�I got a tip about a smuggling operation that�s running some special cargo through Seattle, very special cargo.� Logan said as he typed.

�What do you mean, another slavery operation, drugs or guns?� Max asked curious of what the operation was about.

�Manticore technology, it seems this group, the Locust Syndicate, has some Manticore technology up for sale for the highest bidder.� Logan replied, reading the hack he had pulled from the syndicate�s information network.

�The Locust Syndicate, how the hell did they get that name?� Max asked, wondering why they had taken that name on.

�The group earned that name because they pillage a city of all it�s money and connections to the underworld, then move on in a few months, military�s trying to shut them down, but no luck so far. These guys are a real nuisance to just about everyone, they drain the economy, then bolt, they pay off Sector Police so they�re free to operate whilst in any city. It seems these guys have hired themselves some rogue Manticore projects though according to this.� Logan said turning around.

�What projects, did they get their hands on some of my brothers and sisters?� Max asked wondering if any more of her siblings had been caught.

�No, they got their hands on some X4�s that went rogue, their genetic code is not up to your level, but they are still superior warriors, even though only thirty of the original two hundred are still alive. That group had a lot of problems when they were first created, faulty genes left and right, aging diseases, seizures killed them, there wasn�t enough Tryptophan in the world that would help them out. The Manticore people used their DNA in recombinant DNA techniques to produce the X5 generation, wrote out flaws, until you kids turned sixteen the X4 generation was Lydecker�s assault team. They appear to have been made the offer whilst they were working for Manticore, and were dissatisfied with their treatment because the X5 group was now Lydecker�s wonderkids. They stole large amounts of genetics equipment, gene splicers, DNA sequencing processors, loaded it up into two trucks, and left while a false alarm kept the guards occupied. The South Africans and Chinese are very interested in Manticore technology, other countries are also interested, but no names are mentioned.� Logan said, explaining how Manticore technology was suddenly the blue light special on the black market.

�Great, my parents are black market smugglers, when is this deal going down, and what can we do about it, we can�t let other people get their hands on Manticore technology, god knows what they would do with it.� Max said, furious that the technology that had created her could fuel a whole new scale of cold war and assassination.

�I think I can get us in, and perhaps a few other people to pretend to be there to be buyers of the technology, we get in, stop the deal, and get out with the equipment.� Logan said as he typed away at his computer, searching for all information he could on these dealings.

�That could work, we pose as buyers, snatch the stuff, and walk away, what about them realising it�s us and waxing us?� Max asked wondering if Logan could generate ID that could fool the sellers.

�I�m working on generating some very convincing credentials and information, with everyone gunning for Manticore technology, I�d be more afraid of someone trying to kill us to eliminate people from the bidding.� Logan replied reminding Max of how business was conducted in the underworld.

*Ring*

�I better get that.� Logan said as he picked up his phone.

�There are Manticore people in town, I can smell them, most likely X4 group, do you know anything about it?� It was Robert, he had woken up early, gone outside, and smelt the presence of a Manticore kid.

�I know, they�re working for a smuggling ring, the Locust Syndicate, do you know anything about it?� Logan asked.

�I know them, I popped the head of their leader off with a Barrett .50 calibre sniper rifle in 2014, they don�t know I did it however.� Robert replied.

�Good, we�ll need you on this one, the operation is going to require an infiltration by our group as buyers, I thought you and Jon could pose as bodyguards.� Logan said.

�We can do that, no one�s going to doubt our ability to fight, I suggest you bring Max along as your female company.� Robert replied adding Max as another person to the infiltrator list.

�What about Andrea, or does she not fit into your calculations?� Logan asked, curious as to what Robert had planned.

�Andrea will remain on the outside, unless we decide to throw her into the team as well, stay nearby in case we need backup, that�s about it though, who knows about this so far?� Robert asked, wondering who was involved in this operation.

�Besides you, just Max and I, we�re planning to keep this one quiet, the sale will occur two days from now, I suggest we start preparing soon.� Logan said into his phone.

�You�ve got that right, I�ll come by after work, just prepare whatever you need to get us in there.� Robert said as he hung up.

�So now Robert�s in the loop?� Max asked.

�He is, he detected the scent of an X4, he knows about the Locust Syndicate, he popped their leader�s head off in 2014, they don�t know he did it though.� Logan said as he set his phone down.

�Good, it could be kind of bothersome if someone pointed at Robert and asked �hey, didn�t you kill my boss six years ago?� We could get in a lot of trouble over something like that.� Max said smiling.

�Well, I�m sure our resident indestructible assassin and explosives expert managed to stay low profile during the operation, let�s just hope we don�t have to explain away any dead bodies while the deal goes down.� Logan replied.

�Robert is kind of good at generating those, but I�m sure he knows the meaning of covert operation, he didn�t last all that time as a Delta Force operative if he just went in guns blazing.� Max said.

�Let�s just hope that Jon remembers not to hit on any of the other bidders escorts, we�re more likely to have a problem with that more than anything else.� Max said.

�I�m sure Robert will keep him on a short chain, he�s managed it for some time now, we shouldn�t have a problem in that department. Robert suggested bringing you along as my escort, question is, will people buy it?� Logan said with a smile.

�One more crack like that and people will wonder if you�re breathing smartass.� Max shot back.

�You really can�t take a joke can you?� Logan asked as he brought her close.

�Not when you�re taking a crack at me, let�s finish what we started earlier since neither of us can sleep though.� Max said with a seductive grin and tugged on Logan�s shirt.

�Not yet, I have to make sure they didn�t detect my hack, and set to establishing our identities as buyers of advanced genetic equipment. Robert said this would take a certain amount of planning for this to work out, we�ll have time for highly satisfying sex later, we need to make sure China doesn�t go home with a Manticore recipe first.� Logan said, pulling Max�s hand off.

�I was right, you can take the man away from Eyes Only, but you can�t take Eyes Only out of the man.� Max said, her smile dropping.

�That�s quite unfortunate for you, but there is a world of injustice out there, and someone has to fight it, we can get back to the sex later, I don�t think you want to fight your own siblings in all-out war though.� Logan said, reminding her of what would happen should Manticore technology fall into the hands of a sovereign nation.

�But I think this can help hold you over until then.� Logan said as he pulled her into a long passionate kiss.

�That helped, but in about five minutes that won�t do it anymore, come back to bed, I have to go to work in about two hours, I want to arrive in a good mood.� Max said smiling.

�As tempting as you are, I have a responsibility to the people of this city, and that includes the Chinese not getting their hands on killing machine technology, I�m sure I can find time tonight however.� Logan said as he tucked back a lock of her dark hair.

�You men and your missions, is there one man around here that�s on the level that doesn�t have a mission?� Max mused.

�Try and find one, I�ve been trying to find someone like you for 32 years, get in line.� Logan said.

�I�m satisfied with what I have, I doubt I could find someone like you again, let�s remember that we both can�t find anyone like each other, and enjoy the moment.� Max said as she kissed him.

�I think I can whip another masterpiece for breakfast though, if you�ll let go of me.� Logan said, tugging at Max�s arms that were wrapped around his chest.

�I don�t want to let go.� Max said smiling.

�If you want to get fed, I�m afraid that it requires you letting go, I heard that a way to a woman�s heart was through her stomach, I intend to keep that path paved at all times.� Logan said as he kissed her.

�You had better well, it takes more than good lucks and a man on a mission to keep me interested, you�re still the meal ticket around here.� Max said letting go.

�Will some things never cease?� Logan said looking up.

�Not until you become a lousy cook Cale, now back to the kitchen.� Max said as Logan finished his work on the computer and Max pushed him towards it.

�Woman and feeding them, there has got to be some way out.� Logan muttered as he walked to the fridge and opened it.

�Try it, you�re not going to stop cooking until your arms are broken.� Max said.

�Rats, maybe Robert and Jon might assist me on that one�� Logan said smiling as he took out some fresh fruit.

�I take it you need some inspiration before any more of your masterpieces are created, how�s this?� Max said as she turned Logan around and kissed him passionately.

�That provided all the artistic inspiration I�ll need to make breakfast, but what about lunch and dinner?� Logan asked curiously.

�That inspiration will come in later, but I think you will find it very rewarding.� Max said, her smile and pose seductive.

�I see, now allow me to fill my part for this morning.� Logan said as he began to make breakfast. They ate, talked, and before Max left for Jam Pony, shared one last embrace.

*******

�Where were you?� Andrea asked as Robert walked back into the garage.

�I was out for a run, I like to do that in the morning to get a sense if anyone threatening was in town, namely Red�s and X5�s.� Robert replied trying to end the discussion before it started.

�You were gone for an hour, is that normal?� Andrea asked, she knew he was hiding something, she didn�t know what.

�It is, there�s nothing wrong, I just had to beat the shit out of some punks who tried to mug me, I didn�t kill them, if you�re worried about that.� Robert responded as he looked at his watch, then cursed himself as he winced a bit as a wave of pain wracked him throughly.

�I wasn�t, you just seem a bit cautious, something wrong?� Andrea asked staring at him intently.

�There isn�t anything goddamn wrong, I went on a run, some punks tried to rob me, I beat their asses down, end of story.� Robert replied cutting off the discussion.

�Lift your shirt up.� Andrea said folding her arms.

�I thought we were doing foreplay last night.� Robert replied with a fake grin, he knew she wasn�t buying it, and cursed himself.

�This isn�t foreplay, lift your shirt up.� Andrea said, her tone taking on a commanding authority.

�I have to get some coffee, let me know when you�re serious.� Robert said as he started walking, but Andrea kicked him hard in his right side, following a hunch she had, he grunted, and a small streak of red was now on his shirt.

�What the hell is that, there�s no way I cut you with that kick.� Andrea said accusingly.

�It�s nothing, now can I go get some coffee?� Robert said.

�Really, then why does it look like a stab wound?� Andrea said as she lifted up his shirt, a stab wound was showing on his right side.

�It�s nothing, one of these assholes stabbed me with a 3-incher, it didn�t hit anything vital, the bleeding stopped already, it�ll be fine.� Robert replied, catching her hand and removing it.

�Why the fuck is it there in the first place, I thought you were invincible to that kind of shit.� Andrea said.

�It�s not a fucking problem, I�ve fought with bullet wounds before I was ever enhanced, it�s nothing, just leave it alone.� Robert said as he walked towards the kitchen.

�It�s not nothing, otherwise it wouldn�t be there, what aren�t you telling me?� Andrea asked catching his arm and worrying what was happening to Robert.

�What Robert didn�t mention is that with the stress that all the fighting over the past few days has been doing to him, his body has nearly burned out on healing, and it will take time for his healing rate to get back up to par.� Jon said from the kitchen.

�You piece of shit, I told you not to mention I burnt out, what the hell are you good for around here anyways?� Robert snapped at Jon.

�Keeping you alive my friend, do you think you were just going to hide that stab wound until your body got back in gear?� Jon replied reminding Robert of his own advanced senses.

�I was planning on it, just fuck off, it�s not bad, I can work with it, just give me some damn coffee.� Robert said as he got out a cup.

�Not until I check that wound out, you�re not going anywhere, for all I know that thing got one of your kidneys.� Jon said, stopping Robert pressing a hand against his rib cage.

�Fuck off, it was a 3-incher, would you leave me alone?� Robert said, throwing Jon�s hand off.

�Not while you�ve got an open wound that hasn�t been checked by either of us, either show me the wound or I drop you.� Jon said, his fists forming.

�Try it.� Robert said, going into a combat stance.

�I don�t want to have to do this, but you leave me no choice.� Jon said, nodding, Robert turned around, but it was too late, Andrea had already shot him with the tranquilliser, fuck that shit�s strong! Robert thought as he passed out.

�Is he alright?� Andrea asked as Jon caught Robert�s unconscious form.

�Besides the six-inch stab wound, yes, he was just lying, he hates showing weakness, I�ll check it and stitch it, you keep an eye on him. The reason there�s no tear in his shirt is because he stole one after the incident, he sterilized the wound first, so no blood would show.� Jon said as he picked up Robert�s form and set him down on a long table.

�He must have heated his knife to stop the blood flowing and sterilize the wound, whoever got him nailed an artery.� Jon said as he inspected the wound.

�Is it safe now?� Andrea asked, hoping Robert hadn�t been hiding anything too critical.

�He may only know battlefield medicine, but it works, but he still lost a lot of blood, otherwise he would have stopped you when you put him out. He�ll be back in about ten to forty hours at full power, but for the meantime, make sure he doesn�t leave, someone has to go too Jam Pony today, I will after I finish this.� Jon said as he started stitching the knife wound.

�You mean that he�s lost his ability to heal, then why were there no bruises from the fight he had with the Trackers, they were hitting each other hard enough.� Andrea asked.

�He never bruised even before Manticore, only cut and scraped, that�s why he managed to conceal it, I smelt the blood on him when he walked in, that�s when I knew he had nearly burnt himself out to save you after he was shot with all those rounds.� Jon said as he finished the stitching up.

�Burn out?� Andrea asked puzzled.

�Our bodies have a finite amount of power to regenerate us, if we take too much damage in a short timeframe, our healing is slowed until our bodies can recover, hence Robert�s current problem.� Jon answered summing up the problem that he and Robert sometimes faced.

�So he could have been killed had he been shot again?� Andrea asked wondering if Robert could have died whilst saving her from Manticore.

�If they dumped another volume of fire, yes, but he knew if he acted fast he could do it, must be nice to have a boyfriend that reverts himself back to the level of a mere mortal just for you.� Jon said as he put a dressing over the wound.

�You mean that if those Trackers had shot him, he would be dead?� Andrea asked wondering if Robert could have died the day before.

�Yep, now keep an eye on him.� Jon said as he picked Robert up and set him back down in his room.

�One other thing, with Robert temporarily injured like this, would you mind changing pitchers?� Jon said with the usual fake hope glint in his eyes.

�Not even a chance, and don�t even mention that again.� Andread said as she gazed back with a glance that could have melted steel.

�Alright, just make sure he doesn�t hurt himself anymore than he already has.� Jon said throwing up his hands in defeat and walked away.

�I can�t believe him, he risks his life, he then goes to covers it up, all the while just to keep up his image as the Terminator?� Andrea asked.

�That�s the kind of guy Robert is, he refuses to show weakness to anybody, little time in a field hospital as necessary, never bitching about a wound, nothing that makes him look weak. I noticed it in him well before we even entered the military, be prepared for him to get up the minute he wakes up, stop him, he needs to let that wound rest.� Jon said turning to Andrea.

�I�m sure, if he gets out of line, what can I do, I don�t want to have to shoot him up with a tranquilliser again.� Andrea said looking at Robert�s unconscious but massive frame.

�Slap his wound or just give him some head, I don�t really care which, just don�t let him move around, I�m not sure about that stitching job, I can do it better than he can, but just don�t let him get up.� Jon said as he put his black jacket on and started walking.

�What do I do if he tries anything, I assume he still can lift up a Pontiac if he felt like it.� Andrea asked.

�Hope he doesn�t try anything, the rest of his powers are still in the loop, but try and calm him down, you�re the only other person that has this effect around here.� Jon said as he left.

�Great, the minute my boyfriend wakes up he�s going to kick my ass for tranqing him, he�s got a six-inch stab wound, and he can still kick my ass, oh well, maybe I can convince him to cool off.� Andrea mused to herself as she sat down next to the bed. Who the fuck are you kidding with this one? Jon just told that you he hates showing weakness, and having his girlfriend watch over him is not going to help, what is with this guy anyways? He�s got to be the most proud, violent and disturbed guy you ever met, yet you two fall in love regardless. Maybe I can get him to drop some of the bullshit and drop back on the killing, just maybe� Andrea thought as she sat there.

After a couple of hours, Andrea got up from watching Robert and went to the bathroom, took a shower, got something to eat, and came back. She set the food down, brining extra in case Robert would be hungry, taking a look at him, she imagined he would consume large amounts of food to make up for the energy he spent with his working out and sparring. She went over to the side of the bed, and checked the dressing on the wound, no bloodstain was on the dressing, which meant the wound was not bleeding out. She ran her hand across his firm chest, until a voice broke the silence.

�What the fuck did you do to me?� Robert snapped, awakening from his drug-induced sleep, his system finally starting to fight it.

�You lied, you didn�t say you had a six-inch wound that had sliced an artery.� Andrea responded as she let her hand rest on the right side of Robert�s face.

�I sterilized the fucking wound and the blood stopping coming out long before I got back, I didn�t want anyone to worry, should have waited till Jon left, him and his fucking nose.� Robert said through clenched teeth.

�You risked your damn life walking around with that wound, who the hell do you think you are?� Andrea shot back.

�A fucking killing machine that knows what he�s doing, I�ve taken worse and lived through it. You don�t seem to realise that even with my healing abilities shot I can still take care of myself, I�m fine.� Robert said getting up.

�You�re not going anywhere, you�ve lost a lot of blood, I can tell, your colour has drained from your face and you don�t move as fast as usual.� Andrea said, putting her hand on his shoulder.

�I can still kick your ass and leave.� Robert replied, batting her arm away.

�Then Jon kicks your ass and hauls you back here.� Andrea said, cutting off his next move.

�He has to catch me, and even without my healing powers I can still do damage, he can�t break bones, my bones are always solid. Even if he finds me, he wouldn�t shoot me, he wouldn�t slash me, and I can still avoid a tranquilliser shot with ease.� Robert replied.

�Say you did get up and hurt me, what would you do, the minute you walk into Jam Pony holding your left side and looking like shit people will ask questions.� Andrea said, slicing his logic to pieces.

�No one is going to bother me at Jam Pony, I can avoid Jon and Max on my runs, what are you going to do to stop me, tranq me again? You wouldn�t dare.� Robert said, glaring into her eyes.

�If I have too.� Andrea replied, but seemed reluctant.

�Try it, come on just try it, I�ll break your hand before it even gets close to me.� Robert said threatening her.

�Nice to see that our relationship is intact, or what happened to us? Did it suddenly all go out the window when I forced you to slow down so you didn�t kill yourself?� Andrea said, her tone and eyes going cold.

�I said I know what I�m doing, I mean it, I will survive this wound any many others if I burn out ever again, just leave me alone.� Robert replied.

�So that�s it, you tell a girl you love her and take it all back when she makes you stop playing the Terminator for a while?� Andrea asked accusingly.

�It�s not like that, you know it isn�t.� Robert replied, his voice still strong.

�Really, then it�s not your pride telling you to get up and ignore a knife wound just so you can keep up your appearance?� Andrea asked.

�I just want to live my life like I always do, knife wound or not.� Robert said as he pushed himself up to a sitting position.

�You�re just trying to prove that you�re tough all the time, you don�t have too anymore, I don�t care, neither does anyone else.� Andrea said as she sat down next to him and put a hand on his shoulder.

�I care, I can�t let myself get complacent no matter what.� Robert muttered as he winced as a wave of pain washed through him, his mind was clouded, he couldn�t focus on blocking out the pain.

�You have to ease up, you�re just going to slip back into your old way if you just keep going on like this, don�t do this to yourself, don�t do this to us.� Andrea said sinking her head onto his shoulder, wishing Robert would snap out of it.

�What do you want me to do, become passive and just sit around with you all day until Lydecker comes and hauls your ass back to Manticore?� Robert snapped at her as he pushed her away.

�Quit acting like you have to be the soul guardian of humanity for all time.� Andrea said trying to force Robert out of his vortex of darkness.

�What should I be?� Robert shot back with a hint of rage in his voice.

�The man I fell in love with perhaps?� Andrea answered as she brought a hand up under his chin and turned his sunken head to face her.

�You made a mistake there, we both did, now realise that before you really start to regret what you�re doing even more.� Robert said doing his best to destroy the relationship so he could fold back into his simple life of doing nothing but his mission.

�We never made a mistake, you�re just making a big one now because you�re too damn proud to admit you�re not at 100% as usual.� Andrea said staring intently into his eyes, locking her own eyes in with his.

�That�s for me to decide, I know what I�m doing with my life.� Robert said looking away.

�You�re just trying to keep it simple because you just want your life to be simple, by blowing things up and killing people.� Andrea said cutting away at why he was pushing her away.

�I�m doing what�s best for us, we gave it a shot and it didn�t work, that�s what has happened, so why don�t you leave before you hurt yourself anymore by pushing this any farther.� Robert said as he sunk his head into his hands.

�You�re hurting yourself even more by throwing this away, don�t do this to yourself, how do you intend to live with yourself if you do throw this away, because you�ll have hurt me, and isn�t that your own cardinal rule, don�t hurt X5?� Andrea asked as she moved closer.

�You�ll get hurt either way, if we continue this you�ll get hurt far worse later on in this little fucked-up romance, I�m making a choice that�s going to make sure you hurt less later on.� Robert said shaking off that argument.

�We�re going to hurt even more because we�re going to hate ourselves a lot for fucking this up later, you know this is what we want, why are you fighting this?� Andrea said as she grabbed a hold of his shoulders and shook him violently, working out her frustration at Robert�s personal pride getting in the way.

�You are just making this worse, why are you so content on punishing yourself by trying to fix something that can�t be fixed?� Robert said as he pried her hands off of his broad shoulders and shoved Andrea back.

�You�re punishing yourself here, why must you push me away, is it because you�re pissed that I had to tranq you when you were dumb enough to walk around wounded?� Andrea said as she gently pressed him down, Robert was to complacent at the moment to care, so he let her.

�I didn�t ask for help and I didn�t ask for a nurse especially, you had no business doing that to me, now leave me alone.� Robert said as hate entered his voice.

�I don�t want to leave you alone, and you don�t want to leave me alone, we both know that, now quit it with this shit, and do what we wanted to do before this happened.� Andrea said as she lay back on the bed as well and rested her head on Robert�s chest.

�Don�t you get it? I can�t be who you want me to be, now forget about it before you hurt yourself any more.� Robert said as he pulled away, dropping Andrea�s head on the bed.

�No, I don�t get it, now either start pulling it together, or I will hurt you.� Andrea said as she slapped his face with the back of her hand.

�If you think your fucking me will convince me to change my lifestyle, I have news for you�� Robert started until Andrea grabbed him and wrenched him up violently.

�I have news for you, I have not poured myself into this relationship to let it all fall apart because you�re too wrapped in your little crusade to realise what�s going on around you. I want nothing more from you than to be something more than a soldier, I want you to be my lover, that�s all.� Andrea said as she glared into his eyes.

�What do you want me to say?� Robert quipped at her.

�I want you to look deep inside yourself, and find what�s holding you back.� Andrea said through an even tone.

�I know what�s inside of me as do you, that�s why it can�t work.� Robert replied, citing his old argument that he was just a soldier.

�I know that you�re just making up excuses, just tell me this, are you going to just continue on through life being a simple killing machine because you�re too afraid to give us a chance?� Andrea said as she continued to glare into his eyes, a mix of hope and hate were in her eyes from her conflicting emotions.

�What do you want to hear from my lips?� Robert quipped once again.

�Nothing but the light noise of contact, like this.� Andrea said as she leaned down and kissed him deeply. The kiss went on for about half a minute, Robert was so enraptured in her exquisite taste that he could not find the willpower to push her away, then they broke off.

�Don�t tell me you didn�t want that.� Andrea said glaring into his eyes.

�I did want it, but you know what? It doesn�t change the fact that we�re no good for one another, anyone can fuck, it takes a connection to form any sort of long-lasting relationship.� Robert answered, but cutting away at the idea of him and Andrea further.

�We do have that, you�re just not being receptive to the idea, now start wisening up.� Andrea said as she looked down on Robert, who stilled remained immobile.

�So what, even if we resolve this, I�m not sure if this can work out, we can�t work like this, fight and then makeup all the time. I don�t want to break your heart all the time because of who I am.� Robert said as he clasped his hands behind his head.

�We won�t, because from now on you are going to resurrect the man you used to be, the man that I saw last night at Crash, can you do that for me?� Andrea asked as she let emotion flood into her brilliant green eyes, Robert studied her and formulated an answer. She�s right and you know it, don�t be a fucking idiot!

�I can�t just switch myself between more likable personalities like I change my socks, but I�ll try.� Robert said as berated himself for trying to push her away because he was pissed that he had let himself slip and get injured in front of her.

�Look at me.� Andrea said as she looked directly at Robert.

�What?� Robert asked as his eyes locked with hers, and he waited.

�Do you love me?� Was Andrea�s question as their eyes continued to drill into each other.

�Yes, I do.� Robert answered simply.

�Then if you love me, will you try and make this work?� Andrea said as she continued to gaze into his eyes.

�Yes, I will, but one other thing first.� Robert said agreeing to Andrea�s plea to not slip into his normal way.

�What is it?� Andrea asked as she lay down next to him.

�Do you love me?� Robert asked looking at her.

�I would have to considering all I�ve done to get us together, of course I love you moron.� Andrea said with a faint smile on her lips.

�Now what?� Robert asked, wondering what would happen next.

�We do something we�ve wanted to do since we met.� Andrea said as her right hand traced down to his belt buckle and unbuckled his belt, then unzipped his fly.

�Do you want this?� Robert asked, hoping Andrea was not just using sex to make sure they would stick together.

�More than anything else, make love to me Robert.� Andrea whispered as she pulled off her T-shirt.

�I want this more than anything else as well, come here.� Robert said as he gently tugged at her shoulders and then pulled her down into a fierce kiss as the two fought to remove each other�s clothing.

*******

�Where are Robert and Andrea today? I�m guessing what�s obvious, but I still doubt it for some reason.� Max asked Jon as they went on a run.

�Robert�s down with a six-inch stab wound from a serrated blade and Andrea�s making sure he doesn�t hurt it.� Jon replied.

�You can just say they�re having sex, we both know that Robert can�t be hurt.� Max said.

�They�re not, Robert executed a burn to heal himself fast enough to save you three back at Manticore. A burn speeds his healing rate up five times faster than his standard phenomenal rate, drawback is he�s lost his ability to heal for fifty hours, now sixteen hours to go.� Jon replied.

�So he got a stab wound, he�s tough, I�m surprised he didn�t show up anyways.� Max said wondering why Robert had not shown up earlier.

�He would have had I not detected the severity of his wound, his pride is far too much to allow himself to show weakness to anyone, even his friends. Without his healing abilities we tranqed him so we could treat his wound and dress it, I left Andrea to keep watch on him, I�m sure she can calm him down, one way or another.� Jon said as they rode.

�I see, I take it this has all been told to me in confidence, as in I mention this I�m in deep shit?� Max asked.

�Definitely, Robert will think it�s bad enough that Andrea knows, god knows he hates showing weakness, especially to a woman, don�t mention any of this.� Jon replied.

�I won�t, is he really that bad with showing that he�s hurt, must be a guy thing, Logan hated being in that chair from day one.� Max said.

�I can see where he�s coming from, Robert and I were both in chairs, that feeling of weakness, you�re useless, I still got some while I was in the chair, but that�s me, it wore on Robert. If he hadn�t gone to Manticore to be fixed up, I swear, he probably would have shot himself� Jon said as they turned through another alley.

�He�s regretting Manticore even more I imagine.� Max commented.

�I doubt it, making him a Tracker allows him to watch over some people who need protection, protecting you kids filled him with a sense of duty, he was borderline for a while, but he�s being dragged out of it.� Jon replied.

�I see, so he�s basically being dragged back into a civilized way of life that doesn�t involve smashing heads and killing people?� Max asked.

�I guess you could say that, having friends is helping stabilise his violent tendencies, Andrea�s starting to bring out the best in him. If we give him a week or two you may just have a reformed man on your hands, but he�ll still spill blood when it comes to protecting you kids, nothing overrides that, I did it as well if you remember.� Jon answered.

�I see, but I imagine the overall killing ratio will be decreased?� Max said.

�Probably, it doesn�t happen overnight, Manticore, his lover dying, the spinal blow-out, it all wore on him, hard to heal from a string of bad accidents.� Jon replied.

�I would imagine, let�s just hope that he comes by later, did he tell you about the Locust Syndicate?� Max asked.

�No, what is it?� Jon asked curiously.

�A criminal syndicate that is running Manticore technology and selling it to the highest bidder, Logan�s going to get us in posing as buyers, we snub the deal and take the stuff.� Max said.

�Great, as if the South Africans and Manticore wasn�t bad enough, someone is selling killing machine in a bottle? That�s just fucking great, when is this all going down?� Jon said.

�Two days, you and Robert will pose as bodyguards for Logan, I�m his female company while he�s sealing the deal, everything happens in two days, including sales and shipping.� Max replied.

�What�s the security like, and what exactly is being shipped?� Jon asked.

�All sorts of Manticore stuff, gene sequencing, supercomputers for DNA stuff, and four X4�s are the providers of it all.� Max replied.

�Great, your parents are running Manticore technology for profits, those X4�s must be pissed that the X5�s are the new wonderkids, I don�t blame them, you kids made them obsolete.� Jon said as they continued to ride down the streets to deliver another package.

�I can imagine bitterness, the X4 generation suffered a lot of casualties compared to X5, let�s hope mom and pop don�t recognise me though.� Max said.

�I doubt they will, they separated the X groups at all times, they probably never even got a glimpse of you, I read the Manticore files if you recall. I think our best option is to pose to deal, rip the stuff, and walk away, the X4�s could never stop Robert or I, even with our healing gone, we can drop-kick their asses all the way to Texas.� Jon commented.

�See that you don�t kill them, they deserve to live, it�s not their fault they were brought up in Manticore.� Max said.

�I would never even consider it, I have nothing but a feeling of respect for the X groups provided they don�t try and kill me.� Jon replied.

�Good, now let�s finish these runs, go check on Robert too, it would be a shame if something were to happen to him.� Max said.

�I will, I�m half-expecting him to kick my ass when I get back, or for him and Andrea to be getting it on, in which case I will offer to help.� Jon said smiling, until Max smacked him over the head.

�You�re not going to bother your best friend and my sister while they�re having intimate relations, so drop that one pervert.� Max said.

�Never can have any fun around here, when should I drop by at Logan�s to discuss this little operation tonight?� Jon asked.

�Come by around 8:00, we�ll all have dinner, then talk, just make sure Robert doesn�t keel over when he walks in.� Max said.

�He won�t, that I can promise you, he�s too damn tough for a single stab wound to slow him down, he�ll be there.� Jon replied as he rode off to his destination, Max rode her way.

If you�ve hurt Andrea or done anything stupid with her, I�m going to kick your ass all the way to China, you need her as much as she needs you, you�re closer than ever to your old life, don�t fuck it up now! Jon thought as he rode on.

*******

�What did we just do?� Robert asked as he lay there with Andrea.

�I believe the correct term is banged the gong.� Andrea said smiling.

�Why did we do it, were we just caught up in the heat of the moment, not thinking, just doing?� Robert asked.

�It wasn�t like that, we love each other, we�ve just made love, you�ve just gotten closer to me, and I to you.� Andrea said as she lay there with her head on his shoulder as he stroked her hair.

�So that�s it, no regrets, no pangs of guilt for doing any of this?� Robert asked.

�That�s it, you worry a lot for someone of your stature, just relax, you were wonderful.� Andrea said as she leaned over and kissed him.

�You were fucking amazing yourself, I�ve never been with anyone as beautiful or amazing as you before.� Robert said as he kissed her back.

�That�s nice to hear, cause I would have ripped you a new one if you had said I sucked.� Andrea said with a devilish smile.

�You saying that would have provoked a similar response, forget that, let�s just enjoy the moment.� Robert said as he massaged her body with strong hands.

�I will, you�re good at this, where did you learn to do that?� Andrea asked as his hands massaged her body.

�I discovered that is was a great money-maker when one was overseas and female officers were dying for one, I provided that service.� Robert said as he kissed her.

�I assume that Jon tried to convince you to record their voices while you worked.� Andrea said as he massaged her shoulders.

�He asked, he begged, he tried slipping mikes in, but I found them, and made him eat them.� Robert replied.

�Good, now how does this feel?� Andrea asked as she stroked his chest.

�You can start by removing yourself from the stab wound you wanted me to take it easy with.� Robert said grimacing.

�Sorry, but I thought you didn�t know pain or something.� Andrea said as she withdrew one of her hands.

�The techniques to absorb and shunt away pain are available, but after constant physical exertion, and other distractions, it�s hard to bring the focusing in on the task.� Robert said as he worked his hands over her body.

�Just don�t stop, I haven�t felt this good in a long time.� Andrea said.

�I thought you said that I was pretty damn good in bed, or were you lying to score this?� Robert said turning her head towards him.

�What do you think?� Andrea asked.

�I think I should punish you for saying that with hours of sex until you change your mind.� Robert said grinning as he pulled her over and kissed her, wrapping his arms around her and bringing her close.

�I had that coming, bring it on.� Andrea said as the she kissed him back and he caressed her flesh, and the two erupted once again into a fit of passion.

She�s fucking intoxicating, every last part of her, I can�t believe I almost fucked this up, show her that you love her now. Robert thought as they started again, and explored every last part of her body, giving her the pleasure that he had almost robbed her of.

*******

�Looks like those two found something to do.� Jon thought to himself as he came back from his daily routine of runs to gang territory and incessant yelling of Normal. He had come in at lunch, detected the scent of sex, left of course, because he knew Robert would kill him if he was caught peeping, came back at 6:30, and the air still reeked of it.

�If I ever catch you tranqing me up again, just remember all you�re doing is giving me an opportunity for the best experience of my life.� Robert said as he and Andrea came into the kitchen.

�Bout time you two called it quits, I was wondering if you were going to try for the record the first time round. Since you two are now intimate and all, I was wondering if you two would join Kendra and I in a�� Jon said as Robert and Andrea were walked in, both smiling devilishly, and shared a kiss before they continued. Robert picked a knife off a nearby table, and threw it at Jon, it stuck in the chair, right between his legs.

�Quit doing that, I told you that the death threats and attitude were a turn off, just ignore him.� Andrea said, catching Robert�s arm and pushing it down.

�I�m just tired of his thinking that sex is in the domain of the public, that�s the best way to shut him up.� Robert protested.

�Allow me to shut you up.� Andrea said as she pushed him into the wall and kissed him deeply.

�Thanks for shutting up your boytoy, I need to harangue you two over this, Robert, I�m not letting this go, you just got some and I intend to harass you about being so slow in doing it.� Jon said.

�Ignore him, it was incredible, just relax.� Andrea said as she kissed Robert.

�So Andrea, your boytoy there was a good lay?� Jon asked.

�Better than you�d ever be, some of us are more focused with pleasuring the partner rather than just ramming a dick into them for twelve hours straight.� Robert replied.

�It really sucks that you�ve gotten some, used to be that you couldn�t take potshots at my sex life because you didn�t have one, now what do I do when you make cracks about me?� Jon asked.

�Find a few comeback lines, and leave my boyfriend alone, he deserves it.� Andrea said.

�I doubt that, I�ve been waiting a long time for him to get a girl, I can�t let this go, that proud arrogant fool over there finally got some for the first time in over a decade. My friend, I can smell all the scents around here, I smell anger, angst, rage, if you had fucked this up I would have killed you.� Jon said.

�Get in line, Max already threatened my life over this, the fact is that as of right now Andrea and I are together, and nothing is changing that.� Robert said as he pulled Andrea close and kissed her deeply.

�See that it doesn�t, I would hate to have to kill you.� Andrea said as she pulled his head back down and kissed him.

�Why does everyone threaten to kill me when it comes to us?� Robert asked.

�Because you don�t have a good track record for relationships, we need to keep this one intact.� Andrea replied.

�I don�t see what the problem is, whenever we fight we just get closer to each other, or have you forgotten the past seven and a half hours?� Robert asked as he wrapped his arms around her and brought her close.

�I would never forget that, problem is, will he ever let it go?� Andrea asked pointing at Jon.

�Not a chance in hell, you two have hooked up, I have a new source of entertainment for myself. You two might want to wash up and change before we go over to Logan�s or it won�t take a nose of a bloodhound to figure out what you�re up to.� Jon replied.

�They�ll know anyways, but I will take that suggestion, I need to take a shower anyways.� Robert said as he let go of Andrea.

�I�ll join you.� Andrea said as she followed him to the bathroom.

�Just don�t take too long, I only have a six-hour tape in my hidden camera in there.� Jon called out.

�If I find a camera you�re going to eat it, can�t a man take a shower with his girlfriend without being filmed these days?� Robert shot back.

�Andrea, make your boytoy calm down a bit, a tape of that calibre with you two would fetch at least 2k on Ebay.� Jon said.

�I will allow him to punish you for attempting to make pornographic materials containing us without our consent, but nice try.� Andrea said.

�You�ve got to have more control over him than that, he is your boytoy after all.� Jon said, grinning.

�Quit calling me that, I don�t want to hear it, I just want to take a shower with Andrea, without any cameras or mikes present, or you.� Robert said.

�Come on, what am I supposed to do for fun around here anyways?� Jon asked.

�You can start by leaving us alone.� Robert said as he and Andrea entered the bathroom and shut the door.

Robert got the shower going and pulled his pants off, and turned around, Andrea was standing there, wearing nothing but a seductive smile. He drank in every curve, every part of her body, and moved over and kissed her. The touch was simple at first, then extended, as he held her head with one hand, stroking her back with the other, as they moved into the shower and washed up, touching each other, caressing and washing each other�s bodies, until they stopped and got out.

�We have to stay together on more than sex you realise.� Robert said as he ran his hand across her chest, and brushed her full breasts with his fingertips, then wrapped a towel over her neck and pulled her close and kissed her.

�I know, we�ll find out what else we can do together later, right now we should get dressed and go over to Logan�s, we shouldn�t keep them waiting.� Andrea said as she kissed him back.

�I suppose so, do you think they�ll guess it on the spot, or will it show up midway there?� Robert asked as he pulled on a fresh pair of boxer shorts.

�If they don�t see it right away, it�s because they have gone blind, but don�t worry, they won�t be half as punishing as Jon was.� Andrea said as she strapped her bra on.

�They had better not, we may have just made love, but it doesn�t mean that the public should have broadcasting rights.� Robert said as he pulled his pants up and buckled the belt.

�You�d think that seven and a half hours of phenomenal sex would make you more mellow and put you in a much better mood.� Andrea said as she looked at him.

�You�ve got that first part right, I do feel better tempered, but I find that harassing someone about who he beds is an invasion of privacy.� Robert said as he tore off the dressing for his wound, and started applying a new one.

�The year is 2020 my love, privacy is hard to come by with the street value of my body being about fifty million dollars, god knows what you would get on the open market. You�re right though, I�m sure Max and Logan will not bother us too much, Jon will more than make up for that however. One other thing, doesn�t it bother you that the bandaging you just tore off took a piece of skin with it?� Andrea asked as Robert finished applying a new dressing to the wound.

�It hurts like hell, but pain can feel good sometimes, a wound that could have been fatal but is survived invigorates me, a feeling that one can survive anything.�

�Tell me that isn�t the same pride that nearly tore us apart.� Andrea said as she pulled a tight red T-shirt on then went over and kissed him.

�It�s not, I just need that feeling that I can be hurt to keep me in check, I have far too much power than any one man has any right having, I need this as a reminder.� Robert said tapping the wound.

�You don�t mind showing weakness to me anymore, your lover is now in the loop about when you�re hurt?� Andrea asked looking into his eyes.

�Always, I won�t tell you anymore bullshit about being fine if I am hurt, just don�t overreact, I have been injured before Manticore, unless the wound is near-fatal.� Robert said as he pulled her close and kissed her.

�I won�t, as long as you stop it with the death threats and cut back on the killing.� Andrea said as she buried herself in his embrace.

�I will, I�ve used that as my way of shielding myself from establishing ties to anyone and anything, just don�t let go, I don�t think I could handle losing you.� Robert said as he hugged her fiercely.

�I�m not going anywhere, neither are you, let�s just get dressed and go over to Logan�s, which reminds me, why are we going over tonight, for any special reason?� Andrea asked as they let go and Robert pulled on one of his T-shirts.

�There�s a crime syndicate that�s running Manticore technology, Logan can fill you in more, suffice to say we have to grease this deal otherwise someone walks home with Manticore in a bottle.� Robert said as he felt his wound tighten healing abilities are gearing back up, good.

�That�s not a comforting thought, I thought that dealing with Manticore was bad enough, now we have to deal with their crime problems?� Andrea said musing.

�As annoying as that is, we can�t let Manticore technology spread, we both know that better than anyone, let�s get this done, and then maybe we can get some time to ourselves.� Robert said as they left the bathroom. Jon had been working on one of his guns again, he looked up from his work and simply smiled at the two, smirking almost, then went back to work just taking a shower my ass Jon thought.

�I take it we are leaving now?� Robert asked.

�I guess so, we taking my ride, or do you two want to go alone?� Jon asked pointing to his BMW X5.

�I thought I�d take my ride, Andrea needs to get a feel for one of these things anyways.� Robert said turning to Andrea.

�You�re damn right I do, it�s not that I mind holding onto you to get to any destination, I just want my own baby to ride.� Andrea said as Robert got on his bike and she got on behind him and wrapped her arms around him to keep steady.

�I didn�t think you did, you X5�s need a cycle though, it�s written down somewhere I�m sure.� Robert said as he fired his engine up.

�Let�s go, if you need to screw you can do it in the back of my ride while I drive, just let me readjust the mirrors first.� Jon said.

�You see what I put up with for you? I could have shut him up if I had thrown another knife at him for crying out loud.� Robert said to Andrea as he hit the door opener and peeled out as they rode off, Jon following.

********

�Logan Cale if you keep this up, you have guaranteed yourself a place in my bed anytime.� Max said as she came into the kitchen and drank in the scent of the dinner he had prepared.

�I thought that was my bed we were using.� Logan replied grinning.

�I figured that since I stole your heart I might as well rip off your bed too.� Max said as she came up to him and kissed him.

�That you did, now the question is, what can I steal of yours to keep you around?� Logan said as he kissed her back.

�If you even think about boosting my motorcycle there�s going to be two ding-dongs missing in your lunchbox.� Max said.

�Point well-taken, who would have thought that a chance burglary would have cast two people from entirely different backgrounds together as lovers?� Logan said as he stroked her dark hair.

�Anyone but us, if Robert hadn�t tipped us off, we would still be bouncing around in the lingo of sexual tension.� Max said as she buried herself in him.

�He put us together, now he�s being rewarded for his thirteen years of service, through one of your own.� Logan said.

�I was a bit shocked when I realised that Andrea had a thing for Robert, more surprised when I found out it was mutual, those two deserve each other though.� Max said.

*Ding*

�That would be them, turn the heat off on the stove and oven, I�ll let them in.� Logan said, until he turned around and saw that Robert, Andrea and Jon were already inside the apartment.

�Would you people stop breaking into my home, what is it with Manticore and breaking into my apartment?� Logan said to the trio.

�It was either pick the lock, or kick down your door.� Robert replied.

�I see, you couldn�t wait for me to come and open it?� Logan asked.

�It was either stand out there for ten seconds with Jon bugging Andrea and I about our relationship, or break in, I made my choice, I stand by it.� Robert said as he leaned over and kissed Andrea.

�Noted, that explains that, I take it he�s been bothering you two about your relationship and moving it up a bit?� Logan asked.

�More like being allowed to film the next time, without me feeding him his camera and hidden microphones.� Robert replied.

�If you can stop talking about Jon�s sex-driven behaviour, Logan has prepared a culinary delight for us to enjoy tonight.� Max said.

�Good, now the usual dining rules, sexual relations are not to be discussed tonight, with no death threats uttered.� Max said looking at Robert and Jon.

�What?� They said in unison.

�Men, can�t live with them, can�t live without them, the exception being dick-for-brains.� Max said as they all went into the dining room, carrying plates of food.

�I resent that remark, Kendra seems to find me quite appealing.� Jon replied.

�That�s because you two think on the same bandwidth when it comes to bumping, let me know if you two ever realise that there�s more to life than just sex.� Max shot back.

�I�m fully aware that a relationship means more than that, just gimme some time here.� Jon said, defending his personal affairs.

�I believe that�s the 479^{th time I�ve heard that one.� Robert mumbled.}

�You stay out of this.� Jon shot back at his friend.

�Fine, but let�s drop the sex, and pick up on the mission.� Robert said as they all sat down.

�Now that we�re all here, let�s get down to business, a group called the Locust Syndicate has acquired a great amount of Manticore technology. This group got their hands on said technology by appealing to several of the previous Manticore generation, the X4 group, four of them agreed, and stole the equipment. At this time I have no knowledge of any genetic codes or information changing hands, but it cannot be discounted, I believe if there is, it will be used to spike the bidding to increase their profits. The mission is simple, stop the transfer of technology and perhaps even bring down the syndicate at the same time, through whatever means necessary. We can not let Manticore technology spread, the four of you know this better than anyone, it would be a disaster.� Logan began, filling the group out on the background of this mission.

�I know this mission profile, we called it BTHYS back in Delta Force, rarely employed though.� Jon said, nodding acknowledgement of the mission profile.

�BTHYS, what the hell is that?� Max asked.

�Break The Hand You�re Shaking, it describes a mission where we pose as friends or interested parties, then we betray them and take what they�ve got, possibly greasing them in the process.� Robert explained.

�We�re taking the Manticore technology from them and all their files on their illegal activities, no greasing the top brass here. If I execute an Eyes Only broadcast on this one, we can send a message that Seattle is off-limits to crime organizations like them.� Logan said.

�Of course, we need the public to rise up against the people who pillage this country, one day, I want a broadcast on Manticore as well, the truth has to be told about that place.� Robert said.

�It will be done one day, I can assure you of that, but for the meantime we need to shut these guys down, the sale occurs the day after tomorrow. The group will be as follows, I will pose as the buyer from a private corporation that will not be named, then again no one wants to reveal that they have an interest in this thing. Max will pose as my female company, Robert and Jon are my bodyguards, Andrea, you�ll be present as my assistant, and we need everyone on this operation.� Logan said, explaining how things would roll.

�Sounds alright, no one is going to doubt your choice for female company, Jon and I look like tough bodyguards. Andrea can easily look like your hot stuff on the side should Max bore you, in which case, I will take the pleasure on instead.� Jon said, until Max started to raise her hand, which he quickly corrected with �I take it back!�

�Good save there my friend, the operation is sound, if Logan can take care to make sure we can get in without a hassle, this will go off without a hitch.� Robert said.

�One last question, is it probable that we will have to fight the X4�s? they are practically our parents, their genes created us, it just doesn�t feel right o me.� Andrea said.

�I hate to say it, but you may have to kick your parent�s asses if they try and stop us, god knows what you might collect at the auction, which reminds me, what do you two intend to do about your barcodes?� Robert replied.

�I have these fake skin patches you can attach to your neck, it should conceal the barcode.� Logan offered.

�That will do, so we all go in, grab the stuff, expose the bad guys, and save the day again, the Eyes Only network and the Manticore squad?� Max asked.

�That about sums it up, friends, I would like to propose a toast, the E5 group is now in existence.� Logan said raising his wine glass.

�The E5 group?� Jon said puzzled.

�The Eyes Only group, we are united in effort and existence, corrupt government and criminal organizations are a thing of the past as of now.� Logan replied.

�Sounds good to me, five members, one cause, let nothing stand in our way.� Robert said raising his glass.

�Agreed, E5 now is where we all belong, I�ll drink to that.� Max said raising her glass.

�I can get into this one, the X5�s will continue to be protected, whilst we help bring down the system that supports hunting them like wild animals.�

Jon said as he raised his glass.

�I may be new to all of this, but I want in, it�s better than running away for the rest of my life while everything around me goes to hell.� Andrea said as she lifted her glass.

�A historic moment, this will be recorded one day, five people banded together to save the world, and with the resources we have, who knows? We may just pull this off, not that I�m being cynical or anything, it�s just that the odds seem a bit long, but as we said in Delta Force �odds are for people who try and explain why they failed.� I believed it then, I still believe it, let nothing stand in our way.� Robert said as they drank.

�Damn right, now let�s eat.� Jon said.

�You really know how to ruin a great moment don�t you?� Max shot at him.

�Leave him alone, let�s enjoy this dinner, and prepare to start an epic quest.� Robert said as he set his wine glass down.

�Lets, before we get started though, Jon I believe this belongs to you.� Max said, she reached beneath the table, and threw a small video camera at Jon, it was smashed completely. �If Logan or I find another one in the bedroom or shower, I will make you eat it.� Max said staring at Jon.

�Ah you�re no fun, the camera isn�t a problem though, I stole it anyways.� Jon replied.

�Just don�t steal anymore and don�t even consider installing anymore unless you think they taste good.� Max said.

�Fine, Robert and Andrea already warned me too, guess I can�t have any fun around here with you people.� Jon said in a sulking tone.

�Just shut up and eat, no more sex talk, we can discuss the mission after, and sex when the apocalypse comes.� Robert said.

�Why do I have a feeling that you will all tell me then to shut up as well?� Jon mused.

�How perceptive of you, now if we can continue with our dinner?� Logan said as he took a bite of his food.

The group talked, Robert and Jon reminiscing with Logan about the pre-pulse world, both exhibiting strong hatred for the music industry collapsing. Max and Andrea were interested in the pre-pulse world, and began to see what a different age it was in the current world. The talk dwindled down and minute details for the mission were dissected and planned for, until everyone agreed to call it a night.

Max and Logan spent the night talking, holding each other, deepening their relationship, until falling asleep in each other�s arms. Robert and Andrea also spent their time talking, diving into the heart of their relationship, strengthening the bonds, both of them now knew it just wasn�t about sex anymore, it was more meaningful than that. Jon bedded Kendra once again, but he resolved to himself to ask Kendra where she thought the relationship was going, he wanted to know if their possibilities would ever expand beyond long periods of sex and foreplay. As a new day came upon them, one day before the mission that would make Eyes Only the most powerful underground network in existence, that a new threat was lurking.