She smiled at Kirst and nodded, "Relax and regain your strength, all in due time. I know it's hard for all of you to have this down time, but it's necessary."

She used her eye to scan Turk's implants and the optic nerve behind them. She was pleased there was only minimal swelling. "You will find that the blurriness eases as the swelling lessens and the muscles and tendons relax and work as they should. Harrison never accepts thanks, but I will tell him. He takes a lot of pride in his builds, and I know that he will be pleased once all of you can return to duty without any impairments."

She went to Xanders next and grinned at him, "We have things for you as well, but it's hard to learn on the upgraded versions. You have to go one step at a time. Dante is used to the implants, so he gets the upgrades faster, but he didn't at first. he had to go through this just like you are. I promise, we'll trip you out with the best we have to offer...just have to sneak you out and over to my place." She winked. She wasn't at all sure the director wanted her implants to be used, but she didn't actually care.

She finally made her way to Erik and her smile was a more tender and there was a different kind of concern there. "Hey you.." she said as she touched the stethoscope to his chest and listed and took his pulse just like she had all the others. "How is your hand working?" she asked glancing from his face to his repaired hand. "You had a lot of damage but I knew it would recover...The other though....no saving that...sorry." She looked back up at his face. "I got a lecture about being friends with all of you..." She let out a soft breath, "I don't think I'm going to listen to it though. How are you feeling?"
 
  • Like
Reactions: Dunruffle
Erik smiled warmly as Cassandra checked him over. "I am glad you are ok. After getting knocked out I woke up in here and nobody would tell me if you were okay or not. Sometimes the Director's paranoid rules can be a oain in the ass." Erik held up his bare bones prosthetic hand and wiggled it experimentally. "Hey I am glad you got us out of there alive, losing a hand is nothing compared to losing you." Realizing how his statement could be interpreted, Erik coughed in embarrassment as his cheeks turned a light red. "Ummm, anyways my hands are fine. Got a bunch of scars on one and I will probably get some useful upgrades for the other." Leaning back, Erik smiled Cassandra. "Ah don't worry about a lecture from the Director. He is probably jealous of how much people have warmed up to you. Especially the natives, before you came they barely socialized with anyone other than the Director himself."
 
  • Love
Reactions: PoetLore
Cassandra was glad to hear a strong heartbeat and hear the steadiness of his words. His hand was moving and she smiled at him. "I never got more than that initial nick to my arm when we were behind the tree." She blushed a bit remembering that, but then he said losing her would have been worse than losing his hand and she reached down and gave his arm a gentle squeeze. "I could not believe it when I woke up this morning to check on all of you and you'd all been moved in the middle of the night. As if I was going to let someone else care for any of you." She huffed a bit and then lowered her voice, "I was more than worried about you." She wasn't going to elaborate because she knew the walls had ears, and she hoped that was enough to convey what she was intending to convey...or at least hoping to. He spoke of the director and she smirked a bit, "Well...I think it has more to do with interpersonal relations...though I was warned away from Major Sokolov as well...kind of ignored that one too." She bit her lip and shrugged, "I've never been one to pander to higher ups...which I am quite sure he knew before I came here." Her eyes softened decernably, "I am glad to see you doing well...the scars on that hand...are as minimal as I could manage, but you should have full function. Harrison is already working on your upgrade hand. He has adopted all of you as family." Her smile was warm and tender as she spoke, and there was a slightly different tone to her voice with him as well. He might notice, he might not, but it was there.

Harrison heard the doors to sick bay slide open and left his room to ask Cassandra how the guys were when he stopped dead at the thresh hold. He stood stiff and silent for a second before he realized he should show at least the minimum of professional decorum. "Doctor Edwards. I am surprised to see you away from the Andromeda."

Marcus loved when that big oaf of a tech was at a loss. He had never understood what Cassandra say in the man. He was an uneducated electronics specialist. He smiled, "I had thought the director would have announced my transfer."

Harrison felt a sick bitter bile rising up in his throat, "Transfer?"

"Why yes, Harrison. I am now assigned here. It seems my merits and accomplishments have reached the director's ears as well. I look forward to working along side all of you again."

Hearing voices Jen walked out of her bay, "How is Dan..." she said and then blinked when she saw that it wasn't Cassandra. "What the hell are you doing here?" she asked forgetting decorum and unable to hide her dislike of the man.

"Ahh...Point was it?" Marcus asked with a wickedly pleased smile on his handsome face. "I work here with all of you. Isn't that a wonderful turn of events?"

Point stood her ground and lifted a brow, "How many people did daddy buy off to make THAT happen?" she asked boldly and without even a tiny bit of respect or even attempt at hiding the crass question behind a laugh.

"I assure you my position here was garnered through hard work and merit and nothing else," he lied covering up the anger that her question and attitude was bringing to the forefront. "The director is a hard man...not easily purchased...I assure you."

Harrison had no doubt of that, and he wondered exactly what it did cost this fool's father to get him here and what it would take to get him out again.

"I understand there is a spare suite here," he said and Harrison nodded and showed him down the hall to the room farthest away from Cassandra that he could manage. "This is the free quarters."

Marcus followed and looked inside, "Rather small, but i will make do. By the way< where is Doctor Brandford?"

"She has gone to check on the SOG patients that we worked on last night. She has a special place for them in her heart." He was smiling when he spoke the last knowing it would stab at the man and make him wonder what he meant. "I'll let you get settled." He said and disappeared to his bay. He sent a message to Cassandra from his tablet, "Trouble has arrived...Marcus Edwards."

Cass looked away from Erik when she heard the alert from her tablet and paled when she read the words. "HOW?" She swayed a bit and then sat on his bed with a soft thud. Her hand went to her forehead as she massaged the instant pain that shot there.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Dunruffle
Erik smiled happily at Cassandra's words but his smile vanished when she suddenly sat down with a shocked look on her face. "What's wrong? Is everything ok?" He knew it took a lot to rattle Cassandra and seeing her this out of sorts immediately made warning alarms go off in his head.
 
  • Love
Reactions: PoetLore
Cassandra closed her eyes for a second and drew in a deep breath. Where did she have to go to get away from this man? She let the breath out slowly and looked at Erik, "My sick bay has been invaded..." The next words left her lips through nearly clenched teeth and with more than a little venom in her voice, "Marcus Edwards has somehow managed to wind up here." Her eyes closed again and she let her head fall back a bit as she looked up at the ceiling. "I hope the director knows what he's allowed into his facility...somehow I doubt it though."

She reached out and gave his forearm a gentle squeeze. "I'll be back to check on all of you again in a few hours...I doubt I'll be able to withstand his presence much longer than that..." She stood up and looked at the tablet again and saw a second message from Harrison about where he'd put Marcus to bunk down and the complaints about the lack of amenities. "And so it begins..." She said turning the tablet towards Erik so he could see the message. She rolled her eyes a bit and sighed, "Thank heavens I have this room and all of you where I can escape for a few minutes. I'll ask forgiveness in advance for my less than chipper mood when I return."

She gave Erik a lingering look before she left the room waving and smiling as best she could to her favorite people. She took her time returning to the hospital but she couldn't condemn Harrison and the others to Marcus' insufferable ways any longer and taking a bracing breath she stepped on the auto open pad and blinked at what she saw. Marcus was sitting at her desk, rearranging files and items on the desk as if he owned the place and Harrison and Point were watching in horror. The doors slid closed behind her and Harrison gave Marcus' shoulder a pat and stepped away, "You're on your own man..." And disappeared into his bay as did Point.

Marcus lifted a brow and nodded not understanding the message, though he SHOULD have. He turned then and saw her and stood up with a bright smile on his face, "Ahh Cassie...I was beginning to think these beasts they have traipsing around here had kidnapped you."

He approached her with his arms wide open, expecting a welcoming hug but cass leveled a look on him that would wither a stone sculpture and stabbed the tablet into his chest keeping him at arm's length. "WHAT exactly do you think you are doing?" she asked as she moved past him with surprising speed. She moved her desk back the way it was and then turned on him, "If you ever so much as SIT in my chair again I will make sure you regret it for a very long time, and don't ever touch my files again. This is MY hospital. You work for me. I will not tolerate your arrogance and stupidity here. Do I make myself clear?"

Marcus blinked but the charming smile was in place a second later, "Cassie Sweetheart..."

Cassandra held up a hand, "You will address me as Doctor Brandford. I am not now, nor have I ever been your sweetheart and to make things absolutely clear, I will NEVER be your sweetheart. You got yourself this position, I assume through your father, now you will have to pull your weight. Your father isn't here to cover up your incompetence, and I will not tolerate it any longer. I don't have to and I refuse to."

Marcus looked confused, "Are you having a bad day, Cassie?" he asked in a cajoling vice full of his normal patronizing sugar-coated smarmy tone. "It's nearly lunch time, shall we go have a nice get reacquainted meal?"

cass closed her eyes and leaned against the desk. She was mentally counting to ten in her head to avoid violence, but it wasn't working very well. "No."

Marcus smiled, "Oh come on...surely you're hungry."

She was, but she knew sitting with him would steal that appetite away in seconds. "I had a late breakfast with a friend and I am not at all inclined to eat just now. Feel free to go though. The food here is very good."

Marcus frowned, "No, I'll wait for you." he huffed then, "I doubt it. This place is a hell hole Cassie...what on earth are you doing closeting yourself away in such a place? I could talk to Father..."

Again her hand went up to stop him, "I am not like you Marcus. I EARN my way on my own merits. I go where I want to go, places I can make a difference in the patients' lives. Even if your father offered to help me, I would not accept it. My character forbids such a thing, as does my pride. obviously your memories of me are not entirely accurate. I assure you though, I have not changed. I demand excellence, and I expect immediate obedience to every directive I issue. If you are not capable of doing that, I suggest you tender your resignation and have your father find you another place to work."

Marcus watched her. She was bluffing. She didn't have this kind of control over him, and never would. "I am your equal Cassie. I do not take orders from you."

Cassandra slowly pushed herself up from her position leaning against the desk and pushed a button. Harrison came out of his bay, "You rang?" She did not look at Harrison but kept her eyes on Marcus, "Doctor Edwards believes himself to be my equal..."

Harrison's eyes widened and he looked over at Marcus slackjawed, "You have a death wish?"

Cassandra continued, "Furthermore, Doctor Edwards refuses to take orders from me."

Harrison's eyes were hard then and he approached Marcus, "Doctor Brandford is in charge of this hospital. Everyone here follows her orders implicitly, and I can't say you refusing to do so sits very well with me."

"Or me," Point piped up from her bay.

"Or me," Graves said from his front row seat in his cage. he was quite enjoying this actually. The Doc was great entertainment when she was riled up. His feet lifted to prop up on his desk as his hands folded behind his head. He could already tell this guy was going to be on his shit list. Nothing he wanted was going to be a priority. Yeah..he was going to take his good old sweet time getting anything for this jerk.

Marcus looked at Harrison, "You will stand down. No one threatens me and gets away with it. Youa re an uneducated peon and not worth my anger."

Cass let out a string of curse words in various languages with the vehemence of an erupting volcano. Even Harrison backed away at her tone, and he'd seen her plenty mad before but never to the point of this kind of tirade. The tablet slammed onto the desk and she strode past Marcus grabbing his lapel as she did and dragged him out of the hospital. She did not speak to him but fairly threw him into the transport. Her icy stare was warning him not to speak, and for once he stayed quiet. She got out and moved to the elevator that led to the director's office and pushed the button a LOT harder than necessary. She stepped out of the tube and looked at the secretary and the guards. "I am going to sit here in your face until i can speak with the director. I don't care if it takes an hour or two days."

The native guards snickered a bit. They liked the doctor and they weren't going to let anyone harm her.

Marcus smiled at the secretary, "Cassie is having a bit of an episode. Don't mind her dear, it will pass, it always does."

Cassandra was shaking she was so beyond anger. Oh, he was so mistaken. THIS was not going to pass."
 
The secretary stopped typing into her terminal as Marcus and Cassandra invaded the waiting lobby and regarded the two with emotionless boredom. Several other staff who had been patiently waiting were watching the unfolding event with varying degrees of annoyance. The guards were watching Cassandra and Marcus with what seemed to be anticipation. The locals could smell a fight from a mile away and it had been a hot topic amongst the guards as to how skilled Cassandra was at fighting. After a few awkward silent moments, the security door to the Director's office opened and the secretary gestured for Cassandra and Marcus to enter.


Inside, the Director sat behind his ornate desk with one hand drumming erratically while the other fiddled with an antique fountain pen. Before either doctor could start talking, the Director held up a hand for silence and a stare that could turn the lava lake to ice.


"Before we begin I will let you both know I am not in a good mood. I have a bad headache and looking at both of you raises my blood pressure a few notches. Choose your words wisely, as I am not in a mood for arguing with you two about your childish grievances." As if to emphasize the point, the massive and heavily armed bodyguard shifted enough that the barrel of it's massive weapon swayed towards the two doctors general direction.

@PoetLore
 
  • Love
Reactions: PoetLore
Marcus Edwards, who wasn't one to actually every take anything anyone said as any real threat smiled and began to speak in his practiced schmoozing voice, "Director," he said affably extending a hand, "It is a pleasure to finally meet you. I have heard much of your facility and I am impressed." When no meeting shake was offered he lowered his hand, "I really must apologize for my colleague, Doctor Brandford is a bit high strung and prone to these kinds of outbursts. They always pass however, so no need for alarm."

Cassandra was counting to ten in her head. She knew the guard was itching for a reason to shoot one or both of them and her mind was about to explode with vehement indignation at any second. but then Marcus started to speak and her eyes widened and then narrowed as he spoke. When he finished she looked at the director and measured her own words carefully. She maintained eye contact with him for what seemed a very long time to everyone in the room before she spoke. "Doctor Edwards, as always, has shoved his entire leg down his own throat." She did not even look at him. "I have no idea what his father has done or promised to make this happen, but this man refuses to take orders from me in the hospital. I cannot guarantee my quality of excellence in his presence. I request he be used to assist Doctor Sechen in his research. He cannot possible hurt anyone there." She was insinuating that he was a hack in a surgical capacity, which he was. She was also insinuating that she was more than aware of his father's constant maneuvering to make Marcus look as if he was achieving prominence.

Her eye scanned the director though and she frowned, "How long have you been suffering with this headache?" she asked suddenly, now completely sidetracked from her original purpose for coming. She stepped closer and her eye was scanning deeper. "Wait..." she said gently, "Please do not move." She moved to stand next to him and reached to touch his eyelid and lift it. Her eye scanned deeply and she frowned. "I need you to come to the clinic with me...please do not argue. I would not make such a request if I did not feel it was urgent." There was a seriousness to her expression and a tone of urgency in her voice. "I hope you have at least learned to trust my medical judgement in the time I have been here." She never lost eye contact with him as she spoke, but she had no idea what he would say in response to her request.
 
The guard looked to the Director, waiting for him to give the order to execute the two annoying doctors. But Director Valentine shook his head and set the fountain pen gently into a padded case. Taking a deep breath, Director Valentine fixed both doctors with a steely stare. "First of all, Doctor Edwards. I am more than aware of your father's involvement in securing your position here. This is your only warning. This planet is not on any galactic maps, this entire facility officially does not exist, my rules are absolute, and any humanitarian laws are null and void once you enter this facility." As Cassandra rushed over to inspect the Director the massive bodyguard immediately leveled his weapon at Cassandra and let out a loud growl of warning. Obviously the Director's bodyguards are of a different stock from the normal native guards, seemingly fanatical in their protective duties. Sighing irritably, Director Valentine waved off the trigger happy bodyguard. "Yes Doctor Brandford I am aware of my condition. Long story short I was exposed to a prototype biological weapon. The cancerous mass you see is a result of that exposure. I will fill you in later. Now both of you step aside. I think you both need to learn how things work around here. As you both obviously do not grasp the depths of secrecy you now work in."

Pressing a holographic button, the face of the secretary appeared next to the irritated man. "Alexis, send Corporal Smither in please." A few seconds later, a tough looking man in the SOG uniform walked in and gave a crisp salute to the Director. "Sir! You requested that I come for a personal debriefing." The Director nodded and motioned for the two Doctors to step to the side. Bringing up a file on his holographic screen, Director Valentine skimmed through it's contents as the soldier stood unmoving at attention. "The report from your mission states that fourteen civilians were killed during your assault on the targeted apartment block. Explain."

Staring straight ahead, Corporal Smithers nodded stiffly. "Yes sir, the cartel used several unarmed civilians as human shields. There were also several adolescent males that were used as lookouts. To ensure mission success, the civilian casualties were an acceptable loss." Still skimming through the documents, the Director nodded sagely. "Good, while it is regrettable the civilians died. Ensuring the elimination of the cartel leader was the priority, good job." Like a dog being praised by it's owner, the soldier smiled in relief and lifted his chin proudly. "Thank you sir."

The Director closed the document and began to rummage around in the drawers next to him. "However this other report says differently. Very few know this but after each mission an investigator is tasked with verifying everyrhing is in order. You see in my report, it says the apartment block was occupied only by cartel soldiers. The nearest civilians were the cartel families living a block away. After questioning the team under your command, it was discovered you ordered the slaughter of these families. The one soldier who objected to your order was threatened by your subordinates and forced to participate." The air in the room seemed to drop a few degrees as the Corporal realized he had been found out. "Sir if I may, we a-" He was interrupted by the crack of a drawer slamming shut and the Director glaring at him with cold emotionless eyes. "Silence, this is not a tribunal or any sort of court proceeding. The Special Operations Group was created to do the dirty work others cannot. Civilians die, but only if the situation requires it. We do not kill just for the thrill of it or to satiate perverted desires. You have been found guilty, your punishment is immediate dismissal."

As the Corporal's mouth opened to speak, a gunshot rang out. A bullet swiftly penetrated his forehead and exited out the back of his head in a spray of brain matter, skull fragments, and blood. As the lifeless body dropped to the floor, Director Valentine set the antique M1911 pistol gently on his desk. Turning to the two doctors, the Director fixed them with a cold stare. "Do not think you are irreplaceable, I do not tolerate those who interfere with my orders. Should either of you overstep your boundries, your identities from all official records will be erased and your body will never be found." As a robot armed with a variety of cleaning appliances disposed of the body, Director Valentine focused on Marcus.

"I will be generous and give you one chance to leave. You have 48 hours to depart and never come back. Should you decide to stay, I expect professionalism and no disturbances of any kind. If your father tries to interfere again...well it has been a long time since I could be creative. Doctor Brandford I will send you my medical files if you insist on trying to treat me. Dismissed."

Before either doctor could speak, they were roughly shoved out of the office by the hulking bodyguard. As the door slammed behind them, the secretary looked around at the now empty lobby. Shrugging uncaringly, she dutifully went back to typing on her console.
 
  • Love
Reactions: PoetLore
Marcus blinked when the director cut them off and spoke aloud about his father procuring this position for him. That was a breech of etiquette that in his eyes was unforgivable. No one spoke of these matters or even referred to them once the deals were made. His father would hear about this man's gall. he was not at all sure what to make of the security comment and was even more confused by the admission into their little spontaneous meeting. Special ops, big deal. But when the director began to tell this officer that he was aware of misconduct the hair on the back of his neck prickled. What was he part of here? Surely, and then a single shot felled the man right next to him, and some of his blood and other things spattered onto his sleeve. he face went instantly pale as he'd never seen such a thing in his life. This man was completely insane. Who did he think he was exactly, involving the son of a senator in such a fiasco? But then the director began to speak of his authority in this place and threatened physical harm. Oh hell no...but before he could voice his indignation the trigger happy guard was shoving them both out the door.

In the elevator he was spewing out his tirade to Cassandra, "Who the HELL does that man think he is? How DARE he threaten the son of a senator? Oh he is about to find out that his power is not so absolute as he believes...you just watch. he is going to pay for that humiliation."

Cass was thrilled by this entire exchange with the possible eye witness and upclose experience of an execution, but hearing what the man's actions had been even made that tolerable. her mind had been firmly fixated on the director's condition and her mind was swirling about a mile a minute. She nodded when he said his medical records would be sent to her, relieved that he was willing to trust her expertise in that regard. She was already moving toward the door when the guard felt the need to eject them. her purpose had been met, though not in the manner she'd expected. Marcus got a perfect glimpse of how this place ran, and that the arm of his father's protection did not reach him here, at least she hoped he got that message, because if not there was going to be a serious problem.

She stepped onto the lift and pressed the down button without a sound. She had no intention of speaking to Marcus in closed quarters where no one was around to back her up. He was a practiced liar and she knew it. She went so far as to turn away from him and watch as the glass circle descended. She let out a slow breath trying to clear her mind and then Marcus, as usual began to spew out his stupidity for all the world to hear. Did he really believe the director could not hear what he was saying in the lift? Was he honestly that stupid?? Apparently so. Oh well...maybe his own idiocy would get him out of her hair without her having to do a single thing.

They exited the lift and she strode across the open concourse to the tram and sat down. She knew he'd be right there but she put her feet up on the bench so he'd have to sit opposite to her instead of next to her. he made a face at her but sat on the other side.

"What's your problem?" he asked without bothering to disguise his anger with that practiced shmoozy voice.

She was not going to speak to him at all until she had witnesses. She ignored him completely as the tram transported them back to the hospital. She stood gracefully and made her way back. The doors slid open with a whoosh and she went to check on their only remaining patients, Ray Otranto and the borthers. She smiled at Clara who was still by Ray's side. "Good day to your Mr. Otranto," she said upon entering. She stood by his bed and scanned his bones with her eye and her smile brightened visibly as she did so. "I have good news. Your body is responding exceptionally well to the procedure and I think you can even leave the hospital ward and take a walk out in the concourse today if you like. I am going to advise caution however since your muscles are underused and will require a bit of time to regain their strength. But we will start with these walks, and then progress to the treadmill and beyond to make sure they will continue to build and repair themselves properly. But things are definitely looking good." She jotted down all of this on his chart, and waited to see if they had any questions before leaving them alone to celebrate.

She moved into the next room and saw Point adjusting something on Peter Lang and tipped her head. She scanned him and nodded before jotting a few notes on his chart, leaving Point to adjust the machines and the amount of sedative being administered. She stepped into Private Lang's room and smiled. He was sitting up in his bed and smiled when she entered, though it was a bit weak. "Well...you seem much better this morning." she said as she approached the bed. her hand went to his wrist as she scanned his body. "By the way...I should reprimand you for not telling me you were wounded."

He blushed a bit and lowered his eyes, "Sorry ma'am. Didn't think it was important...I'm nobody ma'am."

She shook her head, "I beg to differ. You should consider a career in the medical field. I think you would be very good at it."

He blanched, "Oh no ma'am...once was enough. I don't know how you do that...amazing to watch but I was on the verge of losing it the whole time. I'll stick with creating the wounds on the enemy thanks. How's my brother?"

"He's doing well. He is still sedated until his body assimilates the donor organs and tissue, but he's stable and accepting the grafts and organs so I believe he is going to make a full recovery."

"Thanks so much Doc. I owe you so much!"

"You don't owe me anything Private Lang. You were the reason i was able to save so many. without your help...many more men would have lost their lives. You are a hero. I am just a doctor." She gave his hand a squeeze and left the room as point arrived with some dinner for him.

She moved to her desk and sat in the chair, glad to see nothing had been moved. She also did not see Doctor Edwards anywhere. Harrison approached cautiously as did Point. She huffed, "No need for the eggshell approach, I am fine."

Point let out the breath she was holding, "What happened? The idiot stormed into his room without a word."

"Did he now?"

Harrison saw that look in her eyes, "None of that..what happened?"

"The director basically reminded us that this place does not exist and that is we cannot behave professionally he can arrange for us to disappear. I knew this already, but ... he apparently did not. Hell that very fact was most of the reason i wanted to come here in the first place. I didn't believe he would follow me here." She blew air through her lips and made a very unladylike noise of disgust. "He thinks he's going to call daddy and put the director in his place...I'd love to be a fly on the wall for that. But...I've also decided that he's going to implode all on his own and i don't need to worry about it. He is incompetent and we all know it. Won't take long for the director to know it as well."

She jotted down some notes on Ray Otranto and looked at Point, "I gave Mr. Otranto permission to go for short walks with his nurse. He can go outside but not for long. Time him. If they don't return in ten minutes go find them."

Point nodded, "Understood. I bet he is feeling cooped up."

Cass looked at Harrison then, "How goes work on the upgrades for Turk's eyes? And Erik's Hand?" She asked, "can we request them for surgery yet?"

Harrison nodded, "Ready on my end...who knows when they will be sent though." He shrugged. He understood the red tape and the debriefing and the whole process, so he was a little more patient than Cass about such things.

She nodded and added those notes to hers and sent the request for Turk, and Erik to have their secondary surgeries to the other wing and leaned back waiting for a response. Her eyes drifted closed as she rubbed the thin line above her implanted eye. "I'll watch the hospital...go get some dinner everyone." She hadn't eaten all day but she was too emotional for it anyway. She watched as they left and silently begged Marcus to stay in his quarters.
 
  • Love
Reactions: Dunruffle
A few minutes later, Ray and his doting nurse slowly walked out of the medical wing. The guard stationed at the door gave a confused look at the pair, obviously not knowing what to do. He seemed torn between physically blocking their exit or giving the usual warning growl. Quickly looking over at Cassandra, the guard relented once he saw the nod of approval from her. Before the door could slide shut, a small drone floated in. It was about the size of a watermelon, with several small stabilizing fins, a single lens for an eye, and a fresh drab green coat of paint. Stopping in front of Cassandra, the drone spoke in a synthesized voice.

"Confirming identification for transfer of level five classified documents."

A scanning light quickly passed over Cassandra and a few seconds later the drone beeped in approval.

"Identity confirmed, beginning transfer of documents."

A small tray popped out from under the eye containing a single info drive.

"Documents are for authorized personnel only, distribution or sending of documents over unsecured communications will result in immediate dismissal."

Once Cassandra took the drive, the drone quickly did a u-turn and exited the medical wing.


On the drive, a variety of documents filled with classified information would await Cassandra's viewing. One document detailed the biological weapon itself, describing it's intended purpose for a precise strike on high ranking enemy personnel. Including dispersal methods, transport procedures, and possible methods of production. Another document contained the Director's health files. The majority of the information had been redacted. Everything from full name, place of birth, date of birth, parental health records, and childhood health history. The only information left untouched regarded the current state of the Director. Including several past procedures that included genetic augmentation (key details regarding the specific augmentations redacted). Prescribed medications ranging from generic pain medication to experimental drugs that had not been approved for the public. The final document described the disease itself. Given the codename "Hydra", the weapon was a hybrid of cancerous cells and viral mutagens. It was discovered that any treatments trying to remove the cancerous masses only resulted in the weapon mutating and producing two more masses elsewhere in the body. In total there were six cancerous masses, one was benign and while the rest were malignant. The current treatement method was focusing on reducing the damage from the current tumors instead of trying to eliminate them. The prediction that any more attempts of removal would result in advanced stages of new tumors.
 
  • Love
Reactions: PoetLore
Cass smiled at the guards when they reluctantly let Ray and Clara pass them. She knew Ray wasn't physically strong enough to go far, so they would never lose eye contact. It was a great show of trust on their part of allow her to make such a decision. She was well aware that the guards reported directly to the director and that she was pretty far down the authority totem pole in this place. Their trust in her was appreciated on a level that surprised her to be honest. They would have to give some major time and attention to coming up with a cure for the rotlung that plagued them once they got all the upgrades into the SOG team.

She tipped her head at the drone but stood still while it scanned her. She accepted the information and rather than place it into the computer where Marcus might find it, she went to her quarters and shut the door behind her. Taking a seat at her desk she tapped below her right eye and the concealing plates opened revealing her implanted eye and its import hub. She uploaded the information directly into her internal systems and then feeling very sure the director could see what she was doing she destroyed the small chip. She then sat there as she read every page of the file, though she appeared to be staring off into space blankly. After an hour of this she tapped her chin thoughtfully as she began to jot down notes and calculations on a piece of paper. She had no intention of putting anything into the system, and possibly giving Marcus something to use against the Director.

The weapon had been cleverly created, and had been made highly adaptable and resistant but that did not mean it was impossible to overcome or treat. She wasn't one to give up without a fight. It was more than clear to her that the Director was a necessary part of this place and was the driving force behind its success. The latest scans were troubling at best. He was in danger of losing motor function in his left arm and if the tumor continued to grow his left leg as well. She did not imagine such a loss would hinder someone like the director as far as his daily routine was concerned, but she wondered what his incapacity would do in regards to the respect the guards and other locals would have toward him. They seemed to respond to strength and power, would that change? Possibly.

her mind was searching through stored tomes within her implant for any possible help in deciphering this mutant creation. She tipped her head when she noted an article in a journal of medicine written by one of her professors. Hmm....interesting premise. She jotted that down and continued to scan. She hadn't realized how long she had been there until she heard a beep from the tablet. Harrison had her food. Surely she had not been there an hour. Her eyes widened and she stood from the desk closing the journal and exiting her room.

She approached Harrison and was given a container and a cup with lid. "Coffee no cream, fried chicken, corn and potatoes. All very good I might add."

She smiled, "I am very sure it is," she conceded, "Thank you Harrison." Her implanted eye blinked a few times as she sent a copy of that article to him. "I sent you an article...I think it will help us in our search for a cure for the rotlung..." She could not share what she knew about the Director with anyone, not even Harrison, but this particular method of isolating the cause of a corrupt cell multiplying would help on two fronts and she knew Harrison would know how to put the method to use.

She sat at the desk, opened her container of food, and smiled over at Clara, "How was your walk?"
 
Clara smiled widely as Ray hobbled back to his room. "Oh it was great, I forgot how nice it feels to stretch your legs. Taking care of Ray...I mean Mr. Otranto has been my priority. So it was wonderful seeing him moving around on his own. I cannot thank you enough for what you have done for him. If you ever need my help you just have to ask." She then stood up and waved goodbye, happily humming as she went to check on Ray.

Half an hour later, the doors to the medical wing opened to reveal all five saints. As they all walked in, the group greeted Cassandra and her coworkers warmly. "Hey doc! We finally got all checked out and cleared for the good stuff. Xanders has been bitching and moaning about his stick legs the entire time." Dante laughed heartily as Xanders smacked his leg with one of his crutches. "Fuck off you big meatloaf, you were doing the same thing when you got your first arm blown off." As the two continued to tease each other, Kirst came forward and shook Harrison's hand. "I hear we have you to thank for these implants. Keep up the good work. All of us are ready to go. Give us a time and date and we will be here." Erik and Turk simply stood silently, Turk occasionally squinting while Erik gave Cassandra a small wave.
 
  • Love
Reactions: PoetLore
Cass smiled as Clara spoke. "I am glad to see him up and around as well. I thank you for that, but I cannot take all the credit. Doctor Sechen created the synthetic marrow." Yes her surgical skills helped but no surgeon could have done this without that marrow. She wasn't about to take credit for things that she did not do.

She had just finished her dinner when the doors slid open. "I just sent for you all..." she said as she stood up.

Point heard Dante's voice and came running out of the bay where she was tending to Peter. She stopped and looked at him head to toe and then back to his eyes. She took the three steps to be in front of him and then looking up at him she drew back and punched him in the chest. "Don't you scare me like that ever again!"

Cass blinked and coughed a bit, "I was planning....um to work on you all tomorrow. But we have some empty bays if someone is in a hurry..."

Harrison shook Kirst's hand, "my pleasure sir....least I can do for the men who been keeping the doc alive." He noticed Turk squinting and walked over to him. "are those bothing you?" he asked as he looked at the slight swelling and redness of the man's eyes. The swelling was to be espected from the scrapnel they'd removed but the redness was concerning him a bit.

Cass moved to Turk then and frowned as she scanned him. He'd been fine ealier, what happened? Some people rejected implants but she didn't think that was the problem. "Are you in pain?" she asked. "Please step into bay one....the rest of you make yourselves at home."

Harrison looked at Xander, "Your legs are ready to go, I bet we can get you hooked up tonight." He stepped into his space and came out holding up a leg. It looked like flesh and the color matched Xander's skin tone perfectly. "I am very proud of these.."

Just then, Marcus Edwards appeared from his quarters and smiled his snakey smile at the Saints. "Well gentlemen, We meet again. Looks like you have seen a bit of battle time since our last metting. Glad to see you all made it. I know Cassie is very attached to you all."

Point was bristling and her nostrils flared, "DOCTOR Brandford. You should not be callling her that."

Marcus curled a sideways smile at Point, "I have known Cassie far longer than any of you. She doesn't mind."

Harrison put the leg back and strode across the hospital floor to where Cass was examining Turk. He had a small box in his hand as well. When he entered he stood across the table from her as he always did. "Is there a problem?"

Cass shook her head, "I think he's straining to use these implants. I think the upgrades will be a better match for him." She looked at Turk, "You ready to see better than an eagle? And be able to see infrared? Harrison really hooked you up. You'll be the best sniper anywhere with these new eyes."

Point began to pull chairs outof the bays for the Saints to sit on. "Take a load off guys...looks like you're staying a while."
 
Dante made an exaggerated sound of pain and doubled over dramatically when Jen punched him. "Oh no I have been wounded! Whoever will tend to poor little old me?" Straightening up, Dante flashed Jen his trademark smile. "I ain't plannin on goin anywhere Jen, it will take more than a lost limb or two to keep me down." As Cassandra and Harrison fussed over Turk, he shrinked back slightly. Obviously not used to being the center of attention. "I'm fine." Obviously he was lying, but Turk seemed to be the type to suffer in silence instead of speaking up. When Harrison brought out one of Xander's new legs, the hispanic soldier smiled happily. "You are the man Harrison!"

When Marcus entered the room the normally warm and friendly saints became almost the complete opposite. Erik and Dante seemed the most aggravated out of the whole squad, Dante stepping between Point and Marcus protectively. Sizing up the smarmy doctor, Dante purposefully stepped close and looked down at him unamusedly. "You talk a lot, you better be careful. Cuz some day that mouth of yours is gonna get you into a world of hurt." Erik simply stood silently but anyone could see his hands twitching as if ready to strangle Marcus. Kirst sighed loudly and gently pushed Dante back while giving a pointed look to Erik. Turning to face Marcus, the weary squad leader gave him an unamused look. "Doctor Edwards, I know you are used to a...certain work environment. But around here you will find people are much less forgiving than places you have worked before. A friendly piece of advice would be to respect everyone, the Director especially. I am sure you are a good doctor, it would be a shame for you to waste your talent." Marcus would definitely notice the backhanded ccompliment. But before he could respond, Kirst had turned to face Cassandra with a friendly grin. "Thanks for looking out for us doc, looks like we will be crashing here for awhile. You need help or anything give us a shout."
 
  • Love
Reactions: PoetLore
Cass smiled, "You guys are my favorite people, but don't tell anyone." She held her fingertip to ehr lips in the universal sealed lips sign. She nodded to Kurst, "I will indeed let you know if you can be of help. But for now have a seat and relax."

Point rolled her eyes at Dante, "Like I could dent that body in any way." She quipped in an amused and affectionate tone. "Oh I don't know? Maybe Graves over there will take care of you..." She grinned and then hugged him impulsively. "Scared me to death you big goof." Honestly the sight of all of them covered in blood and missing limbs had been hard for Jen to see. Like Cass she thought of them as invincible and untouchable. This last mission had shown her clearly how dangerous their jobs were and that nothing was guaranteed. It had also clearly shown her how deeply Dante had managed to get into her mind and heart. She pulled out the chairs and then sat with them, next to Dante of course and looked at all of them, "You all look MUCH better than the last time I saw you...I am very glad."

Cass and Harrison worked on Turk in Bay 1 while Point kept the rest of the saints company and tried to keep Marcus away from them. The dome covered him and the sedative took hold and they began to replace the older implants with the ones Harrison had made special for Turk. Harrison's were fitted to Turk's socket shape and the position of his optic nerve. As they worked it was clear to see the generic implants were not the right fit and were irritating the entire socket. She was glad they came in today before any real damage was done. They worked in silence, as if they could communicate telepathically or something, but the reality was that they had worked together for so long that words were not needed.

Marcus just smiled at Dante dismissively, "No need to get your hackles up big guy. I am here to do a job." His attention moved to Kurst and he lifted a brow, "Are you saying that I am not respecting everyone?" He asked tilting his head a bit, "And as for the director, he's going to find out real soon that threatening me is a big mistake." He leaned casually against the counter in the center of the hospital and crossed his left foot over his right smugly. "You will probably find gentlemen, that things here are going to change ..."

Point was seated behind Marcus and furtively flipped him the finer before turning away from him and leaning a bit closer to Dante to whisper, "Hate that guy...really do."

Cass and Harrison emerged and she smiled until she saw Marcus leaning on the counter so smug and proud of himself. She had no idea what he THOUGHT he was doing but his presence IRKED her. She moved past him without even a glance or acknowledgement. She made a line to the Saints and stood before Kurst. "He's going to be much better with these implants. Harrison made them perfectly and his strain will be negligible now while he learns to use them."

She looked over the others, "So...who wants to be next?" She asked knowing full well who would be the most vocal. Her eyes met Erik's though and lingered for a few seconds. She really hated that they weren't free to talk, but she knew the director was watching even though Graves kept finding the devices and disabling them.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Dunruffle
Xanders raised his hand and shook his skinny metallic legs excitedly. "Ooh do me next Doc! These fuckin twig legs are driving me crazy." Dante simply grunted an agreement to Jen's statement, reaching into one if of the large pockets in his cargo pants and pulling out a book. Dante thumbed through the cheap plastic pages and found where he had left off, leaning back in his chair. "You ever need me to kick his ass just give me a call." Dante whispered back to Jen as he gently nudged her with a metallic elbow.

Erik saw Cassandra's look and gave her a covert wink and a nod if understanding. Yawning, Erik folded his arms behind his head and found a comfortable position. Kirst, being the diligent soldier he was. Had taken out a tablet and was already working on his officer paperwork. Though occasionally he would wuickly glance up to keep an eye on his men.
 
  • Love
Reactions: PoetLore
Marcus furrowed his brows at Dante, "That would be unwise." He had keen hearing, which in his particular situation was a gift and not because of technological assistance. He watched Cass saunter by him and smiled at her backside, "It's always delightful to watch Cassie walk away, isn't it gentlemen?"

Cass closed her eyes and let out a slow breath. She looked exactly like she felt, furious and trapped. She held that eye contact with Erik until he leaned back and rested and then turned to the others. There was a resigned tone to her words, "Ignore him. Ok, Xanders....come into Bay 5." Harrison moved into his space and collected the legs and the other equipment needed to attach his new legs. Luckily, this procedure did not require them to sedate the patient. All the connections were already in place. She pressed the release button on the generic legs and inspected the couplings and the flesh around them. "You heal quickly. And luckily you have no signs of rejecting the implant bases."

Harrison slid the left leg into place and it looked anatomically like it was there from birth. He had developed an outer skin that could move and stretch and which he places bands that resembled muscles and tendons beneath to work the mechanics of the implant so they looked very lifelike. He took a great deal of pride in his work, and it was fulfilling to him to be able to give people back a measure of normalcy after this type of horrific event. He snapped the couplings together and then showed Xanders where the suction mechanism was and then allowed the leg to firmly affix itself to the stump and coupling . "Try to move the toes..." He noted that they moved and nodded, "Good."

Cass attached the other in like manner and then they both helped him stand. "Let your mind adjust and try to take a few steps forward." The two of them had a good hold on Xanders just in case he had a problem.

Marcus looked down at his watch and smiled, "Any minute now the director should be getting his reminder of who he is dealing with...wish I could be there to see it..." The arrogance and self-importance in that tone and the man's expression were insufferable.

Meanwhile a call came in to the director's office from the office of a noted Senator. When the secretary answered she heard only these words, "Get me the Director."
 
  • Nice Execution!
Reactions: Dunruffle
Erik's hands clenched tightly when Marcus made his remark about Cassandra. It took all of his willpower to not go over and break the bastard's nose and then strangle him. Slowly exhaling, Erik compromised by giving Marcus a deathly glare then returned to resting. With Marcus overhearing Dante, Kirst sighed loudly and stood up right as Dante began walking towards Marcus. "Dante, relax. I really do not want to deal with any more paperwork." Dante stopped and groaned loudly in annoyance, deciding to stomp back to his seat and continue reading. Turk had wandered over to a bench and simply observed everything in silence.

In the medical bay, Xanders ignored Cassandra's warning and excitedly hopped off the table. He nearly fell but caught himself and carefully regained his balance. Smiling sheepishly, the hispanic man slowly began walking. "Sorry doc, I just get antsy when I can't move. But this is great! Feels almost exactly the same, you guys are miracle workers.


The secretary rolled her eyes and spoke in her normal emotionless tone. "The director is busy at the moment, please hold." Before the Senator could react the call was cancelled and the sounds of generic elevator music began. Five minutes later, the call was reconnected and the Director's smooth voice answered. "Ah hello Senator, I was wondering how soon your son would cry for help. I apologize for the delay, but I was in the middle of lunch and I simply could not let my soup turn cold. But I am here now, how may I help you?"
 
  • Nice Execution!
Reactions: PoetLore
Marcus just smiled a very condescending kind of smile at Dante and then turned his attention to Kirst, "That's it, keep your dogs in line." He then proceeded to turn his attention to Cassandra's backside and ogle her without apology. One day she would realize that she was his, even if it meant she did so by force or coercion. He didn't particularly care how he got her, and he was willing to use whatever means necessary to see that things ended up the way he wanted them to be.

Cass grabbed Xander's arm at the same time Harrison did and then shook her head. "I understand But let's not ruin our hard work being too eager huh?" She looked at the legs and then knowing Harrison would steady him she stepped away a bit and gave them a long look and scan. Everything was operating properly and they looked great. "I Have to say Harrison...you are getting really good at this. Those look fantastic. I want you to go to the far bay in the back and spend an hour on the treadmill to get used to the feeling of the legs and to sure up your cerebral link with them."

Harrison smiled at the praise but only for a second before he was taking Xanders to the rehab area. "Glad you like them." Was all he said to the man, but inside he was glowing with pride.

Cass returned to the saints and seeing Turk sitting with the others she bent to scan the eye. "Less irritation?" She asked as she did so, being able to tell from the scan that this was the case. "She tapped her tablet and then looked at him, "I sent you a list of exercises to do to help your optic nerve assimilate the implants. Once you feel comfortable with that, then you cans tart experimenting with the infrared, the scope, the xray and the magnifier." She smiled, "I'm sure you're first day at the target range is going to be very interesting...will you invite me?"

She was purposely ignoring Marcus and moved to Kurst, "You probably don't feel the need, but I'd like to check you over as well." She turned to the other two, "I'll get to you guys next...thanks for being patient. especially given the environment at present."

Marcus laughed, "Is that supposed to be some kind of dig Cassie?"

"Statement of fact." she replied coldly as she led Kirst into the bay where Xander's had been. She hit the sanitation button and waited the few seconds for the bed to be cleaned and then motioned for him to have a seat. "How are you feeling? having any trouble with digestion or passing your bowels or urinating?" She asked as he laid down and her eye started scanning him in depth. he'd been by far the most critical of the patients she'd treated even though the others were dealing with traumatic losses, none of them had been life threatening. "I have to say...you scared me. moreso than the others..." The scan complete she pressed on his abdomen and tapped a few places. She put the stethoscope to his abdomen to heard the sounds of his bowels and the wrapped it around her neck again. "Everything sounds ok, but seriously...how do you feel? Any foods giving you an issue? Don't be surprised if some do. it's normal and will fade with time."

Marcus took her attitude in stride. He kind of liked that she was so sassy with him. In his arrogance, he took that to be hidden attraction and not the actual hatred she felt. "She loves me, she just doesn't realize it yet. But she will...only a matter of time."

Senator Edwards fumed on the other end of the line when he was unceremoniously put on hold by a mere underling like he was the delivery driver for a shuttle. When the director informed him that he was eating lunch his mood soured a bit more. "I don't give a rat's ass if your soup is cold or not. I don't know who you think you are, but my time is valuable and I don't appreciate it being wasted." He growled at the director's words about his son, "I understand you threatened my son, actually referred to him disappearing without a trace. I assure you if such a thing were to happen there would be nowhere for you to hide...you would no longer be in command of that station or any other...do I make myself clear Director? I am holding you personally responsible for my son's welfare."
 
  • Like
Reactions: Dunruffle
Turk silently nodded and gave Cassandra a thumbs up. "Will save you a spot." In the medbay, Kirst shrugged and smiled. "I have been feeling fine so far. Though spicy food does seem to be a little much for my new guts to handle. Oh, and abdominal exercises are a little tougher. After about fifty crunches it feels like my lower area gets stiff. But other than that no complaints here."

After the Senator's tirade, one could almost hear the Director's eyes rolling. "Senator Edwards, unlike you I do not have time to be playing poitics. My job ensures the safety of civilians like yourself so that you can satisfy your constituents. As for your son, I simply asked for him to act like an actual doctor. Not sexually harass those he works with. It seems no matter how much money you throw at a problem, some people refuse to act properly. I was gracious enough to give him the opportunity to find a new posting and leave without fear of repercussions, but I see now that was time wasted. Let me find something to enlighten you."


There was a minute of silence followed by the sounds of typing and shuffling of papers. "Ah here we are, your file." Director Valentine spoke like a teacher gently reprimanding a student. "Let's see, you were elected twelve years ago. Before that you ran a highly successful legal firm specialising in industrial disputes. You have a slightly above average approval rating. Though your blue-collar demographic has repeatedly complained that you favor industry executives over worker union's. You did have a small scandal three years ago about recieving bribes. But the investigation committee ruled that there was not sufficient evidence. Other than that you have largely been an upstanding citizen, loving father, and loyal husband. Do tell your wife happy birthday for me, I hope you did not forget her birthday is next week. Now let's look at the files from some...different sources."

Director Valentine sighed like a disappointed parent and clicked his tongue disapprovingly. "It saddens me to see the current state of our government, though I do suppose I cannot judge since my job is one of the necessary evils of keeping the peace. Now let's see...you actually did win your first election fair and square, congratulations for that. Though it seems you realized shortly after entering office that a senator's paycheck is lower than you expected. Of course your friends in the industrial sector were more than happy to donate in exchange for a few favors. You blocked several pollution and environmental safety bills from passing that would have increased the taxes for many of your donators. Though when a smaller company started cutting into your donator's market, you were quick to pass an environmental bill that specifically targeted the production planet. After that it was more of the same, though you do seem to have a penchant for high end escort services. Paid for by your industry friends of course. Though your wife has a younger man of her own so I guess you two have some sort of agreement."

A notification beep sounded and the Director chuckled in surprise. "Oh my, I would have thought you were smart enough to keep your private business files off of your personal network. Don't worry, my team is just making copies. They will leave everything untouched. Though you do surprise me, abusing your authority to get your son off of rape charges? It seems the girl suddenly decided she forgot important details. For shame." Leaning back in his chair, the Director reverted to his usual cold tone. "Things have already been set in motion Senator. It is up to you how much damage is done to your reputation. Oh, and your son shall be given lessons on respect and humility. Don't worry, you will have your own problems to worry about."


The call abruptly ended, leaving Senator Edwards with silence. If the Senator called anyone for help with revenge, anyone that was remotely smart would advise him to stop if he valued his own well being. As one Senatorial collegue said over a video call. "Richard, this is not someone you can push around. You are talking about Director Valentine? Director of the Special Operations Group? Half the Senate thinks the SOG is some glorified commando group. You know what they really do? Political assassinations, Killing civilians deemed a threat to government security, toppling planetary governments, and a whole lot more. He is the man who controls probably the most dangerous military force in our Federation. I know you love your son, but this....I urge you to get him out of whatever he got himself into. Just talking to you about this is a risk. I have my own family to worry about. I am sorry, but unless it is official business...do not contact me again."
 
Last edited:
  • Nice Execution!
Reactions: PoetLore