneeling over her body with his pistol next to him, the gun shot wounds put Jack in a bad position. He looked over at Bill who backed away and ran down the hall. He had blood on him. He grabbed his pistol and ran out of the room hearing Bill shout for help down the hall. He quickly realized something, it came to him clear. This was no coincidence with him showing up. Yesterday just before encountering the Ghoul, he passed Sheppard and now again just before HE murdered Simone's mother. He saw something he wasn't suppose to see, and everything said at the meeting was a lie to buy them time to cut off loose ends.

*This is your overseer speaking. Be on the lookout for the man you all know as Jack Hopper. One of our Council members was recently murdered by this man and the penalty for such a crime is death. Shoot on sight. That is all.* Not good!! He said to himself then ran to the lift. There was no where else to go except- up. He pressed the 1st floor where the Vault door was located. Floor by floor the light lit up until suddenly it stopped at the 4th floor. He raised his pistol and when the doors opened it was her, Simone in tears, eyes widening in shock. he quickly lowered his gun. Simone i didn't kill Clare..you need to believe me!!

She launched forward and hit his chest several times. He let the doors close. Pushed her against the wall and looked at her until she calmed down.
I know you trust me, we tell each other everything. I. was. framed. Your mother told me to get you out of here before she died...it was all Sheppard. It was him, he set me up! Please tell me you believe me.

He said, she didn't say anything but nod.
I know you didn't Jack...she kept trying to tell me something last night. I didn't want to bring it up with you, i should of told you something. This could of all been avoided if i just told someone! She said then continued to cry.

You need to focus now. We have to get out of here okay?

He said once the lift doors opened. She followed his lead as they ran down the hall where a guard spotted him heading towards the furthest door which lead to the Vault entrance. He aimed his pistol at the guard with the baton, who dropped it instantly. Instead of killing him Jack smashed the back end of the pistol into his face knocking him out cold. He opened the door and trained his pistol at two guards guarding the Vault door controls. Open the door now!! He demanded. I wont take no for an answer.

It's against the rules...we could all-
They were running out of time. Jack shot the other guard in the leg who fell over in pain. He then again aimed it at the guard who stopped speaking, backing up with an nod. He turned the keys, pressed a red button the pushed the lever up and the emergency lights and sounds rung all over. The giant door shifted inwards then rolled to the side revealing a dark room on the outside. He backed up towards the Vault door, then turned to continue outside the Vault. Immediately the door was sealed again as the dark room became even darker.

There is only darkness out here. When he carefully moved ahead with Simone holding his hands, his foot hit a set of stone steps. He guided her blindly up the steps and down what seemed to be marble flooring. They continued down this hallway until he was met with a door. He turned the knob to the door which said 'Emergency Exit' and that's when light drowned the hall. They both stepped out, closing the door that said Employees only. Once their eyes adjusted the blue skies came into view, with instant shock to find that they were underneath a massive settlement. A few people didn't think much of it. Seemed like not many people had gone down that hall seeing as there was a pile of junk in front of the door. He looked around as hundreds of people were all over the place, markets, diners, guns shops, armor shops, buildings made of scrap. As he continued to look around they walked out of the crowded area in what seemed to be a stone courtyard.

That's when he realized the giant statue towering high above and reaching for the skies. It was the statue of liberty.

Last Edit: Jun 25, 2015 20:32:49 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jun 28, 2015 12:36:58 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jun 28, 2015 12:36:58 GMT -8

I don't think they'll follow us out. We're dead for all they know...

Jack said to her after sitting down just in front of what looked like to be a Lounge. The heat out here was unbearable for one who've spent their days underground their entire lives but he was focused on getting them some supplies. Who would of known there was a place like this right above our heads...how many generations have our people been down there.

Jack was still catching his breath under the hot sun, while he listened to her he checked his ammo clip that had been spent by shooting the guard in the leg. One clip left. He checked his pip boy to scan the surrounding area to get a mapping of this place. To many. Stay here, I'm heading inside to get us some water.

She didn't respond but nodded, mourning her mothers death. He stepped inside to the gritty and smelly Lounge, one man in the corner passed out with a half bottle of whiskey left on the table. Compared to the rest of these folks the one passed out looked wealthy by the way he was dressed. The bartender had been watching Jack from the moment he walked in, he approached then greeted the bartender. Two water please..

The man places his hands on the bar top.
You got the caps?

He said to Jack who seemed clueless as to what he meant by that. He dug threw his pocket looking for anything at all then pulled out pre-war cash which was the currency down in Vault 216, specialized for 216 with the symbol of the Vault door on it and the president of Vault-Tech. This is all i have.

He glanced at the pre-war cash then looked at Jack. You're one of those Vault dwellers...that old door finally decided to open up did it? He laughed at his form of payment. That Pre-war stuff is worth a couple of caps but it still wouldn't cut two water kid.

Jack sighed.
I got nothing else to give you.

The bartender crossed his arms and glanced at the machine on his arm.
I've only seen one other guy with something like that on his arm. He was an older fella, came from one of the Vaults down in Washington. I would sure love to have one of those for myself.

Jack glanced at his pipboy he had for the last ten years. It was nothing of sentimental value but it did certainty have value out here in the wasteland. He immediately shook his head in response to the bartender. This is worth more then two bottles of water! And it is more valuable to me then it would be to you, i know nothing of this place so I'm depending on it.

He understood Jack. Nodding with a sign of disappointment.
True enough. Three water and I'll give you a place to stay for three nights. Also I could get Iris to show you the ways of the wasteland...she could show you more then what that machine on your arm could. It's not a deal I would normally give strangers.

Jack thought about it for a moment, it was a good deal no doubt.
Throw in an ammo clip for a 10mm pistol and you got yourself a deal.

The bartender laughed and planted three bottles of water on the bartop. He tore a scrap of paper off and signed the piece of paper with his signature on it. When your ready take this over to Cal who runs the Load & Go gun shop across the street and he'll give you what you want. Now... He cleared his throat.

Motioning to the pipboy on his arm Jack nodded and removed the strap from his arm and slid the machine across the bar top.
Ah yes...beautiful. When your back I'll have a room ready for you then go talk to Iris when your ready to head out!

The bartender was fitting the pipboy onto his arm while Jack rubbed his bare arm. It felt weird not having one already, almost scary in some way. It reminded him of his good health, it detected everything from his vitals to his radiation levels. Supplies and knowledge was more valuable now. Besides Simone still had her Pipboy. He stepped outside after putting two bottles of water in his inventory bag, he passed her one. Don't tell me you sold your pipboy for three water.

She said after taking notice of his bare arm, he took a seat next to her underneath a long piece of scrap hanging off the side of the building for shade. He shook his head and glanced over to the Load and Go then back to the Bartenders signature. A place to stay for a few nights, an extra ammo clip and someone to show me around and teach me a thing or two about the outside world. Apparently they use bottle caps for currency out here...Nuka caps.

She cursed to herself thinking about the collection of Nuka Cola caps she had. Down under you could find them anywhere, if only they knew before leaving. She took a sip of water while he got up and fastened his inventory bag around his back. Preserve your water...I'll be back.

He said to her then stepped out into the crowd moving threw the path. 'Load & Go' was cut into the steel sign above the door, he stepped up onto the front porch to see a dog, an animal he's only read about and seen pictures of in pre-war books. The hound dog looked at him as he stepped inside. A man was listening to music on the radio with drums and other instruments. It was familiar to Jack because they had a large collection of music themselves. Hello-Hello! Welcome to Load and Go stranger...we have a variety of weapons AND-

Jack pulled out the bartenders signature and slid it across the the counter.
I made a deal with the bartender, he said you'd be able to give me an ammo clip for my 10mm pistol.

He took a closer look at the signature.
How many times can I tell the little shit that he doesn't run my shop! Mack's my little brother, he's always up to no good. What'd yah trade for him to let a stranger get in on a deal?

He rubbed his wrist again.
My Pipboy, for three bottles of water, a place to stay for a few nights and the ammo clip your going to give me.

The man chuckled.
A pipboy eh? Well I can't argue with that. He better ought to share or there will be hell to pay!

He pulled open a squeaky drawer then passed over the full ammo clip for his 10mm pistol, Jack loaded his pistol then placed it back in its holster. He glanced at the hunting rifles on the walls, the only weapon they had down in the Vault was the baton that Jr officers would carry and the pistol. The names Cal my friend. You must be one of those Vault kids. Tell me what's like in one of those vaults?

He couldn't help but think of those final days down there and how they casted a shadow over all the good days down there.
It's nothing special. Resources are running low...possible you could have a few pipboys coming your way soon enough. We all have one of those down there...but i guess survival is more important now.

Cal chuckled.
Oh its not that bad...well...unless your father is mayor and owns an island. How me and my brother came to own the Lounge and a Gun shop...yah know if your looking for work to make a few caps here and there I could set you up a meeting with my father. You seem like a nice young lad.

A job getting caps would help Jack thought to himself.
A job? Yes, please that would help a lot.

He leaned over the counter.
Could you get me one of those Pipboys? And I'll put a good word in for yah.

The only one they had left was the one Simone wore...she wouldn't give that up. It's also the only way to contact the inside of the Vault right now but why would he even want to get back inside? There is a Ghoul infestation right under their feet and for some reason the overseer is hiding it from them. I'll see what i can do.

Jack said before leaving the Load & Go. The heat shined down on his head, a hat would be nice out here to keep the heat off of his face. That could wait...he needed to know more about this place and the area around this island. He glanced at the statue that raised her flame into the sky, one piece of its flame had broken off. Parts of the statue were missing, which was a good representation of a fallen nation. On the bright side being out here, he had sturdy armor. The same armor he wore for work while on duty, the padding could even stop bullets from piercing his skin. His helmet would of helped but unfortunately he was the only one down there with a cracked helmet he didn't wear. He looked over at the Lounge, she was no where to be seen, must of went inside to the room. Jack knew quickly life was about to get rough, but it was better then what he was about to face down there in the Vault.

Last Edit: Jun 28, 2015 12:41:47 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
Member

Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jun 28, 2015 20:08:16 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jun 28, 2015 20:08:16 GMT -8

The surrounding area had all sorts of shops and other public places. For an island it wasn't that big, though large enough to hold a settlement full of people especially how close everything was built from building to building, the narrow paths, twist and turns with scrap metal hanging out over the buildings providing shade that created the illusion that this place was bigger then it seemed. The entire settlement grew over the years and more people showed up taking refuge on this island, they even had their own ferry that made trips back and forth off the island. People come and go as they please if they had their own boat that is, and even going across in a small boat was dangerous with everything that lurked below the surface. Jack was crossing the path when some old crazy guy approached him preaching the end of the world. THE END IS NEAR! Those who pray to the great and almighty shall be saved in his light! Join us and save yourself, before its to late!

Aren't you a little to late for the end of the world?
Jack said to him who's clearly had a drink or two just by the smell of his breath. By the look of his pupils he must of been on something else as well, Jack began to wonder if he even knew what year he is living in, considering everything around him has gone to shit.

Our final judgement is near. Pray to the great and almighty Sun who provides us with life for when judgement comes those who do not pray to him shall by scorched in its holy essence! Jack looked up at the sun, holding his arm out to shield his eyes.

Uh-thanks for the tip. Good luck with your sun worship..
He said to him who continued harassing people with his preaching. The sun was no doubt hot but he doesn't think it's going to kill us all anytime soon, he pressed on into the Lounge where the guy in the corner was still out. He approached Mack who had been currently serving the woman sitting at the bar with a shot of rum.

This is the lad i was speaking to you about! Mack said to the woman who didn't turn around to look, Jack sat next to her and looked over with a friendly greeting. She didn't respond while she took a shot and tapped the bar top for another. Then she looked at Jack afterwards. Hm. I'll give you points for that.

She said out of the blue. Jack looked at Mack who chuckled while he poured up her next shot.
Don't you mean caps...isn't that what you're all using?

Mack broke out a laugh following his slight chuckle.
Cute and funny. You wont last a week out there.

She said to him, but he now knew what she meant by that.
I've got a pretty good shot if you must know...I've been shooting Radroaches all of my life.

She looked at him again with smirk then returned to her drink.
This is Iris, who I told you about earlier...the best sharpshooter around. Radroaches is child's play out here kid...literally! The kids kill em for fun.. You know nothing...

She looked up to Mack.
You know I don't take it well when my names being thrown around...especially to an outsider.

He stepped back holding his hands up.
Hey now, I had a chance to get my hands on one of these and i couldn't pass up a deal like that!

Jack couldn't help but to think of Simone's mother, and what she was left with. A corpse and a whole lot of questions. Even more to the fact that he felt like it was his fault lying to the people about the problem dwelling beneath but a better question was how long has those things been down there. No wonder resources were scarce, most levels down there produced food. Maybe that's why more people were turning into those things as they digested infected food over time. Now that he realized where they were, the lowest levels of the Vault were beneath sea level. It could of been the radiated water making the workers down there sick. Your brother told me he could get me some work with your father if I got him another one of those.

Iris leaned back and looked over to Jack.
I could use another supply runner. If I'm going to be teaching you a few things then in return you can help me scavenge for supplies on the outskirts. Three days out and four days back, I'll talk to Mr. Hopper myself.

She said to Jack then looked over to Mack until Jack spoke up. Just call me Jack...'Mr' makes me feel old. And... He realized his name tag wasn't even on his guard uniform and that raised a few questions about who this 'Mr. Hopper actually was. How do you know my last name?

Mack was pouring a full glass of rum & Nuka Cola for himself. Well she was referring to the Mayor, and I thought all ye Vault dwellers were numbered or something. Isn't that how they do things down there, like you - you're Vault boy 216 aint yah? He chuckled.

She looked at Mack.
That's the number of the Vault you idiot. Yeah I'm referring to the Mayor himself...any relations to him?

He looked at Iris.
John Hopper?

Mack nodded.
That's him. My old man.

Jack froze up and starred at Mack, then thought about Cal.
Yeah...i know him. He's my father.

Last Edit: Jun 28, 2015 20:08:50 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 2, 2015 19:21:56 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 2, 2015 19:21:56 GMT -8

Vertibirds were seen coming from Steel City inbound for Liberty Island. Jack was still in the Lounge with Iris and Mack. Simone was just up after a long needed sleep but now that she was well rested her mood was even better. She took a seat next to Jack. Well are you gonna introduce me to your friend here Jack? Mack said to his brother. She's not uh...our sister is she?

She looked to Jack.
Sister? You never told me you had family.

Simone said to him, he sipped on his Nuka Cola that Mack had given to his new found brother on the house. Neither did Dad. Mack, this is Simone. And no she isn't family, we escaped the Vault after her mother was murdered. I, was framed then hunted down. He looked to her. I'm sorry. For bringing you into this...i wasn't sure what they would do to you.

He said to her, Mack was pouring up a drink for the girl he's shown interest in when suddenly the loud racket of Vertibirds landing caught their attention. Iris looked out discovering both Enclave and Brotherhood had shown up, immediately she went back inside and approached Jack and Simone. Go, in the back now. There's leather armor and a duster you can change into...you cant be seen wearing those Vault uniforms. Now!

Iris told them, Mack showed them to the back room then closed the dusty curtains while Iris stepped outside and leaned against the Lounge wall. She watched the soldiers in their heavy power armor following another in an officers uniform, an older man with a straight cut beard. She could easily determine which of the soldiers were Brotherhood and Enclave but that Officer looked like he was in charge of both forces. He was giving orders and moments later the soldiers split up moving threw other buildings, trespassing with authority. More soldiers had gone inside towards the Vault entrance where the signal they received earlier originated. The officer was just passing along side of Iris with one of the Enclave soldiers, he kept walking until he stopped in his tracks and stepped back to look at Iris. Lookin for someone?

She said to him while lighting up a cigarette. She exhaled, the smoke moving past the mans face.
Yes. As a matter of fact I am. Seen any new faces around here...perhaps one wearing a Vault Uniform marked with 216.

She lowered her hand with the smog of smoke running up between them.
That old Vault? Didn't think anyone was alive down there. Well they're not around here, i think people would of noticed if that thing opened up.

The officer drew closer to her.
''They're'' I didn't say there was more then one. Iris Lyons. I know who you are...do you take me as a fool? He looked to the soldier guarding him. Search the building! And you...you're coming with me.

They followed Iris inside. Things would get messy in a few minutes if they weren't ready. She was relieved to see Jack siting back at the bar wearing the duster, Simone wearing the Leather duster laughing with Mack. The old guy with the cowboy hat was still passed out. Her heart dropped when she realized Mack had put on the Pip boy, but her worries ended when he raised his arm over the bar and knocked glasses with Simone. Jack turned to look at the group that entered the Lounge but returned to his alcohol drink, as the soldier searched the Lounge the officer took a seat where Iris originally had been sitting. He was quiet. Calm. Even when he started speaking. So who's going to be the one to tell what I want to hear.

Jack looked to his right side at the officer.
If your looking for a compliment...that's a really nice haircut. REALLY NICE hair bud. He acted as if he were drunk. Leaning over to him and patting him on the shoulder pad. Who does your hair because I'm really likin the look man.

Jack laughed when suddenly the officer drew his laser pistol pulling the trigger. A glass on the ledge just next to Mack's head shattered. He shielded his head and approached the the bar, looking at the officer as if he were crazy. Two other soldiers stepped inside to see what the commotion was all about. The next thing that shatters will be your head. Now do we all understand each other.

The soldier finished his search of the Lounge looking to the officer, shaking his armored helm.
Nothing sir. This place is clear.

The officer glanced to Iris after standing up.
If i find out you are somehow involved, being exiled from the Brotherhood wont be the last of it.

Jack stood up, stumbling slightly and looking at the officer.
Leave the lady alone you...you weirdo.

The officer looked at him as if he were an idiot. Pathetic waster. The officer said to him before turning to leave with his soldiers.

Oh- oh yeah! I LIED when i said you had nice hair. I LIED!
Iris looked at Jack now, as he played the drunk act pretty well but he continued anyway.

You can drop the act now he's gone.
Jack laughed, Mack took his empty glass and refilled it.

He's not acting! He drank two glasses of Rum & Cola!
He laughed again wavering his hand, shaking his head to what Mack said.

I'm not DRUNK!...I am an actor. The best damn actor ever. I should be on Broadway...if its still around?

Iris starred at him.
You've never been drunk before. Well now I've seen everything. Remain cautious until they're gone. They could be back.

Jeku
Member

Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 4, 2015 23:00:46 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 4, 2015 23:00:46 GMT -8

Throughout the entire night the Enclave and Brotherhood forces have remained on Liberty Island even increasing soldier count. They occupied the statue like flies to a light bulb after they detected the signal from down within the Vault. Entrance to the Vault door was surrounded with no way in or out unless you were from either faction, Jack watched from afar to observe what they were planning on doing. He had many questions, did they even know it was there and why now? His father went into the Vault twice before. What changed. Simone approached Jack from behind looking in the same direction as he did. This isn't happening because of us is it?

She said to him but that would make no sense, so he shook his head anyway.
No, but i think I know where I could get answers.

He noticed Iris heading inside the Load & Go so he followed. She was speaking to cal about purchasing a few rounds for her sniper rifle before Jack and her left for the Wasteland for the 'Runner' job she likes to call it. Heading out and getting supplies could take days if your not looking in the right places, that's why she made three day trips out. Cal looked to Jack. In rolls the third wheel! How you liking the topside?

He asked Jack almost certain he knew the answer to that question already. Iris glanced to Jack with a smirk but he approached the counter and looked to her, the Sniper rifle was laid out on the counter top with her caps for the rounds. I need to see John. Where is he?

Referring to his father as 'John' was the first for Jack. She took the rounds then turned to him.
He's not in town right now. He has business elsewhere and he wont be back for a week or two...by the time we're gone and back he should be here. Cal, he'll need a hunting rifle. He wont get far with just the pistol.

Cal laughed and wavered his hand.
I already gave you a freebie with the ammo. Though you ARE my brother so I'll give you the rifle for half off. If you can come up with the caps.

Iris sighed then opened her pouch taking out enough.
Consider this half of your next weeks payment. We'll find equipment on the road but we own only 20% of our findings out there, the rest from ammo to food goes to the different places around here. We keep them supplied, customers buy from the market, we collect 70% of the markets earnings every month which goes to the towns funding and they pay us. Keeps people like us in business.

And then we buy Ammo and food...so basically we are buying what we collected out there.

She shrugged.
We're are crucial to the stability of this place. So we also have to go by the system. Just like everyone else... if we became greedy then society will tumble right on our shoulders and bring us down with it.

He nodded as Cal passed him out the fully loaded Hunting rifle.
That's about it then. We leave in one hour.

She said to him and walked out. Later Cal.. Jack said to his brother as he stepped out and followed Iris. So what do you do anyway...on your time off of course. She glanced at him when a Brotherhood initiate passed, the initiate wasn't around when she was in the Order. She looked ahead forgetting to reply to Jack after recalling her early years in the Order, not just something you would forget. Most Initiates may never get power armor of their own...well some do but constructing that armor wasn't cheap. You can drop the hard ass concept you wrap yourself in. Cause I don't buy it..

She turned to him, grabbed his shirt and slammed him against the metal side of a building. You know nothing about me. She said tightening her grip around the collar of his new shirt beneath the duster. He smirked

It was my job to see threw people. You make yourself out to be this tough stone cold killer but inside you're afraid...It's alright to- Before he could get out another word she pulled back and swung as hard as she could knocking Jack out cold. She knelt down, grabbed him by the shirt then finally noticed he was out.

Get up. Jack.. She let go of him and noticed Simone running over. Don't ask. You're boyfriend definitely puts the Jack in jackass. Help me carry him over to the lounge.. Iris said to Simone as they grabbed him by the arms and legs and brought him inside. Mack looked over and stepped out from behind the bar.

Woah...what happened to him? He said until he noticed Iris's expression. Oh. He pissed you off. Hm. Well at least he's learning early on how to survive the wasteland.

Simone slapped his face several times gently trying to get some sort of response. Then Mack came around holding black bottle of Liqueur, he opened the bottle and put the tip just under his nose when suddenly Jack awoke as he started to cough. He rolled over feeling the pain across his face. God damn...what was that smell?! He said. I'd take another punch then smell that again!

Iris had taken a seat while this went on. That can be arranged Jack-ass. She said to him but he wavered his hand as he got up while shaking his head, the side of his face was bruised with a cut. He wiped the blood off as he felt the massive headache coming on. If you can't take a punch I don't know how you will survive out there..

He took a seat next to Iris despite what just happened. Don't give me that crap, you waled on me knuckles first. He said to her, which was actually true. Mack threw him a bag of ice. He placed it against his face feeling the cold feeling against his cut and bruising. He noticed her knuckles were red, surprisingly to her he slid over the bag of ice. You need it to. Your knuckles took twice the damage hitting me.

She pushed it away back in front of him.
I don't need it. The rum is enough.

She said to him taking a sip from her glass then throwing a few caps to Mack for another drink.
You'll remember saying that when the time comes for you to shoot and your hand is swollen. I'm not trying to be nice, I'm just trying to keep us alive in the long run. Oh and by the way...if Jack-ass is my new nickname then your hard-ass. Ironic enough both makes sense.

She thought about then took the bag and covered her hand in it. She could barely hold the glass with that hand, she was surprised she hadn't broken his jaw. Though he was right about this, thinking ahead was smart. Perhaps he wasn't as dumbfounded as she thought he was. Alright Jack. You got me convinced. She didn't mention about what. Another one for Jackass here.

Jack laughed.
So she has a sense of humor.

Mack poured one for him then slid it down the counter.
Enjoy it because it's the last one we'll have for a few days.

Mack chuckled.
Actually it's our old man with the sense of humor. I mean your name is Jack Hopper...and you basically lived in a hole all your life.

He remembered his father but his good memories were now spoiled after realizing he's been up here all this time.
Was leaving me down there to die apart of his joke?

Mack shifted a stool up under him and took a seat across from his brother.
He didn't know things would turn out like that Jack. If anything he might of saved you, people die everyday up here topside. At least you had order down there. Out here, one day could be perfect but the next all hell could break loose. You'll see what i mean when you're out there.

Jack looked at Simone then back to his brother.
I'll be gone for a few days...think you could give her the room for a little while longer.

He said until she looked over.
I can help around the Lounge. I'll work for free in exchange for food and a room.

Simone said to Mack but he already made up his mind.
The Brahmin traders will need a place to stay once they're in town. I've got an extra bed in my room you can stay on. You work for me and you'll find living in the post apocalyptic world better everyday!

Iris rolled her eyes then looked to Jack.
It's time to go. The boat will be leaving in five minutes...get your things and lets get out of here.

Last Edit: Jul 5, 2015 10:54:43 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
Member

Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 5, 2015 15:22:55 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 5, 2015 15:22:55 GMT -8

With his pistol in its holster and the rifle strapped to his back he stepped over the gap of the murky looking water and followed Iris onto the boat. If they died out there, no one would ever know. Apart of him felt excited about his new way life of risk taking rather then repeating the same day all your life down in the Vaults. Radroaches use to be the danger but up here they're no more then irritating pests so things would become difficult, scarier. Something he was looking forward to facing. Never let your guard down, not for one second. When we sleep we both take turns being on watch. Understand?

She told him as they both stood on the back side of the boat as they moved past Steel city out for the mainland. Iris was sharp on her senses, Jack recalled that the Officer said she was once a Brotherhood soldier. Iris Lyons. She mustn't of spoke about her life back then much. What was it like being in the Brotherhood of Steel...

He boldly asked her despite how she felt about it. Surprisingly she didn't react to his question, she starred over towards the city as they boat was on half way point passing the red flag floating on the surface of the water. She remembered arriving to Steel City for the first time since that's how she ended up living on Liberty Island. You had everything you needed. Loyalty and trust. Something like that comes rare these days. I've fought many battles against the Enclave and witnessed their cruelty. Pride and Honor, it was nothing less then it's name. A Brotherhood. She spoke of it as something great but what he seen was different from what she spoke of. I was in charge of my own platoon when everything changed. She looked at him. The Brotherhood is no different then the Enclave now, it's up to the people to protect themselves now.

They were nearly there. Jack kept his distance from the two headed cow the trader on the boat had to carry the equipment. Must be one of those Brahmins Mack spoke of back in the Lounge. He looked in the direction they were heading then back to Iris. The city looks like a big place. Is there anything else like that out there?

She nodded thinking back to all the places they went to.
Of course. There's the Commonwealth south of here. It's probably the closest thing to a stable civilization we'll ever have...but there are so many other places we'll go to. If we head North we'll run into Fleeting City. Made up of two battleships side by side full of people. Our first stop will be Ashstone. A small town west from here. Less then a days walk.

She said to him when the boat finally came across the docks. They both got off boat after waiting for the Brahmin to go up the ramp, the trader lead the Brahmin off the docks and looked over to Jack and Iris who seemed like they were heading in the same direction. The names George! How're y'all doing. He said leading the Brahmin over to them, Jack looked at its two heads disgustingly, the thing gave him the creeps. He noticed his expression and laughed. Oh you don't need to be nervous around old meaty here...he's the best companion anyone could ever ask for!

He said when it dropped a load of crap as it walked. Jack said nothing of it but nodded anyway. I'm Jack and this is... He looked at her recalling she didn't take well to others introducing her without permission. She looked to Jack. We already know each other Jack. Every third week he makes trips between Ashstone and the island..

She said to him. Jack looked to George.
Aren't you worried you could get attacked by something out here?

Iris had been equipping her sniper rifle just after Jack said that. He quickly drew his pistol but she shook her head, looked down the scope and pulled the trigger. He heard something squeal out there, he couldn't see anything until three more hairless rats rushed towards the Brahmin. Jack equipped his hunting rifle instead and focused down the rifles scope. He spotted the large teethed rat and pulled the trigger, blood gushed from its side but it kept coming hissing at them as it moved towards the Brahmin looking for a meal. They were close enough so he equipped his pistol, she merely lowered her sniper rifle and watched as Jack stepped ahead. He held his pistol with both hands with one eye open he pulled the trigger, it's head exploded and gushed with blood. The other rat was within meters so he held his weapon with one hand firing twice as it tumbled into the dirt. She glanced at Jack with a smirk while placing her rifle back in its place, slowly and cautiously he looked around before shifting his arm back to slip the pistol back into its holster. Trust me...I'm a lot more useful with my trusty 10mm.

He said looking to her as the three of them continued towards Ashstone.
Don't rely on that pistol to much out here...there are things far worse then a Molerat. You'll need your rifle for more dangerous things out here...A Supermutant for example. It can stand several rounds from a pistol and it will reach you before you put it down. Those things will skin you alive then chop you up for supper.

George looked at her giving him tips, everyone who's ever lived in the past hundred years knows all about what's out there.
Where are you from kid?

George said, being roughly fifteen years older then both Iris and Jack.
I...I've lived on Liberty Island all my life. I've only seen Radroaches and...Ghouls.

That was hard to believe. Wherever you lived out here you've seen something once or twice in your life. She knew why he was keeping where he actually is from a secrete, but she knew George enough to know that they could trust him. He had no business with those factions. He's from the old Vault beneath the statue George. 216.

I've seen just about everything out there but not Ghouls on Liberty island. George said to them, Iris looked over at Jack after he brought that up. Jack recalled seeing that thing swing at him from the darkness and the mangled body it was feasting upon. He looked over to Iris.

The Vault has just about fifty floors going underground. I told you I worked down there as a Security Officer...well more of a exterminator since there was barely any crime down there. Resources had become scarce in the final days. Then one day I make a trip down to the lower sections where the food production takes place...something happened down there. The stench of blood was overwhelming and that thing attacked me...a Ghoul.

She was speechless when he told her that Vault went that deep. She's been in countless of Vaults across the Wasteland on expeditions but none of them were that massive, she didn't understand though how a Ghoul would of gotten so far down there without being seen. I can only think of one possible way a Ghoul could have been down there and that is your supply line of water must of been contaminated with Radiation but to change so fast without anyone noticing is unheard of.

She said until she wandered away from the both of them and knelt down discovering a supply bag had been torn open. She scavenged threw it but all the food except one can of beans was spoiled, she brushed the dirt away discovering a trail of dry blood on the ground. She motioned Jack to come over. Those footprints up ahead...scattered like that. The big ones following along the side. One, maybe two Supermutants and a Centaur. The poor bastard suffered a fate worse then death. She threw him the can of beans. Put that in your inventory and have your rifle equipped.

She said to him. As they continued, the two of them kept their rifles on hand. Observing the area carefully, though the blood was dry so they could be miles away by now. She would still remain cautious since the last person she had with her let his guard down and paid the price. We still have a bit of a walk to Ashstone. The closer we are the safer our surroundings will be. The creatures of the wasteland know better to stay away from civilized areas.

George had .44 Magnum of his own. Even though it was a pistol those guns packed a punch. Though they were much older then the 10mm they held less ammo, yet packed a harder punch with each shot. The 10mm had more ammo but was a pea shooter in comparison. So what's in Ashstone anyway?

He asked her, thinking they would only be out in the wasteland scavenging. That's where we go to radio back to Liberty Island. While your father is off to business Mack keeps in touch with us every time we reach a station. After Ashstone that's when we do the actual job.

It's not a big place. Think of it as a crossroads for Brahmin traders like myself ! He said to him then grabbing the strap on the side of Meaty to draw him in closer to the group. We're about a half hours walk away now. You'll love it out here once you get use to it kid...Iris here has been doing it for what...two years now?

She shook her head.
Year and three months. Just after the Brotherhood and the Enclave swept Steel city of all the Super mutants. I guess something good came out of that..those monsters were to close for comfort to the island back then. They couldn't swim but they often attacked people getting off the ferry on the other side. You came up at the right time Jack..

Last Edit: Jul 5, 2015 17:13:28 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 5, 2015 19:23:42 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 5, 2015 19:23:42 GMT -8

They had finally reached Ashstone, it was just around the bend of the hill. The Brahmin started to act up as George walked around and placed his hands on its two heads to calm the thing down, that's when they all got the scent of smoke. Iris hustled ahead so Jack quickly followed behind her to see what the commotion was and when he spotted the town half of it was engulfed in black smoke, she stared down at it then motioned for Jack to follow picking up the paste with a sprint towards the town. There were several bodies across the streets, both people of the town and some of them wore armor which resembled what Raiders usually wore. What the fuck. Jack said having never seen something this bad before. Who could of done something this horrible?!

He said to her looking at all the bodies down the next street over. She spotted one person groaning while sitting on the ground against a building, she walked over and knelt down in front of the citizen, scavenging threw her bag she found a Stimpack. His leg was shot multiple times so she drove the needle into his leg and injected the medicine and Stinpacks were quite advanced, he was beginning to feel better already. Can you tell me what happened here?

She already had an idea but she needed to be sure about it so she could contact Mack.
There were so many of them...those Raiders. They came out of nowhere. Dozens of them.

The man coughed but he was beginning to move his leg which was a good sign. Jack looked at the many bodies, the reality of this new world hitting him like a ton of bricks. He kept going over in his head how could someone bring themselves to do something so cruel. It made him angry. He spotted one of the Raiders on the ground move his arm to get up, Jack approached the bald headed raider then kicked him over onto his back aiming his 10mm pistol at his head. Kill him. She said to Jack after speaking to the injured man who was now up. Give him what he deserves..

Even though he had his pistol aimed at the mans head he had no intention of killing another human. How would they be any better then these Raiders, as he looked around at the survivors they needed to see that we can be better then trash like this. Jack lowered his pistol. That's when Iris equipped the sawed off shotgun she had on her belt and shot the last raider in the chest killing him instantly. No! Jack shouted just before she done it. Why do you think people like this exist?! He said. Even though many of the people watching, even children wanted the Raider dead but it wasn't the right thing for them to see.

You need a reality check Jack!! Look around you. This is what they do to people who don't know how to protect themselves properly, if you don't have it in you to kill these murderer's then i don't have any use for you. Get the hell out of here.

He looked back down at the dead Raider. The 10mm was still in his hand as he turned the other way and began walking. She looked back at him leaving her here when a crying woman approached Jack pleading for his help. She watched him calm her down. Jack listened carefully as she was clearly in shock. My daughter...they took her! They took my little girl..p-please save her shes only eight years old. I can't lose her like the way i lost my husband! I can't!

He was at a loss of words. He didn't know if he had it in him to do this. He stood between realizing if he was brave enough to save an eight year old girl or if he was to much of a coward to face an evil that could do something like this. Tears rolled down her cheeks until she looked up when Jack placed his hand on her shoulder. It's going to be alright okay. I'll bring her back to you. Do you understand? Jack said to her, feeling as if his heart had skipped a beat once he made his decision. Which way did they take your daughter.

North of here...please save her. Please!
Jack nodded. He looked back to Iris before heading North. This wouldn't of happened to long ago so those raiders wouldn't of gotten far...he kept his pistol in his hand and despite the gut wrenching feeling he had he started to run out of Ashstone.

You're friend is quite the Hero. George said after witnessing what just happened. Iris glanced at him in the corner of her eye thinking about what he said, but she didn't believe in heroes. There were no such thing. The word was like a myth to her. She shook her head. He's a fool...there are no heroes anymore.

She said to him then parted ways heading towards the Radio station. Many of the towns people were still alive, it was just those who were caught out in the middle of it. She had a job to do even though this place has gone to all hell. Jack was still on the run, following the scuff marks in the dirt. He heard cries not to far ahead from his location. Equipping the hunting Rifle he ran up to the top of the hill instead of going around spotting the raiders, four of them that took the little girl hostage. He got a better look at them once they were in his scope. Looking from one to the other, one of them had the girl hung over his shoulder. Jack took a deep breath then pulled the trigger.

Last Edit: Jul 5, 2015 19:25:46 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 6, 2015 18:12:57 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 6, 2015 18:12:57 GMT -8

I repeat. Liberty this is Iris Lyons checking in from Ashstone, please respond.

There was nothing but the distortion as she turned the dial attempting to contact Mack. The systems must of been taken out during the attack but an attack by dozens of raiders seemed strange, not to mention by the way they used military tactics to attack. She felt something else was behind this. After her failed attempts at contacting Liberty she stepped outside to the town recovering and removing their dead from the dirt. She thought about Jack going after those Raiders doubting if she'd ever see him again but it was time to move on from this place and scavenge for supplies to take back to Liberty. She turned to hear a cry and that's when she saw Jack with the young girl in his arms crying for her mother, he set her down as the woman embraced her daughter looking up to him with a smile. I can't thank you enough...please take these for your kindness.

She reached out to him with twenty caps, he nodded to her. She walked away with her daughter as Jack looked at the caps before shoving them in his pocket little did he knew Iris approached him, once he heard her clear her throat he looked over to her. I didn't kill those Raiders. He said to her immediately.

She crossed her arms and nodded.
How did you get the girl back without pulling the trigger.

Lets just say I didn't kill them and leave it at that. Are we heading out? Despite what she said to him earlier he knew she needed his help whether she liked it or not. He wasn't about to back down from a job now. Maybe he was born to play hero out here...in some sort of way he's always been in the Sheriff business for years.

Yeah. We're going North to Fleeting City. Lets hope we don't run into more of those raiders...I don't want to be spending more caps then i have to on ammo. Lets get out of here.

The Raiders were crawling. The same one's who kidnapped that little girl. Their legs had bullet wounds all over and one of them was already dead, blood everywhere. They cried out for help when they heard the howling of wild dogs nearing again, panting closer and closer. Quickly the one Raider aimed his pistol then pulled the trigger. ''Click-Click''.

He walked beside Iris as they started to make their way north. The Desolate waste was the only thing ahead now for the both of them, making their way down a hill towards the calm irradiated river. She glanced down at it already spotting several Mirelarks so they would have to walk the bridge instead of going threw the river. Jack could see a Gas station from here on their side of the river, thinking perhaps there could be something of value inside but she noticed something else of interest as they approached the station. ''The Freak Emporium - Now Open in Fleeting City.'' She said quoting what was written over the old Gas station sign. Um...Iris. Jack said to her. She looked at the stations entrance to a trail of blood.

Jack already had his pistol out. The blood trail reveals someone was dragged out. He said, planting his hand against the door then pushed it open, it smelled bad in there but there was nothing inside. Just more blood. Someone was shit out of luck. It looks like he was attacked by something by the way everything has been thrown around in here...what do you think it was?

Iris shook her head.
It doesn't matter now. Look around for supplies and take what you can...I don't want to wait around here longer then i have to. She walked to the back of the station to find a supply bag with blood all over it but noticed a card soaked in blood. She knelt down and flipped it over, a pre-war playing card. It was the Jack of Hearts, mostly stained in red. She grabbed the bag looking into it until she smirked. It's your lucky day Jack... She said to him and passed him the bag full of 10mm ammo. Remember we leave 80% of it for the towns supply. Unless we need to defend ourselves of course.

She also had the Jack of Hearts in her hand and flicked it at him. He caught it and looked at the card. Maybe its lucky or something... She said chuckling. He slipped it into his pocket then approached the shelve discovering a box of sugar bombs.

I haven't seen a box of these in years! We ran out of sugar bombs years ago...if your tired have one. It'll get you wired up enough. He said to her who was now behind the counter opening drawers, she found another 10mm pistol. She knew it would be around here somewhere since the ammo was.

Now you can duel wield...more effective! She said and tossed him the gun. I don't see much of anything else so lets get going.

He took another look at the Freak Emporium sign while he walked off with her. In the direction they were heading, she didn't like the look of those storm clouds. Storms were not safe being out in the middle of the wasteland. Pick up the paste Jack. We need to reach the next building before that falls overhead.

Last Edit: Jul 6, 2015 18:17:27 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 6, 2015 21:59:42 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 6, 2015 21:59:42 GMT -8

IT'S STILL COMING! RUN!!

The barrel of their rifles lit up rapidly as they open fired on the approaching Deathclaw growling at them and taking the bullets like it were nothing. It was pouring nonstop and the clouds were black with strikes of lightening every few seconds. They ran as fast as their boots could carry them threw the mud making it slightly more difficult to gain distance from the monstrous creature hungry for human meat. It screeched over the rattling sky as Jack equipped his pistol while running to fire on the Deathclaw, the moment his weapon ran dry he was thankful he loaded the new pistol with ammo and continued to open fire on it. For a minute the sun breached threw the dark sky, she'd almost forgot it was the middle of the day because of how dark it got when the clouds covered the wasteland. Especially these days since storms were five times as bad then what it use to be. It's slowing down! I think it's wounded!!

He shouted to Iris when suddenly she tripped over a boulder sticking half way out of the ground. She cried in pain after falling over sideways feeling the crunch of her ankle roll, her boot heels were high so it wasn't a pleasant feeling. Get out of here Jack! She told him. Lightening lit up one of the dead trees near them as it became engulfed in flames at the same moment he could see the light reflect in the monsters eye. He took her Sniper Rifle, standing in front of her. It was getting closer fast so getting a shot at close range threw the scope was tricky. Run! She screamed again looking at the side of his face, ignoring what she was saying. He focused threw the scope catching a glimpse of the deathclaw growl at him again, the moment it opened its mouth Jack pulled the trigger. He could hear the beat of his heart quicken in paste.

The bullet sailed threw the air, ripping threw the rain drops. The back of its neck exploded with blood and gore after the bullet traveled into its mouth and threw the back of its throat. It collapsed about five meters away. Still twitching and moving its arms, the tail swaying back and forth. The Deathclaw went limp after Jack approached it and put a bullet threw the center of its head. He set the back end of the rifle against the ground and fell to his knee's to catch his breath. His eyes were closed as he dropped the rifle and dug his hands into the mud, he looked over to Iris who was still on the ground checking herself. He turned over grabbing the rifle and ran to her aid. Are you hurt? He asked her who was attempting to stand up.

I think i can walk. She just said immediately before putting pressure upon her ankle and falling into the mud again. Jack knelt down as she wrapped her arm around his shoulder, he put his around hers and helped her stand. She took the rifle placing it into its strap around her back. I've never been the one needing saving before...thank you Jack. She said to him as the rain continued to fall down on them. This was certainly a long day, and it was only half over. They kept going despite the rain and lightening, helping her walk on her one good foot. It was a risk to take if anything was coming for them again but he still had his 10mm equipped in his right hand as they moved. We're moving to slow...we wont make it to the city before nightfall at this paste.

She told him since wandering the desolate wasteland was the most dangerous thing to do. It would become completely black. He looked up into the sky with no sign that the sun would break threw and provide some warmth. Lightening struck, as he looked in the fair distance spotting the outline of a building. There. He said briefly. A place up ahead.. She looked ahead spotting the building as they got closer.

It's just a house. Looks abandoned...lets see if anyones home shall we. Jack said then checked the door knob which was locked. He tried kicking the door in but it was one sturdy door, it wasn't going to open like that. Jack equipped his pistol then aimed at the lock when suddenly the door swung open to an older man aiming a shot gun in Jacks face.

I gotch ye now. Damn Raiders trying to break in, yer not gettin anything from me sonny Jim! He said laughing, his teeth were black and rotted. The old guy had a beer belly with a white n read plaid shirt held up with red suspenders. His beard was long and grizzly. Marget I get em! Come ere!! He said then coughed. An elderly woman came out with a .44 pistol just like the one George had. Carefully Jack lowered his pistol and raised his right hand.

We're not Raiders...we're just scavengers heading to Fleeting City. I - i didn't know anyone lived here! My friend broke her ankle and we were looking for some shelter. I swear please don't kill us! Jack said with his hand raised and the other around Iris. I mean no harm.

The old guy starred at Jack then looked to Iris with her leg up not touching the ground. How can i know yer not none of those Raider guys. The sec we turn around you'll slit are throats! The old guy said cocking the shotgun. Move! He said to the two of them again.

The lady known as Margret slapped him along the side of the head with her hand. Put that thing down before you hurt yourself George! She said to her husband and turned to the two of them. Come on in we have a spare bedroom upstairs on your first left. Don't mind George...he lost his marbles ages ago.

What's with the name George out here anyway? The second guy named George today. Thank you mam. Iris said as Jack helped her up the steps into the old creaky house and into the bedroom. He closed the door and turned around to Iris trying to take her boot off in pain.

Don't take the boot off yet...It will prevent your ankle from swelling up even more then it is. Just give it time. She was surprised with him today. He almost needed no training out here, though she wouldn't show him how surprised she was. He took a seat next to her at the edge of the bed. So do you think we can trust them?

She wasn't sure about that. Not yet.
Two old people living alone out here in the middle of nowhere? That doesn't raise any red flags at all. I think George knows them though...the Brahmin George. He must, he takes this route before circling back to Ashstone. She said to him. We wouldn't of ended up here if it wasn't for that Deathclaw...probably would be in Fleeting City by now.

He heard the creaking of the house as they moved around down under. Shortly after they caught the scent of something cooking downstairs and that reminded them how hungry they had become, there was the beans and sugar bombs but that wasn't enough. Smelt like they were cooking enough for an entire town down there. I'll go see if they have any food to spare...I wont be long. I don't want to be down there longer then i have to..

Knock-knock! The old woman said threw the door way. Surprising Jack since this house creaked with every movement, he didn't even hear her walk up the steps. He looked back to Iris then opened the door to the small old woman looking up at him. Why don't you join us for dinner? We cooked almost to much and here you are at the right place at the right time!

Jack nodded.
yes - thank you we're very hungry. We'll be down in just a moment.

Last Edit: Jul 6, 2015 22:05:02 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 6, 2015 22:58:57 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 6, 2015 22:58:57 GMT -8

The smell was overwhelmingly good. After helping Iris get her boot off Jack helped her down to the dinner table where everything was already on the table waiting for them under the pot covers as steam escaped the edges of the steel. Smells like chickennn! He said after his stomach growled. After she removed the lids it didn't quite look like chicken but more like sliced ham.

Sit down and dig in, come on now don't be shy! She said to them smiling so they took a seat next to each other and started grabbing the meat. So we're y'all from anyhow...oh and no hard feelings back there hey? George said with a laugh following by a nasty cough.

We're both from Liberty Island on our way to Fleeting City. We got caught in the Storm after getting side tracked by a death claw but we managed to kill it...one less death claw in the area at least. Tough to take down...nearly cost me my life.

George glanced at Margret but did not say anything.
Don't be so rude and introduce yourself...tell us all about you two!

Iris was uncomfortable with all the questions after Jack took his first bite. She looked over at Jack getting the same feeling she always got when something wasn't right, but Jack was focused on the food. They were watching the both of them and all they were doing was asking questions. Jack told them their story of course as they kept exchanging topics and Iris was rather quiet, becoming off put and her appetite was gone. So why are you two out here all alone? I mean...how do you get by?

She asked after finally speaking up.
Oh it doesn't matter how we get by. This has been our home for twenty years and we have no plans on abandoning our home! She said smiling. There's no place like home after all.

Iris nodded with a smile in response then looked at Jack after taking a sip of water.
Could you help me up the steps? Thank you for Dinner...but the pain is just killing my appetite.

She said as Jack helped her up the creaky steps. He closed the door knowing she had been acting strange back there, he looked at Iris who slowly sat down and starred into the abyss in front of her. She covered her mouth then glanced up at Jack. We need to get out of here Jack. I'm so sorry I didn't realize it sooner.

He looked at her and slowly enough he began seeing doubles of her. He stumbled towards her and sat down on the bed beside her rubbing his eyes and looking over at her feeling like he was about to pass out, she knew he was about to and shook her head, slapping his cheek. No no no! Jack. You cannot pass out. They drugged you...they must of. Listen to me...look at me! She said to him.

Quickly she went threw his bag and grabbed the sugar bombs. He was still conscious so she poured it into his mouth and pushed up on his jaw as he slowly chewed it. She went threw her own bag and grabbed a Stimpack she could use on herself for her foot but she needed him awake. The sugar bombs and stimulant in the medicine should be more then enough to sober him up from whatever they put in that meat. She stabbed him in the leg which was even enough to wake him up. He regained his vision but then followed the massive headache with all the stuff he just consumed.
Jack...you need to focus now. I need you to focus! Listen.....

She said to him as he nodded in response and looked at her.
I'm just going to say it now - they're cannibals. They eat. People.

She noticed his face starting to swell up white, he stuck his finger down his throat and threw up over the side of the bed. She could hear him straining himself as he continued, spitting after he stopped the barfing. I can't believe it. He said looking to her with his eyes watery.

Also. It was George...the Brahmin guy. Oh my, Jack. I'm sorry. Just - just breath okay? She told him. It was his gun she had in her hand. It's not just any .44 Magnum. I know that because i modified it myself one day when we met up heading towards Ashstone.

What the fuck is wrong with people up here!! He said to her. She put her finger over her lips trying to 'shush' him up. She looked around trying to think of something but right now there was nothing they could do since those people took their guns for their own safety. Iris looked up at him.

We'll play along. Pretend we don't know of their secrete and in the middle of the night after they're sleeping you need to go get the guns...you need to kill the sick fucks who slaughtered George like a Brahmin steak. Do you understand? For some reason her memory triggered when she recalled seeing someone named Margret wearing the same flower dress that this Margret had been wearing. She knew the young girl from Ashstone who had family in Fleeting city. They're taking the identity of people they eat. Literally consuming everything about you.

This was something on a physiological shit show level.
That's just wrong man. What the actual F-

There was knock at the door. Both Iris and Jack looked at each other. Slowly he opened the door. 'George' stood there holding folded clothing Jack swore he had seen before...it turned his stomach. He also had his rifle still equipped...so Jack reframed from making a move. Margret thought you two would need some dry clothing. We can't have you freezing to death up here! The old man said as he walked away coughing.

Jack closed the door looking down at the shirt. The same damn shirt George the Brahmin guy had been wearing today when he seen him, Jack looked at her throwing the clothes to the floor. He shook his head then looked at her. I'm not going to sleep. Once we're out of here and have reached the city then I'll sleep once i know we're miles away from this place...go on. You need it more then i do...I'll wake you up when I think they've gone to sleep.

Last Edit: Jul 6, 2015 23:03:42 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 7, 2015 21:31:34 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 7, 2015 21:31:34 GMT -8

Jack was sitting up in the chair as his eyes opened and closed, after that long day he could possibly sleep for two days. I need to stay awake. He thought to himself. Suddenly he heard a loud smack outside so he moved to the window and peeked outside down towards the barn where the door was ajar with light shining from the inside. He approached Iris to wake her up until she spoke. I'm awake. Do you really think i was going to shut my eyes under the same roof as cannibals.

She said to him. Jack kept looking outdoors until spotting that the both of them were out there in the barn, so he moved to the door then opened it slowly. Be careful Jack. She said to him as he looked to her with a nod. He entered the hall then moved down the steps, they were to creaky for comfort but they were still outdoors so they mustn't of heard him. He moved to the living room where he thought he'd seen them put he guns but there were no guns here. The house was rather well kept for two elder cannibals living here out in the middle of nowhere. The paint even smelled fresh as he moved along the wall down the hall opening the door to his right which led down into the basement, the moment he opened the door he caught the scent of something overwhelmingly sickening. The moment he heard a cry from outdoors he looked up the stairs staying still but no one was coming. Jack continued down into the complete darkness, carefully. He held his hands out in front of himself as he looked for some sort of light, he barely could see the bulb on the ceiling. He pulled the chain and the room lit up...that explained the smell. Skinned bodies hung from meat hooks but he needed to focus right now with the smell causing him to gag.

Their fingers and toes were all cut off. It was a sickening sight as he moved past each body then spotted a long wooden box, when he opened it up he discovered all of their guns. Including other guns such as Assault rifles and shot guns. Jack grabbed his pistols and equipped his hunting rifle. He also grabbed her Sniper rifle holding it as he turned around then quickly moved up the steps but once he reached the hall, George had Iris with a steak knife near her throat. Put the guns down or she gets it!

The old man said to Jack. Iris was rather calm looking at Jack. If you do that I'll kill you myself Jack! She said to him as he'd saved her enough already. If he gave up they were as good as dead anyway, probably cut his legs off so he couldn't walk up the steps. The rifle would take longer to aim and she would already be dead before he pulled the trigger. Do you trust me.

He said to her. She didn't say anything but he continued anyway as he slowly knelt down to place the hunting rifle on the floor and the moment he had his hand off the rifle, Iris elbowed George in the stomach. Jack had little time to react as George moved in with his knife at the same time Jack pulled the trigger shooting his hand into pieces, he raised his other pistol shooting him directly in the head. His corpse fell back onto the floor, Iris looked up to Jack noticing the old woman behind him at the front door. Jack! She shouted, but the woman had already pulled the trigger shooting him in the back. Iris ran towards the hunting rifle, she picked it up and shot Margret three, then four times in the chest. She looked at Jack then dropped the rifle.

Let me help you take off your coat! She said pulling it down over his arms and seeing the blood soak threw his light brown shirt. They both heard another cry outdoors as Jack put his hand against the wall to support himself, he looked at Iris. Theres someone...in the barn. Jack shook his head. There's nothing you can do right now. Leave it be.

He stumbled forward but held himself up against the wall. The swelling on her ankle had gone down, it still hurt but she could walk better now. She helped him outside as he struggled to get to the barn with the pain going threw his chest. They entered the barn to discover blood and organs all over the place, it was all just one big mess. Though it wasn't human parts. The Brahmin they seen earlier was all chopped up into pieces and George...hung from the meat hook. This is messed up. He said to her. Tubes were stuck into his body giving him blood. Iris looked along the work bench to discover all sorts of medicines, syringes and other surgery tools. She grabbed the first aid wrap and the bottle of rum and approached Jack.

We can't worry about this right now. Take off your shirt and put your hands on the workbench...i need to take a look at your wound before it gets worse then it already is. She said to him. He placed his hands on the hard wood of the table after taking off his shirt. First she had taken a look at his chest. I found the exit wound...thats...that's very good Jack. She continued by tearing a piece of wrap off and soaking the wrap in Alcohol. She wiped the wounds as he cringed in pain. This is going to hurt. She said to him then poured the Alcohol onto the wound as he cried out in pain. Stay still! She shouted at him then placed the end piece of the first aid wrap on his shoulder and started wrapping it down across his back, up around his chest and so on. She tied it together and set the alcohol on the table. You're lucky this didn't turn out to be surgery.

She looked over to George with a frown. Iris took one of Jacks pistols off of his belt, raised the gun and pulled the trigger. She looked back to Jack who was putting his shirt and coat back on, he looked back to her. So what do we do now. He said, but the answer was already obvious to the both of them. After gathering their things they left this place behind, leaving with extra equipment and Stimpacks. Nights were cold out here and everything was damp. At least the rain had stopped. Stay close. Jack said with his 10mm pistol equipped. He heard a hiss and the scattering feet of Molerats approaching. The night lit up with quick flashes of lights as they started unloading.

Last Edit: Jul 7, 2015 21:38:31 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 8, 2015 21:12:01 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 8, 2015 21:12:01 GMT -8

He found himself in complete darkness consumed by utter fear as he stood alone and chilled to the bone. The ground crunched beneath his bare feet walking over the many human bones scattered all over the place and despite the sharp pieces of bone splintering into the flesh of his foot he kept walking towards the rising sun. He could see the outline of a massive city in the distance but it was not the sun rising upon the horizon as the giant mushroom cloud soared high above the sky line lighting up the darkness like it were the middle of the day. The shock wave rushed pass him nearly knocking the wind out of him. The skyscrapers shattered and crumbled into ruin as the wave of flames raced across the barren landscape creating a new wasteland, the heat intensified as he begun to scream while his skin peeled off and burnt away. His pace slowed as he reached out towards the light when suddenly his skin and hair evaporated and what was left of him turned into ash. His scream echoed into the rushing winds when Jack finally awoke from the night terror shouting as he sat up. Breathing with a quick paste he looked amongst his surroundings. Get use to those nightmares.

He looked over to Iris sitting at a desk with her Sniper Rifle laid out and taken apart. She was focused on it, cleaning the inner barrel and different parts. He instantly noticed she had a different scope attached to it now, more narrow then the other one. He lifted his feet out from under the covers of the bed, yawning and raising his arms to stretch. The first thing he felt after coming to his senses was the pain in his chest more sore then last night. It took me a minute to realize where i am. He said to her grunting as he pushed himself up onto his feet. He pushed aside the window curtain to the view of Fleeting City. They had a view revealing between each battleship and the bridges people walked back and forth across, it wasn't crowded at least. Guards also patrolled back and forth wearing black uniforms.

I made contact with Liberty. She told him turning towards him, she rested her arm on the back of the chair. Mack said the Brotherhood and Enclave are gonna attempt on breaking threw the Vault door...I'm guessing they're interested in stripping it of the Vault-tech.

Jack didn't think much of it. He grabbed his blood stained shirt and threw it on, it was still even damp which made him feel gross. She glanced at his dirty clothes with a shake of her head but they were in Fleeting city after all. She got up after assembling what was left of her rifle then strapped it on the back of her coat then threw him his duster once he got his boots on. We're heading to the Market to get you some new clothes...you can't walk around in that for two more days.

He doubted anything was worth twenty caps here. After placing his pistols in their holsters and getting his hunting rifle he followed Iris out of the room and into the battleships narrow hallway, he could get lost in a place like this. He thought moving down a flight up steps to the main floor. So now that we've reached Fleeting City what's the plan?

Jack said to her as he walked next to her out the door and across the bridge. She thought about it recalling Ashstone because if it wasn't for the attack they'd be hours west of here, but she needed to make the detour after that. Liberty had sent medical supplies to the town after she contacted Mack, she looked over to Jack. We're on the Hudson River north of Steel city..we'll head up to Blue Mountain from here. I have a few old friends who would welcome me. The Brotherhood Outcasts operate up there.

The name was simple to understand. Others like Iris but still bearing the power armor used in the Brotherhood of Steel. He hasn't met any good Brotherhood soldiers yet Outcast or not, by the way she spoke about it, they seemed like an honorable faction. They both entered the Market as he observed a variety of different shops, one woman had jackets hung on a rod behind her and shirts laid on the table. He approached her and looked at the shirts. Looks like you've seen some action. She said to him while he looked up.

You can't even imagine. How much for one of these grey shirts?

12 caps for a shirt..20 if you want it with the medical satchel. Stores ten stimpacks!
He passed her the 20 caps, removed his own shirt throwing it in the barrel then threw on his new shirt afterwards also equipping the stimpack satchel which ran down across his chest. He threw his trench coat over it feeling better already to have that bloodstained shirt off of him. He looked around for Iris but she had gone off somewhere, most likely browsing the weapon modifications. Now that he thought about it he should of taken a new weapon back at that house but the only thing that ran threw his mind was escape. He had wandered around some more spotting the weapons market, she was nowhere to be seen.

Anything i can get you? The man said leaning forward in the chair wearing dog tags hanging from his chain. Interested in Semi-Automatics? Plasma Repeaters? Actually you look like the Laser Flintlock kind of guy.. The man said pointing at him. He got up and removed the Flintlock from the shelf. Its equipped with a self sustaining energy core that recharges off the heat it creates after being fired.

He passed Jack the gun so he could get a feel of it.
Wouldn't that raise the risk of overloading?

The man pondered upon that with a shrug.
Quite possibly! If you use it right you shouldn't have a problem. Though the trigger locks up sometimes, i haven't been able to sell it but I can give it to you for half the price. 150 credits unless you have something worth the trade?

Jack raised the Flintlock, getting another feel of it. It wasn't as heavy as the 10mm pistols he had holstered, and if Iris could repair the trigger this gun would be worth the buy. He looked threw his bag recalling that he only owned 20% of his find but the more he found the more he could take. I only accept Weapons, Ammo, modifications and stimpacks. Those gun slingers need their stimpacks after all.

He looked at the gun again, he knew how business men worked. They understood the psychology of people, let them go for a test drive and they'll want it even more.
I'll give you two of these 10mm pistols, one cartridge of 10mm ammo and one stimpack.

The man crossed his arms and shook his head. Throw in another cartridge and Stimpack, then you have yourself a deal. He said to Jack. Originally that's what Jack was going to offer before thinking he could ask for more, so he lowered the amount to get the amount he intended on giving him for the pistol. Jack nodded and passed over the supplies. He holstered his new Laser Flintlock. Once repaired it would be worth a hundred 10mm pistols.

Nice selection.. He heard from behind as he turned around to find the man that had spoken up standing next to Iris. He was referring to the Flintlock. So this is your new runner. He said to Iris then reached out to Jack, as the two shook hands. The names Deacon...Iris already told me all about you.

He looked to Iris.
I think we should have some sort of mutual understanding between us, we both don't like having our names thrown around. She nodded with respect. So how do you know each other anyway...I didn't think she was the sociable type.

She spoke up before Deacon had the chance to reply.
We trained at the same camp back when i was a Brotherhood Initiate.

She said to Jack.
We're also seeing each other.

She Immediately spoke.
No! We're not.

Deacon laughed raising hands to each side.
You know we are. Just don't know it yet, Iris Greenfield.

Deacon said smiling until Jack spoke up.
Didn't think you were the dating type Iris. So you're married then?

Deacon nodded with a cheeky smile. She lowered her head into her hand, shaking her head.
We're not married Jack. We dated off and on back when i was still in the Brotherhood. Can we drop this? I feel like I'm being smashed around like a Pinata. Don't test me, i have a fully loaded weapon on my back.

Jack thought about it looking to Deacon.
So...you're still in the Brotherhood then.

Deacon nodded.
5th Battalion, Greyhound Squadron. I'm on break...Iris here asked if I could get in contact with some of the fellas from the Outcasts. But...since the Enclave i haven't heard from them. They don't trust me anymore...not even my own brother.

Jack looked to Iris. I know the feeling. Excuse me while i go look for something to shoot.

Last Edit: Jul 8, 2015 21:21:07 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 10, 2015 12:41:08 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 10, 2015 12:41:08 GMT -8

Jack wasn't surprised, she was cold hearted the day he met her. She was literal when she said trust was a rare quality these days and for reasons he couldn't understand the Brotherhood were looking for the Vault dwellers from 216. He rested his arms on the steel support bar along the sides of the bridge looking on out between the battleships at the river leading south towards Liberty while pondering upon this new world and thinking he also needed to change himself if he was going to survive. Only those who adapt will survive. Two Enclave soldiers were walking across the bridge, talking about a battle that took place up north between a faction called The White Flame and the Enclave military. He glanced over his left shoulder watching the two of them, then looking to his right watching them walk into the market. Can you be anymore naive?

She found him looking out to the Hudson river. He looked over as he leaned off the railing, surprised she had the nerve to say that to him. With both factions looking for him and one that knows his back round they could easily find him now if that Deacon guy talked. She was alone looking to Jack with her arms crossed. Naive? You practically sold me out to those power armored douches! You're the one that told me trust is a rare quality in people nowadays...didn't think you would also be the one to teach me that lesson.

She shook her head. He is one of the good guys...I've known him all of my life. She re framed from speaking with a sigh before continuing. You can trust me Jack. I wouldn't of told him where you were from if I didn't trust him and I don't trust a lot of people! She thought about the question he asked her yesterday. I trust you.

He looked back out towards the river.
I don't care who you trust. I don't care if you trust me, we've known each other for nearly four days. I had no choice but to put my life in your hands when they came looking, back on Liberty island. If you already trust me then you're view on it is deluded. You barely know me.

She stepped closer thinking about the situation yesterday.
You're the one that asked me and i put my life in your hands.

Jack chuckled while shaking his head.
You just needed to know that i could kill him. For all we know he could tell his Enclave friends...you don't know if he would. His own brother don't even trust him. Shouldn't that of raised any red flags for you?

She nodded.
If it makes you feel any better Deacon wont be coming with us, since i can't get in contact with the outcasts we'll head South before going back to Liberty. The two Enclave soldiers had returned to the bridge on their patrol, even though there were city guards the Enclave and Brotherhood stuck their nose wherever there were people to remind them who was in charge around here. Iris stood next to him then turned to look at Jack once they were gone. Sometimes I just don't think about others. Call it a bad habit...I've been running alone for a while out here and I forgot what it was like to run with others. She felt a cold breeze blowing in between the ships, goosebumps appeared all over her arms. I doubted you. Even more when i found out where you were from. You're just a natural born survivor and you proved that to me. She chuckled. You're your fathers son alright.

Jack appreciated the compliment. I'm not like John. He said looking at her. I wouldn't abandon someone.

She shook her head.
He didn't abandon you. You want to know the truth? After he left the Vault for the last time they didn't let him back in. These are just stories Mack told me but he waited for days in front of that Vault door...why do you think he stuck around? He took it upon himself to fix a broken settlement so he could be near you. Before John, Liberty Island was a mere shadow of what it is now. He became a Leader. In time caravans showed up...the settlement grew and it may not be at its full potential but one day because of him it will be thriving. He would of never thought about it like that, he didn't say anything to Iris except nod. He started to think about it and what he would say to his father when he met him again, but out here a goodbye could very well mean your last. The Wasteland is a desolate and cruel place. We should get going then. We need to stop into the clinic to get a Rad shot. The rain last night raised our radiation levels so its best to not take chances..

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 10, 2015 21:32:02 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 10, 2015 21:32:02 GMT -8

STEEL CITY - Hours later

The storm had reached the city covering Liberty and the rest of the area. The bridge into Steel City was heavily guarded by power armored soldiers of both factions as they recovered from a recent Ghoul attack and it definitely wasn't going to be the last. Storms like these one's naturally enhance a Ghouls strength because of the radiation in the rain but they were still no match against the laser and plasma weapons used by both factions. Citizens also occupied the city but even the off duty soldiers made up most of the population here and it was here where anyone would see most of the new Initiates standing guard within the city. If you wanted to sign up this was the place to be.

A massive building sat on the north side of what use to be the remains of Central park when the city still went by the name New York. There wasn't a building more guarded on this planet then the Brotherhood of Steel Headquarters. After the war between both factions the Enclave was left shattered until the peace treaty was made, the soldiers weren't converted but they became a subsection of the Brotherhoods military bearing their own armor. Initiates trained on the shooting range and in the gym where hand to hand combat took place and other forms of fighting but only the best Initiates became an actual Brotherhood soldier. The rest who passed the trials would join the Enclave section of the military, or they had the choice of becoming a Scribe...though everyone else outside still sees the Enclave as faction of their own. Which is why so many people dislike the Brotherhood nowadays. Five stories beneath the headquarters, the science lab was the lowest this building reached. It was always busy here. An unconscious man was strapped to a table as the scientists took blood samples, mixing the blood with other chemicals but what they were trying to find out was just about impossible. Or was it?

Age thirty three. Male. My theories indicate he has been exposed to the Wasteland for far to long. Test subject appears to show no sign resilience towards compound 17 resulting in death within five minutes post treatment. Five minutes and eighteen seconds to be precise. I know i am onto something here but i just cannot get - Any progress Doctor Ivanov- -

The Doctor stopped his recording when Commander Vlerges entered. The same man who lead the Enclave and Brotherhood forces onto Liberty Island, the one who threatened Iris if she had been involved with the Vault dwellers. He walked around the table slowly and observed the man who was being tested on, walking with his shoulders held high and his hands crossed behind his back. Not yet. I am onto something though. You see the radiation in the compound kills each subject quickly...but Ghouls have a natural resistance of it. This test subject has been exposed to the Wasteland for several years already since leaving Vault 220. To continue my research I will need more of these people...

Vlerges stopped walking and looked to Doctor Ivanov.
You will have your test subjects. Sooner then you think. So are you indicating that the pureness of their blood is what you need then?

Ivanov nodded.
Technically it's a gene in their DNA i require that will prove to be resistant to the radiation in the ghoul blood. Once it strips the radiation from the contaminated blood, that sample will be open for experiment. Only then can i make some real progress. But yes, I will need their blood. Gallons.

South-east of Fleeting City

Jack raised his hand up in front of himself to catch the flakes falling from the sky but it wasn't snow. The ash in his hand was grey and there was tons of it falling like snow on a winters day, Iris hoped they wouldn't be in this for to long. No wonder it's hard to breath.

He wasn't wrong. It felt like smoking an entire pack of cigarettes all at once which made the throat sore, she removed her inventory bag from her backpack and removed two bottles of water she had since the old gas station. He caught the bottle she threw him and unscrewed the top. We need to stay hydrated. If you feel like you're going to pass out tell me...if you throw up well all i can say is don't throw up on me. In the meantime suck it up and lets get going.

The harsh weather slowed them down. It felt as if they were five thousand meters high breathing the thin air except this was far worse and harmful on the body, everything was grey. She lead the way moving threw the fray making haste. For the next hour it was nothing but the unknown of what was ahead since the field of vision was shortened dramatically because of the weather, and the barren wasteland of course. She couldn't lie to herself that she was feeling slightly sick. Jack followed along beside her when he noticed the outline of something ahead but as they both walked closer to it they came across a dead brahmin used for those caravans. It's all empty...every bit of it. Jack said when suddenly he heard something running past them, he turned around and equipped his laser flintlock. You hear that?

He said observing the area. Though she already had her weapon equipped trying to see anything threw her scopes when suddenly she pulled the trigger to the sight of someone running in her view. The rifle shot echoed as she lowered her rifle to look out, noticing that whoever was out there stopped running. Did you kill it? He asked her keeping his eyes out there.

No, that was a warning shot. It's human. And the next one won't miss! Iris spoke up after telling Jack what it was. She looked around again but this time everything was quiet until all of the sudden a red dot appeared on her chest. She looked down then noticed several red dots on Jack. Following the lasers set upon them, something lit up the ash fog and when both Jack and Iris turned around a massive blimp sat on the ground just twenty meters away from the front. LYONS?! IRIS LYONS?

After they had set their weapons down because of all the red dots on them they heard a womans name shout out to Iris. They were both puzzled when her name was called but there was nothing they could do anyway other then comply to whatever they wanted. Yeah who's asking?!

Sir, we've located Lyons and the male. One of the people asked threw the radio attached to his side. He nodded then motioned for the others to go in. They moved closer wearing gas masks until one of them approached Iris.

We need to get you in out of this ash fall. Now.
Iris couldn't see who was behind the mask but she did recognize her voice.

Kira?!

The woman didn't respond except tug on her to lead her towards the blimp. After they were aboard, the door sealed shut behind them. The air lock recycling clean air into the room as they took a breath of fresh air. The girl who had spoken to Iris removed her helmet then looked to Iris. Where the hell have you been! It's been two years...TWO YEARS!

Iris said to the one known as Kira. Despite being mad at her Iris moved towards her and wrapped her arms around Kira. She returned the hug with a faint smile on the corner of her mouth, but when they were done hugging iris slapped her across the mouth. Why haven't you been in contact with me?!

Jack cringed with a shake of his head. I know how that feels. Do you hit every stranger you meet Iris?

Looking past Iris, Kira looked to him.
Iris is my sister. A better question would be who you are.

Kira said to him but Iris spoke up.
He works with me Kira. But your the one being asked the question here...where were you.

She looked from Jack to her sister.
That i cannot discuss in front of him. Only our people. No offence.

Jack smirked but spoke up before Iris replied to that comment. Iris. It's fine, go discuss your business. He said when suddenly the last person he wanted to see entered the room, Deacon from back in Fleeting City. Actually. Yeah I'd like to hear what you have to say..

Iris didn't break her stare to Kira. She sighed with a nod. I'm going to get in shit for this, come on then. We have much to discuss.

Last Edit: Jul 11, 2015 10:01:36 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 11, 2015 16:45:33 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 11, 2015 16:45:33 GMT -8

The bridge took up the entire front of the airship with a 180 degree view of the outdoors. There were people all over the place working throughout the ship to maintain it's systems, Jack wasn't surprised that there was something like this out here based on what he's already seen. Iris waited for answers from her sister recalling the last day she seen her was several weeks before the end of the war between the opposing factions. So how did you find us out here anyway..

Jack asked Kira. Even Iris was surprised they had found them in the middle of an Ash storm. Kira removed her coat then pressed the red button on one of the panels as the 180 degree view started to close from the steel shutters on the outside of the ship. All they could see was the steel interior and the Brotherhood of Steel symbol in white. We have spies everywhere. We even have an operative inside the headquarters of Steel City. For the safety of our operative the information of his identity is top secrete to anyone except the highest authority.

iris took a few steps towards the front observing the symbol before looking back to her sister. We won the war Kira. The Brotherhood was victorious and the Enclave was left shattered...the war is over but why am i getting the feeling there's more to this then i know.

Kira sighed with a nod.
The war was fought for many years. I don't expect you to believe me but the war has only begun...we were all made to think the Brotherhood defeated the Enclave but in the final days there was a mutiny on board the Brotherhoods Pride. Our commander and the rest of the council was executed and replaced by the Enclave high officials. What you see out there now is the deceptive shadow of the Enclave pretending to be what they're not.

Jack crossed his arms.
So you're the remnants of the real Brotherhood. Do you know what the Enclave wants with Vault 216?

Kira grew quiet then looked over to him.
We lost contact with our operative inside the Headquarters in Steel City. What we do know is that they're targeting the Vault dwellers who have not been exposed to the wasteland for several years...we think it has something to do with your blood. We can't be sure until we get more Intel. Iris...we were hoping you could get inside and get us what we need. You've been under the radar for several years.

She shook her head.
Commander Vlerges knew who i was the moment he spotted me. My reputation is to high...I'll be caught. Besides it's impossible.

Jack spoke up.
Let me do it. It's my people they're taking. No one has ever seen my face out here until a few days ago.

Iris grabbed her Sniper Rifle one of the soldiers brought in and strapped it to her back.
Steel City is one of the most heavily guarded places ever. What do you think happened to your operative? He's either dead or a prisoner. Besides we have our priorities Jack. Liberty Island is relying on us to see this job threw.

Kira shook her head.
We need you. There are dozens of runners.

I'm leaving. When I was exiled i left the Brotherhood for good, not even the real order came back for me.

Kira grabbed her assault rifle.
Then I'm coming with you...the airship will head west back to where we're currently based. The Ash fall should be passed over by now, of course it's your choice if you'll have me.

The more people...the more supplies Iris. Jack said to her.

Okay. We leave immediately.

Last Edit: Jul 11, 2015 16:48:22 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 11, 2015 21:42:49 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 11, 2015 21:42:49 GMT -8

They had already made it three hours into the wasteland since leaving the airship behind. For their own safety they all had their own gas mask stored in each of their inventory bags, but progress was slow out here with nothing but an empty wasteland and the creatures preying upon them. The Wasteland will be a great place once you get use to it they say. I think people out here have been inhaling to much of that radiation!!

Jack shouted then kicked the first can he saw as it tumbled over. The can smacked against a rock when Jack stopped looking down to the can before approaching it, he knelt down and looked at the can feeling it's weight. He shook the can. Pork n' Beans...it's full. Huh.. He shoved it into his bag with a smile.

Spoke to soon? Kira held her assault rifle, keeping it equipped until her arms get tired. Iris hadn't spoke much since departing from the airship but she knew they weren't making good time but in the fair distance she spotted a few buildings she had come upon once before. They stopped when she did, Iris equipped her rifle and looked threw the scope in the direction of those buildings.

That doesn't change anything. Jack replied to Kira while tugging on the straps to his bag, he looked down to his Flintlock almost itching to shoot something here. A cold wind blew in from the north which is the opposite direction they were heading. She adjusted her scope to get a clear view and that's when she spotted the spike armored raider and few others sitting around a fire ablaze within a barrel. She kept looking until spotting a man tied up by his arms and legs half naked, she lowered her scope and looked at Jack and Kira.

Who wants to go hunting. There's a group raiders in that town ahead...four maybe five. It's just a raiding party. Probably ambushed the sorry bastard they have tied up down there. Kira nodded to her and Jack equipped his Laser flintlock. After moving closer to the town they stopped behind a hill close enough to hear the raiders laughing and shouting recklessly thinking they were the only danger out here in the wasteland. You attack them from the front, draw them out into my field of vision. After that we shouldn't have a problem with the rest..

Jack raised his laser flintlock and looked at Kira.
I'll take the right flank and draw them out into the open while you take the left. When Iris takes the shot we unload on them.

Kira nodded as they quickly moved around the hill and cautiously but quickly moved over to the sides of the buildings to each side of the main road heading into town. Iris set her Sniper rifle up and looked threw the scope again getting a focus in on the opening. Jack looked around the corner and observed the Raiders closer to the left side of the road further in town. He picked up a rock. Just as he was about to throw it at one of the barrels, Kira spoke up. Help! Is there anyone out there...i need help!!

She screamed out in false agony to make the Raiders think it was just their lucky day. Kira realized a rock would not draw in every one of them, rather one maybe two to check out the noise but if it was a girl in distress they would all come running and so they did. Jack nodded to Kira but she motioned for him to get his head into this as the Raiders came running and laughing except they would not get the last laugh when Iris pulled the trigger, reloaded, then open fired again. Jack took aim as did Kira when suddenly more Raiders appeared from inside the building running out with their weapons equipped. Jack backed up with his Flintlock up, he pulled the trigger as the heated laser burned threw the flesh of each Raider. One of them turned to him and open fired as Jack ran along the side of the building with each bullet ripping the wood to shreds in a trail that caught up to him just as Iris put one threw his head. A raider appeared around the corner to the edge of the building Jack ran towards swinging his nailed bat at his head, he ducked just in time. The raider grunted trying to pull his weapon out of the wall until Jack kicked him in chest causing him to stumble back and fall...he walked towards the Raider then open fired, killing the Raider in the dirt. Kira let out short bursts from her assault rifle killing a raider each time until she moved around the corner and held the trigger down, blood went everywhere making the dirt red. Jack looked over when everything grew quiet...Kira caught her breath unaware of the Raider approaching her with a combat knife equipped. Iris took aim and pulled the trigger...but her rifle jammed. She stood up. KIRA BEHIND YOU!!

She turned around quickly and pulled the trigger but the Raider pushed the end of her long barrel aside getting close enough to swing down at her. She raised her arm and the combat knife drove into the flesh of her arm, threw the muscle tissue and tore open the skin on the other side of her arm. She screamed in pain dropping the assault rifle and when he was about to go for the killing blow, Kira felt the heat of the red beam passing her head and hitting the raider in the face causing a bloody mess all over the place. Jack looked at his Flintlock, the core rattled as steam emitted off the center piece. He holstered the weapon to let it cool off and recharge. In the meantime he ran to Kira's aid as did Iris. Once they both reached her she was leaning against the wall holding her arm full of blood, there was so much it began dripping off the end of her fingers. Jack threw Iris a stimpack, she took it and injected her with the medicine. Even that won't be enough...you're going to need that stitched up. Lets go into town and see what we can find..

Iris said to her and lead her sister down the road. Jack spotted the man that was tied up, he stopped in front of him and equipped the knife he took from the dead raider who stabbed Kira. He broke the prisoner free then tucked the knife into the empty holster on his left side. You alright to walk? Jack asked the man. He pushed himself out of the dirt, brushed himself off and walked over to where the Raiders had been around the fire. Well that answered Jacks question. He was throwing on one of those Wastelander sweaters and brown pants which must of been his before he was taken. He looked over to Jack. I thought i was a goner for sure. Thanks...I'd stick around and help you out but I have kids in Ashstone. Goodbye friend!

Jack nodded. He watched him run down the street as Jack began to feel good about himself when all of the sudden...*KABOOOM!!* the man exploded into a million pieces after stepping onto a land mine. Jack fell back raising his arm as body parts began to fall from the sky. Oh bloody hell!! He screamed. Iris and Kira looked in horror. You know what. I'm done! I'm done saving people. Screw them they're just gonna die anyway!! Jack said kicking over one of the barrels. Can't stay alive for one damn minute...at least survive long enough to get the hell out of my sight!!

Iris looked over to Jack.
I guess that means we're not going further into town! We'll head back and take the long way around once Kira is patched up. Just tread lightly. Okay? Actually you know what. Come inside with us. Sometimes you can be a bit reckless...and town full of land mines isn't the best place to be for you.

Last Edit: Jul 11, 2015 21:50:44 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 14, 2015 13:44:28 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 14, 2015 13:44:28 GMT -8

A few pulls of the trigger, an explosion here and there. Needle and thread, blood and recovery. The past hour they were all knee deep in the ringer but eventually the three of them were back out there heading South-east on a war torn highway. She licked her cracked lips feeling the sting and tasting blood from a cut in the crease of her mouth, Kira wiped her face as the Suns heat winded them down to a level of great exhaustion. Jack slowed down, taking a few scuffed steps before stopping. We need to find shade... Jack said taking deep breaths and closing his eyes for a moment.

For a moment it was as if he was by himself as all the noise drowned out, he could almost hear his heartbeat when all of the sudden he heard his name being called and that's when Jack was tackled to the ground. He had fallen behind a large rotted tree stump with Iris on top of him, he was about to speak when she covered his mouth and Kira had been sitting down against the side of the trunk keeping as low as she could be. Jack looked at Iris when he began to hear the fluttering of an Enclave Vertibird nearing from the distance, he removed her hand from his mouth once he understood what was going on. He looked up towards the sky when the Vertibird passed overhead, he looked back up to Iris. I think we both know why you're still on me. Jack smirked.

Iris got up off of him once the Vertibird was far enough away and out of sight.
If i didn't...you would of ended up being an Enclave experiment. We need to get out of here now...it's not safe.

Jack brushed himself off then looked at Iris.
It's not like they're looking for us. Shouldn't we of acted natural instead of jumping out of the way making ourselves look suspicious?

Kira smirked looking at Iris.
He does make a point. I think she just couldn't get enough of you Jack..

She didn't respond to such a ridiculous comment as she tugged on her holster strap that wrapped around her torso holding the Sniper Rifle on her back. They started walking again, down the slope after their sudden stop. With all of the equipment they looted from the dead raiders it weighed them down, making them exhausted quickly. Iris glanced up hearing that familiar flutter again when suddenly two Vertibirds were on the approach, she took a step back until the one that passed just now appeared flying over the hill with guns trained on the three of them. The loud fluttering grew closer as the birds landed to each side of them, Enclave soldiers piled out aiming their plasma rifles at them. They were outnumbered, out gunned and there was nothing they could do. What is this?!

Iris shouted at them noticing two soldiers in Brotherhood armor as well. Jack has his hand on his Laser Flintlock ready to pull it out, there were just to many of them to take on all at once. Then it was Commander Vlerges who stepped off the Vertibird holding a long barreled .45 in his hand. Put down your weapons and make it easier on yourselves. He shouted at them. They looked at each other knowing there was nothing else they could do, their weapons were dropped when suddenly Jack felt an excruciating amount of pain at the back of his head after one of the soldiers smashed him with the back end of their rifle. He fell on his knee's becoming dizzy as he looked up when Commander Vlerges raised his pistol and shot Kira several times in the chest. NO!! Iris screamed with a cry when Vlerges turned to her as well. I told you if you had anything to do with him you would pay the consequences.

Everything was fuzzy. Jack was about to fall over when he looked up to find Vlerges pulling the trigger and Iris's body falling back in the dirt. His eyes closed, Jack fell over in an unconscious state as the noise of the Vertibirds faded away.

Last Edit: Jul 14, 2015 17:09:34 GMT -8 by Jeku

Jeku
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Posts: 32

Desolate 216 Jul 18, 2015 6:16:04 GMT -8

Post by Jeku on Jul 18, 2015 6:16:04 GMT -8

She stumbled nearly collapsing as she held her hand against her chest. Kira was still alive and breathing, her body armor barely saved her just enough to get back up on her feet. Breathing proved to be difficult while sprinting at a steady speed trying to hold it together. The winds had awoken a dust storm, her eyes were barely open with her hand held out in front of her as the blinding sun shined down on her. Threw the shroud of dust and ash the airship lights pierced the storm shining down on her as it descended, the moment she noticed they had arrived she collapsed on her knee's waiting for help.

ONE WEEK LATER

There wasn't much going on since the Enclave and Brotherhood forces got into the Vault. People continued to come and go as they pleased but the presence of the power armored factions remained on stand by, the few patrolling throughout Liberty Island as well guarding the Vault door. Cal decided to close the shop today, getting outdoors is a rare occasion for him except when John was in town. Their father was no doubt a busy man being in charge of the island and having other business he don't speak of out in the mainland. He was leaning against the back of the Load & Go watching the guards, one thing he knew was that the smell coming out of that hole was stinking up the whole island. Though he was familiar with that scent...if you didn't know what it was then you haven't been out here in the wasteland long enough. Mack showed up expecting to find his brother here who had been watching the Vault entrance. It's been a week today, it's not like Iris to be late.

Mack said with concern as he crossed his arms and leaned against the back wall of the Load & Go next to Cal, even he expected her for the weekly ammo purchase at his shop but they both knew the Brotherhood had something to do with it. Vertirds soared threw the sky above making their daily round since the factions occupation of the island. Even though the people on this island outnumbered the factions occupation 2:1 their armor was hard to penetrate if a fight did happen. Though, everything was tense around here lately. Steel City seemed more alive then ever with platoons training on double time as if they were to expect a war upon the horizon. New officers got their power armor as the production rate of steel increased in speed from laser to plasma weaponry as well. The Headquarters especially had picked up on their guard count making it impossible for someone to break in or out. Down on the lowest floor, five stories beneath the surface Doctor Ivanov worked on his test subjects. This one was already dead, a familiar face from down in Vault 216, the overseer. Ivanov knew he'd been dead for to long to get any accurate results.

Again, the radio resets as it has been constantly for the entire week. ''The Enclave is salvation. The Enclave is freedom. The Enclave is justice. We stand as the pinnacle, a guide for the lost as we shine light to reveal the truth of the future. Be enlightened and embrace the Enclave into your life, we shall leave behind those who do not believe in their old world as we shape the future together as one, as the enclave. The Enclave is the future and the future is NOW.'' The speech followed a patriotic song, it must be close to a thousand replays by now. Jack was sitting at the edge of his bunk starring at the Enclave propaganda which wrote the famous line ''we want YOU''. They didn't even ask me any questions. No tests. No procedures. They stuck me in this cell for nothing. Nothing.

Jack got up and ripped the poster off of the wall just when he heard the sound of metal grinding, recalling it must of been that time of day again. A tray of slop food slid in from under the door, he didn't even know what it was. His stomach growled but he couldn't eat that shit again. He picked up the tray and slammed it against the one way window he couldn't see threw. The slop rolled down the door as he slammed the tray against the door again. He stopped and caught his breath. That was the moment he noticed something white in his food, and it wasn't something you could eat. He knelt down starring at it before taking it out from the pile of food. A note. He turned the sheet around and found a series of numbers. ''9, 27, 18, 54, 36 . . . '' Why would someone put it into his food...could it mean more then just a math problem. 18, 9, 36, 18 . . . 9, 27, 18 . . .18, 9 . . .9. Nine? What is that suppose to mean? Jack said shaking his head. No. It's just the Enclave trying to mess with my head. What do you want!! Jack said slamming his fist against the door.

He heard voice. Jack slowly turned around when a radroach crawled out from under his bed and stopped, he was between the Radroach and his food. He could of sworn he heard someone in this room just now when suddenly. It spoke. You gonna eat that or what. Slowly Jack grabbed the tray swinging at the radroach. The tray missed, it crawled under the bed again but Jack grabbed the entire bed and flipped it over. It was gone. There was nothing under the bed...not even a hole in the floor or wall. I'm losing it.

Last Edit: Jul 18, 2015 6:19:49 GMT -8 by Jeku

Desolate 216

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