UNSCDF Chapter 33- Deep Reflections

Surrey, British Columbia, Canada

Scavengers’ Holdout

July 27, 1999

2115 Local Time

            Anthony took Charlie to their warehouse and opened the door.

            “Here’s our food storage.” Anthony pointed at bags marked with “Seeds” and “Millet”.

            “That’s quite a supply you got there.” Charlie widened his eyes in disbelief.

            “I’ll have my men load up fifty kilos of these.” Anthony waved a man over.

            “Thanks.” Charlie smiled.

            “I’ll also put in two boxes of fresh vegetables.” Anthony offered as he walked Charlie out of the warehouse.

            “Organic?” Charlie joked.

            “Of course.” Anthony laughed.

            “I’m really glad we got this alliance going.” Charlie spoke his mind.

            “I like this free trade agreement we got going.” Anthony directed Charlie to the farms.

       “Definitely increases the survivability of the human race.” Charlie watched two women dig up potatoes.

            “You married Lieutenant?” Anthony watched as the women waved at them.

            “No, I’m not.” Charlie waved at the women.

            “If you’re looking to settle down, this is a good place.” Anthony pointed at the surroundings.

            “I’m sure it is, but I’ve got duties and a personal goal I need to do.” Charlie replied with a straight face.

            “Ah, yes. You’re an officer in the UNSC, but do you really want a career in the military?” Anthony questioned.

            “Well, everyone has their reasons.” Charlie thought about Sarah.

            “Then what’s your reason?” Save humanity? I’m sure it’s not that.” Anthony asked as he sat down on a bench.

            “It’s complicated.” Charlie sat down beside Anthony.

            “Tell me, we’ve got time.” Anthony relaxed himself.

            “I don’t feel comfortable.” Charlie felt uneasy.

            “Hey man, I’m not here to judge. I’ve heard many different reasons as to why people enlist. I’m sure yours might be common.” Anthony looked at Charlie’s face.

            “I joined the UNSC in hopes of finding a girl I like in Australia.” Charlie said with one breath.

            “Wow man. Australia is far…” Anthony wondered.

            “Yeah, it’s insane isn’t it?” Charlie asked.

            “I don’t see it as insane. I see it as determination.” Anthony complimented.

            “Thanks. Sometimes I wonder if she knows I’m out there looking for her.” Charlie looked at the dark sky.

            “I’m sure she will.” Anthony reassured.

            “I hope so.” Charlie looked upset.

       “Cheer up big fellow, you’re making a lot of progress in the UNSC. You’ll find her one day.” Anthony patted Charlie’s shoulder.

            “Thanks.” Charlie’s face lit with some hope.

            “Let’s get you a drink.” Anthony got up and pointed at a building.

         “Sure.” Charlie got up and watched as the women on the farm headed indoors with a basket of potatoes.

            Anthony led Charlie to a building filled with lively music and people. Anthony walked up to the bartender and grabbed a seat.

            “Hop on. What can I get you?” Drink’s on me.” Anthony patted on a stool beside him.

            “Iced water would be fine.” Charlie sat down.

            “Water? You got to be kidding me.” Anthony laughed.

            “I don’t drink alcohol.” Charlie looked at people dancing around him.

            “I see, you’re still on the job.” Anthony waved the bartender over.

            “What can I get you sir?” the bartender asked.

            “I’ll have a glass of red wine and iced water for this young lad here.” Anthony replied and pointed at Charlie.

            “Alright, red wine and iced water coming up.” the bartender repeated in acknowledgement.

            “You dance Charlie?” Anthony looked at a couple of women dancing alone.

            “I’m fine. You go right on ahead.” Charlie scanned the crowd and saw Hawkes sitting at a table with three women.

            “Here you go.” the bartender interrupted and placed their drinks in front of them.

            “Very well Charlie, I’m going to dance.” Anthony took a sip of red wine and walked off towards the women.

            Charlie grabbed his glass and drank it halfway before walking over to Hawkes. Hawkes seemed to be enjoying himself as the women played around his uniform and hair. Charlie slowly stood in front of Hawkes amused until Hawkes finally realized that he was standing

            “Sir!” Hawkes jumped up and saluted Charlie.

            “At ease Hawkes.” Charlie returned a salute.

            The three women stared at Charlie like they’ve never seen a guy before. Charlie felt a little uneasy and turned his face around to Hawkes.

            “Ladies, that’s my Lieutenant.” Hawkes introduced.

            Two women approached Charlie and touched his arms. Charlie took a step back to distance himself from the women.

            “I’m sorry ladies, but I’ve got work to do.” Charlie lied.

            “You need some help boss?” Hawkes offered.

            “Yeah, I’m fine. I’ve got to oversee some operations.” Charlie made the story up.

            The women expressed their disappointment and then turned back to Hawkes. Charlie sighed and then walked out the building. Charlie looked at the starry night sky and sat down on a curb with the remaining glass of water in his hand. Charlie took a sip and watched as more people entered the building which he came out.

            “People here are having a good time even when outside the holdout is nothing but chaos and destruction.” Charlie thought and reflected.

            Charlie felt a surge of sadness sweep over him. He missed the good old days. Life seemed to be better before the apocalypse, but it seems like life remained the same at the Scavenger’s Holdout. Charlie finished his glass of water and slid an ice cube into his mouth. The coldness of the ice spread throughout his cheek and he coughed.

            “You alright Zyrok?” Hawkes sat down beside him.

            “Why’d you come out? I thought you were having a good time.” Charlie asked and crunched the ice in his mouth before swallowing.

            “I was, but I’ve never seen you look so down before. So what’s up?” Hawkes asked with concern.

            “Stars and the moon.” Charlie looked at the sky and replied with a serious face.

            “No seriously, what’s going on?” Hawkes spoke directly.

            “It is the stars and the moon.” Charlie stressed.

            “What about them?” Hawkes asked.

            “They remind me of someone.” Charlie sighed.

            “Who?” Hawkes questioned.

            “Sarah.” Charlie reached into his chest pocket and pulled out the poem he had written on his first mission.

            “Ah, a girl. What about Sarah?” Hawkes replied.

            “She’s the reason why I’m in the UNSC. I enlisted hoping to find her one day.” Charlie looked at his poem.

            “Don’t worry, we’ll find her. The Scavengers can help as well.” Hawkes assured.

            “You don’t understand.” Charlie sighed “She’s in Australia.”

            “Oh…” Hawkes paused for a moment.

            “It’s fine mate, I’ll have to take this journey alone.” Charlie replied.

            “You don’t need to. You’ve got me. What’s that in your hand?” Hawkes pointed at Charlie’s poem.

            “Oh, it’s a poem I wrote for her when I got stuck on that comms tower back in Abbotsford.” Charlie shrugged.

            “Oh that. May I see it?” Hawkes held out his hand.

            “Sure.” Charlie handed the napkin to Hawkes.

            “On that dark cold weary night…” Hawkes began to read.

            After a few minutes, Hawkes smiled and returned the napkin back to Charlie.

            “You’ve got some skills in poetry as well.” Hawkes complimented.

            “It’s really nothing, I won’t be famous anyways.” Charlie joked.

            “You should show this to her after seeing how much she means to you.” Hawkes suggested.

            “If I find her…” Charlie looked at the stars.

            “Come on, it’s getting cold out here. Let’s head indoors to chill.” Hawkes shivered as a gust of wind blew his hair.

            “Alright.” Charlie stood up and walked with Hawkes to a small building which was quieter.

UNSCDF Chapter 32- Obstacle Course

Roosevelt National Forest, Colorado, USA

Signal Mountain

March 26, 2001

0815 Local Time

            “Wake up gentlemen.” Zyrok nudged Casey and Taylor sleeping under a makeshift shelter.

            Casey slowly opened his eyes while Taylor groaned as the sunlight lit his face. Pruett was adding more sticks to the campfire when Zyrok approached him.

            “No need Pruett. We’ll be continuing our trek.” Zyrok patted Pruett on the shoulder.

          “Captain, I think we should look for water.” Nevarez dripped the last few drops from his water bottle into his mouth.

            “I’m low as well.” Schmidt peeked at a half empty water bottle.

            “Alright, we’ll keep our eyes peeled for water.” Zyrok replied.

            “Thanks Captain.” Nevarez replied.

            “All right marines, we’ll move out in five. Pack your gear.” Zyrok ordered.

            Zyrok took down a camouflage tarp and folded it into his backpack. Nevarez took a large stick and extinguished the campfire by covering sand and ash over it. Casey helped Taylor readdress his injury with another bandage. Taylor winced in pain as Casey wrapped a new bandage around his arm. Schmidt inserted bullets into his magazine and slit it into his pistol.

            “All set?” Zyrok looked around.

            “Yeah.” Nevarez and Taylor replied in unison.

            “Let’s go people.” Zyrok waved and looked at his watch.

            “This reminds me of training.” Schmidt reflected as he looked around.

            “What do you mean?” Taylor walked behind Zyrok.

            “Well, I remembered that we had some wilderness survival training.” Schmidt laughed.

            “Be glad you got trained because I didn’t. I got trained to fly.” Pruett eavesdropped.

            “Yeah man, never knew I would have to use it.” Schmidt laughed.

            “Shh.” Zyrok spoke out loud.

            The marines shut their mouths and stopped in their tracks. Zyrok froze and turned his head slowly. In the bushes which were a couple meters in front of them, it was shuffling and shaking gently. Zyrok waved at Casey and Nevarez to flank left while Pruett and Taylor flanked right. Zyrok pulled out his USP and slowly walked forward while Schmidt held his M16 firmly behind him. Nevarez slowly advanced from the left keeping his eye on the bush when suddenly he stepped on a twig and made a loud snap. The rush rattled for a second and a rabbit ran out. Zyrok and Schmidt were shocked for a brief second as the rabbit ran towards them. Zyrok pulled out his bowie knife as the rabbit ran past him. He took a quick aim and threw the knife striking the rabbit’s back.

            “Why’d you kill the rabbit?” Nevarez looked at the dead rabbit.

            “We still need to eat food.” Zyrok replied.

            “Yeah Nevarez, I don’t know about you, but I would like to have dinner.” Casey looked at Nevarez.

            Zyrok crouched over to the dead rabbit and pulled out the knife. He picked up the rabbit by its ears and wrapped it in a bag before placing into his backpack.

            “Dinner’s on me.” Zyrok shouldered his backpack.

            “Great.” Taylor licked his lips.

            “I’m assuming Nevarez don’t want a piece.” Zyrok grinned.

            “No, no. I would like rabbit too.” Nevarez shook his head.

            “Ok…” Zyrok continued to lead his men.

            The marines walked down a hill until they came across a small creek. Zyrok took out his water bottle and waved at his men.           

            “Water!” Nevarez exclaimed as he wiped sweat off his neck.

        “I’ve never been so happy to see water before.” Schmidt splashed his face with cool refreshing water.

            Zyrok turned his head upstream and saw a Bone walking towards them. He pulled out his USP and fired as the zombie ran towards him. Nevarez and Taylor quickly turned towards the sound of gunfire and fired their guns at the Bone. Pruett watched as three more Bones ran out from behind the trees to the left side of the creek.

            “Bones on the left!” Pruett shouted.

          “Run people, run!” Zyrok shouted as he killed the Bone with a well placed shot into the zombie’s eye.

            A mob of zombies suddenly ran out of nowhere and was running upstream towards the marines. Schmidt fired his M16 into the mob as the marines retreated into the forest.

“Run!” Casey fired a round of shotgun as he saw a zombie run up beside Pruett reloading his gun.

            The group of marines ran past thorn bushes and uneven terrain as the mob of zombies chased after them. Schmidt ran and fired hoping to slow down the zombies when suddenly he tripped on a tree root and slammed his shoulder into a tree trunk.

            “Ow!” Schmidt cursed as he clutched his right shoulder with his left arm.

            “Come on. Forget the pain.” Casey helped Schmidt to his feet and picked up his dropped M16.

            “I think I dislocated my shoulder.” Schmidt moaned as he began to run.

            “We’ll fix it later when our lives are not on the line.” Casey fired his shotgun and unleashed a hail of bullets.

            Nevarez and Pruett covered fire while Taylor and Schmidt got to safety above a small hill.

            “We can’t do this forever. We’re going to run out of ammo and get cornered.” Casey concluded.

            “We have to get to high grounds.” Zyrok pointed at a steep rocky valley.

            “Let’s go marines. Double time!” Casey commanded.

            Zyrok looked at the injured Taylor and Schmidt and waved them to move first.

            “Pruett and Nevarez, go assist Taylor and Schmidt up that valley. Casey and I will buy you the time.” Zyrok ordered and looked at Casey.

            “Here you go.” Casey handed Schmidt’s M16 to Zyrok.

            “Thanks.” Zyrok slid his USP into his holster and fired the M16.

          Zyrok fired bursts of two and took down multiple zombies. Casey fired his shotgun twice and quickly inserted more shells into the gun. Zyrok glanced as the marines slowly made their way up the valley struggling to makes their way to the top. Zyrok walked back and continued to shoot at the mob while Casey has switched over to his pistol for better accuracy.

            “We’re clear boss.” Pruett spoke on the RaidCall.

          “Copy, on our way. Cover us from above while we climb.” Zyrok replied back as he turned and began to run towards the valley.

          “You got it Captain.” Pruett answered as he steadied his pistol as Zyrok and Casey ran towards them with a mob of aggressive zombies chasing after them.

            Casey climbed the coarse rocks while Zyrok provided a light cover fire with Schmidt’s M16. Zyrok watched as Casey reached halfway up the steep valley and began to climb. Zyrok felt his foot throb with pain as he stubbed his foot while climbing. Zyrok hopped on to a jagged ledge and smashed his hand on a sharp rock. Zyrok ignored the pain and held his hand firmly as blood dripped from his right palm. He watched as the zombies below him fought each other hungrily for his blood. Zyrok climbed up a small ledge and then shimmied across a platform before making a jump to the top.

            “You’re almost there Captain!” Casey shouted as he waved from the top.

            Zyrok balanced himself on the platform and took a quick observation and jumped up to grab a rock. He winced in pain as the impact stunned his injured hand.  He wiggled himself sideways to grab another rock when the rock he was holding on came loose. Zyrok fell a few feet down and landed on a ledge. Schmidt’s M16 bounced off the ledge and disappeared into the mob of zombies. Zyrok looked at the lost gun in frustration and looked at his hand. There was a deep cut in the palm of his hand.

            “Forget the gun.” Schmidt yelled.

            “You can do it boss.” Pruett shouted.

            Zyrok got up and looked at the wall of rocks. He saw a handhold a few meters up and jumped. Zyrok managed to get a grip on it and pulled himself upwards. He placed his feet on a small protruding rock and took a deep breath. Zyrok looked at his knee and saw blood stains appearing on his left knee.

            “By the time I’m finished, I’ll probably be bleeding to death.” Zyrok thought.

            Zyrok continued to scale towards the top taking short breaks in between. Casey and Nevarez reached their hands over the top and successfully pulled Zyrok to safety. Zyrok panted and lay flat on the ground in exhaustion. The zombies below the valley attempted to climb up, but made no progress.

            “We got to keep moving. They can circle around.” Zyrok got up and wrapped bandages to his hand.

            “You need to rest Zyrok.” Taylor looked at a tired Zyrok.        

            “Rest later until we’re safe for sure.” Zyrok turned his head over the valley.

            “Alright marines, move it!” Casey ordered.

          The marines began to lightly job away form the edge of the valley and headed into a small grass clearing. Zyrok reduced his pace and stopped in his tracks as he felt his head spin.

            “You alright Zyrok?” Pruett approached a dizzy Zyrok.

            “My head…my head is spinning.” Zyrok sat on the ground.      

            “Sir, we need to get away from the open.” Schmidt looked at the open grass fields.

            “Here, have some water.” Nevarez gave Zyrok his water bottle.

            “Thanks.” Zyrok took a sip and closed his eyes.

            “I think you’ve lost a lot of blood.” Casey pointed at Zyrok’s bandages soaked with blood.

            “I think so too…” Zyrok’s voice trailed off as he looked at his hand and fainted.

UNSCDF Concept Art 9

UNSCDF Chapter 6 Concept Art 9
*Exclusive on Memoirs of Zyrok*

UNSCDF Chapter 31- Settling Down

Bankstown, New South Wales, Australia

UNSC Relief Center

July 28, 1999

1400 Local Time

            Sarah steadied her M21 as Taylor watched her look through the scope. She took a deep breath and concentrated on a zombie twenty meters away. Sarah adjusted the angle of elevation and tested the direction of the wind. She fired one round and earned herself a headshot.

            “Nice.” Taylor applauded.

            “Thanks.” Sarah reloaded the rifle.

            “You know Sarah, we can make you into a police officer. You’ve got the skills.” Taylor looked at her as Sarah looked at the zombies in the distance.

            “Me? A police officer?” Sarah was surprised.

            “Yeah, a police officer who specializes in sniping.” Taylor spoke his thought.

            “Do I have to do law enforcement duties?” Sarah asked.

            “Some, but not all. Basically you’ll be joining our ranks.” Taylor replied.

            “So I’ll be starting off as a recruit?” Sarah wondered.

            “Yeah, but you’ll rank up easily because I see you’ve got potential.” Taylor complimented.

            “Thanks.” Sarah blushed.

            “So, what do you say?” Taylor nudged her.

            “Sure, I guess.” Sarah nodded.

            “Alright then. I’ll let my other police buddies know.” Taylor smiled.

            “When do I begin officially?” Sarah wondered.

            “Starting now.” Taylor looked at Sarah.

            “So what will I need to do?” Sarah put down her rifle.

            “Well, let’s finish your sniper training course. Then we’ll move on to basic firearms.” Taylor pointed at a zombie walking on the roof of a building.

            Sarah acknowledged with a light nod and picked up her M21. She tested the wind direction with one hand and then aimed her rifle at the distant zombie. She took a quick breath of air and fired. The M21 muzzle flashed and Taylor watched the zombie get struck in its head and collapsed.

            “Well done.” Taylor complimented.

            “Do I pass?” Sarah asked with a serious face.

            “Not that fast.” Taylor burst out laughing.

            “Darn. Then when?” Sarah whined.

            “Soon. In time Sarah…in time…” Taylor voice trailed off as he looked at his watch.

      “Fine. I’m not going anywhere.” Sarah joked as she pointed at the ruined buildings outside the center.

            “We’ll do some more training tomorrow morning.” Taylor took Sarah’s M21.

            “Ok.” Sarah quickly replied.

            “Go see Cookson and tell him I said hi.” Taylor smiled.

            “Yeah, I will…” Sarah stopped talking as she thought about Az.

            “Look Sarah, I’m sorry about Az. I know exactly how you feel. Az was a good friend of mine and he was a good friend till the very end.” Taylor looked at an upset Sarah.

            “I know.” Sarah looked at her feet.

            “Come here.” Taylor opened up his arms.

            Sarah approached Taylor and hugged him. Taylor soothed her back as Sarah closed her eyes.

        “Everything is going to be okay. Everything is going to be alright Sarah.” Taylor repeated as he whispered into her ear.

Surrey, British Columbia, Canada

Scavengers' Holdout

July 27, 1999

1445 Local Time

            Charlie looked out the cockpit window as Stewart landed the Pelican a block away from the Scavengers' gates. He left the cockpit and saw his men moving crates of medical supplies out of the Pelican. Charlie grabbed a crate and lifted it outside the Pelican.

            “I feel like the Red Cross.” Hawkes dropped his crate to the ground.

            “Well, we’re here to help, so you can say that.” Casey replied.

            Charlie watched as a group of men exited the gates followed by Anthony. Charlie waved at Anthony and Anthony waved back.

            “Look whose back.” Anthony approached Charlie and greeted him with a handshake.

            “Yeah, here are the medical supplies.” Charlie pointed at the crates beside him and some more crates inside the Pelican.

            “I didn’t expect the UNSC would be this generous.” Anthony waved at his men to take the crates.

            “You have no idea what I went through to do this.” Charlie thought about the conversation he had with Cole.

            “Must have been a hassle?” Anthony guessed.

            “I almost had to reach for the top officers.” Charlie replied.

            “Well, thank you. Come on in!” Anthony waved at the marines to enter the base.

            “Sir, what about the Pelican?” Taylor asked.    

            “Stewart is going to head back to base. He’ll pick us up after we’re done.” Charlie answered.

            Charlie watched as Casey, Taylor and Hawkes entered the gates and waved a goodbye to Stewart. Stewart waved back and continued to assist the Scavengers with the unloading of medical supplies.

            “Come on LT.” Casey waved.

          Charlie turned around and ran up beside Anthony as he took a clipboard from Hawkes. Anthony read the contents on the clipboard and handed it back to Hawkes.          

        “Five hundred medical supplies of all sorts. Not bad, not bad at all.” Anthony looked at Charlie.           

            “So how do you want this alliance?” Charlie asked.

            “Come to my office. The rest of your men can chill with the ladies.” Anthony pointed at a building.

            “What did I just hear?” Hawkes opened his mouth.

        “Women. Don’t do anything stupid Hawkes. We still have a job to do.” Charlie replied with a cold stare at Hawkes.

            “Aye sir.” Hawkes saluted.

“Good.” Charlie grinned

            “You should come with us after you’re done.” Hawkes suggested.

            “It depends on the priority of the mission first.” Charlie looked at an amused Anthony.

            “Let’s leave Zyrok alone guys.” Taylor looked at Hawkes.

            “Zyrok, you never know. You might get lucky today.” Hawkes grinned.

         “Hawkes…is that what you view women? As objects for your own satisfaction?” Charlie replied with disappointment in Hawkes.

        “Nope, it just relieves my stress. You don’t need to be so uptight about it. Maybe some women might do you good.” Hawkes joked.

            “Hawkes…” Charlie was getting annoyed.

            “Come on guys, let’s go.” Casey grabbed Hawkes to walk away.

            Charlie stood beside Anthony as he watched his men chat excitedly as they went inside the building.

            “Not much of a player, are you?” Anthony patted Charlie’s back.

        “Nope. It’s just that I have a great deal of respect for women.” Charlie answered as he walked beside Anthony to a nearby building.

            “How is that so?” Anthony was interested.

            “I’ve met some very good people in my life.” Charlie replied as he thought about Sarah.

            “Ah.” Anthony nodded.

            “Let’s finalize the terms of alliance.” Charlie changed the topic as he opened the door for Anthony.

            “Thanks. Yeah, I’m really looking forward to it.” Anthony walked down a hallway and opened his office door.

            “So am I.” Charlie replied enthusiastically.

            “Take a seat.” Anthony offered a chair.

            “Thank you. Let’s begin.” Charlie the office door and sat down.

UNSCDF Chapter 30- The Wilderness

Roosevelt National Forest, Colorado, USA

Signal Mountain

March 25, 2001

2015 Local Time

            Zyrok woke up from the sounds of electric sparks and fire crackling beside him. He turned his head and saw Pruett moaning in pain as he touched his cracked visor. Smoke was pouring into the cockpit as fire spread from the cockpit doors.

            “Zyrok, get out!” Casey shouted from the back of the Pelican.

            “You guys get to safety first! We’ll have to escape from the windows.” Zyrok shouted back as he unbuckled his seatbelt.

            “Alright sir.” Casey replied with a cough.

            “Pruett, let’s get you out of here.” Zyrok shook Pruett.

            “I can’t. It’s stuck.” Pruett frantically pulled his seatbelt as he saw the flames dance towards him.

            “Hold on.” Zyrok pulled out his bowie knife and slashed at the seatbelt.

            With a few slashes, the belt ripped and Pruett pulled away in time as the flames consumed his chair. Zyrok looked at a side window that was cracked and began to hit it with his knife. Pruett reached under the console and pulled out a fire extinguisher.

            “I’ll hold back the fire as long as I can.” Pruett sprayed the nozzle at the flames nearby while Zyrok continued to smash the window.

            After a minute, the window began to chip and the fire became more and more intense. Pruett coughed as he inhaled smoke and began to wobble.

           “Pruett, take my helmet. You’re breathing in too much smoke through that crack in your visor.” Zyrok turned around.

            “You need yours too.” Pruett replied with a cough.

            “Give me your helmet and I’ll give you mine. That’s an order.” Zyrok commanded.

            Pruett took off his helmet and exchanged with Zyrok. Zyrok took the damaged helmet and swung it at the window while covering his face with one arm. Pruett stopped coughing as he felt smokeless air enter his lungs.

            “Let’s go!” Zyrok shouted as he smashed the helmet with all his might at the window and broke it to pieces.

            As the window broke, a surge of fresh air entered the cockpit and added oxygen to the fire.

            “Argh!” Pruett screamed as he caught fire on his chest.

            “Get out now!” Zyrok shouted as he grabbed Pruett to the window.

            Pruett climbed out of the cockpit and ran outside where he was greeted by the other marines. Zyrok dropped the damaged helmet and coughed heavily. As he was climbing out, he saw the flames consume the whole cockpit. Once Zyrok was out, he felt his chest burn from the smoke inhalation and dropped to the ground.

            “Zyrok!” Schmidt called out as he saw Zyrok drop a few meters away from the flaming Pelican.

            Nevarez and Schmidt quickly ran up to Zyrok and pulled him to safety just in time as the Pelican exploded. The explosion shook the ground and ignited the nearby trees.

            “We have to get out of here. Either the fire is going to kill us or zombies nearby.” Casey ordered.

            “Agreed.” Taylor nodded as he clutched his injured arm.

            “An explosion that big…I don’t want to see that tentacle zombie pop up here.” Schmidt shivered at his thought.

            “Nevarez and Schmidt, carry Zyrok while Pruett and I take point.” Casey commanded.

            “Yes sir.” Nevarez and Schmidt replied in unison.

            Nevarez lifted Zyrok to his feet and slung one arm around his back while Schmidt slung the other arm. Taylor looked at the gash on his left arm and applied pressure to it.

            “Here.” Casey reached into his backpack and pulled out a roll of bandages.

            “Thanks.” Taylor thanked as Casey wrapped the bandages around his wound.

            “How are the others?” Pruett looked at Taylor’s wound.

            “A couple of bruises and scratches, but we’ll live.” Casey replied.

            The marines continued walking away from the crash site until they could only see the smoke in the sky. Zyrok muttered something under his breath and coughed.

            “He’s awake.” Nevarez shouted to Casey.

            “Zyrok! Can you hear me?” Casey asked as Nevarez and Schmidt placed Zyrok onto the ground.

            “Water…water.” Zyrok coughed as his lungs burned.

            “Alright.” Casey took out his water bottle and poured it slowly into Zyrok’s mouth.

            “Thanks.” Zyrok felt refreshed.

            “Take it easy boss.” Casey patted Zyrok.

            “Is everyone okay?” Zyrok turned his head to look around.

            “Still standing.” Taylor walked over.

            “Sir, you can have your helmet back.” Pruett walked over beside Zyrok and crouched beside him.

            “Thanks.” Zyrok took his helmet and wore it.

            “No, thank you. You saved me.” Pruett expressed his gratitude.

            “Zyrok, always putting yourself first before others.” Casey exclaimed.

            “That’s what I do.” Zyrok sat upright.

            “Best CO ever.” Pruett clapped.

            “Indeed.” Taylor clapped along.

            “Gee, thanks.” Zyrok felt uncomfortable.

            “I knew you were a good man from the first time we met.” Casey lifted Zyrok to his feet.

            “Let’s head west.” Zyrok looked at his datapad.

            “Anywhere we can get rescued is really all that I care.” Nevarez gave his thoughts.

            “Let’s go then. We should be able to reach an old radar station in a few kilometers.” Zyrok tapped his datapad screen.

            “We can use our communications here.” Schmidt tapped his helmet.

            “Go ahead, we’re in the middle of nowhere. RaidCall only works short range.” Taylor laughed.

            “Hopefully, our distress signal got heard.” Pruett looked at the darkened skies.

            “It will.” Zyrok reassured with optimism.

            “Let’s stay positive people.” Casey smiled.

         “We’ll go for another kilometer trek down and set up camp at the base of the mountain.” Zyrok pointed down the mountain.

            Nevarez sighed as he kicked a rock with boredom and Taylor stopped in his tracks as he examined his bandage.

            “Everything alright?” Zyrok patted Taylor’s back.

            “Yeah boss, I’m fine.” Taylor replied and continued to walk.

            The group of marines slowly made their way down a steep slope holding on to nothing but bushes, vines, and tree roots for support. Next, the men trekked on a rocky terrain full of gravel and coarse rocks before reaching the bottom of the mountain.

            “What a day!” Nevarez threw himself to the ground in exhaustion.

            “Indeed Nevarez.” Schmidt sat on the ground and stretched his legs.

            “We’re not done yet. We’ve still got a camp to build.” Zyrok laughed as Nevarez groaned.

            “Just when I thought the day was finally going well.” Nevarez joked.

          “Casey and Nevarez can go look for firewood. Pruett and Schmidt will establish a perimeter while Taylor and I will set up shelter.” Zyrok directed.

            “You heard the Captain. Let’s move it people!” Casey ordered.

            Zyrok watched as Nevarez and Casey headed off to find firewood while Pruett and Schmidt readied their guns to scout the perimeter.

            “I’ll see if I can find some leafy plants for shelter.” Taylor took off his backpack and dropped it to the ground along with his M21.

            “Okay. I’ll find a soft place for us to rest.” Zyrok looked at the gravel under his feet.

            “Sounds good, just be careful.” Taylor cautioned.

            “You too man. We’ll never know what we’ll find in this forest.” Zyrok smiled as Taylor walked off.

UNSCDF Chapter 29- Similarities and Differences

Richmond, British Columbia, Canada

UNSC Richmond Outpost

July 27, 1999

0830 Local Time

            “Good work on retrieving our asset.” Cole took the briefcase from Charlie’s hand and placed it under his desk.

            “Sir, if I may, can you tell me what’s in that case?” Charlie asked politely.

            “To be honest, it’s even above my clearance. I’m a Lieutenant Major and I don’t have a clue either.” Cole looked at the briefcase.

            “Then who knows?” Charlie glanced at Cole.

            “Only High Command knows and can open it.” Cole took a piece of scrap paper and jotted down some notes.

            “Alright, what about the Scavengers?” Charlie patted his report on Cole’s desk.

            “Well, I’ve got to admit; you’ve definitely got talent in doing extra work.” Cole laughed.

            “What do you mean?” Charlie was confused.

            “Look, we only assigned you to recover out asset and not deal with any negotiations or open up an alliance.” Cole opened the report folder.

            “Are you saying that we are not going to be allies with them?” Charlie sensed uncertainty in Cole’s voice.

            “They’ve killed a lot of our men and women serving in the UNSC.” Cole looked at Charlie with glaring eyes.

            “With all due respect, so have we.” Charlie argued.

            “Well, most of the time we don’t engage them. They attack us first.” Cole countered.    
            “That’s because we’re near their home and they are protecting themselves.” Charlie explained.

            “They started the rivalry first, not us.” Cole closed the report folder.

            “Just like that? We’re not going to offer a partnership aren’t we?” Charlie felt angry.

            “Yes, just like that. I suggest you scrap any ideas you had for an alliance out of your head.” Cole stared.

            “This is outrageous!” Charlie stood up from his seat and shouted.

            “Stand down Lieutenant!” Cole slammed his desk and stood up.

            Charlie closed his mouth and looked at Cole with disgust.

            “Go to your quarters and cool off.” Cole ordered.

            Charlie nodded and left Cole’s room fuming about what Cole had done. He had thought of Cole as a good man, but now he was beginning to doubt it. He knew innocent civilians were officially relying on the UNSC for medical supplies, but he had no support. Charlie decided to find a senior officer until there was change. To him, it’s all about helping each other and surviving in a post apocalyptic world. Charlie walked down a hallway and saw an open door marked with “Major Tory”. He knocked on the door as he saw a bald man in his early forties looking at his computer.

            “Come in.” the man answered.

            “Major Tory?” Charlie asked.

            “Yeah, that’s me. What can I do for you Lieutenant…?” Tory looked at Charlie standing at his door.

            “Lieutenant Charlie.” Charlie stuck out his hand.

            “Ah, I’ve heard of you by your other name.” Tory shook Charlie’s hand.

            “Zyrok.” Charlie smiled.

            “Yeah, that one.” Tory offered a seat.

            “Are you busy?” Charlie asked.

            “It’s alright. What can I do for you?” Tory sat down.

            “It’s about the Scavengers…” Charlie began.

            Charlie began to tell Tory of his search and recover mission and how they got captured by the Scavengers. He then went on describing what he saw and the discussion he had with the leader of the Scavengers. After that, he told Tory what Cole had to say about a possible alliance.

            “I see.” Tory took out all the info and jotted down some notes.

            “Yeah, that’s pretty much it. Is there any way we can work together?” Charlie concluded.

            “I really don’t see why not. Even though we’ve fought with each other, an alliance will be beneficial to both parties.” Tory grinned.

            “Is that a yes?” Charlie widened his eyes.

            “I’ll have to file some paperwork. It’s great you were able to open discussions with the Scavengers. Eventually we would have either attacked them or negotiated terms of an alliance. It’s good an alliance is underway, we already have difficulty fighting the zombie faction.” Tory laughed.

            “My thoughts exactly.” Charlie laughed in agreement.

            “I’ll go have a chat with Cole. I don’t think he sees the big picture like we do.” Tory opened his drawer.

            “Ok, thanks. I think he’s still mad at me.” Charlie got up and headed out to the door.

            “Don’t you worry Charlie; I’ll take care of it.” Tory searched his drawers for a stapler.

            “Ok, thank you sir.” Charlie saluted and walked out.

            Charlie got in an elevator and stopped at the second floor. He decided to find the Communications Department and wanted to see if he could get clearance to access the UNSC network. He approached a metal door marked “Communications” and swiped his badge.

            “Access granted.” the computer spoke as the door slid open.

            Charlie walked in and saw a room full of computer servers. In the center of the room was a circle of marines sitting at their work stations. A marine in his late twenties with the marking of a sergeant stood up and walked over to Charlie.

            “What can I do for you sir?” the sergeant asked politely.

            “I would like to access a network for a chat program.” Charlie answered.

            “What for?” the sergeant questioned.

            “I want to find someone.” Charlie replied as he thought about Sarah.

            “Sir, you are in the wrong department. If you are looking for someone, you should go to the Archives.” the sergeant explained.        

            “Alright fine. What is your name sergeant?” Charlie sighed.

            “Pat Douglas, sir.” the sergeant offered a handshake.

            “Lieutenant Zyrok or Lieutenant Charlie.” Charlie shook Douglas’ hand.

            “I think I’ve heard of you over our communications before.” Douglas said.

            “Douglas, here’s why I want to access a network...” Charlie began to tell his story about the day he joined the UNSC in hopes of finding Sarah.

            Charlie grabbed a seat and sat down beside Douglas as he navigated through his computer.

            “You know Charlie, I usually don’t do this even for my superiors unless they give me paperwork.” Douglas clicked his mouse.

            “I really appreciate it.” Charlie smiled.

            “You remind me of myself when I was your age, except your spirit and hope is stronger than what I had.” Douglas sighed.

            “What do you mean?” Charlie asked.

            “Well, I used to search for a girl who moved on to the East Coast after I finished post-secondary. I’ve lost contact and slowly lost hope over time. I should have told her, but I hesitated.” Douglas typed a command into the computer.

            “Aw, that’s sad.” Charlie sympathized.

            “I know. This is why I’m doing it for you. You can still have your shot and won’t live with regrets like I did.” Douglas turned and looked at Charlie.

            “Thank you.” Charlie placed his hand on Douglas’ shoulder.

            “Your welcome. Also, I didn’t want to be that jerk that ruined your dreams.” Douglas joked.

            “No, you’re not. Be glad that what you did means a lot to me. You have helped me and I can assure you that you won’t regret his.” Charlie assured.

            “I hope so.” Douglas printed out a page and handed it to Charlie.         

            “What’s this?” Charlie observed.

            “It’s an override code to access our network.” Douglas explained.

            “How does it work?” Charlie studied the code.

            “You’ll need to login to your account and go into your account. Find the network configuration and go to advanced settings. After that, copy and paste the code and you’ll be granted access to the UNSC network.” Douglas slowly explained step by step.

            “Thank you Douglas. Much appreciated.” Charlie thanked and folded the paper into his pocket.

            “I hope you find her.” Douglas wished.

            “I hope so too.” Charlie thought about the possibility of seeing Sarah.

            Charlie waved goodbye to Douglas and left the Communications Department. He was excited to get back on chat and talk to Sarah. He missed her very much and was relieved that there were people out there willing to help him find her. He hurried back to his office to see Cole standing outside.

            “Lieutenant.” Cole greeted.      

            “Yes sir?” Charlie asked.

           “Looks like my superior wants an alliance with the Scavengers. Here’s your new task.” Cole handed Charlie a folder.

            “Okay.” Charlie accepted the folder.

            “Good luck. Once again, you’ll be departing in an hour. Sorry for the short notice.” Cole spoke and laughed.

            “It’s fine. I’ll get ready.” Charlie opened the folder and looked at the documents.

            “I’ll see you later once you’re back.” Cole walked off.

            “Great…just great.” Charlie muttered as he looked at his computer and then at his watch.

            Charlie locked his door and walked off to the armory in disappointment.