Shi No Numa

The soldier was lead into the room and ordered to sit in the single chair that had been placed in the centre of the room. The room was lit by a single naked bulb that hung directly over the chair, the soldier sat down unconcerned; hed been in this sort of situation before while in Japan as a prisoner of war. This was the third time he had been brought to this room, it was always the same; he would be sat in the chair and a few minutes later two bright spotlights were switched on in front of him, then a disembodied voice would begin to question him. The soldier sat in the chair and pulled a cigar from his pocket. He lit it ust as the spotlights came on. Then, as regular as clockwork, the unseen speaker began his questioning. !"ergeant #empsey, give us your report on the $ittenau "anitorium operation. %s the only survivor were relying on you to give us the facts as to what happened.& "ergeant Joseph 'Tank #empsey of the (" )arines leaned back in his chair and blew a stream of smoke. !* already told you, we were attacked by +ombies, they slaughtered my squad and the maggot, ridden freaks nearly had me as well. *f it hadnt been for those strange drinks in that place * probably wouldnt be talking to you right now.& !Thats what were interested in "ergeant, these drinks you mentioned could be weapons developed by the -a+is. *t theyre as powerful as you say, they could turn the tide of the war in .ermanys favour. $e need as much information about them as we can possibly get. %lso, we may have an unprecedented opportunity to gain some actual samples.& Tank took a final draw on his cigar and crushed it beneath his boot. !/et me guess; you want old Tank here to go in and secure these samples then bring them back to you all safe and sound, along with myself of course.& Tank squinted at the bright lights, trying to see the men standing behind. !%re any of you guys going to show yourselves0& $hen no,one responded he laughed. !1ine, * dont need to know who you are. Just point me in the direction of those undead freak,bags and *ll do the rest.& !-ot so fast "ergeant, we still need you to confirm your report on the events at $ittenau. The sooner you tell us the sooner we can get you on the way to your ne2t mission.& "o Tank #empsey told his story again, he told of how he and the other five members of his squad had parachuted into .ermany and made their way to the sanatorium. He told them how they gained entry, became separated and started the power. !Thats when things got interesting.& #empsey said. !The +ombies ust kept coming, 3olonski and #ean were the first to go down, and thats when we discovered the weird drinks.& #empsey then described the drinks and the reported effects of them before continuing with his combat report. !45 *ve told you everything * can.& #empsey said a few hours later. !$e spent two days in that hell, hole. Johnston and * were the only survivors but he got hit by a land,mine. -ow is that enough for you0 *m ready to go on this new mission.& The spotlights were switched off and the disembodied voice spoke again. !6ery well "ergeant #empsey. 7our new orders are as follows8 you are to go back to the 3acific, to an island one hundred and fifteen miles north,east of 3eliliu. $e have reliable intelligence which leads us to believe that the island is another -a+i facility similar to the one found at $ittenau. The facility is located in a swamp deep in the ungle, your task is to gain entry to the facility and secure samples of the 'weird drinks that you described in your report. 7ou are also under orders to rescue any facility personnel that you might find.& Tank nodded and lit another cigar. !"ounds like a lot of fun.& The )arine drew his combat knife and began picking at his fingernails distractedly. !*s this a solo mission or have you got someone to keep me company0&

!7ou will have support.& The voice replied. !7our transport leaves in one hour, you have forty,five minutes to ready up.& 9 9 9 9 9 Tank umped from the back of the eep that took him out to the :;< transport plane that would take him and his team to 3eliliu. He still hadnt met his team, they must be already on the plane. !Has anyone else showed up0& #empsey shouted at the crew,chief, his voice was barely audible over the noise of the planes engines. The crew,chief pointed over his shoulder. !Theyre inside. 7oull know them when you see them.& #empsey slung his gear and climbed aboard, as he stepped into the troop area he was instantly hit by the smell of vodka. !$ho the fucks drinking on the ob0& He shouted as he advanced towards two men who were seated at the front. !That would be me my friend.& % foreign voice said and one of the men rose from his seat. He was wearing a dirty uniform and a green balaclava and his uniform bore the insignia of the =ussian %rmy. !3rivate -ikolai >elinski.& The =ussian said. !7ou must be "ergeant #empsey.& !$hat the hell is a =ussian doing on an %merican military transport0& #empsey asked menacingly, his hand drifting to where he kept his )?@?? pistol. -ikolai laughed and took a swig from a small flask. !$ait till you see the other guy. 7ou will shit your pants.& #empsey turned as the second man got up from his seat. His aw dropped, the man before him wore the uniform and cap of the *mperial %rmed 1orces, a .od,damn JapA The same bastards that captured his unit on 3eliliu and imprisoned him in a rat,infested bamboo cage submerged in malarial water. *t was two weeks before Tank was able to gnaw his way through the cage and then on through his captors armed only with a bobby,pin and his )edal of Honour Bwhich he kept secreted in various body cavitiesC. #empsey pulled out his pistol and levelled it at the man before him. -ikolai sniggered drunkenly and took a long swig from his flask. The Japanese officer simply bowed low to #empsey. !*t is a great honour to meet you "ergeant #empsey. )y name is Takeo )asaki and * serve as a :aptain in His )a estys *mperial %rmy.& Takeo kept his steady ga+e on the )arine sergeant. !The Dmperor wishes us three to work together, it would displease him if one of us were to die now.& %fter a few moments #empsey lowered his pistol. !* always said * could work with anyone, * guess thisll prove it. >ut *m watching you Takeo, ust remember that.& #empsey sat down and strapped himself in. !its around si2 hours flight time to 3eliliu. $e might as well hear how we all ended up here.& -ikolai sat ne2t to #empsey and offered him the flask, #empsey refused. -ikolai shrugged and took a drink himself before speaking. !* was veteran of the $inter $ar, * received the 4rder of /enin for what * did. Then the .ermans captured me and my squad, they took us to a work,camp deep in the mountains. *t was terrible, we were unfed and badly treated, then people started to go missing, some of them returned, most didnt, but some did. Those that came back were different, as if they were in some sort of trance. They didnt respond to anything, even when the .ermans came to beat them they didnt even try and protect themselves.& -ikolai paused and had another drink, his eyes were gla+ed as he continued. !)onths went by until only myself and two of my comrades remained from the squad. 4ne night %le2i went missing from his bed, * followed him and thats when * saw the full horror of the camp. They had been e2perimenting on the prisoners in every way imaginable; operating tables lay covered in partially dissected bodies, there were even a few that were still alive. They had their legs removed but they were still alive. %t the back of the room was a cage containing the missing prisoners, when * entered they began moaning and

rattling the bars, * tried to quiet them but they wouldnt listen. * saw four of my comrades in that cage so * released the lock to free them, but by the time * realised my mistake it was too late.& !"kip the sentimental crap -ikolai.& #empsey said. !$hats the point of this story0& He lurched forward as the plane accelerated for take,off. !The prisoners charged as soon as the cage was opened, they became wild and feral as they stormed out and into the camp, then the screaming started. * rushed back into the prisoner area ust as the guards began shooting, * saw people take three or four shots to the chest but they would not die, they simply carried on advancing. They carried no weapons but they managed to overwhelm the guards with nothing more than their hands and teeth. *t was the most gruesome sight *ve ever seen.& !Eombies.& Takeo said quietly. #empsey looked at him thoughtfully. !Eombies indeed.& -ikolai nodded. !* took a pistol from a dead guard and managed to escape. $hile * was hiding in the woods, * saw a .erman paratrooper regiment enter the camp. The fighting in there lasted three days, and maybe a hundred or so of them returned, the ne2t day the camp was burned to the ground. * managed to make my way to the %llied lines, made my report and before * can even have drink * am sent here.& The =ussian shook his head sadly. !$hat will happen if -ikolai runs out of vodka0& !"top drinking0& #empsey answered. !$hat * want to know is how come you were the only survivor of this camp0& -ikolai shrugged. !* do not know, perhaps it was the vodka *ve drunk over the years. Those creatures may not have appreciated the taste of good =ussian vodka.& The =ussian had another swig of vodka and closed his eyes. !4r it could be that *m ust incredibly lucky, like * was in the $inter $ar.& !/et us hope your luck holds out.& Takeo said. #empsey turned and glared at him. !"o whats your story To o0& The %merican asked. !/ast time * checked, you were the enemy.& !* am not your enemy "ergeant.& Take replied acidly. !4n another battlefield * would be, but * have sworn upon my honour to work with you. *f necessary * will save your life.& !$ould you like some vodka my slant,eyed friend0& -ikolai interrupted, thrusting his flask towards Takeo, who shook his head. !%lcohol is not for the honourable.& The Japanese soldier said carefully. !*t will not help you where we are going.& !%lright To o * asked you a question.& #empsey said. !$hat are you doing here and how the hell do you know where were going0& !7our superiors have informed you that our final destination is a swamp off the north,eastern coast of 3eliliu. This place was known locally as "hi -o -uma or the "wamp of the #ead, in that swamp there is a facility where horrible and dishonourable things have happened. There were stories of e2periments conducted on honourable Japanese soldiers, e2periments of the kind that -ikolai has witnessed.& -ikolai shuddered and drank more vodka as Takeo continued his story. #empsey had been silent throughout, lighting a cigar despite the fact that there was a 'no smoking policy enforced on (" military air transports. !)y brother served in the *mperial %ir 1orce but he was in ured on a routine flight. He was sent to a military hospital on 3eliliu and after si2 weeks he wrote to me and told me he was moving to a new facility. Two weeks after that he wrote to me telling of disappearances and strange noises and sights, that was the last * heard of him.& Takeo bowed his head for a moment. !* know he would have been honourable in his death.& He raised his head again. !Three weeks after Tanadas last letter my commander assigned me a task; to investigate the island Tanada was sent to. This was a sign from the gods and * accepted immediately. * selected ten of my best and most loyal men and we landed on the

island, within two hours of our arrival we had been attacked twelve times and lost si2 men. 4ur attackers were creatures in *mperial uniform and it took many rounds to bring one down a single foe.& !Just like the prison camp.& #empsey said. !:ome to think of it, thats ust like that mission in $ittenau. Thats why were, that means theres going to be +ombies when we get to this island. 1ucking great, why didnt * put in for a transfer when * had the chance0& -ikolai snored loudly, he had fallen into a drunken sleep and it was unlikely that he would awaken before they landed in 3eliliu. Takeo finished his story. !* had no choice but to call off the mission. )yself and the remaining three men retraced our steps, replenishing our weapons from our honourable fallen comrades. %long the way we fought off at least another four waves of attackers, losing one man whose death * witnessed myself. They tore him limb from limb, * could still hear him screaming as we fled to the boats, * took up the oars and rowed as fast as possible to our rende+vous site. $e were rescued and debriefed, shortly afterwards * was flown to %merica where * gave my report to your superiors. That report led to my being here with you "ergeant #empsey.& #empsey grunted. !)aybe were mot so different Takeo. %nyone who survives a +ombie attack must be one tough "4>.& !* am honoured #empsey.& Takeo replied. !Hopefully * shall not have the opportunity to witness your dishonourable death.& !7eah 45 whatever Takeo.& #empsey said. !Try and get some sleep, we might not get another chance once we reach 3eliliu.& 9 9 9 9 9

"even hours later the three men were standing in the open door of the :;< transport plane. *t had been dark when they landed in 3eliliu and no,one had noticed as they refuelled. The three men were issued with parachutes and were told they would be dropping directly into the facility. The previous assault attempt Bthe one Takeo had ledC had inserted by boat and were nowhere near the facility when they abandoned their mission, this was why Takeo, -ikolai and #empsey were now waiting for the green light to tell them to ump. The green light came on beside #empseys head, the %merican took a deep breath and hurled himself out into the darkness, closely followed by -ikolai and then by Takeo. They had umped using a static line system so their parachutes were deployed automatically and as they drifted down to land they could see buildings appear out of the mist. #empsey ad usted his approach and aimed for the closest roof, the other two men ad usted their own angles and followed #empsey. #empseys equipment bag hit the roof first, quickly followed by #empsey himself. He hit the release button to disengage his parachute and gathered his weapons as the other two made their own landings. !4k, lets find a way down from here and get inside.& #empsey said. "uddenly there was a strange howling sound that seemed to be coming from all around them. !$hat the fuckF& -ikolai began, then the roof beneath their feet gave way and the three men fell down into the building. 9 9 9 9 9

!$hat the fuck ust happened0& -ikolai asked as he picked himself up from the floor. !*t would appear that the roof collapsed around us.& Takeo commented. !$ay to states the obvious Takeo.& #empsey said. !%t least weve managed to get inside the place, lets have a look around. 5eep your weapons at the ready.&

Dach of the men was meant to be equipped with an )? :arbine and a :olt )?@?? pistol. (nfortunately when the three men fell through the roof, the bag containing their rifles was still on the high roof. %s a result, the three soldiers were armed with only their pistols plus four eight,round maga+ines. !$e need more honourable weapons.& Takeo said. !$hen these creatures come, they will come in large numbers and these pistols will be useless to us.& -ikolai began checking through the remains of the shelves that had collapsed when the men fell through. !-o weapons and no vodka. -othing but this old radio and that doesnt work.& The =ussian kicked the radio and a shower of sparks flew up, then the radio emitted an ear,piercing shriek which faded away to be replaced by a voice. R-4808n 37 14 06 115 48 40. I hope that you are receiving this transmission Peter, i not then a!! is going to "e !ost. #ou must $no% "y no% that %e ai!e& to contain the 'sy!um an& %e ha& to move the e(periment here. )ocation, the num"ers %i!! gui&e you. *he giant must remain+ at a!! costs, repeat, ,er Riese must remain+ at a!! costs. *he ,- e(periment continues. #ou.re our on!y a&vantage no%. /in& ,octor Richto en an& ,octor 0a(, they may $no% %hat.s going on. *he use o 115 is &angerous at "est. I.m not sure ho% much !onger %e can continue here. 1e.ve !ost most o our "est peop!e. I hope you get this, I hope I happen to "e there too "ut I.m a!most out o hope. 60 54 06 26 101 55 44 24. The radio shrieked again and went silent, #empsey nudged the radio gently with his foot. !4k, this is ust weird. /ets ust do what we came here to do and leave before those freakbags show up.& !*m afraid it will not be that simple %merican.& % new voice spoke and the trio turned to find that they had somehow gained a fourth member. The new addition stepped out from behind a pile of crates in the corner. He was dressed in a $ermacht :olonels uniform which was covered in dried and crusted blood. He was carrying a rifle which he held casually at his side as he studied the three men in front of him. *t was -ikolai who reacted first, in a heartbeat he had thrust the .erman officer against the wall and ammed the mu++le of his pistol into the soft flesh of the .ermans neck. !* should kill you where you stand, fucking -a+i.& He reached out and took the .ermans rifle and passed it to #empsey. !$ho are you and what are you doing here0& The =ussian said as he pulled back the pistols hammer. !6ery well.& The .erman said and -ikolai lowered the pistol. The .erman rubbed his neck and straightened his uniform before speaking. !* am :olonel =ichtofen of the .erman $ermacht. * was posted here as a special advisor to the pro ects that took place here.& !3ro ects involving honourable Japanese soldiers.& Takeo said as he gripped hilt of his katana, the traditional Japanese officers sword. !* have seen the monstrous results of these pro ects.& =ichtofen looked mildly offended at that comment. !)onstrous0 * have no idea what you are talking about. *n fact, * have never seen what the pro ects actually achieved, * have only heard rumours.& !>ullshit =ichtofen.& #empsey said calmly. !7ou said you were sent here as an advisor, how did you advise if you didnt know what they were doing0& =ichtofen hesitated for a split,second. !* was merely a special advisor on security issues. -ow if you dont mind, we have little time before those creatures attack, your arrival will have stirred them.& !*f these things are what * think they are then these pistols arent worth shit against these guys.& #empsey gestured at the file. !7ou got any other weapons around here, security advisor0& !* have a number of weapons cached around the entire compound.& The .erman officer replied. !4n this level * have %risakas and .ewehr;Gs but there is much better firepower elsewhere.& !"o why are we still sitting here0& -ikolai said. !$here are the better weapons0&

!*t is not that simple my :ossack friend.& =ichtofen said with a malevolent grin. !The routes have either been blocked up or locked. 7ou will notice that the windows are also barricaded, these help to slow down the creatures advance, which will in turn give us time to clear away debris and open the other routes.& =ichtofen gestured to the crates he had been sheltering behind.& !The weapons are in there, there is plenty of ammunition. $e had best get ready.& Takeo lifted a rifle and a bandolier. !The %risaka is an honourable weapon; with it * will kill many enemies.& He crossed the room to a nearby window. !The undead are approaching.& He raised the bolt, action %risaka and fired, the seven point seven millimetre round entered the head of the advancing +ombie causing it to e2plode. !*ts head is no moreA& He e2claimed as he worked the bolt to chamber another round. !There are more coming, some help would be appreciated.& The others grabbed weapons for themselves, they all took the semi,automatic .ewehr;G although #empsey was frustrated. !This weapon is weak, my :arbines more powerful and has a bigger mag. 1uck it, its freakbag killing timeA& He loaded a ten,round maga+ine and cocked the weapon, then he whirled round and saw that the creatures were tearing down the barricade at one of the other windows. #empsey emptied a full clip in the direction of the window; he reloaded and checked the damage. Two of the creatures were dead and a third was missing its legs, #empsey moved forward to replace the barricade but the legless +ombie was still trying to get through. Tank drew his knife and slashed it across the creatures throat causing it to moan sorrowfully and sink to the ground. !%rghA 7ou got dead flesh on my new bootsA& The %merican said as he hastily rebuilt the barricade in front of him. >y now the others had also began firing at the approaching creatures. =ichtofen fired his .ewehr;G in short precise bursts. !/et us drown in their agonyA& He shouted as he reloaded another ten,round maga+ine. !.ood work =ussian.& The .erman said as he saw -ikolai put two pistol bullets into a +ombies head. !5eep the fuck away from my vodkaA& -ikolai roared as one of the +ombies reached through the barricade to claw at his shoulder. He spun away from his attacker and emptied the rest of the pistol maga+ine into its chest, , the +ombie fell against the barricade and slid down to the ground. Three more of the creatures had gathered at -ikolais window so he primed a grenade and dropped it out the window. The =ussian switched to his .ewehr;G and emptied half a maga+ine into the +ombies until the grenade e2ploded. !>ack to Hell, "atans minionsA& He shouted gleefully as the blood showered over him. Takeo had been loading and firing steadily, driving the +ombies back with well,placed headshots but more and more were coming and the Japanese officer was slowly becoming overwhelmed. He fired the last round from the %risaka and fumbled for another clip, he had ust reloaded when the +ombies broke through the barricade. "everal of the creatures swarmed around him and Takeo switched to his pistol. !They have broken throughA& He shouted as he backed away from the window. -ikolai lobbed a grenade which e2ploded; eviscerating the +ombies and knocking Takeo to the ground. -ikolai stood over Takeo and helped him to his feet. !/ets all bow before the might Japanese warrior. %ssholeA& The =ussian thrust a .ewehr;G into Takeos hands. !This weapon will keep you alive for longer.& -ikolai turned back to his window and fired twice. !Theres a lot of them out there, maybe we should think about getting out of here.& =ichtofen fired the remainder of his clip into the lone +ombie at his window then finished it off with a few knife slashes. !.et out of my way schweinhundA& He shouted gleefully as the +ombie fell at his feet. !=ichtofenA& #empsey shouted as he dodged a +ombies arm. !$e have to moveA $hich way0& He reloaded his rifle and blasted the +ombie in front of him. !$heres the rest of the weapons0& !*m out of vodkaA& -ikolai shouted. !* mean ammoA& The =ussian reloaded his final maga+ine. !* dont think theres many of them left. $e can rela2.& !#o not be foolish =ussian.& Takeo said. !They attacked my squad and * in the same manner. $ave after wave of the undead menaces.&

Tank walked to the staircase and began dismantling the barricade. !*m not planning on becoming an appetiser for those meat,sacks.& Takeo oined him and together they moved a heavy crate. !=ichtofen, where does this staircase lead0 -ikolai, grab whatever ammos left and share it out.& Tank and Takeo removed the last crate and moved down the stairs. "traight ahead at the bottom was a door leading outside, a sign above it read ':omm =oom. 4ff to the right of the stairway was a large room, one of the walls had been removed to provide access to the outside. !/eave the door for now.& #empsey said, the four men were now gathered at the bottom of the stairs reloading their weapons with what little ammo they had left. !%lright =ichtofen, whats on this level0 .ive me the layout of the place.& =ichtofen looked around, as if unsure of what to say, then he began chuckling softly. !7ou do not know what you have done by coming here. $e will all perish, no matter what we know.& !7ou -a+i fuckA& -ikolai smashed the .erman in the face with the back of his hand. !-ikolai will not lay down and die, so tell us what we need to know.& =ichtofen rubbed his aw and sighed. !%ll * know is that this place was used to research the possibility of super,soldiers, but all they seemed to create were these +ombies. 1ollow me.& =ichtofen led them into the open area. !There are Thompson sub,machine guns and pump,action shotguns in here.& He paused and lifted a Thompson down from the wall which he gave to Takeo. !%t first they were able to contain the creatures, only creating a small number of +ombies each time, but something went wrong.& The .erman officer grinned maniacally. !%n unauthorised e2periment caused almost everything to re, animate. This facility also processed dead Japanese soldiers, all the corpses came back to life and we have been left with endless waves of *mperial undead.& =ichtofen turned away from the others and murmured under his breath. !)y creations, now we shall see how you fare.& -ikolai hefted a pump,action shotgun. !This looks like the weapon * killed my first wife with.& He grinned at the others. !$hat0 "he was bitch.& !$hat else is there =ichtofen0& #empsey asked. He knew that the -a+is were working on something else at this facility, although the +ombie outbreak problem more than likely put a stop to any other research. !$hat happened to all the other people here0& !They are all dead.& =ichtofen replied flatly as he turned back to face the others. !There is something else, something they were working on.& He stepped aside to reveal a standard $ermacht weapons crate, he opened the bo2 and lifted out an "T.;; assault rifle. He closed the crate and stepped away. !-ow one of you try it.& Tank walked forward and opened the crate. !%merican made, ust like me.& He said as he picked up a >rowning %utomatic =ifle. !How the fuck did it do that0& !* believe it is a weapons distribution device. * have no idea how it works but it will produce a random weapon each time it is opened.& =ichtofen opened the bo2 again and pulled out an )? .arand with a rifle grenade launcher attachment. !The weapons come with a full complement of ammunition. 4nce its empty you simply grab a new one.& !This is fucked up.& -ikolai said as he drank from his flask, then he too stepped up to the bo2 and was rewarded with a 33"H;?. !%hh 6asily would be proud.& He took another swig of vodka. !"o what is it that we are here to do0& !* believe "ergeant #empsey has been briefed on this.& Takeo said smoothly. !* too would like to know why we are here.& Tank didnt answer; he simply stared past Takeo then raised his >%=. The rifle thundered as Takeo dived out of the way and the +ombie behind him e2ploded in a shower of blood and brain. !-o need to thank me Takeo.& He said as he reloaded the light machine gun. Takeo got to his feet and dusted off his uniform. !Thank you #empsey, you are more honourable than * first thought.&

!"ave it for later.& #empsey replied. !Hit that bo2 and grab a weapon. * think theres another bunch of those flesh eating fucks on the way.& %s he spoke another five +ombies ran in from the outside area. Takeo opened the crate and pulled out an )3;H. !* will kill many +ombies with this.& The Japanese soldier turned and cut down the five attackers. !Theres more of them coming down the stairsA& -ikolai shouted, his voice barely audible over the boom of the shotgun which destroyed the +ombies. !$hats the fucking plan0& !The 1ishing Hut, we can easily hold in there.& =ichtofen said. !*ts through there.& He pointed through the open wall towards a large bamboo gate. There was a curious looking instrument suspended over the top of the gate, but they didnt have time to think about it now. !To the frontA& Tank shouted and fired off a full clip from his >%=. The three +ombies fell to the floor but there were more following behind. !$e need to moveA Dveryone stay together and watch your backs.& The four men ran on into the open room, there were more +ombies coming through the windows but there were also two more doors marked '#octors Iuarters and '"torage Hut. Takeo shot down four +ombies with the )3;H, switched to the Thompson and helped =ichtofen deal with several that attacked from the right. He took a break to reload both his weapons. !$e cannot stay here for much longer.& He raised the Thompson and squee+ed off a few shots, decapitating a +ombie with a headshot. !$e have to search this facility.& Tank barked, he primed a grenade amd waited until a bunch of +ombies were running towards them, then he threw the grenade at their feet. The grenade e2ploded, killing a few of the +ombies outright and blowing the legs off others. These legless +ombies began dragging themselves around on their hands, they seemed determined to continue their attack no matter how mangled their bodies got. !$atch out for those bastards on the floor.& -ikolai reminded them as he fired his 33"H;? in short bursts. !They might not look like much, but they can be more dangerous than the runners.& He snapped another maga+ine into the 33"H and resumed his fire. !Just so you know, * agree with Takeo, we really need to moveA& #empsey threw two more grenades and grabbed a Thompson from the wall, e2changing his .ewehr;G. !>ack to the bo2, well relocate to the 1ishing Hut from there.& He squinted into the darkness. !$eve got more crawlers in there. 5eep your eyes peeled.& They moved back to the bo2, firing and reloading as they moved. =ichtofen slipped a few times and was helped to his feet by -ikolai. !7ou should watch your step -a+i, * may not come back for you ne2t time.& !Thank you my :ossack friend.& =ichtofen said, he fired a grenade from the )? .arand he was carrying. % group of +ombies were instantly blown to shreds and the .erman officer laughed. !%hh they shower me with their bloodA& -ikolai shook his head as he turned to the bo2, he opened it and spat on the floor. !1ucking .erman engineering. (selessA& He closed the bo2 and turned to blast the heads off a couple of +ombies with the shotgun. !*ll stick with what * have here.& Takeo opened the bo2 and grinned. !The Dmperor has blessed me with a mighty weapon.& He lifted out an ).;J and moved off to the left to clear a path towards the bamboo gates. =ichtofen opened the bo2 ne2t, there was a flash and a demonic laughter was heard all around them. The bo2 closed then levitated off the floor and disappeared. !Hmm, no weapon for me. *nteresting.& =ichtofen shrugged and back to killing +ombies. He fired off a few more grenade rounds then switched to the "T.;;, the automatic rifle made short work of the attacking +ombies.

!$hat the fuck happened to the bo20& #empsey asked as he darted over to the wall and grabbed more ammo for his Thompson. !*s that it gone for good or will it come back0& !* do not know %merican.& =ichtofen replied. !%s * have said before, * was merely a special advisor on security matters only.& !%lright fuck it. /ets get moving.& Tank unslung the >%= and shot a few crawlers that were getting too close. !* see no more runners.& Takeo reported. !-ow is the time to move.& He ran to the gate and unslung his Thompson and fired at the lock, the force of the bullets made the gates swing open. !There are e2plosives on the wall there. They may be of use later.& The Japanese officer ran through the gates and into the swamp. Tank, =ichtofen and -ikolai grabbed the anti,personnel mine, known as '>ouncing >ettys from the cache by the gate then followed Takeo into the swamp. They heard gunfire and hurried on to find Takeo reloading his Thompson ne2t to three dead +ombies. !They came from the swamp itself. * fear it will not be long before those monsters find us again.& !Then let us get inside.& =ichtofen said as he pushed past the others and opened the 1ishing Hut doors. !$e dont want to be caught out in the open when they attack again.& He stepped inside. !%ch what do we have here0 #empsey, perhaps this is what we have been sent to find.& The other three hurried into the 1ishing Hut. !$hat the fuck is that0& -ikolai asked. !$hatever the hell it is, it definitely doesnt belong here. :are to e2plain what this is =ichtofen0 4r dont you know0& The =ussian drank deeply from his vodka and stared intently at the .erman officer. Tank walked closer to inspect the ob ect in front of him. *t stood about seven feet tall and resembled the machines that could be found across %merica dispensing ice,cold soft drinks. However, Tank had an idea as to what this strange looking machine might hold. He had come across the same strange machines during his first encounter with the +ombies at $ittenau sanatorium. !*ve seen these things before.& #empsey said. !*n that creepy asylum they sent me to before * came here. They seem to be performance enhancers, theyre the whole reason the three of us were sent here.& Tank grinned at Takeo. !7ou asked why we were sent here, thats why. *m under orders to retrieve whatever research data and any samples * can find.& Takeo nodded slowly. !* too am under orders to retrieve samples of these strange liquids. $e may be working as allies but it seems we each have our own agenda.& !$orry about that later. /ets ust get what we came here for and get back to civilisation.& Tank hit the button on the machine and a bottle fell from the bottom. The )arine picked up the bottle and opened it. !* never tried any of this stuff the last time, but if * have to get a sample * cant think of a better way to do it.& He drank the whole thing in one go and put the empty bottle into his rucksack.. !Here they come again.& -ikolai shouted, he lifted a >%= from the wall and took up a position at the nearby window. Takeo set his ).;J up to cover the main door into the 1ishing Hut, =ichtofen covered the second window while Tank took his place ne2t to Takeo. !That stuff in the red bottle tasted good.& The %merican said as he cocked his >%=. !* feel stronger somehow. * dont know how to e2plain it.& !"ilence.& Takeo ordered. He fired his ).;J in a short burst and then all hell broke loose. !Eombies to the leftA& Takeo shouted. !#empsey, go to the right and we can cut them down in the crossfire.& #empsey responded by moving to the required position and resumed firing. The air thundered with the sound of gunfire as the four soldiers fought off their undead attackers. -ikolai paused to reload his shotgun as more +ombies were drawn to his window. 4ne of the reached through the barricade and caught the =ussian on the shoulder, causing him to drop a shell. !1uck it, * need a drink.& -ikolai threw two grenades through the window and fired off half a maga+ine from his 33"H;?, suddenly his window was clear. He smiled to himself, bent down and retrieved the fallen

shotgun cartridge, then he pulled his flask from his acket and took a long swig before re oining the fight for his survival. !7ou should try some of the stuff #empsey used =ussian.& =ichtofen called over his shoulder as he reloaded and fired his "T.;;. !*t might give you more of a kick than that horrible vodka.& The .erman seemed to be taking a perverse pleasure in killing these creatures. 'Dach one * kill is a service to the *lluminati. He thought to himself as he rammed another maga+ine into his "T.;;, his ammunition was running low and his remaining weapons would be ne2t to useless. !The #octor needs more ammo to continue his workA& He shouted to the other three. '$ho the hell is the #octor0 #empsey thought to himself, he made a mental note to question =ichtofen further when he got the chance, for now he had bigger problems. !=unning low on gun, uice here Takeo, how are you doing0& He shouted to the Japanese soldier. Takeo reloaded the ).;J, umping back to avoid a lunging +ombie. He slashed his knife at the creature before #empsey finished the thing off with a headshot. Takeo switched to his )3;H and continued firing. !They seem to be falling back. * dont think any more will come.& "uddenly, a bright flash caught Takeos eye. !$hat in the Dmperors name is that0& !* see it Takeo.& #empsey said. !/ooks like an ammo bo2. =ichtofenA $hat the hells going on out here0& !*m a little busy at the minute %merican.& =ichtofen replied as he fired the last of his "T.;; ammo. He switched to the .arand and fired off a full clip before using his grenades to clear the window. He ran to the entrance and looked outside. !%ch, this is good, but we dont have much time.& The .erman suddenly took off running towards the shining ammunition bo2, as he approached it the ob ect glowed brightly and disappeared. "ome of the +ombies had followed =ichtofen who had now turned to re oin the others; the .erman switched to his "T.;; and whooped with delight. !*t worksA * cant believe it actually worksA& He reloaded the assault rifle, shot five +ombies and dived back through the 1ishing Hut doors. %fter checking that his own window was still clear, helped Takeo and #empsey clear the front entrance. !* have a few of the little crawling bastards at my window.& -ikolai called as he reloaded his shotgun again. !%m * that drunk0 * could have sworn * had no ammo left for this thing.& !/eave the crawlers =ussian.& =ichtofen commanded. He fired several rounds into a running +ombie and it went down. *t was the final +ombie apart from the crawlers and the .erman rela2ed a little. !There are a few things * have not yet told you. >ut before * do each of you must take a bottle from the machine in this room. *t will help keep you alive, of that * assure you.& Tank nodded in agreement. !-ot often *d agree with a Jerry, but * think hes right this time. /ike * said before, * cant e2plain how or why but * felt a hell of a lot more powerful after drinking it.& -ikolai and Takeo both took a bottle. !Hmm 'Jugger,-og, a typically $estern name for a beverage.& Takeo snorted derisively as he opened the bottle and drank deeply. !*ts not vodka, but * like it.& -ikolai burped and tossed the bottle away. !>ut what the hell was that stuff0& !*f you had looked at the bottle you would know that it is Jugger,-og.& =ichtofen replied sarcastically. !Iuite simple really.& -ikolai glared at =ichtofen but remained silent; it was Tank who provided an e2planation. !* didnt get much time to fully read the files but supposedly these drinks give the average soldier an edge in combat.& Tank paused and reloaded his weapons. !This Jugger,whatever its called increases resistence to in ury and raises your vitality, its meant to keep you on your feet or something. Theres another three drinks, at least thats how it worked in $ittenau.& !7ou were at the sanatorium0& =ichtofen asked, suddenly interested in the conversation.

!* was there.& The %merican acknowledged. !* lost my entire team and was nearly killed myself. *ve fought these things before, e2cept those guys were in -a+i uniforms.& !* was unaware that anyone had escaped from that place.& =ichtofen said thoughtfully. !$hat the hell do you know about it0& Tank asked, his voice tinged with anger. !-othing but rumours.& =ichtofen replied after a moments hesitation. !* am impressed %merican, from what * have heard of that place you are one brave soldier. Dven if you are an enemy of .ermany.& !$hat about the shining bo20& Takeo interrupted. !7ou did not hesitate when it appeared =ichtofen. D2plain yourself.& =ichtofen stepped to the wall and swapped his .ewehr;G for a >%=. !$e must move, the crawlers will be through the barricade soon. $hen we are safe * shall e2plain.& He led the others back to the main building, as they passed through the gates Takeo stopped to e2amine the gatepost. !$hat is this strange contraption0& The Japanese soldier asked, pointing to a circuit and switch that had been mounted on the right hand gatepost. He looked up and saw a huge spiked log suspended over the gate. !*t looks very dangerous, we should find out what it does.& =ichtofen looked back over his shoulder. !*t is a simple machine. 7ou flip the switch and the log falls down and starts to spin. %nything that gets in its way will be turned into puree. *t is a very ingenius trap that we named 'the 1logger.& =ichtofen turned and squinted into the sky. !%ch, we must go to the #octors Iuarters, the bo2 will be there.& -ikolai drank from his flask and nudged Takeo. &This .erman seems a bit mad, maybe he spent too long on the front during the $inter $ar.K Takeo did not reply, he simply stared up into the sky for a few moments. -ikolai shrugged, took another hit from his flask and passed through the gate where he swapped his .ewehr;G for a Thompson. He chuckled as he inspected his new weapon. K*t looks like a weak cousin of the 33"H, but it will be stronger than that .erman rifle.K He slung the Thompson over his shoulder and turned to find himself face,to,face with the %merican marine. KThat -a+i definitly knows more than heLs telling us.K Tank said as he grabbed a few Thompson maga+ines. K* canLt e2plain why * think that, * ust do. $eLll have to keep an eye on him.K -ikolai grunted in reply and pulled his flask from inside his acket once again as Takeo and =ichtofen caught up with them. K$e cannot stay here. The crawlers are drawing closer.K Takeo pointed behind him and sure enough three crawling +ombies were dragging themselves towards the group. KThey move fast, for those that have no legs.K The Japanese soldier drew his )?@?? and aimed at the closest +ombie, he pulled the trigger and the single .;M%:3 round nearly blew the creatures head off. KThe blood of the fallen is fuel for the honourable.K KHey :onfuscious.K #empsey said. K:ut the chatter and letLs get a move on. $eLre going to the uh #octorLs Iuarters, right =ichtofen0K The .erman nodded and started walking. K1ollow me my unconventional allies. * know the way.K The others followed and =ichtofen led them through the building, -ikolai paused to gather ammunition for the shotgun then all four men went through the door and into the swamp again. %nother trio of +ombies rose from the murky water and ran towards the group. #empsey tossed a grenade and let rip with the >%= and the three +ombies sank back into the swamp minus their heads and other body parts. $hen they reached the #octorLs Iuarters they spotted a switch, Takeo tried it but it failed to respond. K7ou need to activate it from upstairs.K =ichtofen said and pointed back the way they came. K4n the second floor of the large building there is a balcony with an identical switch. That activates the +ipline, it was used for bringing ma or casualties to this hut.K The .erman opened the door and led them inside, there was another vending machine, e2cept this one was blue. #empsey immediatly lifted a bottle and put it in his rucksack.

Takeo inspected the desk which was covered in scraps of paper, he read a few of them. KThere is nothing of use here.K He swept a few papers off and something heavy fell to the floor. Takeo retrieved it, it was desk nameplate, the Japanese soldier read the name and walked over to #empsey. The %merican looked at it and turned to =ichtofen. !"ecurity officer0 >ullshit, * knew there was something you werent telling us.& Tank threw the name plate across the room. !#octor Ddward =ichtofen * presume0& =ichtofen stared mutely at the other three men for several seconds, then -ikolai hit him full force in the aw. !7ou -a+i dog, what the hell were you doing here0 7ou will tell us everythingA& He kicked the .erman in the chest and spat on him before walking away and taking a long hit from his flask. =ichtofen struggled to his feet and leaned against the wall for support, he sighed and began to talk. !*n ?@HN there was a meteorite crash at Tunguska, the meteorite was recovered and studied. *t was found to contain a strange chemical that was designated 'Dlement ??M, its applications were limitless from weapons to healthcare. However early testing was fraught with accidents, culminating in a massive e2plosion in ?@H@ which wiped out the research teams and the entire testing facility.& !-ice history lesson Dd.& #empsey said. !$hats it got to do with this place0& !The .erman High :ommand obtained a sample of D,??M and from their tests they believed they could create a type of super,soldier. (nfortunately the sample was insufficient for the task.& =ichtofen continued. !%round five years ago we learned that another meteorite had crashed in this very swamp at the same time. Through the .erman,Japanese alliance we built this facility to study the meteorite and also to conduct our super,soldier testing.& !7ou used honourable Japanese soldiers in these e2periments0& Takeo asked quietly, his eyes betraying the rage he was feeling. =ichtofen shrugged. !$e used whatever was available. *f this facility had been in .ermany we would have used .erman soldiers.& He looked out the door but couldnt see the crawlers. !$e are still safe, as long as at least one creature remains the ne2t wave will not come. $e must use this time wisely.& He went to the wall and restocked the ammo on his >%=. !7ou can talk while we work.& #empsey replied. !$hat about that shiny ammo bo2 we saw earlier0 $hat the hell was that0& !% gift from the Dmperor is what it was.& Takeo said. !$e must pay tribute.& !*t is nothing of the sort my little yellow friend.& =ichtofen said. !*t was another D,??M pro ect. *mmediate battlefield resupply, these containers will refill a soldiers entire ammunition complement. %ll one has to do is press a button and a bo2 would appear.& !-obody pressed any button.& -ikolai said. !* dont remember pushing one anyway.& !%fter the accident the e2periments appear to have somehow merged together,& =ichtofen attempted to e2plain. !$ithout time to study these events properly * cannot say how. The important thing is that it will be of help to us.& !Tell us about the drinks.& #empsey said. !%nd that bo2 thing that had all the weapons in it.& !* have already told you about the bo2. *t is a weapon delivery system powered by D,??M.& =ichtofen stepped into the huts other room. !The bo2 has reappeared here. (se it wisely; * dont know how long it will remain here.& The .erman opened the bo2 and withdrew an )3;H. !%hh precision .erman engineering, much better than the %merican rifle * have.& He dropped the )? .arand and slung the )3;H over his shoulder.

Tank went ne2t and pulled out )agnum revolver. !#raw motherfuckersA "i2 shots, si2 kills.& He holstered the weapon. !-ot much use in a swarm though. *ll give it another go after you two.& He stepped out of the way to give Takeo and -ikolai a go at the bo2. Takeo went ne2t and was rewarded with a weapon from his homeland. !%hh the Dmperor will be pleased.& He cocked the Type?HH and hung it from his shoulder. He was now carrying four weapons, although his Thompson was down to its last maga+ine. !* am weighed down with firepower, but it will not hinder me.& -ikolai opened the bo2 for himself; he had a look of confusion as he reached for his new weapon. !*ve never seen anything like this before. $hat the hell is it0& The =ussian showed the others the weapon he had gained. *t was roughly the same length of a >%= and had a strange flared mu++le rather like a bell. Three small devices that looked like tiny light bulbs utted out of the left hand side, but perhaps the strangest thing of all was the blue electricity that arced up and down the barrel of the strange rifle. !$ell =ichtofen, do you know anything about this0& #empsey said as he took the weapon from -ikolai and inspected it. !*ts very light, what the hell kind of material is this0& =ichtofen took the weapon from #empsey and looked it over, the pulled a lever and the three small light bulbs popped out of the side. !This is the $underwaffe #.,J, a weapon of my own design.& The .erman e2plained proudly. !The $underwaffe is powered by D,??M, a small amount of which has been impregnated into these small plasma canisters. The D,??M is pushed through the internal workings of the weapon causing it to turn into an electrical charge. *nitial testing has shown that the charge can envelope up to ten sub ects at once, it was set to go into full,scale production but then this outbreak happened and it became impossible to get this prototype to .ermany.& He replaced the canisters in the side of the rifle and passed it back to -ikolai. !(se it well my :ossack friend.& He said as the =ussian swapped his shotgun for the $underwaffe. !=ichtofen, this stuff in the blue bottle. $hat is it0& Takeo asked as he opened one of the bottles and drank it. !)mm. This tastes a little like sushi.& !That was the performance enhancer that we developed to boost regenerative abilities.& =ichtofen replied. !*n uries will heal faster and your bodies will become resistant to the negative effects of D, ??M.& =ichtofen smiled as he watched his companions faces to see how they reacted to his comment about the negative effects of D,??M, he laughed maniacally. !* am oking my friends. There is nothing to fear from e2posure to D,??M, * have worked closely with it for nearly three years and there is nothing at all wrong with me.& !"o you were nuts before any of this stuff happened0& -ikolai asked, when =ichtofen did not respond the =ussian threw his hands up in the air. !$hat0 *m ust trying to lighten the mood. %hh fuck it, where is my vodka0& Tank shook his head and took another turn on the bo2. !4orahA The perfect weapon for the perfect soldier.& The )arine laughed cra+ily as he lifted his new weapon. !/ead is gonna fly and heads are gonna roll. >rowning GHcal H)., one of my favourite weapons.& !* hate to break up the party.& =ichtofen called from the entrance. !>ut the crawlers are approaching.& The two remaining +ombies had by now reached the stairs leading up to the #octors Iuarters. =ichtofen re oined the others and made sure all his weapons were ready to fire. !* believe we are now all sufficiently armed. "hall we dispose of the crawlers and continue our descent into hell0& -ikolai took another drink and put the flask back in his pocket and hefted the $underwaffe. !* want to try this thing. /ets see if it is as remarkable as =ichtofen says it is.& He pulled the cocking lever on the strange weapon and the three plasma containers lit up while emitting a low humming sound. !#o not fear =ussian.& =ichtofen responded. !%s * said before, * was solely responsible for the design and construction of that weapon and * stake my reputation as a genius on it that it will work.& The .erman grinned. !Just dont spill any of your vodka on it.&

Takeo stepped to the entrance and used his Thompson to eliminate the crawlers, that was the last of his Thompson ammo so the Japanese soldier dropped the empty weapon and switched to his Type?HH. !% small weapon, but very dangerous. Just like me.& He said as he cocked the weapon and took up a position facing the door. -ikolai oined him brandishing both the $underwaffe and the 33"H. !* will fry those undead pigs with =ichtofens shiny toy.& !/et me give you some advice.& =ichtofen said. !The $underwaffe is best used on multiple targets. $ait until you have several of them coming before you unleash the power of the weapon.& -ikolai grunted in response and fired a burst from the 33"H through the door. !Holy shit did you see that fucking head come apart0& He shouted with glee as one of the approaching +ombies went down with a headshot. !*t is easy to kill, if it no longer wishes to live.& Takeo responded as he began firing his Type?HH. !The power of my ancestors runs through my veinsA& He shouted as the small eight millimetre rounds tore through several +ombies, stopping them in their tracks. He reloaded and shot two +ombies that attacked from the left. #empsey had posted himself by the left side window, he was firing the >%= in short, controlled bursts. !Take that maggot,whoresA& He reloaded, fired and then switched to the Thompson. !=unning low on ammo here =ichtofen, wheres the uice0& !* cant make them appear #empsey, you will ust have to keep killing and hope for the best.& =ichtofen shouted in reply as he fired an entire thirty,two round maga+ine at the +ombies that had gathered at his window. He dropped a couple of grenades and reloaded the )3;H as they e2ploded. !/ook at all the body parts. "omeone get me a body,bagA& He shouted as the blood and gore rained down on him. #empsey fired the last few rounds from his Thompson and switched to the >%=. He had two maga+ines plus fifteen rounds already loaded, he fired the fifteen rounds off in short bursts then switched to his heavy machine gun. The >rowning thirty,calibre machine gun sounded like thunder in the confined space but it was perfect for dealing with the +ombies that had massed outside the window. =ichtofen had e2hausted his )3;H ammo and had now switched to the "T.;;, for the moment his window was clear so he took the opportunity to restock his >%= ammo. He tossed a few maga+ines towards #empsey and watched as the %merican killed several +ombies with the >rowning H).. The .erman sighed. !* do not like you #empsey, you kill too quickly, you do not love painA& !1uck you =ichtofenA& #emspey shouted back. !$ere trying to stay alive here. 7ou want to torture these freakbags, do it on your own timeA& The %merican threw a grenade and took the opportunity to reload the H). and check on -ikolai and Takeo at the front. !1or the DmperorA& Takeo shouted as he fired a five second burst from the ).;J, the seven point nine, two millimetre rounds shredded the attacking +ombies. -ikolai picked up the $underwaffe and aimed at a group of runners, he pulled the trigger and a bolt of white electricity shot from the weapon. The bolt struck the lead +ombie and then seemed to ump to the other +ombies coming behind. The creatures stopped dead in their tracks and began shaking as the high voltage electrical current electrified their insides. !Holy shitA& -ikolai e2claimed as he watched the electrified +ombies fall to the ground in smouldering heaps. !$ell what do you know, =ichtofens toy actually works.& The $underwaffe had electrocuted at least twelve of the +ombies and one of them dropped another ammunition bo2. !Thats ust what we need.& The =ussian said. !%lthough some vodka would be nice.& -ikolai was about to run out and grab the ammo bo2 when #empsey told him to wait. !=eload you weapons if you can.& The %merican said. !$e might as well get as much as we can from this thing.& The others reloaded the weapons they had ammo for and #empsey spoke to -ikolai again. !*ll go for the ammo, you stay here and be ready to use that $onderwaffle thing on any of those meat,sacks if they come too close.&

-ikolai nodded and #empsey took off running towards the shiny ammunition bo2. There was still a large number of +ombies in the area so Takeo and -ikolai threw grenades at the advancing creatures. "ome of the survivors carried on towards the #octors Iuarters but a few of them, including a couple of crawlers, broke off and made a beeline for #empsey. #empsey grabbed the ammo bo2, once again it shone brightly and disappeared, but #empsey knew it was ok. He slammed a fresh maga+ine into the Thompson and turned back to the #octors Iuarters, there were quite a few +ombies headed towards him. He fired the Thompson , emptying the maga+ine and killing two +ombies, he backed away as he reloaded but the remaining creatures closed on him fast. !*m surrounded. >ring it mother,fuckersA& He shouted as he cocked the Thompson and fired from the hip, the first +ombie went down but the others kept coming. #empsey slipped and fell, he felt the +ombies clawing at him. This is it, he thought, #empsey the bad,ass is going down. -ikolai fired the $underwaffe at the +ombies coming towards them, several of them went down and Takeo mopped up the rest with his Type?HH. the Japanese officer fired in short bursts, despatching the remaining +ombies with precise headshots, as he reloaded he noticed his ammo had been replenished again, he looked over to where #empsey had fallen. !-ikolai, our %merican friend is surrounded.& He switched his aim and fired a long burst at the horde surrounding his team,mate, killing perhaps two or three of the attackers. !.o get him Takeo.& -ikolai said as he recharged the $underwaffe. !*ll take care of the +ombies.& Takeo nodded and took off running towards the +ombies. -ikolai took aim and pulled the trigger. The bolt flew past Takeo and into the crowd of +ombies and they fell to their knees as the electricity engulfed them. Takeo ran between the smouldering corpses and dragged #empsey to his feet and back towards the #octors Iuarters. 4nce inside the %merican collapsed beside the weapon crate to catch his breath. !That was bad,assA& #empsey said after a few moments. !* was thought * was a goner at one point.& He got to his feet and offered his hand to Takeo. !-ever thought *d say this to someone like you, but thanks for your help Takeo. *f you hadnt been there *d be a meat,snack for those freakbags.& Takeo took #empsey hand and shook it firmly. !the undead shall not dine on the flesh of the honourable.& The Japanese officer whirled round with his weapon raised but it was only =ichtofen. The .erman ignored Takeo and #empsey, instead he crossed over to -ikolai and began talking to him. !The $underwaffe, you used it0 #id it work0& =ichtofen asked, his eyes as wide as saucers. -ikolai ust nodded. !$underbar, wunderbar. The $underwaffe #.,J is my greatest invention.& =ichtofen paused thoughtfully. !$ell, its maybe not my greatest invention, but its definitely in the top three.& The .erman turned to face #empsey and Takeo. !$hile you two were outside playing with the creatures, * have been ensuring our survival for another short period of time. * have managed to turn three of the creatures into crawling specimens.& "ure enough there were three legless +ombies tearing through the barricade, even though they had no legs they somehow managed to ump at the window and pull at the barricade. *t wouldnt be long before the creatures made their way inside. !How many more huts are there in this place0& #empsey turned to =ichtofen. !/ike * said before, * dont want to be here any longer than * have to.& The )arine crossed the room to the weapon bo2 again and traded his >%= for a 33"H;?. !hey #empsey, we have same gun.& -ikolai laughed. !$e could be twins.& He laughed to himself as he approached the bo2. !* think * need other gun, *m getting bored with this Thompson.& He opened the bo2 and once again the strange demonic laughter was heard and the bo2 disappeared. *n its place was a blood,soaked teddy bear. !Hey what is this0 * ask for gun, not a fucking teddy,bear.& !/et me see that.& =ichtofen said. He took the bear from -ikolai and studied it intently. !:ould it be0& He said to himself. !This looks like "amanthas bear.& He shook his head to clear his thoughts and turned to the others.

!There are three more areas left in this facility, two of which contain samples of the performance enhancers. * believe that is your ob ective.& #empsey and Takeo both nodded. !Then our ne2t destination is either the "torage Hut or the :ommunications =oom, we should move as quickly as possible.& !$hat about the bo20& -ikolai asked. !* still want to get rid of this Thompson, although * doubt * will find anything much better. "o, where is the bo20& =ichtofen stepped to the door and pointed into the sky, the others looked up and saw a column of pale yellow light rising up. *t looked to be above the main building, close to where they had fallen through the roof when they first arrived. !/ook to the sky, find the light and you shall find the bo2.& =ichtofen e2plained. !*t was designed like this so that the soldiers would be able to find it amidst the chaos of the battlefield.& !%lright this is the plan.& Tank said. !$ell go to the bo2 and sort our weapons then high,tail it to the "torage Hut. 4nce were done there we make our way to the :omm =oom and see if we can get a radio working and find some way out of here.& !* see nothing wrong with that.& Takeo said after a moments consideration. !* would welcome the opportunity to select a new weapon.& !/ets ust go and get it done.& -ikolai said. !%ll this talking is starting to sober me up. >esides those crawlers have ust broken through.& #empsey gestured at the column of light. !4k =ichtofen, this is your facility. 7oure on point, move outA& !=ichtofen reloaded his )3;H and led the team back through the swamp and into the main building. *nstead of going back up the stairs to the room they started in, =ichtofen led them back to the area with the 1logger then went up another set of stairs. This brought the team onto a balcony that led into a large open area where the weapon bo2 had reappeared. !*d better not get that fucking teddy,bear again.& -ikolai said as he opened the bo2. !%haA This will bring death to all who oppose us.& He pulled a 3an+erschreck and rockets from the bo2 and slung them onto his back. =ichtofen came and stood beside -ikolai. !* am curious my :ossack friend. $hat e2actly do you intend to do with that weapon0& !$hat do you think *m going to do0& -ikolai replied. !*m going to make things go boomA& The =ussian shrugged. !*ll fire off a few shots and then switch back to my 33"H. >esides, *ve still got the Thompson as well as your electricity gun.& !#ont get cocky -ikolai.& #empsey warned. !Those anti,tank weapons take an age to reload and the +ombies can cover a lot of ground in that time, you might find yourself getting swarmed.& !#ont worry about me %merican.& -ikolai replied with a grin. !*m not the one who fell down in the swamp. Try and stay on your feet for while.& #empsey didnt reply, he ust stayed by the steps leading back the way they cam and kept an eye out for the crawlers. Take took a turn on the weapon bo2 and was rewarded with another $underwaffe #.,J. !How many of these machines did you build =ichtofen0& The Japanese soldier asked as he swapped out his )3;H for the $underwaffe. !* only had enough material to construct a single working prototype.& =ichtofen replied. !*t would appear that the weapon bo2 has somehow been able to duplicate the $underwaffe. This is a most interesting, if une2pected discovery.&

Takeo looked sceptical as he looked over the new weapon. !$e need to be sure that this copy will actually work. *t is better to find out now rather than waiting until it is too late.& Takeo shouldered the weapon and looked for a target. !Take out the crawlers.& Tank suggested. !*ts time we were getting on with the mission.& Takeo nodded and aimed the weapon, ust as he was about to pull the trigger =ichtofen pushed the weapon down. !* want another weapon, do not fire until * am ready.& The .erman moved to the bo2 and opened it. He pulled out an ).;J and did a little dance as he slung it over his shoulder. !%hh so much lead for the dead.& He turned and grinned at the others. !*m a poet and * didnt know it. Ha ha. 4k now you can kill the crawlers.& Takeo didnt need to be asked twice, he fired the $underwaffe and the three crawlers became instant smouldering piles flesh. !-ow we wait for more to come.& The Japanese soldier said solemnly, he peered out the door and into the swamp. !"omething is not right. * sense something other than these undead soldiers.& % thick fog had descended on the swamp, the air seemed to crackle and made the hair on the back of #empseys neck stand on end. !=ichtofen. 7ou got an e2planation for this0& $hen he got no reply he turned to face the .erman soldier. !Hey =ichtofen, answer meA& =ichtofen flinched as though he had been struck, he looked momentarily confused before he managed to answer #empsey. !This is nothing of my doing #empsey, * have never seen anything like this before.& "uddenly there was a flash of lightning ne2t to the group and from that lightning emerged what looked like some sort of large dog, e2cept it was like no dog any of them had ever seen before. *t looked like it had been badly burned, in fact its fur was actually smoking and smouldering in places but the creature seemed not to notice as it stepped out of the lightning and slowly paced around the room. Tank raised the Thompson to his shoulder and was about to fire when the creature turned towards them. *ts eyes glowed red and its body burst into flames, the creature charged at the group and #empsey fired, the first round struck the creature and it e2ploded in a shower of sparks and ash. !* think * may have drunk too much vodka.& -ikolai said. !#id that ust happen0 $hat the hell was it0& He took a long drink from his flask and made sure the $underwaffe was ready to fire. Takeo looked out over the balcony, there were more of the dog,like creatures approaching. "ome of them were on fire, some were running and others were walking but they were all making their way towards the four soldiers. !)ore of them are approaching. $e must get ready.& He aimed the $underwaffe and fired, the bolt hit the first dog, causing it to e2plode. The electrical charge carried on through another si2 dogs, the ones on fire e2ploded when the electricity came into contact with them, those that werent on fire were cooked inside out. Takeo fired again but the bolt missed and plunged into the swamp, there were four or five of the creatures left and they all burst into flames and came running for the soliders. -ikolai fired his 3an+erschreck but the dogs were too fast and high,e2plosive eighty,eight millimetre rocket did little more than blow a hole in the ground. Tank dropped to one knee and let loose a murderous stream of fire from his >rowning H). and the dogs were cut down in their stride. $hen the last dog died the thick fog lifted instantly and the team was rewarded with another shining ammunition bo2. !Dveryone reload all your weapons.& #empsey ordered. !$ell grab the ammo then head on to the "torage Hut.& He reloaded the >rowning machine gun and the Thompson, slung them both over his shoulder and readied the 33"H;?. !$e will not make it %merican.& =ichtofen said as he finished reloading his own weapons. !That is not to say * am unwilling to attempt it. *n fact, * am looking forward to the challenge.&

!=ichtofen you really are weird arent you0& Tank said angrily. !* know that you know more about whats going on here than youre telling us. *f we make it out of here youll tell us everything you know.& The .erman waved his hand dismissively. !7es, yes. $hen we get out of here * will tell you. $e must get out of here first of all.& He ran out and grabbed the ammunition bo2, slammed a fresh maga+ine into his )3;H and shot down a trio of +ombies that ran at him from the left. !He is very strange indeed.& Takeo said thoughtfully. !>ut he has proven himself to be a useful ally. The Dmperor would be pleased.& !$e should go after him.& -ikolai said, he dropped the heavy 3an+erschreck and un,slung the Thompson. !* want one more turn at the bo2, * still havent changed this Thompson.& He quickly opened the bo2 and cursed in =ussian, the bo2 had offered him a sawn,off double,barrelled shotgun. !1uck it, * stick with shitty %merican weapon.& He cocked the Thompson and headed out the door. #empsey watched as the =ussian ran to =ichtofens side and the two men began blasting the oncoming +ombies into oblivion. #empsey turned to his Japanese ally. !Takeo, cover me while * hit this weapon crate again.& Takeo nodded and fired a burst from his ).;J as #empsey opened the bo2. The bo2 disappeared and the laughter was heard again over the roar of gunfire. !* know you arent laughing at me motherfuckerA& The %merican shouted as the bo2 was replaced again by the blood,soaked teddy, bear. !$e must move #empsey.& Takeo said as the +ombies began attacking from the rear. The %merican led the way, mowing down +ombies with quick bursts from his 33"H while Takeo made sure their backs were covered with the ).;J. The two soldiers soon linked up with -ikolai and =ichtofen at the doorway leading out into the swamp. =ichtofen told them it was a short run from here to the "torage Hut, he pushed the doors open and led the way forward. -ikolai and #empsey turned and fought off the +ombies that had gathered behind the four soldiers, #empsey threw two grenades he and -ikolai ran into the swamp. Takeo used the $underwaffe to electrocute the +ombies that rose out of the swamp and they soon stood in front of the "torage Hut doors. Tank used his Thompson to break the lock and pushed the door open. There was another machine containing a performance enhancer, a green one this time. -ikolai opened the bottle and took a long swallow. !Hey, this stuff tastes like vodka, not good vodka you understand, but its still vodka.& =ichtofen lifted a bottle of his own and e2amined the label. !This is the solution we developed to enhance a soldiers weapon,handling skills. 7ou should find that you are able to reload your weapons much faster than normal.& The .erman soldier drank the bottle and motioned for Tank and Takeo to do the same. 4nce again, Tank took his empty bottle and stashed it in his rucksack, no sooner had he closed it the +ombies were attacking again. The %merican fired a long burst from the Thompson and reloaded. =ichtofen was right, whatever that strange concoction was, it had definitely sped him up; he had the Thompson reloaded and ready to fire before the thought had even left his mind. He fired and brought down a few more +ombies, but there were lots more on their way. The "torage Hut was one of the smallest rooms the team had been in yet, Takeo and -ikolai were almost back to back as they defended the rooms two windows from the horde of undead soldiers. -ikolai alternated between the Thompson and the 33"H as the +ombies tore at the barricaded windows, the =ussian dropped two grenades through his window and switched to the $underwaffe. $hen the grenades e2ploded -ikolai fired the $underwaffe, the electrical charge enveloped the +ombies that had survived the twin grenade blasts and the window was clear again. Takeo had set the barrel of his ).;J on the window pointing outwards, a group of seven or eight +ombies advanced towards hi. Takeo angled the ).;J and pulled the trigger, the seven point nine,two millimetre bullets entered the leading +ombie at chest level and e2ited through the head of the +ombie that brought up the rear. !The dishonourable have been vanquishedA& The Japanese soldier crowed as he reloaded the heavy machine gun. There were more +ombies on the way so Takeo took aim with his

won $underwaffe, there were about ten or twelve +ombies and the electricity from the shot bounced from one +ombie to the other, killing them all and leaving the smoking corpses strewn on the ground. !* think we should attempt to create a crawlerA& =ichtofen had to shout over the roar of the gunfire. He and #empsey were defending the main entrance to the "torage Hut, both men were using their H).s to force the onslaught of +ombies back into the swamp. !=eloadingA& =ichtofen shouted and #empsey shifted his field of fire to cover the .erman as he reloaded. =ichtofen resumed firing as #empsey reloaded the >rowning. The %merican threw a few grenades far out into the swamp, one landed amidst a cluster of +ombies. *t e2ploded and killed a number of +ombies as well as creating two or three of the crawling +ombies. !$e got crawlersA& Tank shouted as he switched to the 33"H, the >rowning had run out of ammo and there was no time to reload it. % few quick bursts from the =ussian assault weapon took down four or five +ombies, the %merican loaded another seventy,round drum maga+ine into the 33"H and did the same for the >rowning. !There cant be many of those freak,bags left, now that weve got crawlers we should move.& -ikolai fired a full maga+ine from the Thompson, taking the heads off three +ombies that had nearly broken through the barricade. He reloaded and quickly rebuilt some of the barricade. !* hope we dont run into more of those hell,dogs. Those things scare me.& The =ussian slung the Thompson and turned to =ichtofen. !7ou need some help there .erman0 $ant to sniff my vodka0 -ikolai will let you.& =ichtofen looked sideways at the =ussian, a look of confusion on his face. !)y :ossack friend, have you gone mad already0 .et off me schweinhundA& This last was said as a +ombie managed to reach through the barricade and grab =ichtofen by the shoulder. The .erman officer grabbed for his knife and stabbed behind him, the knife sank into the +ombies shoulder but the creature refused to release its grip. %nother +ombie approached the barricade and began pulling it down, =ichtofen drew his pistol and fired behind him, the +ombie holding his shoulder fell away and the .erman could feel the blood and brains spatter against the back of his head. %s soon as the +ombie let go of him =ichtofen rolled forward, turned and emptied his pistol at the second +ombie and finished it off with a grenade. !#id you see that0& He said to -ikolai. !He tried to kiss meA& -ikolai rolled his eyes and went to the front with #empsey and Takeo. The Japanese soldier was staring at a large rock sticking out of the ground, it was perfectly rounded and around the same si+e as a small car. !That rock does not belong here. *t is strange and alien.& =ichtofen oined them and gave a yelp of surprise. !%hh that rock, that is where Dlement ??M comes fromA * was told the meteorite was located somewhere in this swamp but until now * had never seen it.& #empsey avoided the crawlers and moved closer to inspect the meteorite; he could see cables that looked like they were attached directly to the meteorite. !* wonder if this rock has anything to do with those freak,bags. =ichtofen, what the hell are those cables for0& =ichtofen moved closer and inspected the cables. !* do not know for certain, but * believe the cables lead to some sort of machine that is powered by Dlement,??M.& =ichtofen looked at each of the three men. !* do not know where or what this machine is, but if you like we can follow the cables and see where they lead0& #empsey shook his head in response to this. !* think the =ed )enace would be very interested in this space rock.& -ikolai said as he drank from his flask. !)aybe * should take a piece home.& >efore anyone could stop him, he raised his Thompson and fired off a short burst at the meteorite. The rounds simply pinged off the rock leaving no visible damage. !Hmm, my first wife was more dangerous than this Thompson. /ets get the fuck out of here.& !$eve got one more area to search, then we can leave.& Tank said as he set off into the swamp. !"earch the :omm =oom for more intelligence and then well use the equipment there to contact someone wholl be able to get us out of this place.& The %merican led the others back to facilitys main building and through the door leading to the :omm =oom. The hut was divided into two rooms, one contained the last of the performance ehancing beverages as well as several sets of communications equipment. The %merican grabbed one of the bottles and placed it in his pack, this time the bottle was

yellow and had the words '#ouble,Tap written on the side. Tank turned to ask =ichtofen for an e2planation but the .erman was nowhere to be seen. !4ur strange new friend has gone.& Takeo said as he made sure the $underwaffe was operational. !)aybe the +ombies will get him.& He slung the weapon over his shoulder and looked in the ne2t room. !The bo2 of mystery has returned to us.& !%lright then, Takeo go and look for =ichtofen and bring him the hell back here.& #empsey flicked a few switches on the radio sets and got nothing but static. !*m going to try and get one of these radios working so we can call for e2traction. -ikolai, try the weapons bo2 then keep your eyes peeled for the crawlers, lead them away if you have to.& !4f course, whatever the )arines #empsey wants, -ikolai will obey.& The =ussian took a drink and went into the ne2t room mumbling and cursing to himself in his own language. There was an "T.,;; hanging on the wall but -ikolai went straight for the bo2 and was rewarded with a bolt,action 5ar@Ok. !This is weak. )aybe * should ust drink instead, * can piss my way through these +ombies.& The =ussian tried the bo2 for a final time and pulled out an ).;J. !* like this weapon almost as much as * like vodka.& -ow armed with an ).;J, a 33"H;? a $underwaffe #.J as well as an )?@?? pistol, the =ussian was confident that he would survive whatever these +ombies could throw at him. -ikolai went back into the main room ust as Takeo returned with =ichtofen following him. The german looked even more e2citable than usual. !This is )arine Task 1orce 4ne. %ny %llied forces in the area please respond.& #empsey seemed to have gotten one of the radio sets working and was now trying to contact the outside world. !To any %llied forces in the area. $e are requesting an immediate e2traction, please respond and acknowledge.& There was still nothing but static, #empsey turned to update the others on the situation. !These radios are useless. *m not even sure if they have the range to reach anyone outside of this island. *t means that if were getting out of here were doing it by ourselves.& The )arine nodded towards the machine in the corner of the room. !/ast machine =ichtofen, what does this one do0 %nd another thing, where the hell did you go earlier0 %nd why the hell are you are you so e2cited0& =ichtofen took a quick look at the machine. !This is the 'double,tap serum. *t increases the rate of fire of whatever weapon the user is holding. *t is my least favourite but it does come in handy with weapons such as shotguns, semi,automatic rifles and the $underwaffe.& =ichtofen lifted one of the yellow bottles for himself and sat down to make sure his weapons were in working order. #empsey again asked where the .erman had disappeared to but it seemed that =ichtofen was in no mood to continue the conversation. !* found him on the balcony of the main building.& Takeo said. !He was following the cables that were attached to the meteorite.& !$here did they lead0& -ikolai asked as he checked the action of his ).;J. The =ussian took out his flask and poured a small amount over the barrel of the gun. !*t is for good luck, nothing more than that.& He said when he realised Takeo was looking at him, the Japanese soldier simply shook his head and turned back to #empsey. !%s * was saying, * found =ichtofen on the second floor balcony. The cables he was following led across a broken bridge, when * arrived our .erman ally was considering umping the gap.& Takeo looked across the room at =ichtofen. !* had to physically drag him back here.& !%lright =ichtofen, whats so special about the other side of the bridge0& #empsey asked, =ichtofen looked at him and shrugged. #empsey stood so that he towered over the seated .erman soldier. !/isten you stupid 5raut bastard, were fighting for our lives here so if theres something on the other side of that bridge then we need to know about itA& -ikolai pulled out his pistol and placed the mu++le against =ichtofens temple. !* am sick of this. * will put a bullet in your skull and leave you to rot.&

=ichtofens eyes bulged in his head as he got to his feet. !6ery well my :ossack friend, there is no need for violence.& He fi2ed his uniform and ad usted his cap. !4n the other side of that bridge there may be a way to escape. * do not know if this is true, * was about to see for myself when your Japanese comrade arrived.& !*f * hadnt arrived when * did, you would have escaped to the other side without telling us.& Takeo said angrily. !7ou are without honour.& =ichtofen didnt answer, -ikolai pointed the pistol at him again and began cursing in =ussian, Takeo started to tell both -ikolai and =ichtofen to control themselves. #empsey shook his head and wandered into the ne2t room to have a go at the bo2. The other three were still arguing but they soon forgot their differences when Tank returned with his new weapon. !%nyone know what this is0& The %merican asked as he showed his companions the pistol,like weapon he had swapped his Thompson for. *t had a weird green glow that seemed to wash over #empsey, making him look like he was a visitor from another planet. !Hmm, this could be could be the device that the weapons research technicians were speaking of.& =ichtofen said thoughtfully. !* never dreamed it would look anything like that though, what was it they called it again0& The .erman scratched his chin wile he searched his memory. !7es, yes that was it. They called it a '=ay .un, supposedly it harnessed the power of Dlement,??M e2actly like my $underwaffe, but with slightly different results.& #empsey cocked the =ay .un and went to the entrance, one of the crawlers had made its way to the :omm =oom hut. #empsey pulled the trigger and a green light pulsed from the mu++le of the weapon, a ball of green energy shot towards the crawler. $hen it struck the crawler it burst like a balloon filled with water, when the green ha+e cleared the group found that the crawling +ombie had been vaporised. !* dont know who =ay is, but his gun is fucking sweetA& The %merican shouted gleefully, he checked the remaining ammunition on the =ay .un and whistled. !"hit. * wonder where in the hell this thing keeps a hundred and si2ty rounds0& He pressed the reload button and the mu++le swung away from the main body of the weapon and a small green capsule popped out. Tank pulled another capsule from his pocket and slipped it into the weapon. The =ay .un made a hissing sound and the mu++le swung back into place, the weapon was now fully charged. !/ike * said before, this gun is sweet.& #empsey grinned. !-ow lets figure out a way to get off this fucking island.& !#oes that mean we get to kill more +ombies0& -ikolai asked as he reloaded his 33"H;? and ).;J. He glanced across the room at =ichtofen. !4r * could kill =ichtofen, it makes no difference to me.& The =ussian grinned as he took another drink of vodka. The final crawler approaches.& Takeo warned. !$e must either take flight or fight.& The Japanese soldier powered up his $underwaffe and made sure both his ).;J and Type?HH were fully loaded. !$hat happens if theres nothing on the other side0& #empsey asked. !$hat happens if the crawler dies before we make it0 Have we thought this through properly0& !* have thought about our fate if we stay here.& =ichtofen retorted angrily. !How long do you really think we can survive0 * managed because * was able to hide but now they know we are here. They hunger for our flesh and if we stay we may as well kill ourselves now. *t will be quicker than anything these creatures can do.& !* hate to say it but the .erman is right.& -ikolai said with a shrug. !"taying here will not get -ikolai home, and *m running out of vodka.& !Takeo nodded in agreement. !%n honourable withdrawal seems like our best option. *t is not in my nature to retreat, but a great predator must be able to adapt to the situation.&

#empsey nodded and checked his own weapons. !%lright =ichtofen, you know the way, youre on point again.& He holstered the =ay .un, readied the 33"H;? and followed =ichtofen, Takeo and -ikolai back out into the swamp. The one remaining crawler had dragged itself through the swamp and was now partially hidden in the weeds as it lunged at the four men running past. *ts rotting dead hands found purchase on someones boot and it began to pull itself towards its prey. =ichtofen led the others through the swamp and back towards the main facility building. The swamp didnt seem to want to let them go, water clung to them and their boots sank into the soft mud causing them to stumble and lose their footing. #empsey was bringing up the rear when suddenly he fell face, first into the shallow water, the %merican tried to regain his footing but was pulled back down almost instantly. He spun round so he was now lying on his back in the stagnant water, a look of horror spreading across his face as he saw that the crawler had hold of his leg. Tank kicked out with his other foot and caught the +ombie in the head, the head snapped sickeningly to the side but the creature seemed not to notice and continued attacking. #empsey pulled out his knife and started slashing wildly at the +ombie. !*m not our :,rations gut, bagA& He shouted as he plunged his knife into the rotting flesh of the +ombie, the ne2t thing the +ombies head e2ploded, showering #empsey with bits of brain and blood. Tank got to his feet and saw =ichtofen holstering his pistol, he nodded at the .erman as he re oined the group. !#ont mention it #empsey.& =ichtofen said with a grin. !* wouldnt want anyone thinking that * am in the habit of saving my enemies. )y friends in the Third =eich would be most displeased.& #empsey shot him a look but remained silent as the four men ran inside the main building and up the stairs to find themselves right back where they had started. !$e appear to have come full,circle.& Takeo said. !* found =ichtofen at the end of that bridge.& The Japanses soldier pointed to one of the barricades, -ikolai walked over to it and peered outside. !#oesnt look too safe from here.& He said as he began pulling debris away from the window and climbing through to the other side. !* was right, it isnt safe at all, but why dont the rest of you come out here0 * dont want to be the only one who falls to his death.& =ichtofen gave a derisive snort and followed -ikolai, the .erman moved to the broken end of the bridge and looked across to the other side. %fter a few moments he pointed across the gap. !/ook, above the trees. *t may still have power, we can use it to escape.& #empsey stood beside =ichtofen and squinted in the direction the .erman was pointing. % dull metal ob ect was ust visible above the trees, it looked like the top of a massive bell. !6ery impressive.& #empsey said sarcastically. !>ut in case you havent noticed the bridge is gone, so unless you can fly us over that gap were stuck here.& !$e are not alone.& Takeo e2claimed as he shouldered his ).;J. "ure enough, more of the Japanese +ombies had climbed through the barricade and were making their way towards the four soldiers. Takeo knelt and fired a short burst from the heavy machine gun. !1ind a way across.& He shouted over the roar of the machine gun. !* will hold the undead at bayA& #empsey dropped to one knee and began rummaging in his backpack, he stood up holding a coil of rope with an iron grappling hook attached to one end. !* knew this would come in handy.& He grinned and swung the hook before launching it across the gap, he pulled the rope towards him and it stretched taut as the iron hook attached itself to a suitable anchor. Tank kept hold of the rope and leaned back to make sure it could support his weight, when he was satisfied he tied the free end to a nearby concrete support pillar. !4k, lets pray that this rope holds. $ell have to cross one at a time.& -ikolai fired his $underwaffe over Takeos shoulder as the Japanese soldier reloaded the ).;J, =ichtofen took hold of the rope and was about to cross when Tank pulled him back. !-ot you. *m not taking the chance of your running out on us. Takeo, you go first and make sure the rope is secure, -ikolai, youre ne2t, then =ichtofen. * can hold them off with the =ay .un. .et going, hurryA&

Takeo fired another long burst from the ).;J then moved back from the fight, the small soldier scrambled nimbly across the rope and was soon on the other side. #empsey watched as he secured the rope properly then waved to signal that it was safe. -ikolai fired the $underwaffe and electrified several +ombies then he turned and began crossing hand,over,hand to the other side. #empsey took his place beside =ichtofen and fired his =ay .un. !Take that freak,bagsA& The %merican whooped as he pulled the trigger again and again. The rounds from the =ay .un struck the advancing +ombies and splashed out to in ure those coming behind. =ichtofen killed a few with his )3;H before falling back to make his way across the rope to the other side. Tank was alone now and another group of +ombies were approaching fast, a few grenades served to slow them down while he un,shouldered the 33"H. He crouched down and fired both the =ay .un and the 33"H one,handed, driving the +ombies back in a storm of lead and whatever the =ay .un fired. The torrent of +ombies had slowed so Tank took the opportunity to try and cross the rope. He had ust grasped hold of the rope when a +ombie reached for him and tried to drag him back to the others. #empsey fumbled frantically as the +ombie pulled him closer, his hand found the butt of the )agnum revolver. The %merican dragged it free of his webbing when two bolts of electrical energy surged past him, one of them struck the +ombie holding Tank and the second flew on to electrocute the +ombies coming behind. #empsey wasted no time as he got to his feet and launched himself out over the gap, he grabbed the rope to check his fall, then swung his legs up and began pulling himself across. The +ombies kept advancing, when they came to the destroyed bridge the ones at the front stopped and looked around as though they were looking for the four men who had escaped them. %s more of the creatures flocked to the area those at the front were pushed off the edge and into the swamp below. #empsey, Takeo, =ichtofen and -ikolai watched the scene from the other side of the bridge, all of them grateful for the chance to rest. -ikolai took a long drink from his flask before offering it to the others. !7ou dont think those things can climb up here do you0& He stowed his flask and made sure his weapons were loaded and ready but =ichtofen shook his head firmly. !$e will be safe here.& The .erman said confidently. !* have never known any of the sub ects to be able to climb. They lack even the simplest logic and reasoning skills.& !)indless killing machines huh =ichtofen0& #empsey asked while he made sure his backpack still had the perk bottles in it. He closed the backpack and swung it onto his shoulder, then picked up the >rowning heaving machine gun and fired a full two hundred and fifty round belt across the gap and into the +ombies that were congregated there. !There is no honour in this #empsey.& Takeo said as he watched the %merican. !They can no longer hurt us, therefore killing them is unnecessary.& !%hh be quiet Takeo.& -ikolai said. !$eve been through hell and back in this place.& He took aim with his own ).;J and fired a few short bursts. !Think of it as stress relief my little yellow friend.& -ikolai laughter was drowned out by the roar of the ).;J. Dven =ichtofen seemed to be getting in on the action, he had knelt at the edge of the bridge and was firing his )3;H and >%=. !%hh let us drown in their agony.& He laughed maniacally as the bullets tore into the +ombies on the other side. Takeo shook his head sadly. !This dishonour saddens me greatly. These things were once soldiers in the *mperial %rmy, we should show some respect.& #empsey and -ikolai traded look, to them the Japanese *mperial %rmy had been enemies and enemies needed to be killed. >oth of them remained silent though, the last thing they wanted to do was cause any trouble between themselves and their %2is allies, there would be plenty of time for that when the mission was over.

#empsey ceased fire and waved his arms to get the others to do the same. !%lright thats enough fun for one day. /ets reload and see if we can get the hell out of here.& Takeo looked relieved as he picked up his weapons. #empsey turned to =ichtofen. !:ome on 5raut, this is your show so lead the way.& =ichtofen said nothing as he led the team through the closely packed trees, heading deeper into the swamp. %fter a few minutes the four soldiers emerged in a large clearing. !%nd here it is.& =ichtofen said triumphantly, the other three soldiers ust stared at him. !$hat the hell is it0& -ikolai asked. !*t looks like some sort of giant bell thing.& =ichtofen looked slightly offended. !This is no bell. This is a highly advanced piece of .erman engineering, one that will most likely be instrumental in getting us out of this place.& !7ou still have not answered the question.& Takeo said. !$hat is the function of this device0& =ichtofen threw his hands up into the air. !)y uneducated allies, * present to you the )#T (nit, although we ust call it a Teleporter. $hen * power up the machine it will take us to a safe destination.& !"o stop talking and get it working.& -ikolai said. !*m running out of vodka so make sure we stop near a distillery.& =ichtofen ignored him and crossed the clearing to the teleporter, he opened a panel on the side and began tapping at various buttons. The machine gave a shudder and whirred into life, the clearing was bathed in an eerie blue light and a hatch on the teleporter opened to show a hollow space big enough to accommodate the four men and their equipment. Takeo and #empsey approached cautiously while -ikolai hung back to guard their rear. =ichtofen finished pushing buttons and turned to face the others. !The machine is ready, all that remains is for us to step inside and we can escape.& "o where in the hell is it were going0& #empsey asked. !if its anywhere in .ermany you can ust leave me with the freak,bagsA& =ichtofen was about to reply when the air was filled with the harsh chatter of a 33"H;? firing on full automatic, they could hear -ikolai shouting angrily as he fired. !7ou fucking dogs, how dare you touch -ikolaiA& The others looked at each other and ran back to help the =ussian. $hen thy reached him he was on the ground with several +ombies bearing down on him. Takeo and =ichtofen opened fire with their heavy machine guns, driving the +ombies back as #empsey dragged -ikolai to safety. !Those things made me mess my trousers.& -ikolai said as he got to his feet. !* almost lost the last of my vodka.& He reloaded his weapons then he and #empsey oined Takeo and =ichtofen to mop up the last of the +ombies. !Has our .erman friend got his contraption working yet0& -ikolai asked when the last +ombie had been killed. !The machine is ready.& =ichtofen answered as the four men checked their ammunition. !$e would have been safe if you hadnt decided to have a lie,down. How did they manage to cross the gap0& -ikolai shook his head. !* have no idea, * was watching you three when one of them grabbed my ankle. * turned round and they were climbing over each other to get up here so * started shooting.& He raised his flask to his lips and the others could see that his hands were shaking. !"o the maggot,sacks have learned to climb the walls.& Tank said with a grin. !-ot that it matters anymore. $ere out of here, everyone into the teleporter. =ichtofen, get it working.& Takeo and -ikolai stepped into the teleporter while #empsey covered =ichtofen as the .erman made some final ad ustments to the controls. !Hurry the hell up =ichtofen, those freak,bags wont stay away for long.& =ichtofen a few more buttons and turned to #empsey. !*t is done. -ow we can escape.&

!%bout fucking timeA& #empsey said as he oined Takeo and -ikolai in the teleporter. !4k guys, were ready to go.& =ichtofen stepped into the teleporter, then reached back out and hit a button. !Here we go, keep hold of your stomachs, the ride may get a little bumpy.& The air around the four men began to shimmer and bend. "uddenly there was a loud booming sound and an intense white light surrounded them. !* shouldnt have drunk all that vodkaA& -ikolai groaned as the light began to pull the four men towards its centre. Then there was a blinding flash and the four men were gone. The teleporter shut itself down, leaving the swamp to the +ombies.