Tale of the Tape
May 5, 2019 3:40:29 GMT -5
Post by OrochiGeese on May 5, 2019 3:40:29 GMT -5
(Geese note: I originally wrote the "Compound Fracture" RP four years ago but dropped it because I didn't know if I'd seriously pursue the Destiny story further. But after Geese's return from retirement, a resurgence in the Destiny offensive, and Joachim's return, now is the time to finally tell this part of the story. However, before you read this, you should first read the "Omega's Alpha" RP to refresh your memory since that RP occurred a few days before the events now revealed here in "Compound Fracture." There will be one more RP (the second half of "Compound Fracture") that follows this and explains things like why Geese felt comfortable returning and why everyone thought Destiny had finally been defeated.
*We fade in to the Walker living room where Geese, Holly, Kyle, Celes, Figaro, Clyde, Jean, and Luke are gathered in silence watching a surveillance video on their television that Thunder Strike is displaying from his computer.
*The footage of the Destiny compound quickly scrolls through what appears to be a day without incident. We see people in modest robes walking around slowly as Gauntlet Security members patrol the grounds. The people appear to be actively avoiding any interactions with security but there are no confrontations.*
[Geese:] “This looks markedly different than the footage we saw before Date with Destiny."
[Figaro:] “Now there is more Gauntlet and more fear. However, there is far less actual security."
[Celes:] "It's a coup. They've taken over the compound. The only thing secured is Gauntlet's power."
[Thunder:] “This doesn't get better."
*Thunder Strike speeds up the tape up until around 9 PM. We hear a loud bell then see everyone, except Gauntlet, hurry into their domiciles.*
[Jean:] “Do they all pray at this time? Why...why are they all going inside?"
[Celes:] “When you were growing up, what got you inside?"
[Jean:] “Fear of ghosts?"
*Luke, Holly, and Figaro chuckle chuckle but the mood is still serious.*
[Holly:] “I'll field this one since it happened right here for Kyle and me. Curfew."
[Thunder:] “Insightful, and correct."
*Holly looks shocked and turns to Thunder Strike.*
[Holly:] “Did you just pay me a compliment? Now I know shit is hitting the fan!!"
[Thunder:] “Moreno has taken over. Joachim's sect, and everyone else, must obey her nightly curfew which is imposed by force through Gauntlet Security."
[Jean:] “And if they don't obey?"
*Thunder responds by resuming the video. He fast forwards about thirty minutes. All of the Gauntlet Security members are now carrying high powered rifles in their hands.*
[Thunder:] “The captives have a fifteen minute grace period. Afterward... it's obedience by force."
[Geese:] “What type of hardware are they carrying?"
[Thunder:] “AK-47s and Kalashnikovs, the type of arsenal that revolutionaries use."
[Figaro:] “Gauntlet isn't protecting their own people, they're ruling them. Worse..."
[Geese:] “They're forming an army."
[Celes:] “We've been patient but that ends now because the evidence is overwhelming. Their war on UBL was not just to sniff us out, it was practice for their larger goal. They have followers, mercenaries, and influence over international governments: they are now a threat to the security of the entire world."
*Thunder Strike nods respectfully to Celes.*
[Thunder:] “I was hoping you would say so at this point, before the footage continues. Your conclusion has come without any direct personal stake, rather than being fueled by revenge."
[Holly:] “Um, revenge for what?"
*Celes and Figaro's moods have visibly changed. She speaks with a cold voice.*
[Celes:] “Continue the footage."
*The video is fast-forwarded to near midnight. The grounds are still clear with the exception of Gauntlet Security. But there is movement near one of the largest buildings on the compound as a small door opens from the inside.*
[Thunder:] “Surveillance has indicated that to be the central prayer building of the compound."
[Holly:] “That doesn't appear to be the main door though."
[Thunder:] “Correct, that is a service exit. During the day, everyone that prays does so by publicly entering and leaving through one set of double doors painted with Destiny iconography."
[Geese:] “The wolves and the sheep."
[Thunder:] “Guiding Light and Path, but I sense you are being facetious."
[Celes:] “Please continue the footage."
*Three members in cloaks are leaving the building. One of them is extraordinarily large while the other two are average sized.*
[Figaro:] “The brute is clearly Matthias and I am guessing Clyde is one of the smaller fries."
[Celes:] “Gustav or Joachim as the third."
[Thunder:] “Correct on all accounts, specifically Gustav."
*The three members are walking slowly but not furtively. As soon as they get onto the main walkway that runs in front of the building entrance, a "HALT" is heard. Two Gauntlet Security members, who were stationed on each side of the building, approach the hooded members.*
[Jean:] “Oh no!"
[Celes:] “Clyde has trained for this. Gauntlet is outmatched."
*Gauntlet Guard 1 (GG1) and Gauntlet Guard 2 (GG2) run up to the men. They flip off the hoods of all three, revealing who they are.*
[GG 1:] “For your protection, do not make any sudden moves."
[GG 2:] “You are currently violating curfew by three hours. As a result, we will bring you to our headquarters for correction rather than escort you to your homes."
[Gustav:] “Please, I am but an old man. I fell ill while praying and my gracious brothers are taking me home."
[GG 1:] “If you are truly ill, then your place is at the hospital."
[Gustav:] “No, never. I must be taken to my bed. This ill is spiritual, oh, but your type couldn't understand."
[GG 2:] “Understand that we give the orders around here."
*Matthias is starting to tremble and his face turns red. Gustav notices this.*
[Gustav:] “Brother Matthias, they are but trying to help us. This is for our protection, right?"
*GG1 smirks and begins to place a hand on Gustav's arm but Matthias shoves him away with one hand. GG1 is sent down on his ass onto the dirt road. GG2 immediately aims his rifle at Matthias.*
[Figaro:] “Big mistake to commit to his target. Clyde is free to act now."
[Thunder:] “Ordinarily yes, but remember that he's still undercover. I admire his dedication to the role: he's a natural Black OPS field agent. But he should have dropped pretense by now and been extracted. I don't know what information he continues to search for, to risk his life like this."
[Celes:] “He suspects that Ruby and her leader are no longer the worst threat in Destiny."
[Thunder:] “And who is?"
[Celes:] "Gustav."
*Thunder Strike is silent for a few seconds, then nods his head.*
[Thunder:] “I don't know how he put that theory together, but it's consistent with everything he does from this point forward."
*Thunder resumes the video.*
[Gustav:] “Brother Baram, would you ever so kindly search out Joachim?"
[Jean:] “That's Clyde's undercover name, right? Baram?"
[Figaro:] “Yes."
[Jean:] “How did he come up with that?"
*Celes and Figaro pause, looking at each other. Celes nods.*
[Figaro:] “To honor a fallen ally, his best friend in the world."
*Jean's face drops and she looks incredibly sad. Thunder resumes the video*
[GG 2:] “All three of you are staying right here. Hold your arms up where we can see them."
*Matthias is losing his cool and his voice begins getting louder.*
[Matthias:] "You speak with respect to our elder!! Gustav outranks you!"
[GG 2:] “We work for Ruby and she outranks all of you."
[Matthias:] "You work for Destiny!!"
[GG 2:] “And Destiny works for Ruby."
*A new voice is heard from the side.*
"Is that so?"
*The security guards turn their heads to see Joachim and Jang Bae approaching them.*
[GG 1:] “You two are breaking curfew as well. Prepare to be taken to headquarters."
[Joachim:] “Like myself, I believe that all of my brothers prefer to sleep in their own beds tonight. Thank you for finding them though, Jang and I will be happy to escort them home."
*GG1 looks at GG2 and raises his walkie-talkie.*
[GG 1:] “Path's followers have gone astray."
[GG 2:] “Request back-up and permission to use necessary force. Collateral damage likely."
[Gustav:] “Oh, such skillful perversion of language!!"
[Matthias:] "May I also use 'necessary force' master?"
*Everyone, except Gustav, looks at Matthias with a look of shock and concern.*
[Joachim:] “What was that last part you said, Matthias?"
[Matthias:] "I meant, Elder. My elder and brother."
*Joachim looks at Jang Bae and then suspiciously at Clyde.*
[Joachim:] “Brother Baram, what exactly was it that you three were doing tonight?"
[Baram:] “Brother, Elder Gustav had fallen ill tonight. Matthias and I believed only prayer would heal his spirit so we went to the Hall despite it being past curfew."
[Gustav:] “Only the most genuine and common of prayer was had, brother Joachim!!"
[Joachim:] “Then we shall discuss this tomorrow. Let us go-"
[GG 1:] “Are you as deaf as you are delusional? We have apprehended you and backup is coming."
[Joachim:] “Ruby and I are both exempt from curfew, as you very well know. Anyone under my direction is also exempt provided they are with me. You are powerless to continue this charade and I will see to it that you are both formally discharged for your treatment of us."
*GG1 and 2 both look at their rifles and laugh.*
[GG 2:] “Powerless isn't the way I'd put it, but you freaks do have a way with words."
[Gustav:] “Freaks you see us as?"
[GG 1:] “Get a load of Bleeding Yoda. I bet he'll soil himself tonight in the holding cell."
[Joachim:] “Clear the way!! We are leaving!"
[GG 1:] “With us peacefully or in a bodybag."
*Matthias charges forward with a shoulder block into GG1's chest, knocking the wind out of him. This distracts GG2 who is knocked unconscious with a particularly brutal axe kick by Jang Bae. Matthias picks up GG1 and throws him so hard against a wall that it breaks.*
*Thunder Strike pauses the video after hearing an audible gasp from the room.*
[Geese:] “That ... that was a brick wall."
[Thunder:] “Glad you noticed. That's not even the angriest I've ever seen him."
*Thunder continues the footage. More members of Gauntlet Security come and form a circle around the curfew breakers, with their guns drawn. Celes clears her throat loudly and Thunder pauses.*
[Celes:] “Be straight with us."
[Thunder:] “He survives."
[Figaro:] “But-"
[Thunder:] “He survives."
*A man wearing a slightly different Gauntlet attire walks up to the circle. He surveys the two Gauntlet guards on the floor and laughs at the wreckage of the wall. He looks angry but has a conciliatory, almost jovial tone to his voice.*
"Now, what kind of fun have you zealots gotten up to here??"
[Joachim:] “Who are you?"
"No one you have to worry about. No one who is even confirmed to exist." **laughs*
[Joachim:] “Simpler, right? Gauntlet can't be punished if their members are anonymous and untraceable."
"Oh I'm not the leader. Miss Moreno is. I'm just the one who makes 'the magic' happen."
[Matthias:] "You are a fool!"
"A fool with a gun. And I'm about to solve Moreno's biggest problem."
*The man pulls out an ornately designed pistol, that seems steampunk in design, and aims it at Joachim.*
"We feel that...the 'Path' has snaked away from the light into darkness. Time for another route!"
*He fires the pistol at Joachim but Baram jumps in front of it, taking the bullet in his shoulder. Thunder pauses the tape after Jean yells in horror, but a steely-eyed Celes motions for Thunder to resume it. The footage shows a dog running out from nowhere and then biting the pistol-wielding man in the left thigh, eliciting a scream. Security almost fires at the dog, but realizes that shooting him would put their leader in danger. The man drops the gun and the dog runs over to shield Baram. Taking advantage of the distraction, Jang Bae dispatches two of the outer circle Gauntlet members with one hook kick. He cleared the way for Matthias to run to the leader and place his hands on his neck. The man, still attending to his bitten leg, falls to his knees as Matthias chokes the life out of him. Joachim and Elder Gustav are attending to Baram.*
[Celes:] “I can't wait. We're going in now."
[Thunder:] “Please, just finish the tape. You need to know the full story."
*A gunshot is heard and Ruby Moreno is seen, with a gold pistol aimed at the air.*
[Ruby:] “Matthias!! Unhand him immediately!! No discussion!"
*Matthias doesn't budge but he makes eye contact with Gustav who faintly nods. Ruby notices who he obeys and scowls. Matthias slowly unhands the throat of the man but not before knocking him out and breaking his nose with a headbutt. Moreno appears to tolerate this 'compromise'.*
[Ruby:] “I can not imagine what has led to this fracas, this humiliation upon Destiny's name. Fighting among ourselves leads to nothing but indignity. The leader will be awakened if this continues. Gauntlet, disperse. Joachim, take your group to the medical facilities. We will all deal with this tomorrow. Who was injured?"
[Joachim:] “Brother Baram."
[Ruby:] “Brother who?"
*Mr. Figaro's fists tighten and Luke gives him more room on the couch.*
[Joachim:] “Brother Baram, the man who saved my life after that maniac attempted to kill me in your name."
[Ruby:] “I have no patience for you right now. We will discuss this tomorrow. "
*A booming voice is heard from behind Ruby but the figure is not seen.*
"No, we will discuss this now. Ruby, Joachim, my chambers."
*Ruby's eyes open widely: the first look of true fear anyone has seen on her in years. Joachim immediately lowers his head in a bow and slowly walks in the direction of the voice which we hear once again.*
"Brother Baram, you will be sanctified for your deed tonight. Without the courage to crack your stone, our entire Path would be broken."
*As the shadowy figure walks away, Elder Gustav calls out to him.*
[Gustav:] “Greetings of so very long Brother Matthew! Anointed by your presence we are!"
*The figure stops but does not turn around. His voice lowers.*
"Brother Gustav, it has indeed been a long time."
[Gustav:] "So long, too long. Your presence is glowing, I feel the warmth of your brotherhood!"
"Please rest my brother, I heard you were quite ill."
[Gustav:] "Not so ill that prayers do not help, do you not think?"
"Then be certain this time you use the correct ones."
[Gustav:] "Always the modern ones that you so love and revere! That is our way now, is it not?"
*The figure huffs and walks away as Moreno and Joachim dutifully follow behind. Meanwhile, Matthias and Jang Bae assist Baram to the medical center. The scene clears and the video stops.*
[Thunder:] “I know what I would want to do if this had been Jang."
[Celes:] “What I want is immaterial. Only strategy matters. When was this footage taken?"
[Thunder:] “Last week."
[Figaro:] “Every one of them are now in even further danger. Clyde is in need of better medical care than they have or may provide. Even he cannot fully protect himself against an entire army when injured!!"
[Thunder:] “Should we consider his perspective? We would blow his cover and render his sacrifice void before more information could be gained. Now that he has literally bled for them, they will trust him even more."
[Geese:] “We have enough information to go on from this point to confirm Clyde's theory. Moreno is corrupt, Joachim is earnest but naive, and Gustav's long game is worrisome by using an increasingly unstable Matthias as a weapon. The details can be worked out in full when our boots are upon their throats. Their plans won't matter if they are incapable of carrying them out. After all, we don't hear about Jeff Monroe being a threat anymore."
*The others look to Celes to react to Geese's words but she does not. Instead, she looks at everyone.*
[Celes:] “Holly, would you please contact Arthur Wingate and tell him that you will be funding UBL. If you do not wish to use your money, please take mine and claim it as yours."
[Holly:] “Your damn right I'm using mine."
[Luke:] “Uh, I can help too. Wrestle Quest couldn't have happened without UBL."
[Celes:] “Thank you both. Thunder will help each of you distribute the money so that it's not obviously coming from you as that would be a red flag to Ruby that we are re-emerging.
Geese, get in touch with the Super NOVA promotion to procure the same device as you did last time to contact us.
Ask to borrow it for longer this time and offer any compensation they require. Jean and Luke, alert your closest friends that UBL is going on the offensive. Thunder, prepare J.U.S.T.I.C.E. for war. Alicia has full sanction for anything that she does.
For that matter, Kyle..."
*Everyone looks at Celes and she pauses.*
[Celes:] “Kyle Walker, I never thought I would say this to you but my friend and the world require it. Don't hold back against Destiny. Any sins you commit will be on my conscience this time, not yours. I accept full responsibility as is it nothing compared to the guilt I would feel if they hurt Clyde or damage this world."
*A twitchy grin comes onto Kyle's face which upsets Holly.*
[Holly:] “Uh..."
[Celes:] “I know, but we are going to need to do things. All of us. Things we don't expect. Things we hoped we'd never have to do again and tried to make peace with. But war means turning peace on it's head, internal and external. There is not a single one of us who will not have to make moral sacrifices. But if we do not make them, Destiny will burn it's legacy onto this world and that image will be far worse than anything we do to stop it.."
[Holly:] “Don't 'ends justify the means me.' We're going to talk about this, about Kyle and Geese."
[Celes:] “We will talk about it in great, terrible, painful, detail. And about what you need to do as well, which is a greater sacrifice than either one of them combined."
[Kyle:] "Wait a second..."
[Celes:] “No, we all have a major part to play in this, your sister included. And if we all do them to our fullest abilities, every single one of us will make it out alive. If she doesn't do her part, it puts her at more risk than if she hides. She's needed, Kyle, we all are. Figaro..."
[Figaro:] “Yes?"
[Celes:] “Do whatever you have to do in order to protect the people here. I will be back in a week, with re-enforcements. Then you, Kyle, Geese, and I will extract Clyde and declare war on Destiny."
[Figaro:] “I will put the safety of this home on my shoulders."
[Celes:] “As you have done before."
[Thunder:] “Celes - we should talk strategy about extracting Clyde. What team are you assembling?"
[Celes:] “I have great respect for you, Thunder, but you underestimate my capabilities as a General and my party's experience level. What I need from you is to go back to Wingate and let him know what is about to happen. You are now the head of their security and will need to recruit more members to assist the effort of UBL's transition from England back to the US. The next time we all see you will be in the Battle Chamber."
[Thunder:] “You are responsible for Clyde but I need to know if you plan to extract Jang."
[Celes:] “If he wishes to leave, he will have our full protection. But I can not take him against his will, especially when our goal is to save an injured Clyde right now. Do you understand?"
[Thunder:] “Yes. My participation would compromise his decision making. But he and Clyde seem to have a kinship. If your mission runs into any difficulties, I am confident that Jang will do the right thing for you."
[Celes:] “And us for him."
*Jean runs up to Celes and gives her a hug.*
[Jean:] “Do you need...this?" **Jean points to the gem around her neck.*
[Celes:] “Yes, I need you to continue wearing it. It is your role to play and it is incredibly important."
*Celes looks at everyone and nods.*
[Celes:] “I'll see you in a week to collect some of you. Meanwhile, trust that my mission will work. Any attempts at external, uncoordinated assistance may backfire. Look to Figaro's patience and faith here."
[Figaro:] “I trust Celes."
[Celes:] “Exactly."
*Celes gives Figaro a hug, then goes into her room for a few seconds, then leaves through the front door carrying a bag. Everyone is silent before going their separate ways in the house. Thunder Strike nods to Geese before leaving, who returns the gesture with a smile. Geese and Holly are left alone, in the living room.*
[Holly:] “Sooo....tacos tonight?"
*Geese takes Holly by the hand and sits down on the couch with her. Despite the flippant remark, a palpable look of concern is on her face.*
[Geese:] “We always knew that we'd have to take Destiny down. And we always, deep down, wanted an excuse to do it. This is simply what we asked for. In order us to get a compelling reason, something close to us had to be at risk. But Clyde will be fine whereas Destiny will not."
[Holly:] “And Kyle?"
[Geese:] “He survived Jinchuu without Celes' guidance, he'll survive this with it."
[Holly:] “And you?"
[Geese:] “The serpent has been scratching at its prison walls for four years, bloodying its own claws. If I can use it to save Clyde, then the ends do justify the means. When it's released, it will maim, conquer, and even kill. But it will sleep for good once you ask it to, and that is a promise."
*Geese smiles and a hint of red comes across his eyes*
(TO BE CONTINUED...HOPEFULLY BEFORE ANOTHER 4 YEARS PASS!)
*We fade in to the Walker living room where Geese, Holly, Kyle, Celes, Figaro, Clyde, Jean, and Luke are gathered in silence watching a surveillance video on their television that Thunder Strike is displaying from his computer.
*The footage of the Destiny compound quickly scrolls through what appears to be a day without incident. We see people in modest robes walking around slowly as Gauntlet Security members patrol the grounds. The people appear to be actively avoiding any interactions with security but there are no confrontations.*
[Geese:] “This looks markedly different than the footage we saw before Date with Destiny."
[Figaro:] “Now there is more Gauntlet and more fear. However, there is far less actual security."
[Celes:] "It's a coup. They've taken over the compound. The only thing secured is Gauntlet's power."
[Thunder:] “This doesn't get better."
*Thunder Strike speeds up the tape up until around 9 PM. We hear a loud bell then see everyone, except Gauntlet, hurry into their domiciles.*
[Jean:] “Do they all pray at this time? Why...why are they all going inside?"
[Celes:] “When you were growing up, what got you inside?"
[Jean:] “Fear of ghosts?"
*Luke, Holly, and Figaro chuckle chuckle but the mood is still serious.*
[Holly:] “I'll field this one since it happened right here for Kyle and me. Curfew."
[Thunder:] “Insightful, and correct."
*Holly looks shocked and turns to Thunder Strike.*
[Holly:] “Did you just pay me a compliment? Now I know shit is hitting the fan!!"
[Thunder:] “Moreno has taken over. Joachim's sect, and everyone else, must obey her nightly curfew which is imposed by force through Gauntlet Security."
[Jean:] “And if they don't obey?"
*Thunder responds by resuming the video. He fast forwards about thirty minutes. All of the Gauntlet Security members are now carrying high powered rifles in their hands.*
[Thunder:] “The captives have a fifteen minute grace period. Afterward... it's obedience by force."
[Geese:] “What type of hardware are they carrying?"
[Thunder:] “AK-47s and Kalashnikovs, the type of arsenal that revolutionaries use."
[Figaro:] “Gauntlet isn't protecting their own people, they're ruling them. Worse..."
[Geese:] “They're forming an army."
[Celes:] “We've been patient but that ends now because the evidence is overwhelming. Their war on UBL was not just to sniff us out, it was practice for their larger goal. They have followers, mercenaries, and influence over international governments: they are now a threat to the security of the entire world."
*Thunder Strike nods respectfully to Celes.*
[Thunder:] “I was hoping you would say so at this point, before the footage continues. Your conclusion has come without any direct personal stake, rather than being fueled by revenge."
[Holly:] “Um, revenge for what?"
*Celes and Figaro's moods have visibly changed. She speaks with a cold voice.*
[Celes:] “Continue the footage."
*The video is fast-forwarded to near midnight. The grounds are still clear with the exception of Gauntlet Security. But there is movement near one of the largest buildings on the compound as a small door opens from the inside.*
[Thunder:] “Surveillance has indicated that to be the central prayer building of the compound."
[Holly:] “That doesn't appear to be the main door though."
[Thunder:] “Correct, that is a service exit. During the day, everyone that prays does so by publicly entering and leaving through one set of double doors painted with Destiny iconography."
[Geese:] “The wolves and the sheep."
[Thunder:] “Guiding Light and Path, but I sense you are being facetious."
[Celes:] “Please continue the footage."
*Three members in cloaks are leaving the building. One of them is extraordinarily large while the other two are average sized.*
[Figaro:] “The brute is clearly Matthias and I am guessing Clyde is one of the smaller fries."
[Celes:] “Gustav or Joachim as the third."
[Thunder:] “Correct on all accounts, specifically Gustav."
*The three members are walking slowly but not furtively. As soon as they get onto the main walkway that runs in front of the building entrance, a "HALT" is heard. Two Gauntlet Security members, who were stationed on each side of the building, approach the hooded members.*
[Jean:] “Oh no!"
[Celes:] “Clyde has trained for this. Gauntlet is outmatched."
*Gauntlet Guard 1 (GG1) and Gauntlet Guard 2 (GG2) run up to the men. They flip off the hoods of all three, revealing who they are.*
[GG 1:] “For your protection, do not make any sudden moves."
[GG 2:] “You are currently violating curfew by three hours. As a result, we will bring you to our headquarters for correction rather than escort you to your homes."
[Gustav:] “Please, I am but an old man. I fell ill while praying and my gracious brothers are taking me home."
[GG 1:] “If you are truly ill, then your place is at the hospital."
[Gustav:] “No, never. I must be taken to my bed. This ill is spiritual, oh, but your type couldn't understand."
[GG 2:] “Understand that we give the orders around here."
*Matthias is starting to tremble and his face turns red. Gustav notices this.*
[Gustav:] “Brother Matthias, they are but trying to help us. This is for our protection, right?"
*GG1 smirks and begins to place a hand on Gustav's arm but Matthias shoves him away with one hand. GG1 is sent down on his ass onto the dirt road. GG2 immediately aims his rifle at Matthias.*
[Figaro:] “Big mistake to commit to his target. Clyde is free to act now."
[Thunder:] “Ordinarily yes, but remember that he's still undercover. I admire his dedication to the role: he's a natural Black OPS field agent. But he should have dropped pretense by now and been extracted. I don't know what information he continues to search for, to risk his life like this."
[Celes:] “He suspects that Ruby and her leader are no longer the worst threat in Destiny."
[Thunder:] “And who is?"
[Celes:] "Gustav."
*Thunder Strike is silent for a few seconds, then nods his head.*
[Thunder:] “I don't know how he put that theory together, but it's consistent with everything he does from this point forward."
*Thunder resumes the video.*
[Gustav:] “Brother Baram, would you ever so kindly search out Joachim?"
[Jean:] “That's Clyde's undercover name, right? Baram?"
[Figaro:] “Yes."
[Jean:] “How did he come up with that?"
*Celes and Figaro pause, looking at each other. Celes nods.*
[Figaro:] “To honor a fallen ally, his best friend in the world."
*Jean's face drops and she looks incredibly sad. Thunder resumes the video*
[GG 2:] “All three of you are staying right here. Hold your arms up where we can see them."
*Matthias is losing his cool and his voice begins getting louder.*
[Matthias:] "You speak with respect to our elder!! Gustav outranks you!"
[GG 2:] “We work for Ruby and she outranks all of you."
[Matthias:] "You work for Destiny!!"
[GG 2:] “And Destiny works for Ruby."
*A new voice is heard from the side.*
"Is that so?"
*The security guards turn their heads to see Joachim and Jang Bae approaching them.*
[GG 1:] “You two are breaking curfew as well. Prepare to be taken to headquarters."
[Joachim:] “Like myself, I believe that all of my brothers prefer to sleep in their own beds tonight. Thank you for finding them though, Jang and I will be happy to escort them home."
*GG1 looks at GG2 and raises his walkie-talkie.*
[GG 1:] “Path's followers have gone astray."
[GG 2:] “Request back-up and permission to use necessary force. Collateral damage likely."
[Gustav:] “Oh, such skillful perversion of language!!"
[Matthias:] "May I also use 'necessary force' master?"
*Everyone, except Gustav, looks at Matthias with a look of shock and concern.*
[Joachim:] “What was that last part you said, Matthias?"
[Matthias:] "I meant, Elder. My elder and brother."
*Joachim looks at Jang Bae and then suspiciously at Clyde.*
[Joachim:] “Brother Baram, what exactly was it that you three were doing tonight?"
[Baram:] “Brother, Elder Gustav had fallen ill tonight. Matthias and I believed only prayer would heal his spirit so we went to the Hall despite it being past curfew."
[Gustav:] “Only the most genuine and common of prayer was had, brother Joachim!!"
[Joachim:] “Then we shall discuss this tomorrow. Let us go-"
[GG 1:] “Are you as deaf as you are delusional? We have apprehended you and backup is coming."
[Joachim:] “Ruby and I are both exempt from curfew, as you very well know. Anyone under my direction is also exempt provided they are with me. You are powerless to continue this charade and I will see to it that you are both formally discharged for your treatment of us."
*GG1 and 2 both look at their rifles and laugh.*
[GG 2:] “Powerless isn't the way I'd put it, but you freaks do have a way with words."
[Gustav:] “Freaks you see us as?"
[GG 1:] “Get a load of Bleeding Yoda. I bet he'll soil himself tonight in the holding cell."
[Joachim:] “Clear the way!! We are leaving!"
[GG 1:] “With us peacefully or in a bodybag."
*Matthias charges forward with a shoulder block into GG1's chest, knocking the wind out of him. This distracts GG2 who is knocked unconscious with a particularly brutal axe kick by Jang Bae. Matthias picks up GG1 and throws him so hard against a wall that it breaks.*
*Thunder Strike pauses the video after hearing an audible gasp from the room.*
[Geese:] “That ... that was a brick wall."
[Thunder:] “Glad you noticed. That's not even the angriest I've ever seen him."
*Thunder continues the footage. More members of Gauntlet Security come and form a circle around the curfew breakers, with their guns drawn. Celes clears her throat loudly and Thunder pauses.*
[Celes:] “Be straight with us."
[Thunder:] “He survives."
[Figaro:] “But-"
[Thunder:] “He survives."
*A man wearing a slightly different Gauntlet attire walks up to the circle. He surveys the two Gauntlet guards on the floor and laughs at the wreckage of the wall. He looks angry but has a conciliatory, almost jovial tone to his voice.*
"Now, what kind of fun have you zealots gotten up to here??"
[Joachim:] “Who are you?"
"No one you have to worry about. No one who is even confirmed to exist." **laughs*
[Joachim:] “Simpler, right? Gauntlet can't be punished if their members are anonymous and untraceable."
"Oh I'm not the leader. Miss Moreno is. I'm just the one who makes 'the magic' happen."
[Matthias:] "You are a fool!"
"A fool with a gun. And I'm about to solve Moreno's biggest problem."
*The man pulls out an ornately designed pistol, that seems steampunk in design, and aims it at Joachim.*
"We feel that...the 'Path' has snaked away from the light into darkness. Time for another route!"
*He fires the pistol at Joachim but Baram jumps in front of it, taking the bullet in his shoulder. Thunder pauses the tape after Jean yells in horror, but a steely-eyed Celes motions for Thunder to resume it. The footage shows a dog running out from nowhere and then biting the pistol-wielding man in the left thigh, eliciting a scream. Security almost fires at the dog, but realizes that shooting him would put their leader in danger. The man drops the gun and the dog runs over to shield Baram. Taking advantage of the distraction, Jang Bae dispatches two of the outer circle Gauntlet members with one hook kick. He cleared the way for Matthias to run to the leader and place his hands on his neck. The man, still attending to his bitten leg, falls to his knees as Matthias chokes the life out of him. Joachim and Elder Gustav are attending to Baram.*
[Celes:] “I can't wait. We're going in now."
[Thunder:] “Please, just finish the tape. You need to know the full story."
*A gunshot is heard and Ruby Moreno is seen, with a gold pistol aimed at the air.*
[Ruby:] “Matthias!! Unhand him immediately!! No discussion!"
*Matthias doesn't budge but he makes eye contact with Gustav who faintly nods. Ruby notices who he obeys and scowls. Matthias slowly unhands the throat of the man but not before knocking him out and breaking his nose with a headbutt. Moreno appears to tolerate this 'compromise'.*
[Ruby:] “I can not imagine what has led to this fracas, this humiliation upon Destiny's name. Fighting among ourselves leads to nothing but indignity. The leader will be awakened if this continues. Gauntlet, disperse. Joachim, take your group to the medical facilities. We will all deal with this tomorrow. Who was injured?"
[Joachim:] “Brother Baram."
[Ruby:] “Brother who?"
*Mr. Figaro's fists tighten and Luke gives him more room on the couch.*
[Joachim:] “Brother Baram, the man who saved my life after that maniac attempted to kill me in your name."
[Ruby:] “I have no patience for you right now. We will discuss this tomorrow. "
*A booming voice is heard from behind Ruby but the figure is not seen.*
"No, we will discuss this now. Ruby, Joachim, my chambers."
*Ruby's eyes open widely: the first look of true fear anyone has seen on her in years. Joachim immediately lowers his head in a bow and slowly walks in the direction of the voice which we hear once again.*
"Brother Baram, you will be sanctified for your deed tonight. Without the courage to crack your stone, our entire Path would be broken."
*As the shadowy figure walks away, Elder Gustav calls out to him.*
[Gustav:] “Greetings of so very long Brother Matthew! Anointed by your presence we are!"
*The figure stops but does not turn around. His voice lowers.*
"Brother Gustav, it has indeed been a long time."
[Gustav:] "So long, too long. Your presence is glowing, I feel the warmth of your brotherhood!"
"Please rest my brother, I heard you were quite ill."
[Gustav:] "Not so ill that prayers do not help, do you not think?"
"Then be certain this time you use the correct ones."
[Gustav:] "Always the modern ones that you so love and revere! That is our way now, is it not?"
*The figure huffs and walks away as Moreno and Joachim dutifully follow behind. Meanwhile, Matthias and Jang Bae assist Baram to the medical center. The scene clears and the video stops.*
[Thunder:] “I know what I would want to do if this had been Jang."
[Celes:] “What I want is immaterial. Only strategy matters. When was this footage taken?"
[Thunder:] “Last week."
[Figaro:] “Every one of them are now in even further danger. Clyde is in need of better medical care than they have or may provide. Even he cannot fully protect himself against an entire army when injured!!"
[Thunder:] “Should we consider his perspective? We would blow his cover and render his sacrifice void before more information could be gained. Now that he has literally bled for them, they will trust him even more."
[Geese:] “We have enough information to go on from this point to confirm Clyde's theory. Moreno is corrupt, Joachim is earnest but naive, and Gustav's long game is worrisome by using an increasingly unstable Matthias as a weapon. The details can be worked out in full when our boots are upon their throats. Their plans won't matter if they are incapable of carrying them out. After all, we don't hear about Jeff Monroe being a threat anymore."
*The others look to Celes to react to Geese's words but she does not. Instead, she looks at everyone.*
[Celes:] “Holly, would you please contact Arthur Wingate and tell him that you will be funding UBL. If you do not wish to use your money, please take mine and claim it as yours."
[Holly:] “Your damn right I'm using mine."
[Luke:] “Uh, I can help too. Wrestle Quest couldn't have happened without UBL."
[Celes:] “Thank you both. Thunder will help each of you distribute the money so that it's not obviously coming from you as that would be a red flag to Ruby that we are re-emerging.
Geese, get in touch with the Super NOVA promotion to procure the same device as you did last time to contact us.
Ask to borrow it for longer this time and offer any compensation they require. Jean and Luke, alert your closest friends that UBL is going on the offensive. Thunder, prepare J.U.S.T.I.C.E. for war. Alicia has full sanction for anything that she does.
For that matter, Kyle..."
*Everyone looks at Celes and she pauses.*
[Celes:] “Kyle Walker, I never thought I would say this to you but my friend and the world require it. Don't hold back against Destiny. Any sins you commit will be on my conscience this time, not yours. I accept full responsibility as is it nothing compared to the guilt I would feel if they hurt Clyde or damage this world."
*A twitchy grin comes onto Kyle's face which upsets Holly.*
[Holly:] “Uh..."
[Celes:] “I know, but we are going to need to do things. All of us. Things we don't expect. Things we hoped we'd never have to do again and tried to make peace with. But war means turning peace on it's head, internal and external. There is not a single one of us who will not have to make moral sacrifices. But if we do not make them, Destiny will burn it's legacy onto this world and that image will be far worse than anything we do to stop it.."
[Holly:] “Don't 'ends justify the means me.' We're going to talk about this, about Kyle and Geese."
[Celes:] “We will talk about it in great, terrible, painful, detail. And about what you need to do as well, which is a greater sacrifice than either one of them combined."
[Kyle:] "Wait a second..."
[Celes:] “No, we all have a major part to play in this, your sister included. And if we all do them to our fullest abilities, every single one of us will make it out alive. If she doesn't do her part, it puts her at more risk than if she hides. She's needed, Kyle, we all are. Figaro..."
[Figaro:] “Yes?"
[Celes:] “Do whatever you have to do in order to protect the people here. I will be back in a week, with re-enforcements. Then you, Kyle, Geese, and I will extract Clyde and declare war on Destiny."
[Figaro:] “I will put the safety of this home on my shoulders."
[Celes:] “As you have done before."
[Thunder:] “Celes - we should talk strategy about extracting Clyde. What team are you assembling?"
[Celes:] “I have great respect for you, Thunder, but you underestimate my capabilities as a General and my party's experience level. What I need from you is to go back to Wingate and let him know what is about to happen. You are now the head of their security and will need to recruit more members to assist the effort of UBL's transition from England back to the US. The next time we all see you will be in the Battle Chamber."
[Thunder:] “You are responsible for Clyde but I need to know if you plan to extract Jang."
[Celes:] “If he wishes to leave, he will have our full protection. But I can not take him against his will, especially when our goal is to save an injured Clyde right now. Do you understand?"
[Thunder:] “Yes. My participation would compromise his decision making. But he and Clyde seem to have a kinship. If your mission runs into any difficulties, I am confident that Jang will do the right thing for you."
[Celes:] “And us for him."
*Jean runs up to Celes and gives her a hug.*
[Jean:] “Do you need...this?" **Jean points to the gem around her neck.*
[Celes:] “Yes, I need you to continue wearing it. It is your role to play and it is incredibly important."
*Celes looks at everyone and nods.*
[Celes:] “I'll see you in a week to collect some of you. Meanwhile, trust that my mission will work. Any attempts at external, uncoordinated assistance may backfire. Look to Figaro's patience and faith here."
[Figaro:] “I trust Celes."
[Celes:] “Exactly."
*Celes gives Figaro a hug, then goes into her room for a few seconds, then leaves through the front door carrying a bag. Everyone is silent before going their separate ways in the house. Thunder Strike nods to Geese before leaving, who returns the gesture with a smile. Geese and Holly are left alone, in the living room.*
[Holly:] “Sooo....tacos tonight?"
*Geese takes Holly by the hand and sits down on the couch with her. Despite the flippant remark, a palpable look of concern is on her face.*
[Geese:] “We always knew that we'd have to take Destiny down. And we always, deep down, wanted an excuse to do it. This is simply what we asked for. In order us to get a compelling reason, something close to us had to be at risk. But Clyde will be fine whereas Destiny will not."
[Holly:] “And Kyle?"
[Geese:] “He survived Jinchuu without Celes' guidance, he'll survive this with it."
[Holly:] “And you?"
[Geese:] “The serpent has been scratching at its prison walls for four years, bloodying its own claws. If I can use it to save Clyde, then the ends do justify the means. When it's released, it will maim, conquer, and even kill. But it will sleep for good once you ask it to, and that is a promise."
*Geese smiles and a hint of red comes across his eyes*
(TO BE CONTINUED...HOPEFULLY BEFORE ANOTHER 4 YEARS PASS!)