UNSCDF Chapter 23- A Big Heart

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Wesley Conference Center

July 27, 1999

1515 Local Time

            Cookson exited Warthog as the vehicle pulled to a stop at an office building.

            “Alright, let’s head inside.” Myers turned the engine off.

            Johnson grabbed his Mini-14 and scoped the streets. al-Rahman walked to the office entrance and opened the glass door. Patrick and Myers quickly entered followed by Cookson.

            “I’ll stay and watch the Warthog.” Johnson cocked his rifle.

            “Alright, let’s get this done.” Patrick hustled the marines as they opened the door to a stairwell.

        “Jackal Squadron can look between floors for any survivors while we head to the roof.” Myers pointed up.

         “Let’s get this done already.” Cookson opened the second floor door and watched Myers and Patrick run up.

            Cookson scanned the hallway and waved at al-Rahman.

            “Quick sweep and we move up.” Cookson jogged lightly.

            Within two minutes of quickly checking each room, the group headed up to the next level. Cookson took out two zombies by swinging the butt of his gun at their heads while al-Rahman knifed a zombie to its head and severed it.

          “This is Silverfish Squadron of the Australian Army requesting backup at the Centerpoint Sydney Tower, anyone copy?” a man broadcasted on the RaidCall.

          Cookson paused and looked out the window. In the view was the tower and he saw gunfire at the top. Cookson looked at al-Rahman and nodded.

            “Let’s go assist.” al-Rahman replied.

            “I’ll tell Sparrow Squadron.” Cookson looked at the ceiling.

            “Alright.” al-Rahman looked at his watch.

            “Sergeant Patrick from Sparrow Squadron come in, over.” Cookson spoke on the RaidCall.

            “Go ahead, Patrick here.” Patrick replied.

            “Az and I are going to assist at the Centerpoint Sydney Tower. Johnson will stay behind as we walk by foot.” Cookson responded.

            “Copy, we’re good so far. We’ll join you once we’re done. Patrick out.” Patrick replied.

          “Silverfish Squadron, this is Jackal Squadron. We read you and are coming to assist.” Cookson broadcasted.

         “Solid copy Jackal Squadron, things are getting heated up here. Multiple casualties. Please hurry.” the man’s voice replied with gunfire in the background.

            “Will do Silverfish Squadron, Jackal out.” Cookson headed for the stairs.

            Cookson and al-Rahman ran down the stairs and exited the building. Cookson waved a farewell to a serious Johnson and the pair ran down the streets as they saw light flashes and smoke emerging from the tower.

            “Hurry.” al-Rahman urged.

            Cookson kicked down a zombie in his way and placed a round into its head. The team rushed inside the building and saw an opened elevator.

            “Always take the stairs.” al-Rahman pointed at the stairwell.

           al-Rahman pushed the door open as two zombies popped out. Cookson fired two rounds behind al-Rahman and killed the zombies.

            “Thanks.” al-Rahman said with relief.

            “Need help…please…hurry!” the man spoke on the RaidCall with desperation.

            al-Rahman began to run up the stairs as Cookson followed closely behind. In less than five minutes, the pair was panting as they finished all the stairs to the top. To their surprise, there were more than thirty zombies crowded on the top level. The pair sprayed their guns at the crowd and ran to an injured soldier.

            “I’m not going to make it.” the soldier spoke to al-Rahman as he fired his Lock 17 at the crowd.

            “What’s going on?” Cookson quickly reloaded his gun as he laid a heavy cover fire.

            “You need to reset a communications junction at the back.” the soldier pointed behind the zombies.

            “Okay.” al-Rahman nodded.

            “Charge!” Cookson ran forward.

          al-Rahman followed behind closely as Cookson cleared a path forward to the junction. Cookson pressed the button and the computer screen turned on.

            “System online.” the computer spoke.

            “Now let’s get out of here!” Cookson reloaded his gun as al-Rahman covered him.

            The pair quickly cleared a path and ran up to the injured soldier.

            “I’m bitten, leave me.” the soldier replied.

            “Shit!” Cookson covered al-Rahman as he spoke to the soldier.

            “What?” al-Rahman turned around.

al-Rahman watched in horror as zombies poured out of the stairwell they came from. There was no exit out and their ammo was running out.

“Look, I have only one parachute on me. Take it and jump off the tower. It’s your best shot at survival.” the soldier took off his backpack as he began to cough blood.

“Only one?” al-Rahman asked.

“Yes, good luck soldier.” the soldier pointed the gun to his head and fired.

al-Rahman knew the soldier was about to turn and that he had put himself out of his misery. al-Rahman took the backpack and looked at a busy Cookson. He didn’t know there was only one parachute and the zombies were getting closer. al-Rahman picked up another dead soldier’s backpack and walked up to Cookson.

“Take this. We’re jumping.” al-Rahman handed Cookson a backpack.

“How about you?” Cookson took the backpack as he continued to fire.

“I’ve got one too.” al-Rahman showed Cookson the other backpack in his hand.

“Let’s get the hell out then.” Cookson put on the backpack and turned to the window.

al-Rahman fired his gun to cover Cookson as he broke the window with a hard swing of his gun. Cookson jumped to the ledge and waved at al-Rahman to hurry up.

“Hurry!” Cookson felt the wind blowing strongly at his face.

al-Rahman knew it was his time and that only one person could make it out alive. He ran up beside Cookson and placed his hand on his shoulder.

“This is the end of the road for me good friend. Take good care of Sarah and love her to your fullest.” al-Rahman smiled.

“What do you mean? Jump first.” Cookson was confused.

“I have no chute. You do. I promised Sarah to look out for you…” al-Rahman answered.

With that, al-Rahman pushed Cookson off the ledge and watched him fall down.

“Pull the cord!” al-Rahman yelled and then turned around inside to face his fate.

“Noooo!” Cookson cried out loud as he fell.

Cookson pulled his cord and the parachute opened up. The parachute jerked his body upwards as he continued to fall. He had opened his parachute too late and was still falling at a fast speed. A gust of wind blew Cookson into a building and smashed his side against it. The parachute got caught into a satellite dish and ripped violently. The satellite dish reduced Cookson’s speed, but was insignificant. Cookson watched as he crashed into the solid concrete sidewalk.

“Sir!” Johnson sped on his Warthog carrying Patrick and Myers.

Johnson had saw Cookson jump out the tower and had managed to follow closely. After a couple of turns, he had found him. Cookson coughed and cried in pain as he felt excruciating pain to his legs and numbness to his left arm.

“I cant’ feel my arm and my legs. Ow!” Cookson cursed.

“You’ve probably broke your legs Cookson. Let’s get you to base.” Patrick said as Myers walked up with a morphine needle.

“Az…” Cookson looked at the tower and saw nothing.

“Let’s get him to Camp Galileo.” Johnson said as he watched Myers inject morphine to Cookson.

“Hang in there mate.” Patrick assisted Johnson as they lifted Cookson and placed him into the rear of the Warthog.

Johnson quickly ran to the driver’s seat and stepped on the accelerator. Cookson lay on the seats as he stared at the skies. His friend Az has sacrificed his life for him so that he would live to be with Sarah.

“Az…” Cookson moaned.

            “I’m sorry about your friend.” Patrick patted Cookson as he looked at the tower.

            “There’s nothing we could have done.” Myers spoke apologetically.

            “There was only one parachute and he gave it to me.” Cookson muttered.

            “He died a hero then.” Patrick assured.

            “He gave it to me so that I can be with the girl I love.” Cookson began to tear.

            “I can see how much he valued the friendship. May he rest in peace knowing that he saved your life.” Myers spoke with a straight face.

            Johnson continued to drive the Warthog until it passed a roadblock occupied by two Warthogs.

            “State your purpose.” a sergeant walked over beside Johnson.

            “We have a marine in serious condition.” Johnson pointed to the backseat.

            “Alright, Camp Galileo is in that underground parking lot.” the sergeant pointed and waved at his marines to move out of the way.

            Johnson drove slowly as he saw marines walking to and from the streets.

            “Hang in there Cookson. We’re almost there.” Johnson called out.

            The Warthog approached the parking lot and stopped.

            “Medic!” Myers called out.

            Two marines rushed out with a medic kit and approached them.

            “We’ll take it from here.” a marine spoke to Myers.

        The marines lifted Cookson up from his seat and took him to an adjacent building. The marines watched as Cookson disappeared inside the building and decided to take a look around the camp.

UNSCDF Chapter 22- The Spark

Bankstown, New South Wales, Australia

UNSC Relief Center

July 27, 1999

0945 Local Time

         Sarah sat comfortably in her chair as she tied her shoes. A knock on her door made her lose concentration as she was thinking about what to do at the center.

            “Sarah! You here?” Cookson called out.

            “Yeah, hang on.” Sarah stood up and walked to the door.

            Sarah unlocked the door and saw Cookson dressed in full battle gear.

            “Woah.” Sarah was surprised.

          “Look Sarah, I’m getting deployed to assist with the extermination of Sydney.” Cookson held Sarah’s hands.

            “You are going to Sydney?” That’s the most dangerous place to be.” Sarah looked into Cookson’s eyes with concern.

            “I’m in Jackal Squadron. Basically the reconnaissance team we have here.” Cookson explained.

            “Going over there is death.” Sarah was upset.

            “Don’t worry Sarah. We’re teaming up with the Australian army in a joint operation to begin our first offensive to regain control of major cities.” Cookson assured.

            “Please don’t go.” Sarah begged.

          “I have to Sarah. As much as I like spending time with you, someone still needs to fight for our home.” Cookson hugged Sarah as she began to get emotional.

            “Someone else can do it. I don’t want to lose another person.” Sarah held Cookson tightly.

            “We have to fight so that we have a better future.” Cookson brushed Sarah’s hair.

            “Promise to come back.” Sarah looked at Cookson’s eyes.

            “I will.” Cookson smiled as he touched Sarah’s cheek with his hand.

            “Say it.” Sarah demanded.

            “I promise Sarah.” Cookson kissed Sarah’s cheek and smiled.

        “Wait!” Sarah called as Cookson began to head off as other marines ran towards the Pelicans docked outside ready to depart.

            Cookson turned and saw Sarah running towards him. Sarah jumped onto him and gave Cookson a passionate kiss. Cookson blushed as he kissed and then Sarah let him go.

            “Stay safe.” Sarah smiled.

            “I will, be sure to practice those sniping skills when I get back.” Cookson stared at Sarah with dreamy eyes.

         Sarah watched and waved as Cookson got onto a seat on the Pelican. She watched as Cookson stare at her as the Pelican lifted off into the sky and flew off.

            “Nice man.” a man spoke behind her.

            Sarah turned around and saw al-Rahman suited in full battle gear holding a FM FAL.

            “Az!” Sarah spoke with excitement.

            “Nice to see you Sarah.” al-Rahman patted her shoulder.

            “You’re going as well?” Sarah looked at al-Rahman’s suit.

         “Yeah, same team as Corporal Cookson.” al-Rahman pointed at his badge of Jackal Squadron on his arm.

            “Oh, you guys be careful.” Sarah cautioned.

            “We will. Look Sarah, I know how much Cookson means to you.” al-Rahman spoke as he watched a Falcon land.

            “What do you mean?” Sarah asked shyly.

            “You guys spend a lot of time together and that kiss…” al-Rahman’s voice trailed off.

            “Oh.” Sarah blushed.

         “Look, I’ll watch out for him. Hell, I’ll even put my life over his just for you Sarah.” al-Rahman smiled.

            “You’d do that? For me?” Sarah felt honored.

            “You remind me of my daughter. She got infected and I lost her.” al-Rahman sighed.

            “I’m sorry to hear that.” Sarah spoke solemnly.

         “Don’t worry about it. I’ll take good care of your Cookson. You have my word.” al-Rahman assured.

            “Thank you.” Sarah hugged al-Rahman.

            “See you soon Sarah.” al-Rahman hugged back.

            “Bye Az.” Sarah waved as al-Rahman got on the Falcon with other marines and lifted off.

          Sarah felt alone as the marines emptied out the field. She stood there alone in the cool breeze as wind blew her hair covering her face. She was motionless as she thought about Cookson. Over the days, they had bonded and got to know each other well. She was in love with him. Sarah took a deep breath and thought about who she could talk to.

            “Charlie…” Sarah remembered.

          Sarah had forgotten that Charlie from Canada was still out there looking for her. She decided to head over to the Mess Hall and find a computer to download the chat program she used to talk to Charlie. She wasn’t sure if Charlie still remembered her or had given up in finding her, but she wanted to give it a shot. Sarah looked around and then hurried inside.

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Insertion Tango

July 27, 1999

1100 Local Time

           Cookson watched as the Pelican landed in the outskirts of Sydney and saw an Australian soldier drive a school bus beside them.

            “Everyone on board.” the driver waved his hand out the window.

           Cookson grabbed his M16 and got inside the bus along with eight more marines. The bus doors closed as the Pelican lifted off into the sky. Cookson looked out the window and saw Pelicans flying in and out of the city center. The bus drove past some ruined houses and came to a stop as a Falcon landed. Cookson watched as three marines got off and hopped on the bus.

            “Az!” Cookson shouted at al-Rahman to grab a seat beside him.

            “Hey Cookson.” al-Rahman smiled and sat beside him.

            “Where’s the rest of the squad?” Cookson looked at the other marines.

            “We’re scattered all over. The bus is taking us to Camp Galileo to regroup.” al-Rahman explained.

            “I see.” Cookson looked as the bus moved past some marines walking in the distance.

            The bus halted to a stop at an intersection as the driver got up from his seat.

            “I’ve got orders from my CO to let any Sparrow Squadron and Jackal Squadron members off at this location.” the driver spoke out loud.

            “Here? In the middle of nowhere?” a man in his mid thirties with a scar on his cheek asked.

            “Sparrow and Jackal Squadron will be picked up by UNSC forces. That’s all I know Sergeant.” the driver spoke to the marine.

            “I guess I’m by myself.” the sergeant stood up and looked around for his squad mates.

            “You’ve got us for now.” al-Rahman pointed at his Jackal Squadron badge.

            “And me.” Cookson stood up.

            “Let’s go.” al-Rahman exited the bus with Cookson.

            The sergeant got off the bus and watched as the bus drove off towards the city.

            “Sergeant Joey Patrick from the Australian Marine Corps.” the sergeant introduced himself.

            “Corporal Azrie al-Rahman, but I go by Az.” al-Rahman introduced.

            “Corporal Michael Cookson, from Jackal Squadron.” Cookson saluted a crisp salute.

            “Nice to meet you.” Patrick saluted back.

            “Glad to see us teaming up.” al-Rahman smiled.

            “Yeah, I guess our common goal is to wipe out the infected.” Patrick looked at his watch.

       “I have no idea when they’re coming. Let’s get some cover first.” Cookson eyed the vacant intersection.

            “Agreed.” Patrick pointed at a nearby building.

            Patrick scanned the streets with his SA80 as he took point. Patrick gave a nod and then al-Rahman entered the building followed by Cookson. Patrick went inside and closed the door. Cookson looked out the cracked windows and saw a troop transport Warthog sped to the intersection carrying five civilians. Patrick opened the door and shouted.

            “Climb aboard!” the driver honked.

            The group hopped into the back seats and saw tired and scared faces on the civilians.

            “Corporal Myers from Sparrow Squadron along with Private Johnson from Jackal Squadron.” the driver said as he drove down the streets.

            “Survivors…I thought Sydney was lost.” al-Rahman spoke to an old man who stared at him.

            “We tried our best to hide.” the old man replied.

            “We’re going to drop them off so we can get them to safety first.” Myers replied as he overheard the conversation.

            “Sure.” al-Rahman nodded.

            “We’ll be there in a few minutes.” Myers accelerated and sped through the streets.

            The Warthog did a turn right and came up in front of a landed Pelican. Myers waved the civilians to get on and watched as the Pelican take off.

            “Alright, off we go.” Johnson said as he looked at the skies.

            “Heard we need to set up camera to monitor the streets.” Myers pointed at the rooftops.

            “Let’s go.” Cookson urged as he felt that it was an easy thing to do.

            “And find any survivors along the way if any.” Myers added.

            “Alright.” al-Rahman nodded.

            “Technically, Sparrow Squadron sets up cameras while Jackal Squadron assists in the search while they head indoors.” Johnson joined the conversation.

            “Sounds like a plan to me.” Patrick laughed.

            “Off we go then.” Myers turned the Warthog on and drove forward.

            Cookson smiled as he thought about Sarah. He couldn’t wait to finish the task and head back to see her at the center.

UNSCDF Chapter 21- Lurking Shadows

Fort Collins, Colorado, USA

UNSC Relief Center

March 25, 2001

1030 Local Time

            “We’re here.” Zyrok stood at the destroyed entrance to the UNSC Relief Center.

            Just a few days ago, the center was lively and packed with soldiers and civilians. Now, it looked like any other part of its neighboring communities which were in ruins and destruction. The ground was now scattered with bullet shells and dead corpses.

            “Would you look at that!” Casey pointed at a big hole in the central building.

            “That was from the two Titans.” Zyrok recalled.

            “We should go find some weapons and transportation.” Nevarez suggested.

            “Alright, listen up folks. Casey and Nevarez will be call sign 2-2 and go look for the armory. Taylor and I will be 1-2 and go find some transport.” Zyrok delegated the tasks.

            “Copy that sir.” Nevarez nodded.

            “Look sharp and watch your six. There is still one more Titan we know out there.”  Zyrok looked at the central building.

            “Will do boss.” Casey acknowledged.

            “Let’s move people.” Zyrok pushed on his men as they started to walk towards the central building.

            “Good luck.” Casey replied and hurried off with Nevarez to a small ruined building at the corner of the West wall.

            Zyrok and Taylor dashed across the open fields to head towards the side entrance of the central building. They noticed a few zombies roaming around, but were quick enough to avoid detection. Zyrok opened the door slowly and peeked inside. The corridor was dark as night and the sunlight from the outside only lit up the first three meters.

            “We’ll need to find the directory to know where we can find the vehicles instead of running around the whole center to look for the garage.” Zyrok told Taylor his plan.

            “It’ll be a quick in, quick out then?” Taylor turned on his flashlight and pulled out his Lock 17.

            “Yeah. We have no idea how many hostiles may be inside.” Zyrok took out his flashlight and pointed into the corridor.

            Taylor took point and slowly walked forward as Zyrok followed closely behind, Zyrok turned around and watched the back for a quick second and noticed a figure ran past the entrance and disappear into the darkness.

            “Crap!” Zyrok pointed his gun while aiming his flashlight.

            “What?” Taylor turned his head and whispered.

            “Something just ran behind us.” Zyrok whispered back.

            “Let’s pick up our pace and find that directory and get the hell out of here.” Taylor walked forward scanning the nearby rooms.

            “Agreed.” Zyrok picked up his pace.

            “This place is giving me the creeps.” Taylor wiped his visor with his shirt sleeve.

            “Me too.” Zyrok gulped as he heard wet footsteps in the background.

            Taylor entered an office and quickly scanned the room.

            “Clear.” Taylor called out quietly.

            Zyrok entered the room and walked to a desk. He flipped through the drawers to look for a directory book, but he didn’t find a thing.

            “Next office, let’s go.” Zyrok directed.

            Taylor peeked his head out the doorway and saw a zombie with tentacles charge at him. Taylor fired his Lock 17 to cover as he quickly closed the door.

            “We won’t be exiting that way anymore.” Taylor took a deep breath.

            “What did you see?” Zyrok looked as the door shook as the zombie pounded on it.

            “I’ve never seen it before. It’s not the Bone or the burnt one. This one had tentacles.” Taylor pointed at the door.

            “We better hurry. I don’t think the door is going to last.” Zyrok watched as the door frame began to crack.

            “I see a side door.” Taylor pointed at a closed door at the back wall.

            “Let’s go. We don’t have a choice.” Zyrok waved.

            Zyrok opened the door and saw a hallway leading towards the stairwell.

            “Up or down?” Zyrok asked as he approached the stairs.

            “My gut says up.” Taylor replied.

            “Let’s head up then.” Zyrok looked up and panned his flashlight.

            “Let’s check one more up. I don’t think we’ll need to go that up.” Taylor climbed the steps.

            Zyrok opened the second door and waved at Taylor to scout as he guarded the stairwell. Taylor gave a thumbs up and Zyrok ran up beside him. Zyrok opened the nearest door and went inside.

            “Same plan. You guard entrance while I search for the directory.” Zyrok flipped over a table and sifted threw the drawers.

            Zyrok flipped over a pile of documents, family photos, pencils, and then saw a mini notebook. He flipped it open and saw the directory. He smiled at it and put it into his pocket.

            “Got it. Let’s get out of here.” Zyrok approached Taylor as he readied himself.

            “Go!” Taylor ran down a hallway and knocked over a zombie blocking his way.

            Zyrok jumped over the knocked zombie and ran past Taylor as he headed to another stairwell. Zyrok pushed the door open and saw a two-headed zombie staring at him.

            “Oh shit.” Zyrok smacked the zombie down the stairs, but was too late as the zombie screamed an ear-splitting scream.

            “Run!” Taylor shouted as he saw a swarm of zombies burst out different rooms.

Fort Collins, Colorado, USA

UNSC Relief Center

March 25, 2001

1205 Local Time

            Casey swiped his badge on the access panel and the doors slid open. Nevarez walked in and saw empty magazines litter the ground. Casey kicked the ground in frustration.

            “It’s been all looted.” Nevarez spoke with disappointment.

            “Let’s head to the back shelves and see if we can find other weapons.” Casey pointed at a gun rack cabinet that was partially open.

            Casey swung the door open and saw a fully loaded FM Mag lying in the bottom shelf.

            “That’s what I’m talking about.” Casey grinned and picked up the machine gun.

            “I’ll go take a look around and see if I can find an equivalent.” Nevarez walked off to the other racks.

            After twenty minutes of searching, the pair had found two M16s, one Lock 17, and one FM Mag. The pair decided to take a quick snack break when a loud scream erupted from the central building.

            “Not good.” Casey stood up and put his water bottle into his backpack.

            “Let’s hurry and give them a hand.” Nevarez picked up the looted weapons.

            “Better hope that a Titan don’t show up.” Casey began to jog towards the central building.

            “Yeah.” Nevarez nodded in agreement as he followed Casey.

            Casey looked as a swarm of zombies poured out of the front doors chasing Zyrok and Taylor.

            “Cover fire.” Casey shouted as he deployed the FM Mag.

            Nevarez crouched to the ground and placed a light cover as Zyrok and Taylor ran behind them. Casey fired the FM Mag into the swarm as Zyrok and Taylor picked up the looted weapons and started firing. In a minute or so, the swarm was exterminated and corpses scattered the battlefields.

            “Thanks for the assist.” Zyrok took a deep breath and relaxed.

            “Not at all.” Casey smiled.

            “Let’s get transport.” Zyrok took out the directory book and looked at it.

            “That way.” Zyrok pointed at a building beside a destroyed wall.

UNSCDF Chapter 20- Thoughts, Feelings, and Emotions

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada

UNSC Richmond Outpost

July 25, 1999

1130 Local Time

            Charlie walked out of Cole’s office and looked at his watch. He needed a break from thinking about his first mission and decided to eat lunch early. Charlie entered the cafeteria and noticed Mary sweeping the floor.

            “Hi Mary.” Charlie called out.

            “Oh, hello Zyrok.” Mary waved.

            “You busy?” Charlie looked at the broom Mary was holding.

            “Not really, I start work in half an hour.” Mary replied.

            “Can we talk about…?” Charlie’s voice trailed off.

            “What happened two days ago?” Mary asked.

            “Yeah, that.” Charlie said uneasily.

            “Sure, grab a seat. I’ll put this broom away.” Mary pointed at a nearby table.

            Charlie grabbed a seat and saw Mary hurry into the kitchen. He was getting anxious as to how Mary would react when they discuss that night. After a few minutes, Mary walked out the kitchen with two plates of sandwiches.

            “Here, thought we could both have lunch.” Mary smiled and placed a plate in front of Charlie.

            “Thank you.” Charlie smiled and graciously accepted the food.

            “Not a problem. Where do you want to start?” Mary glanced at Charlie.

            “Well, I just wanted to see how you were feeling after that night. I felt so bad.” Charlie spoke his mind as he took a bite of his sandwich.

            “I’m sorry. I didn’t know you had a girlfriend.” Mary looked at Charlie and then grabbed her sandwich.

            “Oh, I don’t have a girlfriend. She’s a girl who has been there for me so much and left an imprint in my life.” Charlie explained.

            “So a friend who is a girl? So a girl friend.” Mary played around with the words.

            “You could say that.” Charlie laughed.

            “I don’t understand…” Mary paused in thought.

            “Understand what?” Charlie stopped eating and looked at Mary.

            “You’re not taken, but…” Mary wondered.

            “Look Mary, I like you as well, but I have feelings for this girl.” Charlie put down his sandwich and looked into Mary’s eyes.

            “Is it someone here?” Mary looked at the other female marines eating at the other tables.

            “No, she’s not here. She’s somewhere in Australia.” Charlie sighed.

            “Woah. That’s very far.” Mary looked surprised.

            “Yes it is.” Charlie nodded in agreement.

            “Are you sure she’s still alive out there?” Mary questioned.

            “I’m not sure, but I have faith in her.” Charlie said with optimism.

            “If she’s alive, how do you plan to find her?” Mary asked.

            “To be honest, I don’t have any idea for that. I enlisted into the UNSC in hopes of improving my chances her.” Charlie answered.

            “Wow.” Mary ate her sandwich.

            “Wow what?” Charlie was confused.

        “I can tell that she means a lot to you from what I’ve just heard from you.” Mary clarified her comment.

       “Yeah, she means the world to me.” Charlie took a deep breath and pictured Sarah’s face in his mind.

         “Well, she’s one lucky girl. You really are different from the other guys I’ve met.” Mary wiped her face with a napkin.

            “Thanks.” Charlie finished his sandwich and wiped his face.

            “You are so loyal and faithful.” Mary commented.

            “Why do you say that?” Charlie glazed at Mary.

            “Well, you’re not taken yet you chose to stay true to her even though you’re just friends. We would have probably slept together that night and became closer, but you followed your heart.” Mary gave her reasons.

            “I see.” Charlie rubbed his chin.

            “Most guys won’t do what you did.” Mary smiled and finished her sandwich.

            “In my mind, I feel like cheating.” Charlie replied shyly.

            “But it’s not.” Mary assured.

            “I know, but that’s how I feel.” Charlie spoke out his feelings.

          “You’re unique Zyrok. I’ve got to head back to work. I’ll talk to you soon.” Mary looked at the clock on the wall and got up.

            “Yeah, for sure. Thanks for the meal.” Charlie smiled and pointed to this plate.

            “Anytime.” Mary grinned and walked away.

            Charlie got up and walked out the cafeteria as a group of marines entered for lunch. He saw Casey talking to a young marine in his early twenties with a mustache.

            “Hey Zyrok, I want you to meet Corporal Mike Stewart. He’s our pilot from now on.” Casey introduced the marine to him.

            “Lieutenant Zyrok, Corporal Stewart at your service.” Stewart saluted.

            “Nice to meet you Corporal.” Charlie saluted back.

            “I was telling Stewart how I had to fly a Falcon with no experience.” Casey chuckled.

            “He’s not bad.” Charlie laughed.

            “I’ve been trained in most air assets, sir.” Stewart replied.

            “That’s good to hear. Oh, by the way, there’s no need to address sir to me.” Charlie smiled.

            “Understood, sir…I mean…understood.” Stewart grinned and nodded his head.

            “Zyrok, I told Cole we could either get a pilot or train us to fly. It looks like he gave us a pilot which is better because I really hate flying.” Casey patted Stewart’s back.

        “Alright, good to hear. I’ve got some business to attend to. I’ll let you gentlemen acquaint each other.” Charlie laughed.

            “Alright Zyrok. Let’s go Stewart.” Casey waved and walked with Stewart to line up for food.

            Charlie left the cafeteria and went to his office. He sat in his seat for a good ten minutes doing nothing and decided to download the chat program he used to talk to Sarah. He downloaded the program and installed it.

            “Here it goes.” Charlie took a deep breath and opened the program.

            Suddenly an error message popped up saying that the server was offline and all network based channels were now used by the UNSC.

            “No…” Charlie thought about the slim chances of meeting Sarah.

            Charlie frantically flipped through his desk for a contact list Cole gave him when he first signed his paperwork to join the UNSC. He opened up the book and skimmed the list of departments and numbers.

            “UNSC Communications.” Charlie read it out loud “There’s still a way of finding Sarah.”

            Charlie placed the book into his pocket and walked out of his office. Just as Charlie was about to head over to the Communications Department, Cole walked over and handed him a folder.

            “New mission. Get your team ready in one hour at the briefing room.”

            “Yes sir.” Charlie nodded and watched as Cole walked away.

           Charlie sighed as he looked at the folder and skimmed the documents. He looked at his watch and was disappointed. The Communications Department had to wait. He had a mission to do.

            “Finding Sarah is getting harder and harder.” Charlie thought and headed off to find his marines.

UNSCDF Chapter 19- A Team Effort

Fort Collins, Colorado, USA

City Park

March 24, 2001

1700 Local Time

          Zyrok woke up the roof of the adjacent building in a pile of rubble and smoke. The building they were originally in was now leaning beside them.

            “Guys?” Zyrok stood up and shouted.

            “I’m alright.” Taylor stood up from a pile of debris and coughed.

            “Schmidt?” Zyrok scanned the roof.

            “He’s here.” Taylor walked to an unconscious Schmidt shaking his head.

            “Hey man. Wake up.” Zyrok gently nudged.

            “This is too crazy.” Schmidt complained and opened his eyes.

            “Echo 1-3, do you read over?” Forester spoke on the RaidCall.

            “Go ahead 2-3.” Zyrok responded.

            “Great, we thought we lost you. The Titan is currently following us.” Forester replied.

            “Copy that. We’ll relocate and then flank the Titan.” Zyrok replied.

            “Copy 1-3, make it quick. We’re getting low on amno.” Forester replied.

            “Loud and clear, we’ll notify you once we’re in position. 1-3 out.” Zyrok waved his men over.

            “Here’s the situation gentlemen, Forester is going to lure the Titan to us. We’ll need to blow it up with the HK69 Schmidt has.” Zyrok explained.

            “Let’s blow it up!” Schmidt pulled out his HK69.

            “Let’s hurry. The Warthog doesn’t have that much ammo.” Zyrok pointed to the fire escape ladder.

            Zyrok peeked down on the streets for zombies and saw none. He waved his men to go first while he checked his watch. Taylor went down first and then followed by Schmidt. Zyrok took one more glance at the roof and then climbed down. Zyrok led his team down an alley and whacked two zombies with his gun as they ran towards an office building. In the distant background, Zyrok could hear the turret of the Warthog firing and decided to quickly head inside the building.

            “A few levels up and we should be fine.” Zyrok looked at the building directory.

         Taylor opened the doors to the stairwell and two zombies rushed out. Taylor shoved one zombie aside and then tripped the other zombie. Zyrok walked beside Taylor and placed two clean shots to the zombie.

            “Let’s hurry. Forester is waiting for our cue.” Zyrok ran up the stairs.

            Zyrok opened the door to the fourth level and pointed at the windows facing the street.

            “There, break the glass.” Zyrok pointed.

            “Got it, sir.” Schmidt hurried off.

            Schmidt swung his handle of his HK69 into the window and shattered it.

            “Echo 2-3, we’re in position in an office building. We’ll pop orange smoke to mark location.” Zyrok spoke on the RaidCall.

            “Copy 1-3. Waiting on your mark.” Forester replied with gunfire in the background.

            “Schmidt, pop smoke to the center of the street.” Zyrok commanded.

            “Aye sir.” Schmidt replied and took out a smoke grenade.

          Schmidt pulled the pin and threw it down to the streets below. The grenade hit the ground and exploded an orange smoke that lifted into the skies.

            “Get ready gentlemen. Weapons hot.” Zyrok looked at the orange smoke drifting as the wind blew.

            “Echo 1-3, we see your smoke. Get ready marines, things are going to be noisy now.” Forester spoke on the RaidCall.

            “Solid copy 2-3, see you soon.” Zyrok replied as he took out his USP.

            Down at the intersection of the office building, a Warthog sped out from a corner with its turret firing rapidly behind them. In less than three seconds, the Titan emerged sprinting rapidly behind the vehicle. The Warthog sped past the smoke and then skidded sideways as it did a U-turn.

            “Fire!” Zyrok commanded as the Titan entered the smoke.

            Schmidt fired a round of his HK69 and placed a good shot to its right arm and blew it off. Taylor sniped at some of its spikes on its chest while Zyrok fired at its head, but did no damage. The Warthog sped towards the injured Titan and rammed its left leg. The Titan wobbled for a second and swung at the Warthog. It managed to clip a piece of the rear bumper and flung the Warthog across the street.

            “Again!” Zyrok shouted.

            Schmidt fired another round at the Titan as it began to chase after the damaged Warthog. The grenade missed and Schmidt quickly reloaded. Zyrok watched as Casey and Nevarez got out of the Warthog and dragged Forester out of her seat.

            “Cover fire.” Zyrok sprayed his pistol to attract the attention of the Titan.

            Taylor fired multiple rounds into its injured leg while Zyrok fired at its severed arm. The Titan felt pain as the bullets pierced into its skin. It turned to the direction of fire and began to run.

            “Steady Schmidt. We’ll need to make that shot count.” Zyrok watched as the Titan approached them down the streets.

            “Understood sir!” Schmidt replied.

            The Titan ran up beside the building and started to smash. Luckily, the Titan was one floor below them and Zyrok saw the opportunity.

            “Now! Everyone aim at its head.” Zyrok peeked over the ledge as the building shook from the Titan’s smashes.

            Taylor fired at the spikes protecting its head and severed it. Zyrok fired his USP at its head while Schmidt aimed and fired his HK69 to its neck. The grenade hit its mark and exploded violently. The explosion ripped the upper portion of the Titan off and burned the rest of its body. The Titan wobbled and collapsed to the ground in flames.

            “Hoorah!” Schmidt high-fived Taylor with satisfaction.

            “That’s how we roll.” Zyrok smiled at the corpse.

            Zyrok reloaded his gun and looked at the damaged Warthog. He saw the marines taking shelter in a building with Forester lying on the ground.

            “Echo 2-3, what’s your status, over?” Zyrok spoke on the RaidCall with concern in his voice.

            “Zyrok, it’s Forester. She’s not looking too well.” Casey spoke and waved at Zyrok.

            “Copy, we’re on our way.” Zyrok waved his men over and waved back at Casey.

            Zyrok and his men ran down the stairs and exited the building. Zyrok glanced at the burning corpse and then hurried into the building Casey was in.

            “What’s the situation?” Zyrok asked.

         “Multiple rib fractures and minor lacerations to her back.” Casey injected a morphine needle into Forester.

            “Call for evac now!” Zyrok crouched beside Forester.

            “Yes sir.” Taylor responded.

            “I’m sorry Zyrok.” Forester moaned in pain.

            “Don’t be, you did great.” Zyrok smiled as he took off his helmet.

            Taylor spoke on the RaidCall with Pruett and then turned to Zyrok.

            “Pruett’s coming over to the orange smoke in les than ten.” Taylor reported.

            “Good.” Zyrok assisted Casey as he wrapped bandages around Forester’s chest.

            “Ow.” Forester cursed as the bandages were tightened.

            “Sorry. Help is on the way. Hang in there LT.” Casey apologized.

            “I’m calling it a mission abort.” Zyrok concluded as he looked at his tired marines and then Forester.

            “Don’t. Finish the mission without me.”  Forester grabbed Zyrok’s arm.

             “Either way, we’re sending you to the nearest medical facility.” Zyrok looked at Forester’s wounds.

            “Ok, but finish the mission. We are almost done.” Forester glazed at Zyrok.

            “Fine.” Zyrok nodded.

            A Pelican flew over the smoke and slowly descended. The engines shut off and Pruett rushed out with a medic kit.

            “Pruett, take Forester to the nearest UNSC base for medical attention. She’s got fractured ribs and lacerations to her back.” Zyrok directed as Pruett looked at Forester.

            “Got it Captain.” Pruett nodded in acknowledgement.

          “Alright marines, let’s bring Forester to the Pelican.” Zyrok commanded.

            The marines huddled around Forester and slowly lifted her up. They walked to the Pelican and laid her on the seats.

            “Schmidt, you take care of Forester while Pruett flies the Pelican.” Zyrok ordered.

            “Yes sir.” Schmidt nodded and handed over his HK69 to Zyrok.

            “Let’s get her out of here.” Zyrok patted Pruett to go as Schmidt climbed aboard.

            “Yes sir.” Pruett saluted and ran into the cockpit.

            Zyrok watched as the Pelican lifted off into the sky and flew out of their view.

            “So, it looks like it may be a while till they get back.” Zyrok concluded.

            “Yeah, it’s getting dark. We should get shelter.” Casey suggested as he noticed the skies darkening.

            “Alright, let’s get a DNA sample of the Titan.” Zyrok pointed at the charred corpse.

          Taylor took out his combat knife and cut off a piece of its skin and placed it into his backpack. Zyrok nodded thanks and glanced at his watch.

            “Is the Warthog still operational?” Zyrok looked at the damaged Warthog.

            “I’ll take a look boss.” Casey volunteered and went to the Warthog.

            Casey inspected the Warthog for five minutes and then shook his head.

            “The turret is broken along with a flat tire on the rear left tire. The engine coolant is leaking as well. Pretty much it’s dead weight for us if we want to use it.” Casey summarized.

            “Leave it then. We’ll walk by foot.” Zyrok concluded as he looked at nearby buildings.

            “Sir, I suggest that we take shelter on ground level. That way we have easy mobility to move about in case we encounter hordes.” Nevarez pitched in.

            “Good idea. Let’s get going.” Zyrok pointed at a convenience store down the street.

            “Hustle. Hustle.” Casey yelled.

            Zyrok glimpsed at the dead Titan and sighed as he thought about Forester. He was worried about her, but he had a mission to finish first.