G.I.Joe: Canada's Elite! *World War ?*

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 1.3 – Lessons.

Halifax, Nova Scotia, at a small boat dock sits a cruising yacht. A tall burly man dressed in a red trench coat, with red tattoo markings on his head approaches the vessel. The first to emerge is Dela Eden, followed by Red Laser, Red Vulture, Crimson Rayne and The Black Major.
“Good Evening sir, good to see you have returned. All went well?” The man asks.
“That it did, Artur, very well indeed.” The Major answers. “We should have enough money to get started now.”
Artur Kulik, born somewhere in Russia, he joined Wilder Vaughn’s Red Shadows nearly taking down both G.I.Joe and Cobra. He is known to be a painter of limited ability and was incarcerated by United Nations Peacekeeping Forces. After Wilder rescued Dela from capture the two set out to free him, and regroup the Red Shadow forces. They have been laying low since, waiting for their chance to re-emerge stronger than ever.
Crimson Rayne was found by the Black Major after her private jet was taken out by the Canadian G.I.Joe forces. She was scared from the crash the Major gave her a mask to wear while her face heals, a red mask with the Red Shadow skull logo on the forehead. She keeps herself close to the Major at all times, owing him her life, as so she sees it, sometimes much to the jealousy of Dela Eden. Who also seems to have some sort of attraction to the Black Major.
The group follows Artur to two waiting limo’s, the Major climbing into one with the two women and the rest into the other. Wilder, looks out the window at the beautiful scenery of Nova Scotia. “Soon this country will be ours.” He looks over at Rayne. “And your foes will pay for what they did to you.”
Dela stares at Rayne then at the Major, wanting to make her voice heard but bites her lip waiting for her moment. She is a smart woman and knows how to manipulate people and situations to her liking. This new woman will be no different. “So where are we headed?”
“To Toronto, there is some property there I want to acquire.”
“Should we not check in with…?”
“Well will check in with him when I so see fit. Our mission has been laid out for us there is no need to check in until it is time. It will only anger our leader.”
Rayne glances at Dela with a smug look under her mask.
“Don’t give me that look I know what you are doing, you’re mask can’t hide the look in your eyes.”
“Dela, enough. I expect the two of you to get along, no bickering.”
“As you wish.” She crosses her arms staring at Rayne. “Why are we worrying about this country anyway?”
“Because my dear, it borders the United States, has natural resources and exports we can utilize to cripple the world and it is the only land route to Alaska. Which then we will be able to overpower and control the Alaskan pipeline. No one will realize what we are up to until it is too late. Then we will destroy this Canadian G.I.Joe team as a warm up to enact our revenge against the original G.I.Joe force.”

Canada’s Elite Headquarters, dusk, up on the roof helicopter landing pad, which is normally reserved for important quests, stands Snow Squall. He watches as the sun lowers over the horizon.
“What are you doing up here?” Navy asks walking up next to him.
“Just watching the sun set, it’s quiet calming.”
Navy watches the sun breathing in deeply. “Wow, it is.” She says as she exhales. “It felt like everything just lifted from my chest.”
“You didn’t need to come up here to make fun of me.”
“I’m serious, I’m not trying to make fun of you. I like a man who can enjoy something so simple.”
“You sound like my wife.”
“Wife? You never mentioned you’re married.”
“Was…she died a few years ago in a car accident. I don’t like talking about it.”
“I’m sorry.” Navy looks up into his blue eyes seeing the setting sun dancing in them.
“It’s okay, I guess it’s something that would come out eventually. But now you have to tell me a secret about you that you haven’t shared with the others.”
Navy takes in a deep breath hanging her head. “I had a twin brother…he…passed away.”
Snow Squall stands stunned not knowing what to say.
“It’s okay though, I’ve made my peace with him and I’ve learned to cope. See, we have something in common.”
“Yeah, I guess we do, we both lost someone we cared about. Hey, you know who else has a twin brother…”
“Oh crap…” Navy says as her watch begins to beep. “I’m sorry to cut and run but I have to meet up with the girls, we’re having a movie night.”
“What movie?”
“Gone With The Wind, classic, and sorry ladies only.” Navy gives Snow Squall a quick hug then hurries off to the roof access.

Down a few levels in Lt. Storm’s office, he and Feedback go over protocols that Storm has set in place. Storm watches over Feedback’s shoulder as he enters the last few codes. “And that should do it?”
“Yes, all fail safes, everything you asked for. No matter what happens you should be able to remotely access the base with these override protocols. As should General Hawk as per your request, though I still don’t understand why?”
“I trust him, he’s been with the G.I.Joe program since the beginning, and if something happens I need him to be able to access my files.”
“And what if something should happen to both of you? You are going on a top secret mission together.” Feedback looks up at Storm with a serious look on his face.
“Don’t worry, if that should happen there’s you. If anyone could hack into my files it would be the man who helped me set up these security measures.” Storm picks up his coat from the rack in his office. “I have something I need to do I’ll be back by morning.”
“Yes sir.” Feedback watches his leader head out and lets out a sigh.

High above the Canadian East Coast a private plane carries the Red Shadows, Red Vulture piloting the plane. The Black Major, Dela and Rayne all sit together going over their plans while the rest take the opportunity to get in some rest. Files of each of the Canada’s Elite team members spread across the dinner tray, including the latest members that were enlisted by General Singer. Even files on the Liberators peak out from under the G.I.Joe dossiers.
The Black Major has done his homework, he has everything he needs at his finger tips and has memorized every bit of information. In front of Dela sits a laptop computer with maps and business listed on it, which right now they seem to be ignoring over favour of reviewing their enemies.
Rayne looks over Lt. Storm’s file running her finger nails over his picture like she is clawing at his face.
“What is on your mind my dear?” The Major inquires.
“It’s this man, he can’t be underestimated. He’s clever, creative, and has the complete faith of his team behind him.”
“Then we’ll have to break that faith and run them into the ground.” Dela comments.
“It’s not that easy, we can’t just kill a few of his team members off. That will only anger him, I’ve seen the drive and passion he has in his eyes.”
“Is that why his team nearly baked your @$$?” Dela quips.
“If you don’t listen to me they will do the same to you.” Rayne stares her down. “My first attempt may have not gone so well but I have learned from my errors. I’ve encountered this special ops force, you haven’t.”
The Black Major takes the file from Rayne flipping it shut. “Do not worry, I have already set events into motion to take him out of the equation for now. And not all of his team members are above approach. We will find the weakest link and break the chain that binds them.”
Dela smiles at the Major warming up to him. “I love it when you talk like that it makes my trigger finger tingle.”
“You will have your chance to kill a few of this Elite force, but patience is a virtue, we must not make a misstep or all will fail.”
“It’s been a long time since I’ve killed G.I.Joe’s.” Dela refers to her infamous murder of Agent Alison Hart-Burrnett-Fairborne, code name Lady Jaye. She ran her through with a shard of metal releasing the blood from her body. Dela watched with delight as Flint held his dying wife in his arms. Scarlett arriving too late to help but in time to take her down and bring her under arrest, that witch will have to pay as well. Even over all the people she has killed over the years this remains as one of her greatest achievements. One she remembers fondly, nothing better than getting the blood of another’s loved one on your hands, especially when the loved one is around to witness it.
Rayne looks out the window feeling the plane beginning to make its decent. “We’re coming into the airport now.” She says with worry in her voice.
“You sound nervous?” Dela smirks. “What are you afraid of?”
“It has been a long time since I’ve been back, last time I tried to destroy this city.”
The Major smiles. “It will eventually be yours to do with what you please. Our shadow is descending across this country and blood will run.”
“That sounds delightful.” Dela laughs.

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 1.4 – Visitation.

Beechwood Cemetery Ottawa Ontario, National Military Cemetery of the Canadian Forces. Lt. Storm heads across the grounds, the cool evening wind tossing his gray trench coat about. He spots someone kneeling down at one of the graves in silence. Even as he approaches it seems he is unaware of the Lieutenants presence. Resting against the tombstone, he notices a set of crutches.
“Zack?”
The young man jumps up limping as he scurries for his crutches. Storm quickly grabs him trying to help him. “Let me go.” Zack snaps, code name Target, former Sniper of the Canada’s Elite team.
“I’m sorry, I was…”
“Just trying to help me? Go to hell.”
Storm stands in silence looking down at General Rowling’s grave. Both men served under him until Major Fear assassinated him during their first encounter with the mad man. “How are you doing, I haven’t heard from you?”
“There’s a good reason for that, and how do you think I’m doing?” He leans on his crutches limping forward.
Storm steps in his way. “No, I’m not letting you walk away from me this time.”
“I’m not on your team anymore Sir, I don’t have to listen to you.”
“Yes you do.”
“Bite me.”
Storm kicks the crutches out from under Zack causing the young man to lunge forwards heading for a face plant off a tombstone.
He stops himself and glares up at Storm. “How’d you know?”
“You were kneeling when I came up you wouldn’t need crutches if you could do that, they are just a cover. You were shot in the side three months a go, even if you needed them you wouldn’t need two, and a cane would suffice.”
Zack leans against the tombstone he nearly landed on and sighs.
“Get off that, show some respect.” Storm snaps.
Instinctfully the young man stands at attention. “Dammit.”
“No matter what you say you’re always a soldier and always part of the team. Have a good life Zack, see ya around.” Storm says turning his back on the young man and walks away.
“Damn.” Zack hangs his head down looking at the crutches that lay on the ground.

Canada’s Elite Headquarters, in the command center sits Feedback, working away as usual. He’s monitoring all military communications and checking the air traffic looking for any oddities.
“Do you ever sleep?” Afterburner asks watching him work.
“Nope.” He responds not even taking a moment to look back at her. “What are you doing up?”
“I couldn’t sleep.”
“The Lieutenant will be back soon.” Feedback says with a smirk.
“Where did he go?”
“You don’t know?”
“No, he didn’t really say.”
“Yes, he can be like that sometimes, can’t he?” Feedback chuckles as he turns in his chair to face Afterburner. “That’s not what is keeping you up though is it?”
“My god what are you psychic?”
“Nope, I just pick up on things really well.” He smiles.
“I’m worried about him leaving us again, he won’t say what this mission he and General Hawk are going on is all about.”
“Won’t tell me much either. You have no need to worry, just try to get some rest. I hear warm milk or brandy does the trick.” He comments as he goes back to work.
Afterburner just smiles and heads to the mess hall.

In another level G.I. and Medic spar in the exercise room, the female Joe teaching her male teammate a few things. G.I. goes in for an attack on her which Medic easily sidesteps grabbing the young man’s left arm. She twists it behind him and with a swift movement of her right foot he is down on the matt face first. Her knee in his back and arm up near the back of his head.
“Uncle.” G.I. shouts.
“What?”
“Sorry, Auntie.” He laughs.
“Oh come on I’m not hurting you.” Medic says letting him up noticing the red marks on his chest. “Sorry, I guess I did take you down harder than I thought.”
“Nah, it’s okay it only stings a little. Nice moves, you could teach me a few things about self defence. You’ve blocked even my best moves.”
“Yeah…you’re 0 for 5, ready to give up?” She winks.
“No way.”
“Well I am, I have work to do.” Medic picks up her towel from the floor patting her forehead. “You should get some rest as well.”
“I nap between training schedules…and don’t even start with that doctor crap about how sleep is important for your health.”
“A physically fit man like you I don’t think I’d need to.”
“Good day doctor.” G.I. grunts with a smirk watching her as she heads for the women’s locker room. “Think I’ll hit the weight room for a few hours.” He says to himself tossing his towel over his shoulder.

Toronto Ontario, 09:00 Hours, City Hall. Wilder Vaughn and Dela Eden sit in the mayor’s office with a few other business men and the Governor General. Vaughn dressed in a black and grey suit with a red tie, and Eden dressed in a grey suit with a short black haired wig on. The Mayor looks over a few documents that sit before him. “This is quite an offer you are making us Mr. Fairchild.” He directs his statement to Vaughn glancing up at him. “I think it is a bit much for the unoccupied lots on Downsview but…”
“That isn’t for the unoccupied lots Mayor, it is for the entire base.”
The Governor leans forward to look at the proposal. “Oh my...”
The other men in the room, of whom already own property on the lot, and a military representative, also take a look over the Mayors shoulder.
“You want to purchase the entire property?” The Mayor questions.
“Yes, is there a problem? We’d allow the rest of the businesses to operate as is. The company I represent is only interested in helping out the economy.”
“And what does your company do?” One of the business men inquire.
“A little bit of everything, mainly eco friendly products and electronics.”
“Well, this certainly is a generous offer, we’ll need to talk amongst ourselves and consider it.”
“Very well, my associate and I will wait in the waiting room for your decision. We do have many other people to meet with today.” Vaughn says rising from his seat, Dela following him closely behind.
“Do you think they will take it?” She asks as soon as the door shuts behind them.
“Of course, the city could use the extra money, even after splitting it up with the others who occupy the bases property there is still quite a substantial amount left over.”
“I hope you are not planning on offering everyone that much money?”
“No my dear, but this particular property we must obtain, it has sentimental value.” Vaughn smiles taking a seat on the distressed brown leather couch.

Canada’s Elite Headquarters, 10:00 Hours, men’s locker room, G.I. stands with his arms leaning up on the grey and white tile wall, his head propped against them with the water running down his back.
Lt. Storm enters, watching him for a few moments and clears his throat. He gets no reaction from the young man so he clears his throat a little louder, still no reaction. “G.I.!” He finally shouts.
The Joe snorts staggering back nearly slipping on all the water and falling to the hard tile floor. “Ow…Sir…yes Sir!” He groans as he rubs his backside slowly rising to his feet.
“Were you sleeping in the shower?”
G.I. turns red with embarrassment. “Yes Sir, sorry Sir.”
“Yes…well…I think your room might be more suitable next time.”
“I’ll remember that Sir.”
“Get dressed, everyone has gathered in the command center.”
G.I. nods saluting the Lieutenant as he leaves. “poopie, talk about one of your most embarrassing moments. The team is not going to let me forget this one.” He says turning off the shower.
A few moments later G.I. joins the rest in the command center to uproarious laughter.
“Alright, settle down, it’s not like any of us have ever fallen asleep in odd places.” Storm says quieting everyone down
G.I. turns red again with all the laughter. It’s not easy to embarrass him but this time he was caught off guard. “Okay, okay, fine you all had a good laugh at the tough guy.”
“He’s right, we need to get this underway you can all tease him later.” Storm jokes. “As many of you already know I am taking leave for a short period of time. General Hawk and I are investigating something on our own, and that’s all I’ll say about it. I have thought over for a long time now on who I want to leave in charge of the team while I am gone. This isn’t a decision I wanted to take lightly, not after what happened with General Singer. With some speedy paper work on our neighbour’s side and some boring politics, I won’t bore you with...” Storm watches over the surprised expressions of most of his team and takes a deep breath as he is about to introduce their new acting commander.

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 1.5 – Line Up

A smirk forms across Lt. Storm’s lips as he begins to speak. “I’d like to introduce you to your acting Commander, Warrant Officer Flint.”
Flint enters the room greeted with salutes from the team. He’s dressed in his original uniform, except in a different colour scheme to match the unit.
“Fancy clothes.” Lt. Storm nods, noticing the amalgamated red, white, and blue stripes to the Canada’s Elite logo.
“Your liaison gave them to me when I landed. I guess this makes me Canadian, eh?” Flint jokes.
“Not till you’ve had poutine and real maple syrup.” Lt. Storm shakes Flint’s hand. “I am trusting my team to you, they’re all yours.” Storm salutes his team then heads out down the hall, removing a cell phone from his pocket and dials. “Everything’s set, I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Flint looks over the Canada’s Elite team. “Some of you are missing, where’s Archaic?”
“He’s on a mission Sir, I can brief you on that later.” Feedback answers.
“Good. Alright listen up, I’m not here to run things differently than Lieutenant Storm, I’m here to make sure you all keep inline. Which I’m sure won’t be a problem.” He grins. “First order of business, training.” Flint looks at G.I. expecting a response.
The Survival Instructor quickly picks up on this. “Yes Sir, I have scheduled appointments with…”
“Reschedule your first two, I want you to take that time and get some sleep.”
G.I. hesitates to argue with Flint. “Yes Sir.” He grudgingly agrees.
“Good, now who were your next two?”
“Maniac and Afterburner.”
Flint turns to the two of them. “Then you two can give me a tour of your base, everyone else to your duties, dismissed.” He watches everyone file out except for the two he’s appointed his tour guides. “Alright, let’s get this party started.”

Over at CFB Downsview, The Red Shadows sweep the rooms that the Canada’s Elite team once used. Major Fear stands watching the troopers as Dela Eden enters followed by Red Vulture in civilian clothes. “What did you find?”
“We checked the log books from the guards, looks like everything was moved out of here once the team was exonerated from all charges.” Vulture explains.
“Yes, that was quite sudden, I want you Dela to investigate that, find out just why and who had a hand in it.” The Major orders.
“Yes sir, and have you found anything yet?”
“No, but I’m sure we will. I’ve read Lieutenant Storm’s profile several times, he is not one to just clear out without having a contingency plan. Had they ever a reason to use this base once again.”
“Maybe there is a secret room somewhere?” Artur suggests.
“Hmm, not entirely impossible. Get some imaging equipment in here, whatever you can scrounge up ASAP and locate such a room.”
“I don’t think you’ll need that, I might have just found it.” Red Laser says motioning for them all to follow. He leads them back to the room that Lt. Storm used as an office and runs his hand over a portion of the west wall. “Here, there’s a hidden door.”
“How do you open it?” Rayne inquires.
“I don’t know that yet, there must be a secret panel somewhere or it is triggered by a remote.”
“This is more than likely in the Lieutenant’s possession.” Vaughn grunts. “Figure it out, I want that open even if you have to break it down.”
“Sir, it’s probably booby trapped.”
Vaughn turns away from Red Laser as he is about to leave the room, he pauses in the doorway and looks back over his shoulder. “Even if you have to break it down.”
Laser swallows hard and nods. “Yes Sir.”

Flint walks with Afterburner by his side, Maniac trailing closely behind. “This is a very impressive base, a lot of high tech state-of-the-art security.”
“Our C.O. can be a bit paranoid.” Maniac jokes, getting a dirty look from Afterburner. “What? I was kidding.”
“Nothing wrong with a little paranoia. Keeps you on your toes.” They round a corner taking Flint to the shooting range. “Ah, now this I like.” He looks around the urban styled range. “Who holds the course record?”
Both just glance at each other.
“What, am I missing something?”
“That would have been Target sir.” Maniac answers.
“Right, the young man who was shot by General Singer.”
“You’ve done your homework.” Afterburner says, impressed with the seasoned Joe.
“That I have, and I also know he’s milking his injury, he could be back to duty, maybe not in the field but his talents could be used on base.”
“He won’t call any of us back, he’s going through his own thing right now.”
“Well, let’s hope he snaps out of it soon, we just might need him.”
“Why?”
Flint pats his stomach. “Call it my gut feeling, but it’s just way too quiet right now. When it is way too quite it means the sh!t is about to his the fan.”

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 2.1 – Red Rain

Red Wolf approaches the Black Major, saluting his leader, who is supervising Red Laser on the opening of the secret room. “The guards have been replaced with our troops and the vehicles and weapons have arrived.”
“Excellent, prep them we will need them ready for our first attack.” The Major turns his attention back to Laser. “Well?”
The Red Shadow sits on the floor with a laptop in front of him that is connected to another device, with several wires and nods that are attached to the wall. “The programs I am running should be sending electronic impulses to the...”
“I care little about how it works, I care only if you are going to be able to open the door.” He has his answer as a series of whirls and clicks are heard. Air escapes the sealed door as it slides open revealing the room. “Is it safe?”
“Yes, I was able to trick the security sensors.”
“Then you won’t mind being the first to go inside?”
Red Laser stands knowing he can’t show any sign of doubt in his work, not that he does anyway. He picks up his laptop and enters the room, pausing for a moment as the lights come on revealing a small computer array.
The Black Major looks inside. “Impressive. You know what to do.”
“Yes Sir.” Red Laser takes a seat at the main console and begins to boot the system, hooking up his own laptop to it.
The Major heads down the hall to another room where Crimson Rayne sits in front of a mirror and table. There are items scattered all across the table that she is currently using.
“Are you ready my dear?”
“Almost.” Rayne finishes her work then turns to face the Major, her appearance completely transformed. He face not her own, instead it is chubbier, pale, with little make-up, and short dark hair. Even her voice sounds different, almost sweet. “How do I look?”
“Like another person.”
Rayne rises also wearing a body suit covered in a olive and tan business suit, making her appear stalky.
“Are you all set?”
“Yes.”
“Good, then Artur will take you to the airport.”
“Where is she going?” Dela snorts standing in the doorway.
“To do a little information retrieval.”
“Is that wise, she’s not trained for such a mission.”
“I have given her all the training she needs.” The Major snaps back, not impressed with Dela’s attitude. “I want you to go assist Wolf in prepping the vehicles and weapons.”
Dela huffs and carries on obeying her orders.
“I will not fail you.” Rayne assures him.
“See to it you don’t and bring back something useful.”
Rayne nods and heads out to meet up with Artur who is waiting for her in a limo.

Canada’s Elite Headquarters, Lt. Storm’s office, where Flint currently sits at Storm’s desk looking out the window. He hears a peculiar beeping sound and turns to the computer moving the mouse to activate the monitor. A small alert message window is displayed on the screen requesting attention. Flint taps the phone connecting to the command room. “Feedback, you better get in here.”
Seconds later the Joe enters the office not knowing what he has been summoned for. “What did you do Sir, delete something?”
“No.” Flint smirks at the joke. “This came up on screen, any idea what it is?”
“No...it looks like some kind of remote activated program.”
“How can you tell?”
“There’s an extra network connected in the task bar that’s not usually there.”
“Is someone trying to connect to this network?”
“No, that’s impossible by an outside source, we have too many firewalls. I would have known before this.” Feedback looks at Flint who quickly gets the hint to vacate the seat so he can sit down. He clicks on the newly active network. “It’s an outside connection, but it seems to be connected to an indirect network.”
“Could it be Lt. Storm trying to access some files on his computer?”
“No, if it was you wouldn’t have been alerted.” Feedback scrolls the mouse over the alert icon on the window noticing it turn into a clickable icon. “There’s a hidden program here.”
“Maybe you shouldn’t...” Before Flint can finish Feedback clicks on the icon. “...click that.” A new window pops up displaying the team logo in 3-D as it swirls about on the screen. “What is this?”
“I don’t know.” Feedback watches as he is prompted for a username and password.
“Oh great, just what we need right now.”
“No wait...Lt. Storm told me of a username and password, he was very specific in telling me it.” Feedback tries it and is granted access. A map displaying a connection hub pops up on screen, the terminal at the base and several other hubs that lead to an active terminal.
“What are all those?”
“Routers, there has to be a dozen of them. There’s an active terminal somewhere, my guess is that it shouldn’t be.”
“Can you locate it?”
“I should be able to but...”
“But what?”
“Whoever is on the other end might realize I’m rhere.”
“And that could be a bad thing.” Flint says crossing his arms.
“Depends on who it is, if he or she is good I could be up against another hacker. If they are just someone who accidently stumbled onto something they shouldn’t have, they won’t know. And if it is Lt. Storm he’ll quickly acknowledge me and shut me down.”
“What’s your suggestion?”
Feedback opens the desk drawer pulling out the CPU. “See that blue cable on the back of the terminal, be ready to pull it out if I tell you.” He says with a grin. “Oh, and you might want to be ready to scramble a team if need be.”

(You can follow Lt. Storm and General Hawk's adventure in Special Missions.)

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 2.2 – Shades of Red

Loud thundering footsteps echo down the halls of the Downsview Base, quickly approaching Vaughn, The Black Major. He turns to face the Red Shadow guard who huffs and puffs to catch his breath. The Major obviously not amused by his child like behaviour
“This better be good.”
“It...is...Sir...Red Laser...he’s in...” The guard huffs.
Vaughn bolts down the hall to the secret computer room bursting inside. “Show me.”
“That idiot.” Red Laser grunts, not happy with the guard. “I just broke the codes, I’m only at the main menu.”
“Still, you’re in?”
“To a point, yes. I’m pretty sure some of these menu options are dummies, they could trigger a virus or shut down, or worse alert the Canadian Joe team.”
“Is it connected to another database, can we be traced?”
“I checked for external hardware, I found none.”
“Good, but tread carefully.”
Red Laser gets up presenting his seat to the Major. “I haven’t studied Lt. Storm’s files as you have, maybe you should take over.”
Vaughn eyes up Red Laser, a man’s expression he cannot see behind his mask. “Very well then, if it takes a man to do this.”
“I believe each menu option is a code, something even Lt. Storm could navigate had he forgotten which was which.”
The Major looks over each option. “Canada’s Elite Profiles, Canada’s Elite Roster, Canada’s Elite Projects, Canada’s Elite Misc, Canada’s Elite Delta.” He leans back in the chair. “Any of these could be a trap, he was very clever.”
“Maybe the miscellaneous file?”
“No, that is the obvious trap...or is it? GAH!” Vaughn jumps up from the seat in frustration bumping the mouse, which cursors over the C in the second menu option turning it red. “Wait...why would he colour code one letter?” He sits back down moving the cursor over other letters. The C on the miscellaneous file does not change colour. “I guess your guess is correct Red Laser.” Vaughn smiles clicking on the menu and watches as it goes black then returns with the teams maple leaf logo, and 3-D letters ‘Access Allowed’ appearing onscreen.
“We’re in.” Laser says with excitement.
“That we are, take over now I have other things to attend to.” The Major rises allowing Red Laser back the seat at the console. “Get all the information you can on this database, then destroy it.”

“Son-of-a...” Feedback frantically taps across the keyboard as alerts pop up onscreen of unauthorized access.
“What?” Flint inquires. “Feedback talk to me?”
“A file that shouldn’t have been access was accessed.”
“How did they get that far then?”
“Luck. I don’t know, but it’s also given me a location. CFB Downsview...oh no...”
“You have to tell me more soldier.”
Feedback turns to face Flint. “Downsview is where we were stationed while we waited out our fate after the Serpent Squad. Lt. Storm set up a secret lab there just in case we needed it again. He also stored a backup file there with sensitive information. Whoever has accessed this information isn’t Lt. Storm, I set up a specific series of commands that wouldn’t trigger an alert.”
“What can you do?”
“From here, I don’t know but you need to scramble a team there now, whoever is in there shouldn’t be.”
Flint darts for the command center getting on the com system. “This is a base wide alert, all combat personnel report to the hanger bay pronto.” He picks up an ear piece from the console before rushing out. “Feedback do you copy?”
“I read you loud and clear. I’m attempting to initiate the virus program, but if they detect me too soon I’ll have to shut down.”
“A virus program? Why hasn’t it started if the access is unauthorized?”
“To give us time if Storm or I messed up the command string to correct it. It won’t kick in for another five minutes.”
“Then do what you have to.” Flint haul stops passing by Rebecca. “Ramon, glad you’re here.”
“I just got in, what’s going on?”
“Feedback can fill you in, get to the command center.”
“Yes Sir.” She watches as Flint hurries on down the hall towards the hanger bay. Joining him are Fallout and Navy, just ahead of them Chamber and Snow Squall. As they arrive in the hanger bay, Afterburner already has a CC-130J Hercules prepped and ready to go. Hotwire is loading a couple of the OMAT’s and a LAV III in to the aircraft.
G.I. steps up to Flint. “You’ll find weapons in the crates onboard.”
“Good work. I want you and Hotwire to head to the command center, assist Feedback and Ms. Ramon.”
“Yes Sir.”
“Afterburner, we ready to go?”
“Just tell me where.”
“CFB Downsview.”
The team all look at each other surprised by their destination.
“I’ll fill everyone in on the way, okay Joe’s lets go.”
The others watch as the CC-130J taxi’s out of the hanger bay and down the runway taking off into the night sky.
“Why don’t we get to go?” G.I. huffs.
“Cause we’re technically not combat, we’re base specialists. I’m the mechanic, you’re the trainer. Now come on we have our orders, let’s get to the command center.”

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 2.3 – Red Scream

“We’re coming in for our decent, buckle up everyone.” Afterburners voice says over the com unit aboard the CC130J. Flint sits next to her as her co-pilot. “We’ve been given clearance to land by the controllers, they did say there were some new tenants.”
“Probably the ones who we’re going after, I’m heading to the back.” Flint unbuckles his seatbelt and carefully moves to the rear. The team has already strapped themselves into the vehicles ready for drop. “Alright, this is going to get hairy and we only have one shot at it. ‘Bruner is going to bring us in low, with the bay door open. Maniac, I want your group out in the LAV first, Navy and Snow Squall follow in the OMAT’s. Chamber and Fallout you’re the first attack, you see any enemy units open fire with the LAV’s machine guns.”
“Coming in for landing...ready for bay doors.” Afterburner’s voice crackles over the com.
“Sir, what about you?” Fallout inquires.
Flint picks up a JUMP pack strapping it on. “I’m covered.” He smirks hitting the intercom button. “Roger that Afterburner, we’re a go back here.”
“Ten-four.” An alert begins to sound and the lights go red in the back of the aircraft as the bay door begins to slowly open.

“VAUGHN!!” Dela rushes into a back room where the Major sits talking on a cell phone.
“What is Dela, I’m busy here?”
“There’s a Canadian aircraft coming in for a landing, a cargo plane, large. It’s rear bay door is opening.”
The Major flips shut his phone and bolts for the secret room. “You fool, what have you done?”
“What?”
He pushes Red Laser aside getting down and inspecting the underside of the console. He climbs back out and pulls out the CPU. “Screw driver.” He snaps as Laser hands him a small driver. Vaughn quickly unscrews the cover and tosses it aside. “What is this?”
“It’s a...internal wireless network modem...”
The Major puts his hand out to Dela. “Give me your knife.”
She quickly pulls one out from between her breasts getting a look from Red Laser. “You’re eyes better be in your sockets under that mask.”
Vaughn digs at the wall cutting a chunk out. “No!” He rips a wireless router out from the wall bringing the wires with it. He shoves the router into Red Laser’s chest. “We were being monitored.”

“Feedback to Flint, do you read me?”
“I read you, but it’s getting breezy in here.” Flint responds holding his com device firm to his ear. “What’s up?”
“The line just went dead, you’re about to have runners or company.”
“Roger that. Okay team, whoever’s in there knows where here keep your eyes open.”
“Touching down...” Afterburner announces just as the wheels hit the tarmac, the bay door sparking as it drags across the blaktop.
“Go, go, go!” Flint orders.

Vanughn races to a nearby window watching as the aircraft lands and the LAV exits first. “Dammit, the Joe’s.”
“What do we do?” Dela asks.
“We have no choice, alert the others, we fight.” He glares back at Red Laser. “You I will deal with later.”
Laser swallows hard feeling stupid for not realizing the hidden routing device.
Dela bursts into the room they had set up as an armoury startling some of the Shadow troopers. “We’re under attack!”

Flint is the last to exit the aircraft, he ignites the JUMP and rockets out swirling around the tail wing then banking around to join the rest of the team. “No...” He whispers under his breath as Red Shadows storm out opening fire.
“That’s our queue.” Chamber shouts as he and Fallout return fire.
“Flint to base, we have a situation here.”

“We need to get some heavy support out there.” Vaughn snarls, watching his troops being cut down by the Joe’s. “Wolf, where’s....?” He looks around hearing a roar as a Hyena tank rips through the building. Vaughn ducks covering his head from the flying debris. “You crazy son-of...” He growls. A tarp that was used to cover the tank whips around floating to the ground on top of the Black Major.
Dela hurries to uncover him helping him to his feet. “When did those arrive?”
“That is not of your concern my dear, neither is how I accomplished it. There are Shadowtrak’s in the back as well, get to them now!”
The Hyena barrels down on the lead LAV opening fire on the Joe’s.
“Hard right!” Fallout shouts to Maniac who swerves the vehicle out of the line of fire, the eight tires of the LAV squealing and smoking, the smell of burning rubbing filling the air. “Chamber, load the smoke grenades, give us some cover, Maniac switch to TACNAV (tactical navigation system). “Let’s take that tank out.”

Three Shadowtrak’s rip out from the hole the Hyena made carrying the rest of the Red Shadow’s. Dela and the Black Major in one, the Major manning a heavy machine gun that he opens fire with.
“DELA!!” Flint shouts as he soars overhead firing down on them.
“FLINT!” Dela turns her Shadowtrak around to follow after him.
“What is he doing here? Where is Lt. Storm?” The Major barks.

Snow Squall and Navy take on the two remaining Shadowtrak units carrying Red Laser and Red Vulture. They arm the large single cannon laser mounts firing on the Trak’s. The resulting blasts hit the ground in front of the Red Shadows causing the Trak’s to flip into the air tossing their passengers.
“Yeah, that’s how we do it here.” Squall shouts pumping his fist in the air at Navy.
“Watch your nine!” Navy shouts as Shadow Troopers open fire on Snow Squall.
“Holy crap...glad this thing is well armoured...oh...” Squall leaps from his OMAT as a rocket spirals towards him blowing up his One Man Attack Tank
“Squall!” Navy breaks her OMAT to go retrieve Snow Squall, hoping he’s alright.

Down at the end of the tarmac Afterburner rotates her aircraft noticing the battle ahead. “Dammit.”
“Feedback to Afterburner, come in.”
“I read you Feedback, we have a situation here, enemy...”
“I know, Flint already told me, the Red Shadows.”
“The what?”
“A terrorist cell, Rebecca is punching up the data on them now.”
“Are they Cobra?”
“No, but just as bad, maybe even worse...oh god...”
“What?”
“You need to find Flint, this isn’t good.”
“What is it?”
“A Red Shadow by the name of Dela Eden killed his wife...if she’s there...”
“He might be out for blood. Copy that Feedback I....” Afterburner looks around out her cockpit hearing a screech and the sound of jets approaching. “AAAHHHHH!!!”

Back at the base the only sound they hear following Afterburner’s screams are sounds of explosions and her com going dead. “Burner? Burner....Julie?”
The rest of the team that were left at the base all wait for a response.
“Feedback, this is Navy...” His voice cracks over the line. “Burner’s plane was just attacked...it was...oh god...we need some kind of air support...”
“Navy, what’s going on?”

A woman in the lead red and black fighter jet watches as the CC-130J below burns, flames dancing around it. Her hair as white as snow, her mouth covered in a red mask, wearing a red and black uniform. She is known as Red Scream, a fierce woman, whose thirst for power rivals that of Vaughn’s, and her appetite for destruction unparallel. She gets her thrill out of seeing her enemy’s burn and beg for mercy.
Below in the wreckage she notices movement, her target looks to have survived. “I’m going in.” She breaks from her unit leaving them to continue the air support as she goes in for a landing. Her jet screeches to a halt near the destroyed CC-130J as Afterburner stumbles out. A little worse for wear but still in once piece.
Red Scream blows her canopy and leaps out screaming as she lunges at Afterburner. “I don’t know how you survived that, but you now give me the pleasure of killing you with my bare hands!” She screams, charging at the Joe.
“Bite me b...” Afterburner spirals as Red Scream hits her across the face. “Alright, no cat fight here... good ‘cause you blew up my plane and now you’re going to pay.”
Red Scream smiles under her mask circling Afterburner. “You have no hope in defeating me, you are injured, and I am not.”
“Not yet.”
The flames from the burning wreckage dance in Red Screams eyes. “I like your fire, this will be fun.”

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 2.4 – March of Red

Canada’s Elite Headquarters, Command Center.
“Does anyone copy? Come in, please respond?” Feedback shouts into his com begging for a response, getting none.
“My god, what’s happening?” Rebecca says, worried about the others.
“We should be on our way there to help.” G.I. snorts.
“Oh, and what good would that do?” Hotwire snaps at him. “There’s no way we can get there in time, unless you have a teleportation device.” She waits for him to respond, her arms crossed. “Yeah I thought so.”
“Cool it you two. Shouldn’t we contact Lt. Storm, let him know what’s going on?” Rebecca suggests.
“We can’t we don’t know where he is.” Feedback taps away at the key board trying to get a satellite image.
“What about contacting the American Joe team?”
“They won’t know where Hawk is either, they went off the grid.”
“For what?” Rebecca walks over to Feedback standing next to him. “What was so important that two high ranking top secret military personnel had to drop off the grid? You have to know something?”
“That’s need to know, you don’t.”
“Uh, yeah I think we do.”
“It doesn’t matter we still have no way of contacting them right now.”
Rebecca looks up at the screens. “What are you doing? You’re hacking into satellites.”
“I’m trying to get us an image of Downsview, now if you’d quit asking so many questions I can concentrate on my job.”
Hotwire places a hand on Rebecca’s shoulder. “Easy girl, come on let’s go down to the mess hall and get something to drink, we’ll go find Medic.” She notices the reluctance in Rebecca’s eyes. “Don’t make me drag you; you need to clear your head.”
“Alright, but keep me informed Feedback.”
“Yes ma’am.” He responds.
G.I. watches the two women leave then leans in towards Feedback. “Wow, you left her in charge?”
“She was appointed by the Governor General, with no ranking officer present she is automatically in charge.”
“But you didn’t answer her questions.”
“Because my orders over rank her questions...oh my god...” Feedback displays an image of the base on screen, the burning CC-130J and several other explosions and gunfire across the battlefield.”

“DELA!” Flint swoops down towards her pulling up so his JUMP thrusters burn towards her. Dela screams overturning the Shadowtrak launching Vaughn from it. Flint comes back around firing at the overturned vehicle un-strapping himself from the JUMP. It takes off crashing into the ground and sputtering out.
Flint climbs up on the Shadowtrak looking down at a bloody Dela who is pinned beneath it. “Enjoy your trip to hell beeyotch.” He raises his rifle bracing it against him, taking aim at her head. “This one’s for Allison.” He hears a click next to him, the cock of a gun.
“Drop the weapon Flint.” Vaughn orders, holding his gun to Flint’s head. “Or I’ll blow your brains out the side of your head.”
“Go ahead and do it at least I’ll take her with me.”
“I don’t want to do that, you are much more valuable to me alive then dead.”
“You don’t have any other choice.”

Afterburner throws a punch at her white haired advisory missing her. “Who are you?”
“I am known as Red Scream, tactician of the Red Shadows.”
“That’s not what I meant, you move like military.”
“Ah, so you’ve noticed.” Red Scream roundhouses Afterburner knocking the brunette to the ground, and leaps on top of her. “I had hoped this would be more fun, but that blast must have taken more out of you then I thought.”
“You tried to blow me up you twit.” Afterburner struggles under Scream’s grip. “Let me up and I’ll show you a few more moves.”
“You had your chance.” Scream pulls out her pistol spinning it around and clocking Afterburner across the head with the butt of her gun. “Sleep tight.”

Chamber, Fallout and Maniac continue to open fire on the rest of the Shadows, quickly running low on ammo. Bullet holes beginning to punch through the armour of their LAV.
“This isn’t good, we’re out numbered and out gunned.” Chamber says.
“Then let’s do something about it.” Maniac guns the LAV cranking it towards the majority of the Red Shadows. “Let’s take as many out as we can.”
Fallout looks over at Chamber. “I like this guy.” He presses the trigger on his mounted machine gun laying down a spray of gunfire.
“Flint...he’s in trouble.” Chamber points out The Black Major holding a gun to their temporary Commander’s head.
“Go, we have this covered.” Fallout orders covering Chamber as he leaps down from the LAV, tucking and rolling as he hits the ground. He jumps up and darts across the battlefield.
“Don’t even think about it Joe!” Red Wolf growls tackling Chamber and knocking his gun from his hands. “You’ve lost.”
“Damn...that is one ugly helmet.” Chamber says pushing Wolf off of him. “You want a fight, bring it.”
“I’d prefer nothing more, but you’re friends are about to get it a lot worse.” He points up towards the Red Shadow jets that come around for a final sweep targeting the LAV.
“FALLOUT!!” Chamber shouts too late as the jets missiles are launched. He watches as they hit the rear of the LAV flipping it high into the air. Everything goes silent for a moment, the ones watching at the base are in awe, the ones on the field pray for their teammates. The armoured vehicle hits the ground hard on its hood, the sound of scrapping metal filling the air. Sparks fly and asphalt breaks free from the runway.

Flint takes his chance swinging his rifle around at the Black Major while he is distracted, knocking the man to the ground. “I’ll deal with you first.”
“No you won’t.” Red Laser says aiming his laser rifle at the Joe.
“Dammit, where the hell are you guys coming from?” Flint grunts.
Vaughn wipes blood from his split lip and smiles. “Valiant effort but futile. Surrender now and I will spare the others, continue this and I order my men to execute them.”
“And I’m supposed to believe you’ll keep your word?”
“Can you not?”
Flint sighs realizing he can’t risk the others lives over his revenge. “Fine, we surrender.” He says dropping his gun and raising his arms into the air.

Across the yard, the few civilians held up in the aeronautics museum that is on the base, watch as their only hope falls. A man dressed in a brown suit looks at his partner who is dressed in a grey suit. “Should we call the cops?”
“I think these guys were the cops, and if they couldn’t beat them I don’t think anyone can.”
“What should we do?”
“Hide and pray they don’t find us.”

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 2.5 – Captives

On the satellite feed, Feedback and G.I. watch as the Red Shadows take their team into custody, marching them along in single file down the tarmac.
“There’s gotta be something we can do, doesn’t one of those satellites have weapons on them?”
“Even if they do who do you suppose I try to hit?”
“Sorry.”
“What’s going...on?” Hotwire asks as she, Medic, and Rebecca enter the room. “No...” She gasps seeing the images on the monitors.
“Oh my god.” Rebecca drops her paper cup spilling coffee all over the floor.
“Wait, what’s that?” Hotwire points to background as a black helicopter lands. “Can you zoom us in, get a clearer picture?”
“Can do.” Feedback says, and with a few key strokes and movement of his fingers across a track-pad, he is able to zoom in. They watch as two Red Shadow troopers disembark, followed by a man dressed mainly in white, with accents of black and red, and wearing a black metal mask.
“Who the hell is that?” Rebecca inquires.
“Well, it isn’t Darth Vader, he wears a cape.”
They all look at G.I., his attempt at a joke not lightening the mood.
“I’ll run his image through the recognition software...oh no, this isn’t good.” Feedback punches up the info from the Action Force files on a smaller screen next to the main. “He’s Baron Ironblood, the Cobra Commander of the Red Shadows.”
“He’s their leader?”
“And one bad mother, we need to save our team, pronto.”

Baron Ironblood marches in front of the Canada’s Elite team, who are lined up for him, looking each of them over. He stops at Flint looking him up and down. “You are not one of them.” He speaks with a heavy European accent that has wisdom and age to it.
“This is Flint, Warrant Officer of the American G.I.Joe team.” Vaughn introduces him.
“Ah yes, I remember you telling me about him Black Major, you failed to recruit him.” The Baron’s eyes pierce into Flint’s. “Dela killed your wife that must have been excruciating to watch someone you love die, and be helpless to do anything about it.” He waits for a response. “You are a clever man. I can see the fire in your eyes, right now you want to rip my head off, but you are showing amazing restraint.” Ironblood turns to Vaughn. “No wonder you failed, he would have never turned on his country.”
“What now Baron?” Dela asks.
“This mission has been compromised, but not unsalvageable.” The Baron looks up as two more choppers come in for a landing. “Leave everything, we take the G.I.Joe’s and regroup.”
“Leave everything, but that could lead others to us?”
“We have already been exposed, Major.” Ironblood looks towards the sky like he can see the satellite that has been monitoring the situation. “The others will come for them, we will lead them into a trap then take this pitiful country.”

Back at the base Rebecca recoils back from the monitor. “My god, it’s like he was looking right at us.”
“That was creepy.” Hotwire adds. “What do we know about him?”
“Nothing much, there is like little to no info on Baron Ironblood. His file is a blank slate with just whispers of his existence, any previous data on him was either deleted or corrupted beyond retrievable.” Feedback explains. “This is the first time in a long time he’s even been out in the open like this.”
“Double creepy.” G.I. says. “So, what do we do, they’ll come looking for us next.” Everyone looks at the trainer. “What?”
“You’re right, that’s what.” Feedback answers. “This base isn’t exactly hidden, if they come looking they might find it. We need to bring them to us on our terms.”
“How do we do that? They’ve captured most of the team and Lt. Storm is still not back yet.” Rebecca questions. “I’ll let the higher ups know, we’re in over our heads.”
“No, this is our problem, we solve it.” Hotwire says grabbing Rebecca’s arm.
“We could get help from the American G.I.Joe team, they’ve gone up against the Red Shadows before.”
“And if we do that the Red Shadows might kill them.”
The four stay silent for a few moments trying to come up with some ideas.
“I’ll start a search for Lt. Storm, see if I can locate him. He needs to know.”
“Agreed, and I’ll start prepping our equipment. G.I., if you’ll help me?”
The Joe nods following Hotwire out.
“Alright, we play it this way for now, but if it gets any further out of control I’ll have to call it in.” Rebecca grunts sitting down next to Feedback. “What do you need me to do?”

The Black Major sits next to Baron Ironblood, in one of the black helicopters. The Baron has removed his helmet now, since he is in the company of his Red Shadows, the Joe’s in the other two helicopters. He’s a distinguished looking gentleman with grey hair and a black moustache. Across from them sit Dela Eden and Red Laser, as well as Artur Kulik who sits in the co-pilot seat. They all sit in silence, not having spoken a word since take-off.
“Where is Crimson Rayne?” The Baron inquires.
“She is on a mission, once she has completed her objective she is to call in.” Vaughn explains. “She has a disposable cell phone on her.”
“Excellent, I am eager to meet her.”
“As she is you, Baron.”
“Where are we going?” Dela asks.
“To a property I acquired a few months ago.” The Baron answers her.
“I still don’t understand why we were invading this country, I know it gives us access to Alaska and the United States but why?”
Ironblood smiles at her. “This countries government is always at odds, fighting over majority control. I saw it as an opportunity to move in and take over their government. Albeit a futile attempt now that we have been exposed.” He looks over at Red Laser who has been nervous since the Baron arrived. “I hear you are to blame for that.”
“Yes I am.”
“Your loyalty is the only thing keeping me from having you executed.”
Red Laser lowers his head, he failed and owes the Baron so much. He feels humiliated.

“I have something, air traffic control detected three black helicopters with unidentified markings.” Feedback says out loud. “I told them it’s under control and the situation is being dealt with.”
“You lied?” Rebecca remarks.
“No, just didn’t want them sending the Calvary out and risk our guys.”
“I found some information on the mysterious buyers of Downsview, apparently a man and woman dumped a bunch of cash down in the mayors lap.”
Feedback laughs. “Moneys always involved when it comes to politics.”
“Have you been able to contact Lt. Storm yet?”
“No.”
“No need to.” Storm says wheeling General Hawk in. “What’s going on, where is everyone?”
Feedback and Rebecca look at each other, neither wanting to go first.

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 3.1 – The Best Laid Plans.

“The Red Shadows? This is not good.” Hawk grunts, folding his arms across his chest watching the satellite video. “Is that, Baron Ironblood?”
“Yes, we suspect so.”
“He’s here...this isn’t good. We’ve only heard rumours of his existence, seeing him on North American soil...” Hawk says in awe looking over the stills on the smaller screens.
“Was Crimson Rayne with them?” Storm asks.
“I...uh...no...” Feedback says a bit surprised by his question. “Why?”
Storm sighs walking around the center table. “When Afterburner and I went after her we were attacked by foreign jets. They had the skull and crossbones on them, the Red Shadows insignia.”
“That wasn’t in your report, Sir.”
“I know Feedback; I wasn’t sure what to make of it.”
“Right now we have to focus on finding and rescuing our men and women.” Hawk says giving Storm a stern look.
“We might be able to do that General; I’ve been tracking three helicopters that took off from Downsview.”
“Good, then let’s get prepped and ready to go.” Storm says heading out of the command center.

Ottawa, Canadian Military Headquarters.
Crimson Rayne in her Cathy Marlow disguise walks up the steps checking out the construction workers as she heads inside, her security pass getting her through each check point until she’s safely inside. She checks the white board on the wall where temporary offices have been set up locating Rebecca Ramon’s. She smiles at another woman who passes by her as she heads into the elevator.
Stepping off on the third floor Rayne nearly collides with a young military man who apologizes profusely. “No harm done.”
“I really am sorry ma’am.”
“I should have watched where I was going, I’m Cathy Marlow, and I’m here to see Rebecca Ramon.”
“So was I, or was looking for her. She’s not here right now.”
“Oh.” Rayne looks into his blue eyes, recognizing him. “You’re military?”
“Well, I’ve only been enlisted for a short while, wanted to right some wrongs I’ve done in my life.”
“I’m sure they weren’t that bad.” She looks at his name tag and smiles. “Mr. Soto.”
“Yeah it was, I got in with a real messed up group, but I shouldn’t bore you with that.”
“No, you shouldn’t...I mean that’s personal. Well, I should go wait in her office it was nice to meet you.”
“You too, but you might be waiting for awhile.”
“That’s quite alright I have a lot of patience.” She continues on down the hall, tempted to have snapped the young man’s neck. Rayne reaches Rebecca’s office, which is dark and locked up tight. She looks around and removes a small black pouch from her pocket, setting her brief case down on the floor. Within seconds she’s picked the lock and is now inside the office. “Alright Ramon, lets she what secrets you have hidden around here.”

Rebecca taps on Lt. Storm’s office door as he is changing his grey pull over shirt. “Can I talk to you?”
“Make it quick.”
“There’s something you should know, something I did I don’t think you are really going to like. Back after the Earth Dawn thing...maybe this isn’t a good time.”
“Spit it out Becca, I don’t like playing these games. I don’t have the time for it.” Storm picks up his red vest pulling it on and snapping it up. “Just ask a certain friend of mine, it irritates me.”
“Alright, I went and talked to Major Fear on my own.” She says quickly.
Storm lays a hand on his bullet proof vest, looking directly at her. “You what?”
She can sense the anger in his voice; his stare sends chills up her spin. “I wanted to find out more about him, figure out what drives him.”
“You shouldn’t have done that, he’s psychotic and you’re not a physiatrist.” He slings on his vest fastening the clasps. He picks up his belt looking at the empty holsters; his guns were lost in his battle with Zartan, including his former Commander’s pistol. “We’ll talk more about this later.”
“He knew someone was going to betray you, he knew it would be Athena. He didn’t come right out and say it, he was cryptic, using names and stories. After I thought it over and listened to my interview with him it’s like he knew Athena would turn.”
“Impossible, she was still hospitalized then. He wouldn’t have even known if she was going to be...” Storm stops, not wanting to think about what happened to Athena.
“He just knew, and he knows so much about you, it’s creepy.”
Storm walks up to her, his fists clenched. “We’ll talk more about this later.” He growls then walks past her.

General Hawk sits outside Storms office, looking up at him as he exits. “I didn’t want to interrupt.”
“It’s okay, it’s something I’ll have to take care of later.” Storm looks down at Hawk who doesn’t seem ready to go. “You’re not coming?”
“No, I would only get in the way. This is a rescue mission where you’ll be facing off against a threat we know little about.”
“We could use you out there; you can still fly a plane.”
“As much as I would like to go, I don’t think my legs could take it.”
Storm just looks into Hawk’s eyes seeing this isn’t easy for him. “Are you going to be alright?”
“Yes, just go bring them back.” Hawk smiles. “Oh, and you might need these.” He reaches into a pouch that is tucked in next to him, handing Storm a Sig 225m, standard Canadian issue. “Just don’t lose this one.” Hawk hands him a well seasoned hand gun that is not regular Canadian Military issue. “It’s mine, figured it won’t replace General Rowling’s but...”
“No, it’s great, thank you Sir.”
“Now go bring out troops home soldier.”

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 3.2 – Rescue Mission

Lt. Storm marches into the hanger bay where, Hotwire, Medic, G.I, and Feedback wait for him, all standing in front of an Attack Chopper. “We know who our enemy is, they have a face now. The Red Shadows aren’t the Liberators, Cobra or Earth Dawn, they are well seasoned warriors. We’ll probably be walking into a trap, one where the Shadows will be waiting for us. We are few in numbers right now, but we’re going to change that.” Storm looks at the three of his troops who are all eager to get underway. “Let’s go save our teammates and show these Red Shadows they’re messing with the wrong force.”
They all nod following Storm into the Attack Chopper. Storm takes the pilot seat, Feedback and Hotwire sitting behind him, leaving Medic and G.I. in the back to go over their gear. From the doorway Rebecca watches as the ceiling opens and the chopper fires up. Within in moments it lifts into the air tossing her hair around as she watches it rise up.
“Good luck.”
“You seem concerned.” Hawk says sitting in his wheelchair behind her.
“Aren’t you?”
“Yes, but not for the same reasons you are.”

At an old abandoned grain mill the Red Shadows prepare the Canada’s Elite team. Each of them tied up, hanging by their arms from the rafters. Below them a pit when Red Shadow Troopers pour cans of gasoline and dump oily rags.
“So, this is a barbeque, and I forgot my special sauce.” Flint quips.
The Baron looks at him, not amused. He stands on a second floor walkway with Dela and Vaughn on either side of him. “Here you face eminent death and yet you still joke, Joe? One would think you’d pray for a miracle.”
“You’re not going to kill us, if you were we’d be dead already.”
“True.”
“Then let’s just kill them.” Dela grunts. “As long as I get to gut Flint.”
“No, like he said if I wanted them dead they would be. We wait.”
“For what? For the rest to mount a rescue attempt?” Dela watches as the Baron turns his back on her heading for the room adjacent to them.
“Exactly.” Vaughn answers. “It’s what we want. Why kill them now when their leader can watch them burn to death.” As he says those words two Red Torch Troopers enter the main floor with flamethrowers strapped to them, giving off short bursts to scare the captured Joe’s.
“Lt. Storm will either surrender himself and his team to us.” The Baron says as he enters the dark room and sits in one of the old cracked leather office chairs. “Or die.”
“What I don’t understand is why you sent Red Scream off?” Dela asks.
“She was needed to retrieve Crimson Rayne and bring her back safely.”
“And why isn’t Artur in here with us?”
“He is with the helicopters and a few men to guard them. He’s to remain with them no matter what.”
“Still...”
“Do not question my will Dela.” The Baron snaps. “Or you can join the Joe’s.”

Ottawa, Canadian Military Headquarters.
A CH-146 Griffon helicopter sits waiting in the back designated area while construction continues to rebuild. The pilot watches as a man runs towards the helicopter, dressed in a light grey karate jacket with red trim and red dragon printed across it, grey and red camo karate pants and mask, with red gloves, split toed grey and red boots, and black belt. He wears two swords on his back with Sais tucked into his belt and who knows what else hidden on his person.
“Dude, what’s with the fancy pyjamas?” The pilot jokes.
“They’re not pyjama’s, it’s my uniform.”
“You sure about this man, I could get court martial for helping you.”
“Don’t worry about it, I’ll tell them I held a knife to you.” He says climbing into the helicopter.
“You’re barely out of basic training, what makes you think you’re ready for this?” The pilot questions as he checks over his instruments.
“I know I am but I can do this, I have to prove myself. They are going to need my help.”
“I should have never told you.”
“You were just being a good friend, not your fault you were working air traffic control today. Now let’s get this bird into the air.”
The pilot nods taking them up. “So who made you those togs, you’re mom?”
“Shut up.”
“Dude, seriously?”
“I told her it was for a costume party.”
The pilot laughs at the ninja clad man, taking the helicopter up and heading off in the direction of The Red Shadows.

The Black Major paces across the floor, getting impatient. “I am beginning to agree with Dela, we should just kill the ones we have.”
“No.” Ironblood answers with a calm tone. “We keep with our plan, the rest of it has already gone to the dogs.”
“Lt. Storm will never surrender the team to The Red Shadows.” Dela grunts.
“I will give him that option, we could use them if we want to take over this country. With their military secrets alone...”
“That reminds me, where is Red Laser?” The Major inquires.
“He’s still working on that data we took.” Dela answers.
“Odd, it’s taking quite some time...” Vaughn heads downstairs locating Red Laser. “What have you found?”
“N-nothing.”
“What?”
“They were able to infect the system with a virus, it completely destroyed the data. It left only this.” He shows the Major the laptop screen that flashes the Canada’s Elite logo on it with the words ‘Better Luck Next Time’ scrolling across it.
“Another failure.”
“You rushed me, it’s not my fault, and the Baron will see it as well.”
“He will see what I allow his eyes to see. He may have your loyalty but he still will not stand for incompetence.”
“Enough.” Ironblood snaps, startling both men. “I will not stand for this in-fighting either. Red Laser may have failed but as you pointed out Vaughn, he is loyal. Maybe you should have allowed him to do it his way instead of rushing him through it?”
“Yes Baron.” Vaughn rolls his eyes towards Red Laser, like daggers stabbing the man in the chest. “I will go check with the Troops and survey the parameter.”
“Very well.” The Baron watches as Vaughn wanders off and shakes his head

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 3.3 – Warning Shots.

The four remaining Canada’s Elite team approaches their destination in the Attack Chopper.
“We’re getting close, thermal imaging is coming up on screen right now...oh man...” Feedback switches the display to a top down view. “We have several targets around the structure, and my guess is the ones lined up inside are our guys. I’m getting intense readings from two men on either side, small bursts.”
“Why?” Lt. Storm inquires.
“I don’t know...they come and go...”
“Flamethrowers.” Hotwire says.
“You think?”
“I work with torches and heat all the time, if its giving you bursts then I bet my next pay cheque they have flamethrowers.”
“Arm weapons, wide spread on each side of the building and be ready to launch on my command.” Storm switches the Attack Chopper to stealth mode, getting them as close as possible. He shuts down the exterior lights taking the chopper up.

Outside the grain mill the Shadow guards watch as a car goes by, what little traffic there is near the mill. One looks at the other as he hears a whistling sound. “You hear that?”
“Hear what?”
“Probably noth....” Missiles hit the ground sending the Red Shadows flying through the air along with the dirt that is sent from its peaceful rest. The building shakes from the force of the explosion alerting everyone inside. The Baron and Dela are nearly knocked from their seats, dust from the untouched surfaces billowing in the air and down from the ceiling.
“They’re here.” Dela announces.
“But where?” The Baron puts on his helmet and rushes out of the office. “Where is the attack coming from?” He shouts to the Black Major who is on the main floor trying to find out the same thing.
“I don’t know...” He braces himself as another set of missiles hit the ground around the outside of the mill.
“They’re creating cover.” The Baron growls. “They must be in the air...” He spins around hearing the low whooping sound of a helicopter as a barrage of gun fire rips through the roof tearing the sheeting off, and hitting a few of the Red Shadow troopers. A spot light comes on illuminating the interior with light. The hanging Joe’s can do nothing but be swung around from the attack.
“The Joe’s!”
“Give up now Baron!” Flint shouts.
“Keep your mouth shut or I’ll rip your lips off.” Dela snaps.
“Come here and try it.”
“Why are they just sitting up there?” The Baron inquires out-loud. “SAY SOMETHING! I AM THE BARON!”
“Surrender.” Lt. Storm’s voice booms from the Attack Chopper’s loud speaker. “Release my teammates and lay down your arms.”
“Never! BLOOD FOR THE BARON!!!” Ironblood shouts to his troops. “BURN THE JOES!”
“I don’t think so.” Flint uses his swinging momentum to bring his legs around knocking one of the Red Torches to the ground as the other is dropped by a gunshot to the head. Afterburner lets out a scream not knowing where it came from, startled by the sudden attack. They’re about to be rescued or slaughtered. Shots fire through the air just as Flint swings out from the pit, the bullets splitting his rope and dropping him to the ground.
“Flint!” Navy shouts as Red Wolf rushes towards him. The Joe braces himself for the charging man grabbing him, raising Wolf up and over him and into the pit.
“WHERE ARE THE JOE’S!?!” The Baron growls becoming angered by the unseen attackers.
“Right here Ironblood.” Lt. Storm says as he rides down the rescue line from the Attach Chopper landing in front of the Baron.
“So we meet face to face. I am impressed by your tactics.”
“I’m not impressed by you. Kidnapping my team and invading our country.”
“I am here for a reason, and to offer you a deal. You’re government can’t be trusted, I can change that.”
“I don’t do deals with terrorists.”
“Very well then, have it your way. Dela.” The Baron steps aside as the woman lunges at Lt. Storm.

Below G.I. lays down some cover fire as Feedback rushes towards the remaining flamethrower. He slices the fuel line before the Red Torch can get to his feet tossing the gun away. Hotwire fights her way towards Red Vulture who is guarding a control box. She fights dirty kicking a few of the Red Shadow Troopers in the groin, hard, keeping her eyes on Vulture.
“Come to me my little pretty, pretty.” He taunts her.
Hotwire grabs the gun from one Trooper using it to take out another then slams the one she stole it from upside the head, breaking the weapon.
“Oh a feisty one.” Vulture continues to guard the control box waiting for her to make the first move.
Above Navy lets out a grunt as a bullet grazes her leg. “We’re sitting ducks here.”
“You okay?” Fallout asks.
“Yeah I’m good, but if we don’t get down someone is going to get it a lot worse.”

Flint fights his way towards the stairs that lead up to the second level, desperately wanting to reach Dela, who is locked in hand to hand combat with Lt. Storm. “Don’t hold back, she’s not a woman, she’s a cold blooded killer!” He shouts. “She’s scum!”
“Still holding a grudge Flint?” Dela mocks as her attention is momentarily diverted from Storm. He takes the open to grab her and toss her towards the stairs.
“Now that was not very nice young man.” The Baron scolds grabbing Lt. Storm by the back of the neck, throwing him against the wall. “Surrender to me, pledge your loyalty to the Red Shadows and I will spare you.”

Dela looks up at Flint, who stands over her with that lop sided grin of his. “That was a nasty fall you took there. I should end you like you did Jaye.”
“Do it then, we’ve played this game long enough.”
“No, I will see you back in prison to pay for your crimes.” He slams his fist across her face knocking her out cold. “Witch.”
“DELA!” Vaughn picks up a gun firing at Flint who ducks down behind the stairs for cover. “You will die here Flint, you and the Canadian Joe’s. We are the Red Shadows, we will over through this government, then yours, and soon the world. Those who oppose us will die, the earth will run red, blood for the Baron!” He screams pulling the trigger and wildly firing every bullet left in the gun clip.

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 3.4 – Losses

Red Wolf pulls himself out of the pit, reeking now of fuel and oil. He growls looking around for the Joe who tossed him in, seeing Flint being pinned down by the Black Major.
“Where do you think you are going?” G.I. says standing before him.
“You can’t beat us, we out number you.”
“We like a challenge.”
“Cocky G.I.Joe.” Wolf gets to his feet circling G.I. “Let’s see you put those words to use.” He growls pulling off his dirty soaked jacket and tossing it aside.

Hotwire works her way around Vulture, her high school gymnastics all coming back to her. She bets if the others knew they’d make jokes about that. She flips over Vulture, keeping in constant motion. Unknown to him, she has been tampering with his jet pack each time she gets behind him.
“You are a squirrely little thing.” Vulture sneers. “I’ll have to cut your legs off.”
“Try it.” She quickly ducks down as he runs at her, Vulture tripping over her and hitting the ground. “Idiot.” Hotwire jumps on his back accessing the control panel on his jet pack firing it up.
“What are you...” Vulture is lurched forward as he pulls his body up to gain some air and control over his flight.
Hotwire runs for the swinging control box using it to move her hanging teammates over, away from the pit. “Hang on, I’ll get you down in a second.”
“You little...” Vulture propels himself at Hotwire slamming into her and wrapping his arms around her, taking her up. “I’ll drop you and splatter you across the ground like a bug on a windshield.”

“Great, now what?” Chamber grunts as all they can do is watch the fight edge in the favour of the Shadows.
“Do you hear that?” Afterburner alerts them to another chopper sound. “That’s not the Attack Chopper, it’s still on autopilot and in stealth mode.”
Without warning glints of steel swirl through the air, the Joe’s dropped from their ropes, hitting the ground.
“Ow, son of a,..” Navy grunts. “Who did that?”
“I don’t know, but at least they are on our side.” Fallout remarks.

Lt. Storm looks up, surprised by the aid as much as the Baron.
“Whoever that is, they cannot help you now.” Ironblood throws a punch at Storm who leans back to avoid it and grabs the Baron’s arm. He swings Ironblood around smacking him into the wall as the Baron did to him. Ironblood's face smashing against the inside of his helmet.
“How do you like it?” Storm grunts pulling the Baron back noticing blood pouring from the man’s black iron mask. “Awe, did I make you bleed.” He smirks.
“Those who have made me bleed have not lived.” Ironblood slams his elbow into Storm’s face knocking the Joe back causing Storm to bleed from his nose as well. The Baron grabs him by the throat taking him to the second floor ledge.
Lt. Storm looks back over the battlefield seeing his team now freed, picking up weapons and joining the fight. Hotwire frees herself from Vulture falling and being caught by Chamber. The Major picking up another weapon, discarding the used one, still keeping Flint pinned down.
“Look at them all. Once I kill you, they will fall.”
“Never, they will keep fighting.”
“We’ll see about that.” Baron Ironblood pulls a hidden knife from his boot, tightening his grip around Storm’s neck. “Bleed for me.”
“LET HIM GO!” A voice booms from behind the Baron.
“Who?” He spins around to see a blur of a foot delivered across his helmet knocking it off, followed by a side kick planted into his back. The Baron stumbles forward as he is heaved into the air and over the railing.
“Who the hell are you?” Storm snaps at his rescuer.
“You can call me Red Dragon.”
“I can see that, but who are you?”
“Later.”

The Red Shadows all stop dead in their tracks, watching as their leader hits the ground with a thud. They all look to the Major for what to do next.
“Wolf, grab the Baron!” Vaughn shouts. “Red Shadows, retreat!” He orders picking Dela up.
“No way Vaughn, you don’t leave here, not with her.” Flint snarls holding one of the Red Shadows guns on him.
“Very well then.” The Black Major tosses the semi conscious Dela at Flint knocking the Joe down.
“Vaughn...? Please don’t leave me...” She cries out, disoriented.
“I’m sorry my dear but the tide has turned, sacrifices must be made.” He waits for Wolf who has the Baron slung over his should. Wolf growls at G.I. as he passes by the Joe. The Black Major looks up at Lt. Storm, with Red Dragon standing next to him. “This isn’t over you haven’t seen the last of The Red Shadows.”

“Shouldn’t we go after them?” Red Dragon asks.
“No, we let them go. We’re in no condition to continue this fight, we need to regroup and you have some explaining to do.” Storm glares at the young man as he wipes the blood from his face, then turns his attention to Flint. “Do you need any assistance?”
“Nope, I have her.” He smiles as Navy comes over with a pair of hand cuffs. “Do you always carry a pair on you?”
“Yes, you never know when they could come in handy.”
“I like you.” Flint laughs.
Storm pulls a small radio from his belt. “Medic, this is Storm you can set the Chopper down.”
“Roger that Storm.” The Attack Chopper’s light goes out and switches out from stealth mode as Medic guides it, landing it safely in the adjacent field.
Lt. Storm hurries down the stairs to the rest of his team. “Is everyone alright?”
“We’re in one piece.” Afterburner says throwing her arms around him and hugging Lt. Storm.
“Alright, let’s go home.” Storm smiles. Red Dragon quietly steps back. “Don’t go anywhere Mr. Soto, you have a lot of explaining to do.”
“What the...how’d you know?”
“It was pretty obvious, ninja gear, blonde eyebrows and blue eyes, and you wanted to join us last time we met. Plus I know you enlisted into the military.”
“So, what happens to me now?”
Flint grins at the young man as he forces Dela to walk in front of him. “Wouldn’t you like to know, and she’s wondering the same thing.”

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 3.5 – Regrouping

The Red Shadows helicopters remain grouped and un-pursued. Red Laser does his best to tend to Baron Ironblood, the Black Major staring out the window into the black night sky.
“You left Dela?” Laser finally pipes up. “Why?”
“It was a necessary sacrifice. Give them the one of use who’s most wanted and we escape to fight another day.”
“Leave him alone Laser, this would not have been an easy decision for him.” The Baron says.
“Easier then you think.” The Major grunts. “Where are we headed?”
“To a meeting point where Red Scream and Crimson Rayne will join us.”
Vaughn looks at the Baron with his eyes widened. “You planned all of this?” Ironblood does not answer him. “You knew the Joe’s would come launch a rescue mission? This is not what we first planned.”
“Yes, I wanted to witness our opponents first hand in battle. I have learned valuable information and the next time we meet they will not be so lucky.”
“You’re insane, I should have just left you to rot. I must have not been in my right mind to bring you back.”
“You couldn’t come back to North America, you need me more than you think you do.” The Baron growls at Vaughn. “I won’t let you do what you did to me again.”

Medic patches up Navy’s leg giving her a smile. “You’ll be fine, just don’t go swimming with any sharks.”
“Thanks doc.” Navy pulls her leggings back down over the bandage and sighs. “We were lucky.”
“No we weren’t.” Flint grunts, sitting across from them, with an unconscious Dela sitting next to him, having administered a sedative. “They could have slaughtered us, they didn’t. This was the first time that Baron Ironblood has ever made an appearance on North American soil.” Flint looks upfront at Lt. Storm who is piloting the Attack Chopper, Afterburner and Feedback sitting behind him. “He wanted to witness your leader in battle, meet face to face. There is something bigger planned here, much bigger then we think.”
“How is she?” Medic asks nodding toward Dela, trying to lighten the mood Flint has just set.
“Still out cold, whatever you gave her it’s keeping her quiet.”
“It was enough tranquilizers to keep her out for a few hours.”
The helicopter that delivered Red Dragon follows the Attack Chopper, with Chamber, Hotwire and Snow Squall accompanying them. The pilot looks over at Chamber who sits next to him. “So, what’s going to happen to us?”
“Don’t know.”
“Are we going to...like...disappear?”
Chamber looks over at the pilot trying not to laugh. “What’s your name soldier?”
“Sergeant Max McNamara, Sir.”
“How long have you been serving Sergeant?”
“Fifteen years Sir.”
“Why did you bring Mr. Soto?”
“I was doing a friend a favour Sir, I’ve known his family since I was a kid. He wanted to do something to make up for the trouble he got into. I was working air traffic control, I took in the call and figured it was you guys. I called Steven and told him, I made an error and I’m sorry.”
“Oh, you will be. You do realize we’re part of a top secret military unit, technically we don’t exist.”
“You’re making me nervous Sir, you never answered my question?”
Chamber looks out the window to hide his smirk and keeping silent, still trying to hold in his laughter.

Back at the Canada’s Elite Headquarters, Hawk sits at the main computer looking up Max and Steven’s records. Thanks to the open com link Feedback set up so he could overhear Chamber’s conversation. He glances over at Rebecca as her cell phone rings. “I hope that isn’t traceable?”
“No Sir.” She flips it open keeping her voice low. “Yes?”
“Ms. Ramon?”
“Uh yeah, who else would answer my phone?”
“Just making sure ma’am. This is Officer Hicks, were you expecting a Cathy Marlow today?”
“No, not until tomorrow, why is she there?”
“Was.”
“What do you mean was?”
“She’s gone, but that’s not the main reason for our concern. She was also discovered dead in her apartment about an hour ago.”
“What?”
“We believe the one who was here to see you was impersonating her. She stopped and talked with a Private who was here to see you as well, Steven Soto.”
Rebecca’s eyes widen. “Mr. Soto is not a concern, I think. What was this Cathy there for?”
“We do not know, we believe she accessed your office, and may have stolen information.”
“I’ll be right there.” Rebecca snaps shut her phone seeing Hawk staring at her. “I have to go.”
“You were told to stay here.”
“I have to go, tell Lt. Storm I will return, there’s something that needs my attention.”
“Very well then, I’ll do what I can for him not to have you chased down and locked up.”
“Th...you’re joking right?” Rebecca asks not getting a response. “I wouldn’t go if it wasn’t important.”
“I know, go and report in as soon as you can with a sitrep.”
Rebecca nods hurrying out of the command center. Hawk waits a few moments to make sure she doesn’t return. “Did you hear all that?”
“Yes.” Lt. Storm answers.

Out in a clearing the Red Shadows wait as a jeep pulls up to them, carrying Red Scream and Crimson Rayne. The Baron walks up to them greeting the women. “All went well?”
“Yes.” Rayne says handing a USB driver over to Ironblood. “There is some interesting information in there. Seems Rebecca Ramon had a date with Major Fear, I also downloaded her logs and diary.”
“This should prove much more useful then what we got from the Toronto base.”
“Baron, we’re receiving a communication.” Red Laser shouts from the helicopter.
“From whom?”
“He’ll only talk to you.”
The Baron grunts stomping off towards the helicopter and snatching up the radio. “This is Baron Ironblood.”
“Well, here I thought you were just a ghost made up to scare people.”
“Who is this, what do you want?”
“I am General Anthony Singer, leader of the Liberators. I think we should meet.”
“Where?”
“I have a little hideaway in Manitoba, great way for you to see the countryside.”

G.I.Joe Canada’s Elite Book 5
Looming Shadows

Up next: The Canada’s Elite team faces off against their greatest challenge yet. Their enemies are conspiring to take them out, can the Joe’s overcome these overwhelming odds or will this be the end? Hawk and Flint continue their guest starring roles be here for the next chapter in Liberation or Blood.

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 1.1 – Recruitment

Canada’s Elite Headquarters, somewhere in Southern Ontario.
Several levels below ground level, in the holding cells sit Max and Steven, both unaware of what is going to happen to them. Max risked his years in the Canadian Air Force to bring his long time family friend Steven Soto, who calls himself Red Dragon, out to fight along with the Canadian G.I.Joe team. After that they were escorted back to the base, where they have sat for two days. They have only seen one guard who brings them their food. The cell has a bunk bed, table, two chairs, toilet and sink with a half wall around the washroom area.
“Man, if I wasn’t worried before I am now.” Max moans, lying on the lower bunk. “They haven’t even brought us any clean clothes, or clothes period. I’m not partial to sitting in the same boxers for...how long now?”
“A couple days I guess.” Steven responds, sitting in a chair that he’s pulled up to the cell bars.
“And dude, what is with you wearing bikini briefs?”
Steven looks over at Max. “We’ve been here together for two days and now you ask me?”
“Well, I wasn’t sure how to approach it.”
“I wear them because they give me the least restraint.”
“Boxer briefs give the same comfort, and support.” Max jokes.
“Just be glad I don’t go commando.”
“Dude.” Max tosses his pillow at Steven. “Man you’re parents are going to kill me.”
“I doubt that, why do you think I’ve gotten into so much trouble.”
“Yeah, even when you’re trying to do something good trouble follows you.”
“I’m sorry. I’ll do whatever I can to get you out of this.”
“Man, I hold a higher rank than you do and I doubt I can get myself out of this.”
Steven lowers his head. “I’m so sorry.”
“It's okay man, I should have known better, guess I was looking for some excitement myself. I should have just dropped you off there and left.”
“No, I mean...you’ve always been like a big brother to me.”
Max gets up from the bed walking over to Steven putting a hand on his shoulder. “Hey, don’t worry about it we both got ourselves into this.” He smiles at Steven and pats him on the side of the face. “Man, you barely even have any stubble, how often do you shave?”
Steven perks up looking down the hall. “Someone’s coming.”
Fallout approaches the cell with two base guards dressed in two tone grey camouflage. Fallout holds a key card in his hand. “Alright ladies, time for a shower.” He says swiping the key card and opening up the cell. He directs the two out and further down the hall to a large tiled room. “Okay, off with the shorts boys.”
The two do as they are told, Max looking around the drab light grey tiled room. “I don’t see any taps?” Max remarks.
“That’s because there are none.” Fallout tosses them a couple bars of soap and walks over to a fire hose that hangs on the wall. “This is going to be cold gents.” He turns the water on them hosing them down. “Better scrub up fast, I have things to do.”

Above in his office Lt. Storm sits with General Hawk, both discussing their two captives in the holding cells. Storm dressed in his red and grey camouflage pants and grey long sleeved shirt, Hawk in his civilian clothes.
“You have to be kidding me, one is too young and the other aided him which could get him court marshalled.” Storm says.
“Mr McNamara could have left Red Dragon behind, he didn’t. That shows dedication to your fellow soldier.”
“Steven was involved with the Earth Dawn group.”
“Was he not the one who gave you the information you needed to stop the toxin?”
“Yes.” Storm gets up from his seat and looks out the window at the bright blue sky. “Alright, if you think this is the best course of action.”
“I do.” Hawk smiles. “Trust me, having a ninja on the team isn’t as bad as you might think.”
Lt Storm laughs. “Yeah, but yours is a guy no one wants to mess with, Steven is young, brash, and reckless.”
“He might be, but he has a drive and desire to be part of something bigger. You can’t deny that.”
“I guess I can’t.” Storm thinks of his friend Zack, who left the team after being shot by General Singer.

Fallout tries not to laugh at the two guys who try to wash themselves while not dropping the soap or falling on their asses. He reaches for the tap shutting off the hose. “Okay ladies, that’s it.”
“Lieutenant Storm, Sir!” The two guards announce both saluting him.
“At ease.”
Max and Steven both notice this and try to stand at attention without slipping on the soapy floor, or shivering from their cold shower.
“Are you finished here Fallout?”
“Yes Sir, the guys are all cleaned up.”
“Good, now give them their towels to dry off.”
“Yes Sir.” Fallout opens a cabinet pulling out two large white bath towels, handing them over to Max and Steven.
“Do you two understand the severity of the situation you are in?” Lt. Storm says walking towards a locked room. The two wrap their towels around them and follow him. “Mr McNamara, you revealed top secret information to a recruit with a history of trouble. Mr. Soto, even though you did aid us in stopping the Earth Dawn organization, you too violated protocol and used a friendship for personal gain.” Storm enters an access code that opens the locked door on the room where clothing is housed as well as medical supplies. “After thinking this situation over for a few days and seeking advice I’ve come to a decision.”
Both Max and Steven look at each other, both expecting to be court marshalled.
Lt. Storm opens up a locker handing them both a pair of red boxers, grey and red camouflage pants and boots, a white belt, and grey long sleeved shirts with the team logo on the shoulders. “Before you accept these, there’s a catch. You don’t exist, every record about you is wiped clean, and it’ll be as if you dropped off the face of the earth. You’re families cannot know about your new assignment, to them you’re still under your current regiment. Do you accept?”
“Yes Sir.” Steven says whole heartily.
Max sighs. “Yes Sir.” Relieved that his worst fears are over.
“Very well then, welcome to the Canadian G.I.Joe team gentlemen.”

[Lt Storm]

Chapter 1.2 – Alliance
After receiving a communication from General Singer, leader of the Liberators, the Red Shadows flew to a prearranged location and have travelled for the past few days by land. They met up at another prearranged location to be air lifted the rest of the way to a remote location in Manitoba. A location familiar to only a few people, it was a top secret base that General Singer was to command, but before his arrival it was shut down by Lt. Storm. For reasons the General does not know but wants to eagerly discover. From the outside the base looks harmless, even the first few levels sit untouched, except for the odd room. It’s the lower levels that have had the most damage, the Joe’s were able to contain the blast that destroyed most of it. They have been reinforced and braced to prevent further degradation.
The Liberators have been working to restore any data they can from the banks in the room. General Singer believing they hold all the secrets he needs to achieve his objective. Outside the helicopter carrying the Red Shadows comes in for a landing, Nightingale waiting for them on the roof. She salutes Baron Ironblood and shakes his hand. “It’s an honour to meet you.”
“Thank you my dear. Now if you’ll take me to this General Singer, it’s been quite a trip.”
“I hope you did get to enjoy it at least.”
“Yes, your country is very beautiful.”
“That it is. You can bring two more with you, the rest must stay in the upper levels.”
The Baron looks back at the two women, Red Scream and Crimson Rayne. “You will accompany me.”
“What?” Vaughn blurts.
“I have made my decision Black Major.” Ironblood grunts at him.
“Very well.” Nightingale looks back at the Major and smiles, recognizing him as being the Baron’s second in command, and there being some tension there. She leads the three down to the elevator that has been somewhat repaired. “There may be some jerking, but don’t worry it’s safe.” She says as she presses the button, and just as she said, the elevator jerks as it travels downward. Within moments they reach the lower floor as the doors open. The room is a mess of computers and wires with several Inserters working on them as well as Athena.
“What is this?” The Baron inquires.
General Singer rushes up to the Baron offering his hand. “I’m pleased you could make it. Sorry for the state of the lab, there was an incident here. We are trying to restore what we can of the databases.”
“Why?”
“This base was a top secret one, which was going to be my new assignment after I retired. Something happened while a mutual acquaintance of ours was stationed here. Lt. Storm had this base shut down and sealed up.”
“He is quite the annoying nat.” Crimson Rayne snorts.
“Who are your companions?”
“The snowy white haired woman is Red Scream, and this red masked woman is Crimson Rayne, who too has had a run in with the Canadian G.I.Joe’s.”
“Ah yes, I remember reading about that in their files.” General Singer referring to her Earth Dawn Organization that tried to unleash a deadly toxin.
“What is it you hope to get out of meeting with me?” The Baron inquires, cutting to the point.
“We both want something I want this base secrets and to control the Canadian Military under one rule, mine. You want to take control of this countries government, I assume because of its access to Alaska and connection to the United States. Our objectives are similar, our goals are similar, and if we join forces we can take over this country and destroy the Canadian G.I.Joe team.”
The Baron walks around the room, thinking over what General Singer proposes. He stops looking at Athena, seeing something unsettling in her eyes. “Who is this?”
“My daughter, Athena, she was once a member of Lt. Storm’s team.”
“Hmm, she could be very useful.”
“Yes, so you’d think but she hasn’t spoken since she freed me from their capture. She was the one who put the bullet into the Prime Minister’s head.”
The Baron takes her face into his hand. “Hello my dear.” She smiles at him then continues on with her work. “Is she...of sound mind?”
“I’m afraid not. You see, while she was under Lt. Storm’s command she witnessed a man getting his head blown off. That traumatized her greatly.”
“No wonder you want revenge on him.”
“Yes. But enough talk, you must be hungry after your travels. I’ve had my men prepare a meal for you. Nightingale will take you up, I will join you shortly.”
“Very well.” The Baron follows Nightingale back to the elevator, Red Scream and Crimson Rayne joining them. As before the elevator jerks as it goes back up. “You’re Commander has dedication in his eyes.”
“Yes, I would follow him to my death if so needed.” Nightingale responds.
“You are very loyal.” The Baron smiles. “That is an admirable quality.”
“We all are.”
“Excellent.”

Just as he said, General Singer joins the Red Shadows for dinner, meeting the rest of Iron Bloods team and learning of their confrontation with the Canadian Joe team. The two men share their stories and history before breaking off from the group. They head outside to enjoy the clear night sky.
“I know where the G.I.Joe Headquarters is.” General Singer reveals. “I served there as their acting Commander whiles my people had Lt. Storm captured. Athena was also restationed there as well, we could launch a devastating attack on them.”
“Yes, but not before we set a few more plans into motion.”
“Ah, an idea’s man, we’ll get along well. So I assume this means you are taking me up on my offer of joining forces?”
The Baron takes in a deep breath of the night air and exhales slowly. “Together we would be nearly unstoppable, with the G.I.Joe team out of the way we could bring about World War Four.”
“Yes your nation and my nation untied together commanding massive armies.”
“And conquering this world under our rule.”
“A partnership then?” General Singer offers out his hand.
“Yes, to world domination and the death of the Canadian G.I.Joe’s.” The Baron takes Singer’s hand sealing the deal with a hand shake that will only bring about death.

*This chapter is dedicated to the memory of my Grandmother she lived a long life and will be forever missed.