My Glide On Death

Chapter 4: A Comrade to Find, A Nemesis to Vanquish

I woke up to find Nicholas sitting in my room, his face unusually grim.

"What's wrong, Nicholas?" I asked, yawning.

Before he could answer, Hastings walked in.

"So, you're awake? Did you rest well?" he asked.

"Yes, but something feels off. What's going on?" I replied.

"We'll get to that. But first, do you have the Rubik's cube?" Hastings asked.

I opened the drawer beside me. "Here it is. But wasn't I only supposed to collect this? Why are you asking like someone's been chasing me for it?"

"Nicholas didn't tell you?" Hastings began, but Nicholas interrupted.

"He just woke up."

"I see. Well, let's cut to the chase, Gust. Maki Rodrigo, your fellow pilot, has gone missing..."

"What? How-" I began, but Hastings raised his hand to stop me.

"Let me finish. As you know, she left for Mars five years before you to gather intel on the M.P. She was supposed to assist you once your ship was ready. Maki did an excellent job, providing us with critical information. But for the past seven days, we've lost all contact with her.

We have spies on Mars, but they've found nothing. When you head to Mars, you can either focus solely on your mission or try to find her first. I know you'll probably choose the latter, but be warned-it's dangerous. We hope she's still alive."

I was silent for a moment, letting out a deep sigh. "Of course I'll look for her. She's a pilot, just like me. It's my duty to help her-and anyone else in need. But what about the intel she provided?"

"I'll tell you when the time comes. For now, focus on the mission. You leave for Mars tomorrow," Hastings said.

"One more thing," he added. "Maki had access to some of our most advanced technology and weapons. If you can, try to recover them as well."

"And the cube?" I asked.

"That was given to you by Colbert. No one was chasing you-I just wanted to make sure you got it," Hastings replied. "As for Colbert, I have no idea where he is, so don't bother asking. You know how he operates-he does whatever he pleases. We hear from him maybe once or twice a month, and the rest of the time, no one knows where he vanishes to. He contacted us six days ago and mentioned that he had left the cube for you. Who knows what goes on in his head. Honestly, what does he think of himself? Meh!"

Hastings exited the room.

"I'll go check on things at home. I asked the gardener to clear the bin, but I want to see it for myself. It could turn into a police matter." Nicholas said. His face was still gloomy.

"Alright, and while you're there, bring me the supersonic daggers from my weapon cabinet for the mission." I added.

"Have you forgotten about the personalized weapons Hastings took charge of?"

"It's only been a month. How could he..."

"Apologies for the interruption, but Gust, your personalized weapons and armor have just arrived. Come take a look."

"Oh..okay" I replied.

"I'll go then. You take a look at the weapons. I'll be back in an hour." Nicholas left.

I stepped into the sitting room, my eyes immediately drawn to the armor set displayed on the table. It wasn't just equipment; it was a marvel of futuristic engineering, each piece exuding power and precision.