Heroes of Mavia: Fog of War
By Phoenixfire083 — BOGG
Mira sat alone atop the base’s Air Control Tower. The only place she was free to sit alone in quiet contemplation. The distant glow of the oncoming morning pushed against the dark sky. Her gaze transfixed in pure admiration on the giant Ruby crystal at the centre of Mavia. A gentle crimson pulse radiated from within its depths. Its soft glow bathed the immediate area in an ominous red light. It sent goosebumps over her skin as an avalanche of questions crashed through mind from her recent exposure to the energies of the Ruby.
It felt like yesterday, even though a week had gone by. To ensure there were no long-term effects, the researchers pestered her constantly for testing to learn more. Every report came back negative, and she breathed a sigh of relief. Under Diamond Hand’s orders, they sent reports of her infusion to the RHDI. Unfortunately, they didn’t believe that it was possible to infuse a living being with Ruby energy. They denied it, closing every report insisting it was just the delusions of a leader who was just upset that they had destroyed Ruby before it could be cashed in. Of all the things that the RHDI stood for, it was shocking that they pushed it aside without a thought. Even with the research they had recovered from the base, the RHDI chalked it up to the theories of a mad man. A mere fantasy devoid of possibility. A baseless conspiracy.
Those concerns paled in comparison to the idea of the Big Hammer King. When the Mad Engineer stated the basis of his research was because of this sinister entity, Mira knew something more was afoot. The great war that once plagued the world had many heroes and villains. Most of the crimes committed found justice with the arrest, trial, and sentencing of those responsible during the Mavia Accords. However, as people moved on, mention of some mysterious force behind the war was whispered in hushed tones in quiet corners. If this Big Hammer King were here on Mavia, was he also infusing himself and his followers with this power? What was his end goal? Where could he be? the questions tangled together into a mass of webs in her anxious mind.
She stifled a yawn. It surprised her because she didn’t feel tired at all. Since her exposure to the Ruby, she found that she no longer required as much sleep as before. Her body recovered from training quicker. Her speed was faster, and her endurance carried her longer before she needed to stop. Her reflexes became instinctive, as if her body knew how to move and bend before needing to. Everyone in the base noticed, and every time she walked the lanes, soldiers seemed to stop and stare. It was still taking time to adjust to the attention. Constant reminders from DH told her that it was because they were inspired by her actions during the last raid. Seeing the statue that they had constructed of her in her honor was a reminder of her influence, even if it embarrassed her a bit.
Still, the pride she felt when receiving the respect from those under her command was dwarfed by the feeling of when the Ruby energy coursed through her. The experience was beyond explanation, but in her dreams, she felt a miniscule remembrance of it, and it was exhilarating. A yearning blossomed within her, one that screamed to harness more. Reminding herself that the main goal on Mavia was to gather Ruby to send back to the RHDI, not to appease the growing temptation of wanting more for herself. Would it even happen again? If so, how powerful could she become? Would it be enough for her to uncover the Big Hammer King’s agenda? Or was she just crazy? The questions made her head spin.
Something urged her to look towards the closed hatch of the tower, it swung open suddenly with a screech. Two diamond hands reached up and pulled up the massive frame of her ally, friend, and mentor. She appreciated all that DH had taught her in their time together. Taking all the chances she could to absorb as much knowledge of leadership and military tactics that she could. However, after the incident, he became overprotective of her. Constantly hovering around her when he could, as if he was keeping an eye on her. It was smothering, and frustrating.
“Another restless night?” Diamond Hands asked with a concerned tone as he approached her.
“When you can’t sleep, why try to force it?” Mira answered as she kept her gaze fixed on the horizon, now shifting to soft hues of red, orange, and pink, “always something productive to do.”
“Oh, so we are calling brooding alone productive now, are we?” Diamond Hands replied with a playful tone as he sat down next to her.
“I’m not brooding,” Mira replied with a friendly annoyance, “I was just admiring the sunrise.”
“It is a beautiful thing to appreciate,” DH replied, followed with a content sigh as he breathed in the view. The sun crested the horizon, blanketing the land in blades of light that pierced flaming-coloured bands of clouds. A soft fog drifted off the dew kissed grass.
“Do you ever miss home?” Mira asked suddenly as she stared at the beauty before her.
“A little, not enough to make me want to leave though.” he answered honestly, hiding a hint of regret that he hoped she didn’t catch.
The memories of the towering, cloud wreathed mountains, covered in lush emerald jungles filled Diamond Hands mind. Days under the canopies of thick trees, and twisting vines, gathering food, and laughing with his fellow diamond hand apes. He winced as the memories of those he had left behind flickered in his mind, like an old movie. Those he loved and cherished, those he swore to protect. The responsibility and weight of leadership falling on his shoulders after his home was decimated in an aerial crossfire between two warring nations.
“Sitting up here reminds me of Agartha,” Mira continued as she shifted her legs, placing both arms atop her knees, resting her chin on top. “I used to sneak and climb the tallest buildings to watch the sunrise over the city. Oh, how the light bounced off all the windows. You were above the chaos of the streets, away from the impatience and anger of everyone. The silence was needed to not go crazy” She trailed off, losing herself in her own memories.
“I forgot that you grew up in Agartha,” Diamond Hands responded apologetically, “I heard things got pretty rough there by the end of the war.”
“As with much of the world,” Mira answered coldly, “Nonetheless, being up here reminds me that there is still something to save. That everyone has a right to enjoy peaceful serenity. That we have an obligation to ensure peace and prosperity for the world to thrive.”
“Well, lucky for us the war is over. Being here on Mavia is our chance to make that dream come true. The ruby we harvest gets distributed to the people that need it the most,” DH added, trying to lighten his friend’s mood.
A squad of AI helicopters took off from a newly constructed landing pad, and the base came to life below them. Troops patrolled the lanes and walls, labourers went about their daily tasks, and the factories boomed as they manufactured new vehicles of war.
“I hope so, DH,” Mira answered with a faint smile as she turned to finally meet his friendly gaze, “I just can’t shake the feeling that there is a terrible storm brewing, and we are heading right into the centre of it.”
“Relax Mira, our scouts keep reporting that there are no direct threats for us to worry about,” Diamond Hands replied, “No one is moving against us, for now.” He saw her stifle a chuckle as a distant reflection of sun off glinting metal of another base reminded them of the constant, lingering threat.
It was a rare peaceful moment, but the lingering feeling of the unseen threat made it hard for Mira to appreciate it fully. In the days following their attack against the barbarian base, they found increased signs of drones scouting their position. To be cautious, Mira and DH sent out drones of their own, and kept the base on defensive standby. In a flex of force, they sent out squads of upgraded tanks and helicopters to patrol the areas to show they would not be intimidated. Mira was grateful for Diamond Hands patience and to hold fast for the time being. Yes, they were not collecting as much Ruby as they wanted to, but it was better than painting a bigger target on their back.
“So, can we finally move out?” Mira answered in relief.
“Itching for a fight?” Diamond Hands asked with a raised eyebrow, “or eager for more Ruby?”
“Both,” Mira answered with blunt honesty. DH looked at her with a mix of surprise and concern.
“C’mon DH,” she scoffed, “I’m not wanting more Ruby for myself,” she rationalized, his unblinking gaze unconvinced. “If we aren’t constantly getting more resources and Ruby, the RHDI stops sending us the things we need to fortify our position and upgrade our equipment.”
“True,” DH replied with relief, “As long as your focus is on the needs of the base, then there is nothing else to talk about,” he added as if warning her.
“Honestly,” she replied with an exasperated sigh, “I’m worried,” she admitted with unease. “My infusion with Ruby wouldn’t have happened if that mad man didn’t have the technology. Was it really because he is mad? Or just curious? Is there even a Big Hammer King? If so, why? and why doesn’t the RHDI care?”
“You’re worrying too much Mira, the RHDI says nothing is wrong,” DH replied, trying to ease her mind. “You know they’re monitoring everything happening on this island, there is no way someone could do something without them noticing.”
“I guess, but here I am now, infused with Ruby. They brushed it off as some self-fulfilling prophecy. I worry that their complacency may lead us into a situation we won’t be able to get out of.” Mira leaned her head back against the base of the antenna with a dull thud.
“Well, let’s focus on one thing at a time, Mira. No point in fixating on things we can’t control,” he paused and held up one of his hands to stop her from arguing, “right now the coast is clear. Like you said we need to get our hands on some Ruby,” she looked at him with eager suspicion, “I think it’s time to raid that base at the edge of the marshlands.”
Her eyes widened in shock, “do you think we can take it?”
“They are dug in well, that’s for sure,” he agreed, “but that was before our last upgrades. Our tanks are outfitted with twin barrels now, and enhanced armor. We are better supplied. We have new AI helicopters, and most importantly,” he paused, seeing the anticipation in her eyes, “we have you.”
Mira chortled when she heard those words. She didn’t know what she was going to do differently now that she had enhanced physical abilities, but she wanted to find out. Diamond Hands was right, it was time to focus on what they could control. Not on anxiety fueled fantasies.
The two made their way to the base’s headquarters. Standing before the round table at its centre that displayed a detailed holographic map of Mavia. A blue dot showed their location in the southern hills of the Island, other dots of light pulsed softly. White dots indicated bases that had not been properly scouted. Green dots indicated bases that they were confident they could beat. While red dots were bases that were deemed too strong and heavily defended to attack, at this time. Mira watched as Diamond Hands zoomed in on one of the green dots at the edge of the marshland region, one that had been red for so long before.
It was a few days northeast of their base. Situated on a raised platform of metal to prevent the base from sinking into the unsettled ground. It made it difficult for forces to invade, and they were smart enough to funnel the only access to the base to two gates located at the north and south side of the base. The strength of the base was noticeable with its thick metal walls. Equipped with three barreled turrets, upgraded mortar cannons, a strong host of defenders within would make it a tough fight. Mira remembered her first attempt to scout the base herself. Back before she met DH and his advice of patience. Thinking it would be easier to approach alone, she learned quickly of the error of her decision. Forced to flee through the mud and shallow waters, dodging turrets, and mortar fire, she barely escaped.
Things have changed now. They were stronger. Mira’s hands shook with eager nervousness as Diamond Hands explained his plan of attack. It wasn’t for the battle, but the thought of feeling the pulse of Ruby energy flowing through her body again. Subtly shaking her head to remove the selfish thoughts taking centre stage in her mind. Reminding herself again that it was about the resources they would gather that would help the base.
The raid group moved out under clear sapphire blue skies. Columns of tanks, soldiers, and cargo haulers moved over the rolling hills, all under the watchful eyes of AI helicopters of their own. Their bases defenses were ready to face any attackers thinking to take advantage of their absence. Guarded by turrets, mortars, and eagle-eyed snipers, and devoted soldiers. They followed a direct course to the marshes, churning up dark, muddy soil in their wake from the treads of tanks, and soldier’s boots. No one dwelled on the possibility of failure, everyone was focused on victory. Diamond Hands always preached that a positively focused mind could accomplish the impossible when it did not dwell on the possibility of defeat.
Spirits were high and soon the raid group found themselves camped out at the base of a large hill that bordered the marsh, affording them cover from the bases radar. Mira lay prone at its peak, binoculars focused on the base that looked like a metallic island in a sea brackish water. Turrets could be seen scanning the fog shrouded land, and a couple sniper towers kept a watchful vigil over the base. It looked relatively quiet. Too quiet.
“It looks like nobody’s around? It’s hard to tell with the fog,” Mira said with a nervous tone.
“Scans show that there are people in the base, but the fog is making it hard to determine if it’s soldiers or laborers. We won’t know the extent of their power until we attack,” Diamond Hands noted calmly next to her, scanning with his own set of binoculars.
“In that case, we can take out their power grid and disable most of the automated defenses,” Mira suggested as she scanned the base.
“Daphne, are there any reports coming back from the scouting drones?” DH asked through the comms, Mira looked at him as the static of the radio crackled as he waited for an answer.
“Reports are just coming in now sir,” Daphne, a reliable sniper and scout replied, she was stationed on another hill a few miles away using aerial drones to scan the surrounding area in case they had troops hiding in the marshland.
“Must be our lucky day boss,” Daphne reported with an upbeat tone, “There are traces of a sizable force that moved westward to attack another base.”
Mira and Diamond Hands looked at each other with mischievous grins, they caught the base with their forces out during a raid. It didn’t mean it wouldn’t be a tough fight, but it would make things easier. The opportunity was too good to pass up, so they quickly descended the hill back to camp. At Diamond Hands orders, tanks rolled over the hill and into the thick fog. Knowing that they were just beyond the range of the turret’s, tank barrels raised towards the sky. The quiet landscape soon shuddered under the thundering of their fire; flocks of birds flew out of the protection of the treetops. Shells rained down hitting the walls with loud thuds, blasting apart trees, and creating pillars of water. The southern defenses were destroyed in a twist of metal and fire. As soon as the air defenses were disabled, a squad of AI helicopters lifted off from the staging area and descended towards the base. Red tracers of gun fire dotted the sky as the defenders tried to stop the attack, but the AI choppers were covered by another volley of tank fire. The attack was done with precision. Just as they had planned, taking out the power generator, and the remaining defenses on the north side of the base faltered.
Mira and Diamond Hands soon found themselves walking through the lanes of the base. Their troops moved quickly to secure the base’s resources and load up the transport vehicles with gold, oil, and precious Ruby. The workers and scientists unable to get to the bunker under the Headquarters surrendered and sat under the watchful eyes of their captors. Feeling confident that everything was organized, the two heroes were able to focus their attention on the research facility. Walking through the familiar halls that greeted anyone who walked through the RHDI supplied buildings. Mira began typing feverishly on the central lab’s main console, looking for any research files worth their while.
“I can’t stop this feeling that this was too…” Mira said before trailing off.
“Too easy,” Diamond Hands finished as Mira nodded in agreement.
“Here,” she said triumphantly as something activated. Their gazes turned to a far wall where a thin white line of light suddenly appeared exposing a hidden door. It pushed outward before sliding open with a hiss, exposing another room.
An update from Daphne crackled over the radio letting them both know that the secured resources were on their way back to base. “Thanks Daphne but stay vigilant. I don’t want to be caught with our hands tied behind our backs out here,” DH replied.
“Sure thing Boss,” Daphne replied exuberantly.
The two entered the hidden room, and here they found what Mira was hoping to find, the familiar technology that harnessed the Ruby for human infusion. Ignoring the equipment, Mira walked over to a stack of crates that was pushed against the wall. A pit of unease filled her stomach when she saw three letters laser etched on their surface, “BHK”.
“DH, look at this,” Mira forced herself to speak through growing nausea.
As he approached, Mira started to pry the lid off with a small pry bar from her utility belt. Removing the lid, they were both bathed in a familiar crimson glow. A perfectly cut Ruby was nestled peacefully inside, a soft light seemed to swirl deep within the facets of the surface in a hypnotic dance.
Reaching in, Mira pulled out the Ruby and held it aloft before her and Diamond Hands. “Just a coincidence,” she growled in disdain with a hint of “I told you so”.
“Whatever it means Mira, doesn’t change the fact that we need to stay focused,” He replied, taking a hold of the Ruby from her hand. His large, diamond fingers wrapped around the gem gently, its light refracting through the curves of his diamond skin. Looking at the gem, he couldn’t help but get lost in the sight of the gem and its beauty. If it could enhance Mira, then would it be able to make him stronger? The temptation to crush the ruby then and there screamed at him, but with a deep breath, he placed it back in the crate.
“We just caught a break DH,” Mira said excitedly, working up from their find. Reaching out to grab the Ruby her friend just put back in the crate, but he beat her to it, by placing the lid back on top.
“Mira,” Diamond Hands warned as he saw the appalled look on her face as he closed the lid, “If this represents anything, even the slightest chance of exposing some weird conspiracy, then we need to bring it back to base. This could be what can convince the RHDI,” he added sternly. He saw the struggle in her face, as she strained to control the temptation within.
“You worry too much DH,” she replied with an awkward chuckle as she hesitantly walked away from him to leave the room.
Diamond Hands watched as she left, then looked back down at the crates before him. What did this mean? Who was this Big Hammer King? An uneasy feeling crept into his stomach he realized how much his mind twisted into a realm of unending possibilities.
“Sir,” Daphne’s panicked voice crackled over the comms suddenly.
“Report,” Diamond Hands answered intensely, Mira turned back to the room with a concerned gaze.
“Troops… advancing…north” Daphne’s broke apart with interference. Before DH could respond the building shook as an explosion sound outside. They ran out of the research facility to see buildings aflame, the shrill whistles of another volley starting their descent.
“I need everyone at the north gate, now,” Diamond Hands ordered frantically as they ran to the north wall.
“Get snipers on those towers. I need our tanks here ASAP to give supporting fire.” DH tried to relay over the comms, but only static answers.
“Uh, DH,” Mira said with a nervous crack of her voice. His eyes followed hers to the far north, dark dots rising over the distant trees like ominous clouds. A fleet of Whale blimps slowly drifting their way.
“We either have bad luck or this is a trap,” Mira growled with frustration.
“You,” he proclaimed as he pointed with a diamond finger towards a soldier who seemed shocked to be pointed out. “Run with all your might to our camp. Radios are jammed, and I need our tanks redeployed to counter their advance,” the soldier nodded as he absorbed every word. “And get those choppers up as well.” The soldier ran off to the south.
DH looked over to Mira, “the base still has defenses, see what you can do to get them back up and running. If those blimps reach us, we are not going to have a good day”
Mira nodded with determination, turned, and ran back towards the base’s headquarters.
Mira quickly found herself at the main console within the HQ. Fingers danced over keys as she frantically pulled up the defense diagnostics. The monitor displayed a grid of defenses, most showing a red outline signifying that they were no longer operational. The northern defenses were grayed out due to having no power. If she could reroute the power from another system, then she could reactivate them. Her fingers worked with a blurred ferocity as she reprogramed the defenses to target the enemy forces. Then she slammed her fists down in frustration, as the power had to be diverted manually. She looked at her map to find the location of the power system and hoped that the damage wasn’t too severe. The base rumbled as more tank shells landed outside. The whale blimps were slow, but it would be game over when they arrived. Then something caught her eye on the map, something she could use if the situation became dire. Knowing what she had to do next, she ran from the HQ and to her next task.
Diamond Hands roared orders from the northern wall, his troops aiming their fire to try and slow the enemy advance. The fog churned and swirled where tank fire erupted, but it was difficult to see anything else. The whale blimps growing larger every second, an indicator of their pending doom. What luck that another base chose to attack at the same time? he cursed to himself. The sudden sound of propeller blades hummed in the distant restoring hope in the defenders as their AI choppers arose over the hills to the south. The warning cries of enemy troops lifted through the fog warning of the approaching counterattack. The helicopters flew overhead, sending their downdraft into the marsh below, dissolving the fog in churning whisps, exposing the forces hidden within. Tanks sat in a semi-circle formation, surrounded by battalions of soldiers who began to open fire to cover the tanks.
“Open fire,” DH screamed, and his troops didn’t hesitate.
Mira made it to the base’s power station where a sniper tower had collapsed severing the power lines that connected to the defenses. Gun fire popped in the north, and she knew her forces were being pressured. If they couldn’t cover their retreat, they would be caught out in the open and destroyed, and time was running out. Her eyes darted around the twist of metal and wires, trying to figure out the best way to reconnect the lines, and fast.
Diamond Hands watched as their helicopters harried the enemy forces with strafing runs in circular patterns around the cluster of units using machine guns to pepper the soldiers. Switching to their missiles to decimate the tanks. A line of white smoke lifted from the ground causing one of the helicopters to fall in a ball of fire. Do they have rocket launchers? DH worried. One enemy tank broke free of the group and slowly approached the north gate, barrel lowered. Its blast rocked the wall causing a few soldiers to lose their balance, as the gate groaned in protest.
“Get those helicopters to focus on that tank,” DH growled over the comms, hoping his message got through the interference.
The squad of helicopters made a large circle over the fog-strewn marshland for another attack, approaching low as they lined up their shots. The lead tank shot again, the gate shifting more as it strained to hold on. The tank blew apart as the chopper’s rockets hit true, soldiers cheered in a momentary victory, but it was short lived. A rocket blasted another helicopter out of the sky, tearing the propeller off like a buzz saw and into a trailing chopper. Slicing through the shocked face of the digital display and leaving it in a shower of sparks as it crashed to the ground. Diamond Hands looked to see a figure materialize out of the fog, a rocket launcher slung over his shoulder. It was a tall, broad-shouldered Doge warrior from the sun pelted deserts of Dogeria. A crossed scar on his chin, and a long scar over his left eye. Howling in delight as the gate fell with a large splash, as his troops ran past him to breach the base.
Mira was frantically unspooled by a thin line of copper wire when the blast that felled the main gate struck. A part of her wanted to run to the breach to help fight back the forces, but she knew her job was more important. Quickly twisting the wire around the node where the previous wire was severed. Feeling that it was secure, she quickly looked upward to where she had to climb to connect it to the base’s defenses. With a quick breath, she bounded up the wreckage of the fallen tower. Leaping and pulling herself up to the top of the eastern wall. The whale blimps loomed precariously close and she knew she was running out of time.
“Fall back,” Diamond Hands ordered, as he moved from the wall, “I need a covered retreat to the centre of the base to take up defensive positions.” Soldiers relayed the order down the line, and they started to move.
Feelings of doubt, fear, and disappointment rolled around DH’s mind. He had failed his soldiers. He watched as the Doge warrior walked calmly towards the gate. The Doge warrior smirked as he lifted his rocket launcher and took aim. The blast was followed by the screams of Diamond Hands troops as it hit one of their defensive positions on the wall. DH winced as he watched his soldiers disappear in a ball of fire. DH growled with defiance. No, they would not lose today. Grabbing the railing, he leapt over and landed in front of the breached gate, to the surprise of two enemy soldiers. He punched one, sending him flying backwards like a ragdoll. The other he backhanded with a slap. Strutting before him was the Doge warrior, a malicious look in his eyes.
Diamond Hands clenched his fists as the warrior calmly dropped his launcher to the ground. The Doge charged forward, closing the distance quickly, jumping to tackle DH. DH brought his hands up and rolled backwards just as the Doge connected. Using the momentum of the Doge he kicked up with his feet and sent the Doge flying backwards. DH quickly got to his feet and turned to face his opponent. To his surprise the Doge tumbled but regained his footing quickly with the shrill sound of claws scraping against the metallic ground. Instead of running back to counter the attack, the Doge grinned, bowed, then turned and ran into the base.
Mira watched from above as Diamond Hands chased after the Doge warrior. Biting her lip as she carefully tugged on the copper wire behind her. Their choppers were shot down. The whale blimps were almost upon them. Focusing as she unscrewed and removed a panel at the turret’s base. Mira was grateful to see everything was still intact. Unspooling a few more feet of wire, she cut the remaining length needed and attached it to the appropriate point. A spark flashed and the defense system whirled to life. Down the line, the anti-air defense systems awoke. Mira fell back in relief as she watched lines of missiles launched towards the approaching whale blimps. The leading blimp tried to take evasive maneuvers, but it was too late, erupting in a ball of fire and fell to the ground in a grand explosion. The other blimps tried to turn away, filling the air with chaff to throw off the guidance systems of the missiles. The blimps fell from the sky, their blasts evaporating the fog that covered the marsh. The threat of the blimps was avoided for now, but up here Mira saw the size of the enemy forces, and it was massive. Turning towards where she heard the frantic cries of her soldiers as they fought in the lanes of the base. She had a responsibility to her soldiers, and she was not going to leave them to fall.
Diamond Hands chased the Doge warrior through the base, and towards the research facility. With a quick motion, he picked up a lid of an empty metal crate and launched it at the back of the Doge. It flew with furious accuracy, but the Doge warrior suddenly leapt up into a backflip, the metal disc gliding just under him. The Doge landed unhindered by the attack and kept running. Diamond Hands was shocked the Doge sensed the attack, let alone dodge it. Then the Doge disappeared into the research facility, DH not far behind.
Diamond Hands knew exactly what the Doge was after as he entered the main, circular room of the facility. Stopping as he saw the Doge standing between him and the doorway of the hidden lab, cracking his knuckles, and chuckling.
“I will say this Ape,” the Doge mocked with a low voice, “You and your troops have put up a valiant fight, but playtime is over.”
“That’s too bad,” Diamond Hands responded calmly, rolling his shoulders back and craning his neck to each side, “I was just starting to have fun.”
“Cute,” the Doge replied as he eyed up his opponent, “you and your troops could just flee. Leave the ruby you have claimed. No retaliation will be made.”
Diamond Hands eyed the Doge with suspicion, “Is that so?” he asked stepping closer, “Is that your offer? Or are you just a lap dog for the Big Hammer King?”
The Doge warrior snarled at the mention of the name, baring his teeth. DH sized up his opponent as he tightened his diamond fingers into a fist.
The two charged at each other with ferocity. DH planted both hands against the floor and swung his feet forward, launching into the air feet first towards the Doge. The Doge flexed his chest outward as DH’s feet connected, but it was as if he kicked a mountain. Falling to his back, he rolled back to his feet just as the Doge slashed with his razor-sharp claws just missing him, leaving deep gouges in the metal floor. DH’s eyes widened at the torn metal inflicted.
DH backpedaled quickly as the Doge warrior pressed the attack, a frenzy of claws. DH did what he could to desperately twist and dodge the attacks. The Doge was experienced and was easily able to maintain his advantage. DH feigned an attack, the Doge moved to block, and DH connected a right hook that connected with the Doge’s jaw with a sickening crack. The blow would have felled any opponent, but DH watched in awe as the Doge stumbled backward but did not fall. Shaking his head, he just nodded with a crazed grin.
Diamond Hands jumped to the side, narrowly avoiding another flurry of clawed hands. Rolling to his feet he jumped into the hidden lab. But the Doge tackled him before he could close the door behind him. DH’s feet slid across the floor and did everything he could to anchor his feet to not fall. Shifting his weight, he moved his shoulder and was able to force it under the chin of the Doge, lifting with all his strength. The Doge flailed his feet as DH picked him off the floor. Falling backwards, DH slammed the Doge into the lab table, sending glass and equipment everywhere. Taking advantage of the moment, DH moved to the stacked crates against the wall and what he felt was in only hope to get out of this mess.
“I didn’t expect the infamous King Diamond Hands to hit like a human,” the Doge mocked from across the room as he brushed off glass from his fir, “Pathetic.”
Diamond Hands’ eyes narrowed as he met the gaze of the Doge warrior. Flipping the already loose lid from the crate he and Mira found earlier and reached within. Ruby light refracted through his diamond hand as he held the ruby aloft. Crushing it instantly in view of the Doge, who watched as arcs of red energy coursed through DH’s body. It was unlike anything DH had ever experienced. His muscles tensed. His heart felt like it would burst, and he was unable to breathe. It ended as quickly as it began, he was on one knee, hand on the floor. Watching the crimson swirl within his shaking, diamond hands.
“Well played Ape,” the Doge said with an appreciative nod, then he attacked.
DH brought up his arms to block the blow, but the Doge hit him with more force than DH thought possible. Before he even realized what happened, the Doge spun him by the arms and threw him out of the lab. It surprised DH how quickly his senses came back, and how easily it was to shrug off the daze. He already had his feet anchored and was squared up to the Doge as he sauntered out of the hidden lab.
“You really think that Ruby power is going to be enough to stop me, Chad,” the Doge chuckled with his arms held out wide in reverence of himself.
“If I am meant to know you, you are mistaken. You look like every other flea-bitten runt,” Diamond Hands countered.
Chad attacked. DH saw every movement play out before him, yet it still wasn’t enough. The speed and strength of his opponent was beyond what DH could handle, even with the Ruby infusion. Punches landed in a frenzy, and soon he felt the room spin Doge picked him up again. Spinning quickly, he let DH go and he flew through the glass door of the main entrance, into the brightly lit hallway. Stars filled his vision, the sounds of the approaching steps of the Doge warrior seemed faint. DH felt a line of blood trickle down his face. Suddenly, the Doge grabbed him, forcing DH to his feet to face him. The next punch made everything go dark. DH didn’t feel his body tumble and roll through the hallway. His senses faded; he couldn’t make out the laughter of the Doge as he licked his lips in anticipation of the victory at hand.
“Sad really,” The Doge sighed disapprovingly, “I was hoping you’d put up a better fight, but I guess it’s true about the fading strength of the gorilla kingdom.”
Diamond Hands eyes shot open in anger as he suddenly felt energy coursing through him. The Doge nodded with a look of appreciation as DH got to his feet and faced him.
“You know that it is only a matter of time before the troops of this base are back, what will you do then?” Diamond Hands responded to give him a few moments reprieve.
“This base is our ally, you idiot. We arrived because you attacked it. You are taking what doesn’t belong to you,” Chad laughed.
“That’s what this is all about?” DH shook his head in disgust, “the Big Hammer King?”
Chad shrugged innocently then grinned menacingly as he readied for another attack.
“Remember to focus on what you can control,” DH’s own advice echoed in his mind. Within the calm he felt a growing pulse. Time almost slowed, and he saw the muscles of the Doge’s legs strain from his initial push. With a growl, DH slammed his crimson hued hands together in a mighty clap. When they connected, a discharge of energy erupted, sending a concussive wave down the hall. The Doge flew back as if hit with a torrent of wind, disappearing through the entry at the end of the hall. Arcs of red energy caused sparks to erupt from the lights, showering the hall in sparks. DH looked at his hands in stunned silence. Chad got back to his feet, his fur was charred, yet he chuckled with sadistic glee.
“That’s more like it,” Chad growled as he stalked closer.
Mira led the defensive retreat to the south gate. The attacking forces had begun to reclaim the fallen base. The only goal at this point was to get everyone out alive. Her forces were decimated and there was nothing left to slow the enemy advance. Those left were wounded and exhausted, the situation growing dire by the moment. Worst of all, she had lost contact with Diamond Hands.
“Mira,” Daphne cried out over the comms.
“Report,” Mira answered as she took cover, the signal thankfully clear.
“The enemy has taken the base and are sending the rest of their tanks to flank your position. Our tanks won’t be enough to cover you,” Daphne warned.
Desperation filled Mira’s mind. What could she do? Then it hit her, she forgot about the ace in her sleeve. Quickly gauging her position, she knew it wasn’t far, and it was now or never.
“I need covering fire,” she ordered, her troops looking at her with confusion, “Once I am out of site, I want you all to get out of here.”
Her soldiers followed her orders without question as she jumped out from behind cover. Bullets ricocheted off the walls and barriers nearby, as Mira’s soldiers returned fire. Quickly turning down a small alley between two warehouses, she found her way to an empty lane where the warehouse was located. Activating the overhead door, she watched with eager anticipation. Metal racking filled the interior, all stacked with small, green, automated vehicles. Suicide Cars. The dark screens of their main displays were blank as Mira ran to a console within.
Finding the console, she quickly activated the vehicles inside. The room lit up as the blank displayed rows of happy faces. Mira quickly inputted their trajectories. Picking key points for the cars to impact to help cover their retreat.
“If everyone can here me, clear out now, I’m releasing Suicide Cars,” Mira ordered, hoping that the message got through. Without hesitation she pushed the button on her display labelled “Execute”.
Diamond Hand’s felt the intensity of the ruby energy course through his body. The Doge warrior wrenched free a thick metal pipe from the wall as he walked towards him. The two warriors stared down at each other. Doubt filled DH’s mind as he wondered if he was strong enough to beat him. The only thing on his mind was if Mira and the troops had gotten away safely. Letting go of the fear within, he pounded his fists against his chest and screamed a battle cry.
DH caught the wrist of the Doge as he swung with the pipe. Catching the other fist in his offhand. They strained as they both tried to overpower the other. DH called upon every ounce of strength, but he felt his hold waning. Chad brought his face close to his, teeth bared, the rank stench of his warm breath fell over him.
“You know,” Diamond Hands said through his strained voice, “you should brush your teeth.” Before the Doge could react, DH headbutted the Doge.
DH felt the strength of the Doge abate from the stunning blow. Pulling him low to knee him in the face. Wrenching the pipe free with, he swung with all his might, striking the Doge in the face. DH leapt with a mighty scream he slammed his glowing red fists onto the prone Doge. The force of the slam caved in the metal floor, as more red arcs of energy coiled around the hallway. Looking down on the unconscious Doge, his tongue hanging out in a dazed smile.
“If everyone can here me, clear out of the base immediately, I’m releasing Suicide Cars,” Mira’s voice screamed over the comms. Diamond Hands eyes shot open at the revelation. He ran from the researching facility leaving the Doge behind.
Mira used her grapple gun to climb over the south wall and regrouped with the rest of her troops.
“Go, go, go,” Mira screamed as they ran for cover.
Gun fire nipped at their heels as they retreated to the hills through murky waters. High-pitched engines emanated from over the gunfire, as the enemy looked around with confusion. Suicide cars drove throughout the base, smiling faces on their displays as they drove to their targets. Mira glanced back on more time at the base, no sign of Diamond Hands could be seen, her heart sank.
The suicide cars exploded all around the base, causing the metal panels of the base to shift, sink, and collapse. Buildings tumbled, soldiers fell, and towers fell. Mira’s eyes lit up as she spotted DH running through the chaos. Up collapsing walls, swinging from wires over a sea of flames. Propelling himself through the south gate and landing in a great splash. Mira ran forward and wrapped her arms around him. The soldiers, tired and exhausted, cheered in triumph. They made it; they had escaped.
The weary survivors limped through the gates of their main base a few days later. Medics tended to the soldiers who were barely held on. The resources were distributed accordingly to upgrade their defenses and vehicles. Disappointment permeated the air after the near defeat. Mira sensed the change in DH during the trek back. Seeing him miraculously escaping the base, she knew he wouldn’t have been able to do that on his own. The soft glint of red in his hands showed her the truth he desperately tried to hide. It was an exhilarating feeling, she knew. But now he knew what was at stake. After the base had calmed down, Mira looked all over to find her friend and mentor. To her surprise, she found him on top of the Control Tower, resting against the base of the radar.
“Banana for your thoughts?” she dared to ask playfully, he just grunted in response. “You can try and avoid this talk all you want, but it’s better to just get it over with,” she added as she sat down next to him.
“I didn’t want it to be true,” he said with a gloomy tone, hanging his head, “Ruby, the Big Hammer King.” His face locked inn a look of torment.
“It’s going to be okay DH,” she reassured, putting her small hand on his massive shoulder.
“I have never felt so powerless,” he admitted, “Even after I felt the infusion with the Ruby,” he paused, trying to find the words, “it was as if it wasn’t enough to stop him.”
“But you did,” she responded triumphantly, “you stopped the Doge warrior and escaped.”
“Barely, Mira,” he corrected, “we barely escaped. If you hadn’t thought of using those suicide cars, we wouldn’t be sitting here now.”
“So, we push forward. We get stronger.” Mira said with inspired determination, “We do everything in our power to stop this Big Hammer King.”
Diamond Hands nodded approvingly, “I came here to provide my people a chance to thrive, to show that war was not our future,” he sighed, “I hoped to show them a better way.”
“If we don’t do something, then war will be unavoidable. That scares me more.” Mira responded solemnly.
The thought of war again devastating the lush jungles of his homeland again, sent a shiver through his body. He didn’t want the next generation to suffer what others had to endure around the world
“We won’t be able to do this alone,” the King Gorilla warned as he looked towards Mira with a concerned gaze.
“Then we get allies,” she countered with a smile, “If the Big Hammer King can get others to fight for him, then we can do it as well.” She stood up and walked to the edge of the tower.
“How many others are here just like us? If we can reach out to the right people, we can create a network of allies that could rival the Big Hammer King.” Mira’s gaze locked onto the large Ruby in the distance, its crimson surface drank the light of the setting sun.
“Okay,” DH replied with a hopeful grin, “where do we start?”
