Zero: (turning back to the Group) Ok, Now Where are we?...(Looks around...) that looks like a fortress...Jaguar..if you wouldn't mind could you get an aerial view of the Area and report back with any info you can gather?

With any luck this will be the fortress that is holding Epsillon, if this is that fortress we can formulate a plan with the info that Jaguar brings back...in any case, be ready for a Major Fight...Oh and By the way,WE will have to move Extremely fast if we want to get Ep out of there unharmed.

Jaguar who had been the last to walk through the portal and had just started to get his bearings nodded slightly at Zero's command.

Before taking off he did a systems check on his jet pack. He had it flown for weeks now since the first time they'd wound up in that forest they had just left and he wasn't sure if all his jet systems were all functioning normally.

After the usual stats flashed before his eyes and his jet pack was at 93 effiency, anything above 90 was considered normal, he stretched out his mettalic wings, flared up his jets and took off.

The protective visor and face gaurd came across his face as he gained altitude rapidly. He switched on his scanners and internal scanners as he looked down at the base. It wasn't like the one he'd wound up in when he first came to this planet. It was all enclosed with all compartments inside. There was only 2 ways in, the front gate and the side gate, which was most likely used for supply, emergency and recon vehicles. Various windows with bars across spotted the side of the complex suggesting a prison of some sorts. Also all around the base were various gaurd towers all armed and equiped with laser cannons of some sort.

That was all he was able to scan in as a laser blast zipped by. Not taking the time to return fire, less he gave them time to lock unto his form. He fired up his after burners and did his best to out manuver the now alerted gaurdsman as he way his way back to the ground.

A few more shots went by just before he reached the area where the others still were. Once on the ground, he dropped to all fours feline style and made a mad dash back to where the others were at. "I think they saw me!", he said as the firing stopped as the front gate started to open up as a group of 10 soldiers started to make their way back to where Jag landed.

(Zero watches ahead as several Blips appear on his Scanners)...

Zero: Argh...Dangit...Infiltration's out of the question...well...(Draws His Sabre)...looks like we'll have to fight our way in...Alpha,I need your help...I need you to clear a path for me into the Fortress, it's possible Ep's in there...I'm not sure,but it's worth a shot...

Jaguar, if Zebuhachi and Destiny will help us...I want you three to divert the soldiers away from this position so that Alpha and I can get in Quickly,and hopefully out quickly with Ep unharmed,if not...then just fight until we can't fight anymore or they can't fight anymore...

Destiny wasn't overly happy about being sent away as a distraction, seeing as how Zero got all the fighting. She kept flexing her fingers around an imaginary sabre, waiting for the soldiers to reach her. Together with Zeb and that other guy (she'd heard Zero call him Jaguar, or maybe it was Ep or Alpha or something), they'd led the soldiers about a quarter mile away. Zeb had wanted to go further, but Destiny hated running and wanted to fight.

The soldiers were almost within her firing range, and Destiny glanced at Zeb. This didn't improve her mood much, the reploid was standing there, still in her muddy clothing, with a blank expression on her face like she was watching TV.

"Zeb!" Zeb! What are you DOING?"

Zeb blinked, then looked at Destiny in surprise.

"What? What happened?"

"ZEB! We've got to fight these guys!"

To prove this point, Destiny gestured at the soldiers, who were now within range, and at Jaguar, who was already fighting off three of them on his own. Zeb blinked again.

"Oh, sorry."

Zeb held out her left hand, and her sabre materialized. She grasped it, and then grinned and ran off to fight, still in her muddy clothing.

Destiny sighed to herself. Reploids. They're all insane. She hoped she was wrong, though, as she got a glance of Zero sneaking past the distracted guards. He might make it in there, if only Zeb would do her part. Destiny charged off into the incoming soldiers, intent on helping Zero and Jaguar.

Zero watched as Jag, Destiny, and Zeb lead the distraction of the enemy troops away from their possition. Once they were out of sight, Zero began to dash towards the base, only to be yanked back as Alpha snared his hair.

"Alpha! Stop it! We have to hurry and be sure that Ep's okay!"

~(He will not be okay! But if we rush in there, he will not be alive either!!)~

Zero stood there, staring at Alpha, stunned.

~(These troops we have been fighting. They are definitely millitary..)~ Alpha started.

There were alot of jokes in their demention about the differences between the Maverick Hunters and the Millitary, the most common one was, comparing the two to eachother, that the MHs were practically a daycare center. The Hunters had originally been millitary-like in their fuctions, but many of the original hunters under these conditions began to go maverick under the stress levels (such as Vile, Sigma, and the original 8). By the time the first war was over, almost all of the pro-millitary hunters were either dead, dying, or Maverick, leaving room for Dr. Cain to make alot of reforms in base functions. The Millitary shunned them for the changes, but there were almost no stress related cases of Maverick transformation after that, and the Hunters as a whole functioned much better than it had. Far better than the Millitary...

That was along time ago, but no Hunter that had been around during that time had ever forgotten what things were like, and they wouldn't let the newer Hunters forget that it had ever happened either. Alpha's comment had reminded Zero of how horrible things used to be, but it also gave him an idea of what to expect, and maybe more...

~(They've had Epsillon for nearly a day and a half...)~

"And no self-respecting millitary waits much longer than that to start interigations," Zero finished.

He knew Alpha was right about his earlier comment. If they were seen while trying to get into the base, Ep would be killed. A millitary like this would rather kill its prisoners than let them be rescued.

"So how do we get in?" He asked.

Zero had to duck down a bit as Alpha covered Zero over with one of his wings. The jewels on Alpha's chest an forehead turned from gold, to light blue, then clear, which spread over the rest of his body, as well as Zero.

Alpha's Shadow Cloak.

Unless someone knew what they were looking for and had very good eyes, they'd either mistaken a shadow cloak for a trick of the light or not even see it at all.

Under the guise of near-invisibility, Alpha and Zero made their way into the base...

Zeb continued to jog forth, sabre in hand, muddy clothes stll donned. Her mind was drifting, as it had for the majority of the time since she, Destiny, and Ice had crash-landed in this place. She slowed to a halt, not realizing that she had been heading away from the enemy, and not thinking that her friends might need help. Until, that is, a rock struck the back of her head with a resounding clang.

"ZEBUHACHI, YOU WORTHLESS PIECE OF SCRAP METAL, GET YOUR REAR IN GEAR BEFORE I DISMEMBER YOU MYSELF!"

Destiny, having just blown the top half of an irregular away, had apparently found time to do a little rock-throwing between opponents. Jaguar was off a ways to the left, fighting off his own group of irregulars admirably, though reinforcements were coming in steady streams. Shaking her head to clear it, Zeb shifted into her armor, dashing forward and slicing an irregular in half, saving Destiny from a rear attack.

"About time," Destiny growled.

"Sorry, Des. But its all right now, this is just like home."

Though without a few certian people, she thought to herself.

Alpha and Zero, under Shadow Cloak, had been following the same guy for the past 5 minutes. It wasn't easy, as they had to be sure that no-one ran into them, but there were very few people to begin with. The guy there were tailing seemed to be doing something urgent, so they desided to follow him, having nothing better to do, having no-clue how to get around the base, or where anything was for that matter. It paid off.

The 'shadowed' guy eventually arrived at his destination, entering a room down the hall. Zero only caught a glimpse of something before the door closed, not enough for him to see what was happening, but even without seeing, something made him feel uneasy. When the guy left the room, another soldier left with him. They both were heading back towards the front of the fortress, possibly to the small battle outside. Once they were out of sight, Alpha deactivated the Shadow Cloak and he and Zero entered the room.

As they entered the room, Zero saw that Alpha's prediction was right. They had already started interigations, it seemed, and Ep had been roughed up a bit. He had been strapped into an interigation chair, blindfolded. His helmet and sheild were setting on a table near by.

Ep's armor was alittle scufed up, but no worse for wear. On his arm was some device with a screen. It seemed to be both keep his energy levels drained very low, and keeping him from going into a sleep cycle to recharge the energy.

'Starvation and sleep deprivation. Classic millitary tactics...' Zero thought distainfully. As he walked up to Ep, Ep seemed to stiffen. He had heard Zero come in and seemed to think he was another of the troops.

As Zero came closer, he noticed something he didn't like. On Ep's cheek there was a nasty looking bruise. It looked as though they had hit him repeatedly in the same spot. Zero carefully, lightly touched the bruise, almost as though it was an illusion and would dissapear. He couldn't believe it was there...

When Zero touched it, Ep flinched, scared that his tormentor had returned, but when the hand didn't move, Ep calmed down slightly.

"...Zero?"

"Everything's going to be alright, Ep..."

Ep sighed and shuttered slightly with relief. Alpha cooed quietly and nudged his master's neck and chin gently as Zero removed the blindfold.

"What did they do to you?" Zero asked, still in disbelief about the bruise. He'd seen Ep injured far worse before, but bruise seemed alot more horrible than anything else. Ep blinked as his eyes adjusted to the light.

"They tried to interigate me...get me to tell information about everyone else..." He said. Alpha had begun to attack the straps that held Ep pinned to the chair, tearing them off so that they couldn't be used again.

"Did you tell them anything?" Zero asked. Ep managed a weak smile.

"I said tried, not suceeded..."

Zero smiled. Ep would never give in to anyone, even at the threat of or carrying out of physical injury. The bruise was proof of that. Zero finally, after 2 days, took off the silver scarf from around his neck and put it around Ep's, returning it to its rightful owner. Zero's smile fell to a frown.

"I'm sorry I wasn't here for you."

"It wasn't your fault..."

Zero finally removed the device from Ep's arm, giving it to Alpha who was more than happy to kill it, scattering its parts to all corners of the room. Ep closed his eyes with a light sigh, finally able to sleep. Zero retrieved his shield and helment from the table. Zero put the sheild on his back, as he had seen Ep do many times, the brought Ep's helmet over to him, putting it back on Ep. The helmet covered most of the bruise, but some of it's ugly dark color could still be seen. Now that Ep was safe, Zero could feel his anger at the millitary growing for what they had done to him, but he kept calm, reminding himself that Ep wasn't really out of danger until they were away from this place.

Zero picked up Ep, then turned to Alpha as the dragon came up beside him, standing some distance away. Alpha made a low growl, and Zero nodded in agreemance. Time for the easy way out...

Alpha possitioned his body, then retracted all the spikes down his back and tail, his eyes turning solid green. He lifted his head and openned his mouth, preparing the energy needed for an Ion Cannon blast. Once it was really, Alpha closed his mouth, leveled his neck for the proper angle, then openned his mouth and let loose the blast, vaporizeing a hole through all the barriers that would prevent them from leaving, at least 20 walls. After the beam faded, there was a loud hissing of air as Alpha's systems began a cool-down, drawing air intake through the vents on his neck (where the spines used to be) and exhaust of superheated air from the vents on his back and tail.

After a few seconds of cooling, the venting stopped and the spines moved back into place. Alpha turned to Zero and made a noise. Zero nodded.

"Alright. Let's go!"

Alpha and Zero, with Ep, then took off, leaving the base through their new exit...

(as Alpha arrived to the Fall Back Line with Zero and Ep, Zero had Signaled Alpha to Take Ep somewhere safe)

Zero: (To Alpha) ok...Ep is Safe...I'm going to help them finish this fight,you get Ep somewhere safe...don't argue with me...

(with that Zero Dashes to the Battle Field,Sabre Drawn...within moments the attacking soldiers had withdrawn following an immense attack from Zero's Giga attack "Rekkoha" a Series of Large Energy Beams Striking the ground like lightning (see MMX6) afterwardsp, everyone had back to the fall back line so make sure Ep was ok...)

Zero: ...Now that that's over....what do we do next?...why were we brought here...any thoughts on this?...anyone?

Jaguar meanwhile wasn't too concerned about the battle as the others were. More times than not he found that the fight would lead to close hand to hand combat to long distant shooting and use of his tazor rang, which had already been used half a dozen times during this fight. The repliods they were facing were all basic in design with no deviding traits that suggested uniqueness or individualality, as in more drone like. They were also drone like in structure as he found it didn't take too much to bring one of them down. "Quantity over Quality I see", he thought to himself as he took down another from his side.

In most fights such as these, he'd develope a simple yet negotiable pattern. Step 1, take out as many of them from far off as possible fore they get too close. Step 2, throw out tazor rang to take out the new line so to give him time to charge up his buster and repeat step 1. Step 3, modify plan accordingly should they catch on and adapt. This plan had always worked before, though here it was differant. He had no base to retreat to to recharge and repair in. Also here, if he suffered major damage his emergency med kit would most likely not have the nessassary components to repair it. So here he'd have to use every nessassary precaution...which was sadly in short supply.

Then another problem arose, he knew it be only a matter of time fore these troops over took him, Zeb and Destiny. Every so often he looked around trying to find somthing he could use to their advantage but found none, till finally his eyes rested on the base itself. The gaurd towers...there was 4 of them and he knew as soon as he took off they'd most likely lock unto his form and try to take him out of the sky...which was just what he wanted.

Without another word, the feline flared up his jets and took off for the 2nd time that day in clear view of the gaurd towers. In no time at all, a powerful laser blast whipped by him...and took out a few enemey repliods on the ground as he veared out of the way just in time. He knew he couldn't keep this up long as sooner or later the 4 towers would hit their mark.

He set his jets to maximum burn as he manuvered in and out of the way of the shots thrown at im till finally, he was between 2 of the 4 desired targets. From Zeb's and Destiny's view they could see 2 of the 4 gaurd towers go off in a blaze of smoke and fire as they took each other out trying to take out the flying jaguar.

His job was now a bit easier as he veared in lower out of one of the last remaining towers' gun range, fully aware that odds are the last two wouldn't fall for the last trick. Switching to a differant and much older weapon, he circled around one of the last tower's bases planting what looked like pink glass orbs of some kind. Once he'd set the modified Clash Man bombs on time delay, he flew out of there for a bit as the explosives did their work causing one of the last two towers to give and collasp leaving just the last one.

The last one was gonna be tricky as he didn't intend to destroy it, but rather..borrow it. The remaining one, now more desperate to hit it's target but not wanting to hit any of the outpost itself fired more randomly and more unexpectedly making it harder for Jag to reach it. Once he was as close as he needed, he switched off his jet and unsheathed his mettalic claws as he climbed up the side of the tall structure. The last thing the repliod saw and felt running the cannon was a tazor rang going through his neck as Jaguar assumed control of powerful weapon.

Cealing the entrance hatch shut, he locked unto the small army attacking Zeb and Destiny. He aimed and squeezed off a dozen or so shots concentrating on the larger and now surprised groups that were ither out of Zeb and Destiny's range or attacks, leaving just the small line of repliods surrounding them which they quickly dispatched of. He looked down at the hatch as he could already hear people trying to break through. After setting a few more explosives around the cannon, he took off leaving the eager enemy to discover the surprise he'd left im as a few short seconds later the remaining cannon wen't off like a early fire work's desplay.

After setting back on the ground, he looked towards the gate's entrance, and then towards the side of the building as Zero, Alpha and Ep emerged. "And that is that", he thought to himself.

(a few Hours after Successfully rescuing Ep fomr the enemy base the Day begins to turn in to night)

(as night falls,people take turns keeping a watch out for enemies, other people...and such)

Zero: (Walking up to Jaguar)...you can let Zebuhachi and Destiny know that I'll take the Night Watch until Sunrise...I have plenty on my mind to keep me awake...Get Some rest

(with that Zero takes over the night watch)

(at about what would be 3 AM...Zero begins to fall asleep)

Zero: (Trying to keep awake)...Must Stay...Awake...must not be caught off guard

(Zero after about 30 minutes of this,falls completely Asleep)

Hidden by the darkness of the night, Roe sat perched up on a high tree next to the hunters' camp, watching Zero as he finally fell asleep. He never was one for watch duty...

Roe wasn't trying to be hidden, she was sitting on her branch out in plain view actually, it just seemed that the Hunters never bothered to look up even once during the several hours that they had been there...

Roe knew several of the Hunters. Epsillon and Alpha was pretty obvious to her, and then this Zero being very protective of Ep meant that he was definitely the annoying Zero she knew from her own demention. The others she didn't know, but from what she'd heard over time, she guessed the winged cat was Jag.

Roe lightly tossed a stone she had collected up and down as she sat on her branch. Zero had been asleep for half an hour, maybe an hour at the most... She caught her stone, holding it for a moment. It was about the size of her fist, alittle larger. She watched Zero for a moment, judging the distance, then tossed her stone, landing a direct hit on the top of his helmet.

(Zero wakes up sharply as he feels the stone hitting his helmet)

Zero: (Getting up,seething in pain, now very angry Draws his Sabre) ok,who threw that?...(looks up to see Roe) aw,come on...leave us alone already...wait a minute...how did you get here,I haven't read any large energy signatures or your father's virus...so how is it that you're standing there throwing rocks at people?

Don't you dare tell me that you and your father are trying to conquer this planet because he failed to conquer Earth...because I'll stop him here too.

"Please, Hunter, show some intellegence..." Roe jumped off the branch, landing and standing up gracefully. "If those had been my Father's troops, you'd already be dead."

Roe walked a short distance away from him, an insult in all respects, as though Zero was so insignifigant that she would expose her blind side to a hunter without a second thought.

"As unfortunate as it is, we seem to be in the same predicament as you are. I desided to have a look around, but my father is still brooding a bit. He had a good chance to finally finish X, then we suddenly show up here..."

Roe turned smoothly back around, her eyes piercing straight into Zero.

"I can see that look in your eyes. You want to kill me."

Her stare went straight through Zero, straight into him. He wanted to look away, to yell some insults at her, but he felt numb...frozen...

"You want to strike me down, that's obvious. However, you know you can't." She stared even deeper into him. "You tried so five years ago, when I was a meere child, and you couldn't even make a scratch. What hope do you have of doing it now that I've mastered my powers?"

Roe turned from him, breaking her stare. Zero began to feel the numbness leaving him, turning into a slight dizziness. Roe had definitely done something to him, he wasn't sure what, but it seemed to be wearing off now. He looked up. Roe's back was to him again.

"My father and I have been considering a temporary truce, until things can be sorted out. We'll give you some time to deside whether to accept or decline. It seems though that you will be needing the help, judging from Ep's condition. If you choose to decline, however, you will fall under continual attack, giving you even more problems that you currently have. I would suggest you have a chat with the rest of your little camping group..."

Roe seemed to have finished. She simply stood there, her back still facing him. She seemed as though she intended to wait until she recieved an answer. Zero held his deactivated sabre in his hand. He wanted to go over there right now and attack her, but he desided against it. She'd be expecting that...

(as Zero Sheathes his Beam Sabre he replies to Roe)

Zero: Where will you be once we reach a decision? I'm telling you now, the rest of them won't be as open as I am now...the only reason I haven't attacked is because of our current situation,otherwise I'd have no quams of fighting you.

but,putting that aside, I honestly wouldn't mind the truce...but like I said before, the others won't be so open...give me a location to meet you at when we reach a decision.

(Laughs a little) Who knows, during the truce we may actually dissolve the Maverick War...(Suppressed Laughter)...ah..still...just a thought.

"You are confused, hunter. I am not leaving from this spot."

Roe didn't even move once to turn around. Her voice was strict, almost threatening.

"If those others are foolish enough to attack me, then they will be willingly accepting the punishment that I will deal them. Do not adress me again until you have waken the others and come to a decision."

(Zero replies to Roe,just as sharply as Roe's voice was)

Zero: Very well, but I trust you enough not to intervene with the decision,ok?...If you're too close the rest of them, they will most definetely decline the truce,frankly it'll be hard trying to get them all to agree,but I think I can manage.

On Another Note...just remember no one is invincible,Roe...that seems to be a contradicting flaw, considering the power you wield...

(as he walks away from Roe...he begins to think about how he will address the Hunters of the current situation...his primary concern being Ep's Reaction)

Zero: (arriving at the "Camp") Ok, we've hit a small snag...but it may work out for us...like how we were brought here, so were Sigma and Roe (If you have any questions Ask the Moderator about Roe,Zebuhachi and Destiny)...They are having similar problems that we are and Roe has extended a Truce until everything can be sorted out...I want to hear what you all think we should do,I'll start with Jaguar,then Destiny then Epsillon,alright?

After that,I'll make a final decision,look at it this way...we have enough problems as it is without having to worry about a Maverick attack, so I suggest you really think about this.

Destiny sat in moody silence, resentful at even thinking of a truce with an irregular, especially if Sigma was anything as annoying as he was in her own dimension. She sat tapping her fingers irritably as she listened to Zero's speech, causing Zeb to notice her irritation. Zeb leaned over and whispered in her ear.

"Listen, Destiny. I don't like the idea any more than you do, but think about it, will you? That one guy, Epsillon, seems to be pretty bad off. We don't need an attack right now."

Destiny merely shrugged and grunted, standing up and wandering to a secluded side of the camp. Sighing, Zeb watched her go, and waited until it was their turn to voice their opinion.

Jaguar had just been awoken from his nap-or the equivalent of a nap for a Repliod-as Zero came into the camp clearing. He was about to put in his two cents, when suddenly he felt that familair feeling.

He knew the feeling all too well, yet it was still hard to describe and it was the second time it had happned here on this planet. As always it felt as if he was blacking out, but not entirely as many times he could still recall what went on, he just didn't have as much say as what occured.

As Roe listened to the input added in from the other hunters, she sensed somthing odd suddenly. The source came from the winged feline known as Jaguar, where she had before sensed one mind, she suddenly sensed two as the expression on Jaguar's face changed from his normal facial expression to that of some one totally differant.

The other enity slowly sat up and leapt down to the level the others were at. He looked around at the others and then towards Zero. "Before we even begin talking about a probable truce", he began, "We better consider somthing, why are Roe and Sigma here now and why didn't they try contacting us sooner?", he said with a simple smirk.

He then looked towards Roe in accusation, "I'll tell you why, cause odds are knowing Sigma, he already tried joining sides with the other repliods here, but to no avail and odds are him and Roe will sell us out the moment a oppertunity in their interest arises". He folded his arms as he went on,"also theres another reason why their probably here, like us, they're along way from Earth and any control chips they can transmit their intelligent's into should their bodies be destroyed and obviously don't wanna take that chance. Specially since if they don't join sides with us, they'll have us and the other repliods to worry about so the threat will be greatly increased."

He finally concluded, "So basicly heres the thing, we need them just as much as they need us...for the present moment, but keep in mind that that can easily all change in a instant should somthing happen that teetors the odds in their and or our favor and thats all I have to say on the subject."

"Jag, I know logic isn't your strong point, but you need to try to use it once in awhile..."

The group turned its attention to Epsillon. Ep had woken up shortly before Zero had come for the group disscusion and had been leaning against Alpha for support. He was feeling much better than before, but was still alittle tired and sore.

"I know that you always want to believe that the Mavericks have some secret vendetta, but they might not always be up to something. Remember, we all arrived here at different times; more than likely they just got here and just found us."

Ep stopped for a moment in talking to adjust himself. Alpha lifted his head, then layed it back down again. The dragon was quite calm, even though a maverick was hanging around.

"I doubt highly also that they've joined up with the military. The military on our planet was what drove alot of Hunters maverick in the first place; Sigma doesn't like their functions or methods. Also, I doubt he'd surrender to a higher authority. And as for the body/control chip thing goes, I don't know if you've met Sigma receintly, but I honestly haven't a clue on how to defeat his latest form, and I doubt Roe would really want to posses any of us..."

~(I think Roe wants an alliance because she has an interest in other things...)~

Zeb, Destiny, and Jag had heard as Alpha made a few small noises. Directly after that, Ep turned a light shade of red and Zero started laughing. They had the distinct feeling they had missed a very good joke about Ep.

Zeb and Destiny turned to Zero, in hopes of an explination, but the look Ep shot Zero stopped him from saying anything.

"Well then," Zero said after he stopped chuckling. "Who wants to add their two-cents now?"

(after hearing Ep's Response)

Zero: ok,we've had our input from Jaguar and Ep...Zebuhachi and Destiny,what do you think?

(waits for their response)

Destiny rose from her spot at the fringes of camp, slipping over and seating herself next to Zeb, listening quietly as the others discussed their ideas, though looking rather moody. Zeb looked apprehensively at Destiny, worried that she would do something rash. Fortunately, Zeb managed to voice her thoughts before Destiny could speak her mind.

"I don't think it's such a bad idea that we have a truce with Sigma and Roe. Right now, both our groups would benefit with a ceasefire." She shrugged. "I don't see why we don't."

"I see why we shouldn't, Zebu. They're Irregulars! You know, evil, we've been sworn to wipe them out..I think it's a bad idea. I, for one, don't want to have to pretend to be friends with some stupid Tinheads, just to have them turn on us later," Destiny said. "I, for one, am not going to be walking on eggshells for who knows how long around Mr. Clean and his little sidekick."

With that, she rose to her feet, arrogance dominating her posture, and stalked off into the shadows. Ice looked after her for a moment, then glanced to Zeb, making questioning growling noises in his throat. Zeb sighed.

"Well, those are our opinions, I guess. And don't mind Destiny too much. She's just got too much pride yo admit how useful this will be."

(Speaks Loud enough for destiny to hear)

Zero: You're Right,Destiny...however,the Enemy we may face could turn out to be even deadlier than Sigma, and If you'll study your history a little bit, Sigma wasn't ALWAYS a Maverick and I wasn't Always a Hunter...I think we should go ahead and make the truce, granted Sigma and Roe are Dangerous, but so is our enemy here

No one's asking you to jump through Hoops for Sigma...infact (Makes Sure Roe Hears this) Sigma will not lead this group,He'll have to fight and Kill me to gain control...even then he may not be able to...

I will make the Truce,but If I get the slightest inkling that They're going to do something to jeapordize the lives of the people here,I break it off and then we'll deal with Sigma and Roe.

"You seem to be forgetting, dear, naive Zero, that you are not the one making the truce. My Father and I are presenting this rare opportunity to you, and you merely have the choice of accepting or declining," Roe sharply reminded Zero.

"And as the leadering goes, you are no more the leader than a rookie would be. You may organize your little camping troop however you like, but we are not under your authority. Should we do anything you request of us, it will be because we chose to."

Roe began to walk away, leaving the group. "Hey! Where do you think you're going?" Zero snapped. Roe glanced over her shoulder.

"It will not be an official truce if my father was not here, now would it?" Roe began to walk away. Zero frowned. It seemed things were bound to be hectic...

"Oh, and one more thing," Roe called. Zero looked up. "If you think that it is only my father and I that are here, then you are greatly mistaken." With that, Roe dissapeared off into the woods, bound to return sometime later.

(As Roe leaves and is out of ear shot)...

Zero: Great,Just Great...Listen to me Roe, if you think I'm going to take orders from Sigma...you're sadly mistaken, ya know it wouldn't hurt him...hm, or maybe it would...to be what he USED to be for a while...A HUNTER...(crosses his arms) for the record...don't EVER call me a rookie again...if ya do,you're not going to like the consequences...

(walks away preparing everyone for Sigma's arrival)

Zero: Look everyone,it looks like baldy's coming here to finalize things...but Just in case...Ep,Since you're still in Auto-Repair...you'll stay here with me, Jaguar..I want you to find another place where we can set up camp just in case Roe and Sigma are spies for the enemy, Zebuhachi and Destiny...you could either Help Jaguar or stay here, your decision. (looks back) call me a rookie, will ya? In the mean time I'm going to warm up...

(with that he finds a clearing behind the camp and begins to go through his Weapons Exercises,as everyone hears Buster Shots and Beam Slashes)

Jaguar nodded towards Zero command as the partial blackout he was experiencing ended. Normally whenever these blackouts ended, he found ither the situation had calmed down or had been altogether neutralized. After running a few system checks to make sure everything was operational, he jumped down from his tree branch, made sure he had a clear launching space and unfolded his wings preparing for flight.

The protective visor and face gaurd flashed across his face as he looked up. After popping in a small clip of his favorite album "The Beach Boys" to listen to while going off to find a new camp ground, he prechecked all his flight systems, ignited his jets and took off as he soon became a small speck in the early morning sky.

As the classic song "I get around" played, Jag took a few moments to unwind himself as he regathered his thoughts together. This was above all, his favorite moment in life when it was just him, the sky and the few small moments of peace that came with it as he made his daily rounds. Even though the situation was slightly differant; he was on a entirely differant world, he was looking for a small camp site and no possible maverick threats..for once; it was still the same for him. It was a small chance for him to get away from the hectic war going on down below and he could just breath in the quietness all around him which never lasted quite long enough.

He again flew over another region he had spotted earlier in his flight, that might be a good as place as any to set up a new camp. There was a nice stream of water running close by, the spot was well enclosed among the trees and the terrain looked to be repliod and organic friendly at the same time. He switched off the "Beach Boy's" clip and slowly descended down unto the camp below, unaware of the pair of feline eyes that watched him as the facegaurd and visor across his face folded back. He opened up a comlink to Zero and reported his findings. "Hey Zero! think I've found our new home away from home for the time being, why don't you send some one over to inspect it while the rest of you wait on Sigma and Roe", he said as he thought somthing to himself"anyone but Ep and Alpha...", he continously repeated in his mind.

"Ok! I'll send Ep and Alpha"

"D'oh!"

"What was that?"

"I said um..oh! ok!..sure!"

"Ep could use some time alone to recuperate anyway and also we have no way of knowing how Ep or Alpha will react to Sigma's presence, specially Alpha", Zeo finished.

Jaguar sighed slightly, he hoped that Ep woudl make up some excuse for not leaving camp, but then he thought it over. In case Roe and Sigma weren't on the up and up, it might be wise to have Ep and Alpha leave camp should a small scuffle or worse a setup occur, thus damaging Ep even further or worse. He walked over to a rock and sat down, his wings folding up behind his back waiting for a response from Zero and or for Ep and Alpha to show up when or if they did.

(as Zero waits for Jaguar to return,he's beginning to get realy edgy as far as waiting for Sigma)

Zero: (To himself) Hmm...perhaps this wasn't such a good idea...I mean they could be plotting our destruction and we'd never know...(out loud) geez, could those two be any slower...I mean I know Sigma's an old reploid...but sheesh this is ridiculous

(after that's said, Alpha bonks Zero in the back as a way of saying "now that's not very nice")

They are taking alot of time .I wonder what they are doing.In the time it's taking them to arrive we could have settled this once and for all.(Stands up and starts walking around around impatiently)

Zeb remained close to camp, watching the shadows intently for any sign of movement, hostile or otherwise. Sighing, she glanced in Destiny's direction, though she knew that at this moment it was best to leave her alone to brood. Her gaze shifted toward the stars, pondering about how different the patterns were here than at home. Oh, it was painful to think about home. And Zero. The Zero she knew. Not to mention X, Infinity, Myna..any of them. She jumped as Ice nudged her hand, appearing seemingly out of nowhere. Smiling a bit, she stroked his head gently.

"Yeah, you miss him too, I know."

Meanwhile, Destiny was indeed brooding, sitting seperated from the camp, half submerged in the shadows, grumbling about stupid Tinheads and their cowardly ways. Picking up small stones one at a time, she chucked them into the darkness, disturbing small animals in the underbrush, staring blankly out into the gloom.

Jaguar nodded towards Zero's command as the partial blackout he was experiencing ended. Normally whenever these blackouts ended, he found ither the situation had calmed down or had been altogether neutralized. After running a few system checks to make sure everything was operational,as he some times more than not found some damage after these blackouts he suffered from, he jumped down from his tree branch, made sure he had a clear launching space and unfolded his wings preparing for flight.

The protective visor and face gaurd flashed across his face as he looked up. After popping in a small clip of his favorite album "The Beach Boys" to listen to while going off to find a new camp ground, he prechecked all his flight systems, ignited his jets and took off, as soon after he became nothing more than a small speck in the early morning sky.

As the classic song "I get around" played, Jag took a few moments to unwind himself as he regathered his thoughts together. This was above all, his favorite moment in life when it was just him, the sky and the few small moments of peace that came with it as he made his daily rounds. Even though the situation was slightly differant; he was on a entirely differant world, he was looking for a small camp site and no possible maverick threats..for once; it was still the same for him. It was a small chance for him to get away from the hectic war going on down below and he could just breath in the quietness all around him which never lasted quite long enough.

He again flew over another region he had spotted earlier in his flight, that might be a good as place as any to set up a new camp. There was a nice stream of water running close by, the spot was well enclosed among the trees and the terrain looked to be repliod and organic friendly at the same time. He switched off the "Beach Boy's" clip and slowly descended down unto the camp below, as the facegaurd and visor across his face folded back. He opened up a comlink to Zero and reported his findings.

"Hey Zero! think I've found our new home away from home for the time being, why don't you send some one over to inspect it while the rest of you wait on Sigma and Roe", he said as he thought somthing to himself "anyone but Ep and Alpha...", he continously repeated in his mind. Not that he didn't like Ep, but for him Ep was one of those people he had a time conversing with, specially with his pet dragon Alpha around. "Ok! I'll send Ep and Alpha" , Zero replied after a few moments of silence. "D'oh!", Zero heard over the comlink in response. "What was that?" "I said um..oh! ok!..sure!" Zero concluded after a brief pause, "Ep could use some time alone to recuperate anyway and also we have no way of knowing how Ep or Alpha will react to Sigma's presence, specially Alpha", Zeo finished.

Jaguar sighed slightly, he hoped that Ep woudl make up some excuse for not leaving camp, but then he thought it over. In case Roe and Sigma weren't on the up and up, it might be wise to have Ep and Alpha leave camp should a small scuffle or worse a setup occur, thus damaging Ep even further, possibly beyond his system capability to restore him to full operation.

He walked over to a rock and sat down, his wings folding up behind his back waiting for a response from Zero and or for Ep and Alpha to show up when or if they did. He popped in his fav album again, layed back against a log and took a few more moments to enjoy this precious and rare moment of peace he was now experiencing, wondering how long it would be fore it was shattered. "Better not think about that now, it'll only make the ending more disturbing", he thought to himself as he closed his eyes just leaving his sensors on full alert for any maverick or anything else that might wander into the clearing he had discovered.

(as he waits for Sigma and Roe to arrive, he decides to go back into an area not too far away from the main camp and also within earshot of Destiny,just going through his exercises to keep from being bored)

Zero: (on comm to Ep)...Ep,perhaps you should go see what Jaguar found, it would then be our back-up camp incase of attack....(as soon as he shuts the comm he hears Destiny say something about tinheads and something that sounded like her calling the group a bunch of cowards)...(heads in Destiny's direction)

(upon Arrival,he then confronts Destiny)

Zero: so,We're cowards huh?...I've had it up to here with your insolence...you think you can lead this group better (Drawing his Beam Sabre)...then show me you can lead,En Garde!!

Destiny sprang to her feet, immediately going into a half crouching defensive posture, neon green eyes fixed upon the reploid before her.

"Oh, what a brave little Tinhead. Challenging a mere human like me, unarmed but for her own two hands. Whatever shall I do?"

Her words were spoken with malice, and not a trace of fear tainted what came from her mouth. True, she had no armor and no sabre, but she would fight Zero anyway. She had been in worse situations, and she was not the type to back from challenge. She would beat him into the ground, or die trying. Posture changes quickly to offensive, leaving no room for negotiation as she leaped forth into the battle. Or at least tried. Before she got anywhere near Zero, a large purple blast of plasma hit her broadside, knocking her sideways and into a tree.

"Zebuhachi!" she screamed, "This is NOT your fight!"

In a half sitting position beneath the tree, she fired a massive blast in Zebu's direction, destroying whatever foliage got in the way and leaving a trench in its wake. Obviously, however, she missed, as Zebu appeared beside her, smashing her arm cannon onto Destiny's head, successfully knocking her out. Zebu caught her easily, picking her up and smiling wearily at Zero.

"Don't mind her. She doesn't mean what she says. She's just got a hot temper, and she doesn't like waiting around for the enemy."

Zeb began walking away towards the tents, stopping and turning after taking a few steps.

"And she could have destroyed me with that blast. Destiny missed on purpose."

Ice trotted along beside Zeb as she ducked inside one of the tents, presumably to find Destiny a place to rest.

(before Zebuhachi leaves the Earshot distance)...

Zero: (sheathing his Sabre) Zebuhachi, that's the one thing that WILL set me off regardless if I'm under the Virus' control or not...I will not tolerate being called a coward...I've never backed down from a fight...I believe now Destiny is aware of that, but still... there was no call for me to lose my temper...but the next time, let us hash things out...it might work for the better,who knows?...I think we're all a little edgy because of this whole truce with Sigma...I say we all get a little rest and be ready in the morning.

(with that,he walks back to camp)

Gohan: (walks up to Zero)Hey Zero what was that?I saw some type of plasma blast shoot off.(Zero looks at Gohan and then looks away and walks away)Hey what did I do.Hmm.I think I'm going to check this out.(Gohan walks into the woods)Hmm this is a big trench.Well this does seem to be a good training spot.(Takes out his sword and start cutting down trees).That was fun.Well this is a big enough area.I guess I can start training.(loud cutting and blasting sounds could be heard everywhere)

Sigma and Roe finally came to the Hunter 'camp'. The trip for Roe to come back to their camp and then back to the Hunter camp was quite long, but it wasn't very hard to find again. There was a loud racket being made near by, and the merely had to follow the noise to reach the camp.

Sigma's latest body didn't have any yet known weapon weaknesses, but it still didn't help his worry. Durring this long trip, the Hunters could have been plotting a trap or something else nasty for them for when they arrived, and he couldn't turn his thoughts to much anything else.

That, and the Hunter brat Epsillon... He was still coming to grips with the fact that his daughter was in love with a Hunter, and worse yet, the younger sibbling of his worst enemies, none the less.

Sigma sighed mentally as they finally arrived at the Hunter camp, keeping his face straight, only giving off a slight glimpse of agitation. This, he felt, was going to be a long truce..

(half asleep with one foot against a tree with his arms crossed,he then wakes up from his "nap", with a loud yawn turns his attention to Sigma)

Zero: (to Sigma) Ha,Ha...nice face,mind if I take a picture? Getting down to business,I'm assuming Roe has informed you of the situation here...I just want to make one thing clear...I will not take orders from you,understood? however,you and I can come together and filter down our orders,this way I can lead my people,and you yours.

As you know we have a common enemy and for once it's not you...Heh,who knows,like I said to Roe...perhaps when this is over we can end the Reploid War on Earth,I'm sure you've had it with being beaten by X and I and frankly, The Hunters are kinda tired of seeing it's first commander failing so often. I know I am, I mean sheesh,You Trained me,remember?

Now, with that being said, what are your ideas?

Upon hearing Sigma and Roe reenter the camp, Zeb quickly exited the tent that Destiny was in, standing outside the opening rather protectively. Destiny was still unconcious, and she didn't fully trust the irregulars. She sighed, glancing into the tent behind her briefly, wishing that Destiny hadn't been so hot headed. It really wasn't too great for her to be unconcious right now.

Gohan: (returning from training)Ahh.I feel good and ready for anything.Seems like Sigma is here.I better stay away for now.(Gohan sits by a tree looking at Zero and Sigma talk)Hmm.I wonder how long I was training.I hope I wasn't making to much noise.I even thought that was alot of noise.(now looking at Zeb)I woder what she's doing.I guess I will go and train soom more.It doesn't seem like there is any thing else to do.(goes back into the woods)I wonder what I'm going to do next.I guess that I could pratice my aiming.(sets up some large logs from his previous training.Shoots with terible aim the first time))I guess that I should have started practicing my aiming a long time ago.*somebody in the background*Stop shooting GOHAN. Gohan: What was that I guess That I should stop makeing so much noise.(Walks back to camp)Still I wonder who said that.

Unaware of the arrival of Sigma and Roe, Jaguar, while waiting to recieve further orders from Zero, had taken this small moment to do a little fishing with a rod and real he had made from what he had found and a few spare parts he had gotten off a defeated repliod.

While Jaguar, like most repliods, didn't eat as most food products would clog up his servos. He did though enjoy the peace and relaxation that came with fishing, normally whenever he did caught somthing back on earth he normally threw it back keeper or not. He had been in this routine for about 15 minutes, without a single bite yet, when suddenly his comnlink went off alerting him of a incoming transmission. "Knew it couldn't last", he thought to himself.

Abandoning his rod, real and lure to answer Zero's call, he thought it was Zero unless some one was making a prank phone call..which wasn't very likely way out here, he opened up the channel for the awaited transmission.

He nodded as Zero informed him that Roe and Sigma had finally shown up and that Jag was to wait for further orders.

As the repliod feline listened, his line suddenly started to jerk as if somthing was tugging on the other end, sadly Jag was so distracted by the current call he scarcely noticed the fork he had put his reel to rest on snap as the entire thing wen't under and a large looming figure suddenly emerged from the large stream that Jag was fishing from. Had Jaguar had noticed he probably would of been surprised and probably would of had told Zero he'd have to call him back.

The creature's body was like that of a sea serphant straight from the old myths and tales of old earth folklore, cept this one was real and dangling out of it's mouth was Jag's broken rod, real and probably deep inside, Jag's home made lure. Without making hardly a sound, it spat out Jag's stuff obviously dissatisfied with the taste as the entire thing hit Jag in the back of the head just as his conversation with Zero ended.

Blinking slightly, Jag rubbed the back of his head turning around just as the thing had resubmerged itself back underwater entirely without leaving a trace it had ever been there. Jag looked down at the tatered remains of his fishing setup and sighed a bit. "Stupid wind", he said as he knelt down to see if any of his 2 weeks of work were salvagable or not...the lure was about the only thing in one piece.

Zeb stood outside Destiny's tent with her arms crossed, watching the Irregulars cautiously. They didn't seem too bad, really. They certainly didn't seem to want to attack anyone at the moment, and that was good. Zeb had been running on less than half-power the entire time she'd been here, and wasn't ready to fight again. Nor was Destiny, Zeb thought. She turned her head slightly in the direction of the tent, where Destiny was quite obviously still unconscious. The reploid shivered suddenly, wondering if maybe she'd hit Destiny a bit too hard. One of Zeb's greatest fears was being cast out of the life she loved as an Irregular, and sent to live with the reploids who wanted her dead. Oh well, she didn't need to worry about that here. No one wanted her dead here. Not yet, anyway. Zeb sank gracefully into a sitting position on a large rock outside Destiny's tent, glancing over at the strange boy in the forest, who hadn't stopped blowing things up since he arrived. Funny looking kid, Zeb thought to herself, I wonder who he is... Inside the tent, Destiny was very much awake, laying quietly and listening in on the discussion. Along with her "Powers," Destiny had inherited amazing strength, along with exceptionally good hearing and vision. Though these were all great talents, her coordination hadn't gotten any better in the deal. Anyhow, Destiny had known Zeb almost for the reploid's entire life, which now totaled nearly twelve years, old for a reploid. Destiny understood Zeb better than anyone excepting possibly Zero (who won't admit this fact), and though the silence was typical of the reploid, Destiny wondered why she hadn't yet spoken with the rest of the group. "Oh, right." Destiny thought, "Zero." Destiny had almost forgotten him again. Now, she burned with rage. How dare he threaten her! The arrogant little jerk! Why, if she wasn't stuck in this stupid dimension, she would be quite happy to tear him to pieces. He'd called her a rookie more than once, as well as threatening her level of strength. Destiny hated, above all things, being disrespected. But, at the same time, she hadn't exactly been being nice to him either. Destiny's anger kind of flickered and died. Well, no wonder he'd attacked her, she'd been provoking him since she got here. And not to mention Zeb. "Oh, Zero-Sama! I'm so glad to see you!" Destiny snorted to herself. Idiot reploid. But then again, they all were. Destiny suddenly paused, realizing that she'd missed a good ten minutes of the discussion while her mind drifted. Now, she listened intently again...

Gohan: (sits down)I wonder what there is to do.It seems like the only thing to do is listen to everything.(looks over at Zeb)I wonder what she's looking at.I guess I will talk to her to find out.(gets up and walks up over to Zeb)

"Who are you?"

Zeb hadn't been paying attention, lost in her thoughts, and ended up jumping several inches, then falling off her rock backwards into a bush. She quickly regained her composure, climbing back onto her rock again like nothing had happened. She coughed.

"Excuse me?"

"Who are you?" Gohan repeated, blinking slightly at the reploid's display of clumsiness. (ooc: is that a word? o_o)

Zeb, being a reploid, and a rather airheaded one (at times), rambled off the first thing that popped into her head.

"Hajimemashite, I am Zebuhachi, prototype Limitless Potential repliroid model number D30-Z8832, GA class Irregular Hunter, Elite #0 Unit, second in command, yoroshiku onegaishimasu."

Gohan stared, and a loud snort came from the tent.

Zeb realized a second too late that that was not exactly a normal introduction. She very much doubted

Gohan cared to know her model number. Zeb turned red, trying desperately to not look like an idiot.

"Erm... but... you can call me 'Zeb'! Uh, who are you?"

"My name is Gohan San"(starts walking around looking at Zeb)"I'm a A class hunter.My Reploid number is really not important." Zeb still red "Ohh hey Gohan San" (Gohan sits down) "You can call me Gohan,You can leave out the San." another loud snort came from the tent (Gohan looks up) "What was that" Zeb looks up at the tent "Nothing" Zeb said looking at the tent.

Sigma and Zero, for the most part of the 'conversation' remainded silent, feeling out eachother's thoughts almost. Both of them already knew the basic layout of their truce, the usual stuff: no attacking/killing/hurting/ect of other people, no stealing, no not listening to eachothers opinions, and so on. The only time they really spoke up is when they thought of something out of the ordinary that they wanted to voice.

"Alright, is that everything?" Zero asked as they seemed to have run out of controversial issues. Sigma seemed to be thinking, continuing to stare Zero in the eyes. Niether of them had broken eye contact since they had started.

"Just one more thing," Sigma started. If Sigma hadn't been so stiff and threatening in his held appearance, he'd have probably looked akward, but he came off looking serious. "If your brother does anything...'inapropriate'..to my daughter, I can not promise to not kill him..." he added firmly.

(As Sigma finishes his sentence)...

Zero: just remember not to jump the gun, as you've always done so...if any inappropriate action is taken,trial first,understood? you of all people should know,that we need the whole group for this to work,ok?

Whilst the meeting tween Zero and Sigma started to draw to a close the winged repliod that was Jaguar quietly waited at the camp site he had discovered for Ep and Alpha to show up. Night was starting to creep in and there was still no sign of Epsillon or his pet dragon.

Having gathered some brush and small pieces of bark he had found, Jaguar had started a small fire. Not for warmth or for cooking as he needed neither. But simply to save on his emergency lighting. He looked around as he thought he heard a twig snap. His scanners showed no sign of anything organic or repliod so he just shrugged his shoulders reconcentrating his attention on the small fire he had started.

A small thought slowly crept it's way into the repliod feline's mind, as he tended the fire adding some larger twigs and branches to it. What if the truce was indeed just a set up. It had been nearly over 5 hours since Zero's last communication and he had no clue as to what was keeping Ep and Alpha.

Logic slowly sank in however as he shook his head. Odds are a truce like this, the first one in the history of the Maverick War on earth, was the first one ever attempted and more than likely one was bound to come across snags and dead ends so naturally it be a while fore any final agreements were made.

Though one fear did remain. Ep as far as he knew was no woodsman and probably he'd have a hard time making his way through the numerous obstacles that these woods challenged.

And then there was the unknown mystic energies this world contained, like the one he and the others had encountered in that swamp back there that Asquira had helped them out of.

Finally there was the repliods the hunters and quite possibly the mavericks have been fighting since they first got here.

Anyone of these could explain Ep's and Alpha's tardiness. He hoped it was the first one as he was sure the last thing anyone needed was for the groups only CND dragon and..whatever it was that Ep was, as he forgot what it was ya called im. To get trapped in some magical field the ancients of this planet had set up or for Ep and Alpha to get captured.

Again the feline shook his head. He had personally flown over these woods himself. If there was any mystical energies from here to the originally campsite than odds are he would of been trapped as well. As back in the mysterious swamp flying was just as useless as walking. Also if there was any repliod outposts or encampments, he probably would of encountered some form of hostile fire.

As a hunter, he knew when to acknowlege certain fears and discard others. This was that time to discard, as he knew all too well, fears without any real backbone would normally lead to disaster if acted upon that or take away from one's pride. "No", he thought silently to himself, "Ep and that crazy dragon are just late". With that he threw another log on the fire and started to set up a small temporary shelter for the night.

Emerging from the tent closely followed by Ice, Destiny glared at Zeb in mock anger.

"Oh, so I'm a nothing then, am I?"

Grinning, she plopped down on the ground next to Zeb, rubbing her head a little in the spot where Zebu had nailed her. Grimacing, Zeb nudged her a little bit.

"You oka, Des? I didn't really mean to hit you that hard, I mean, cause I don't want to to be hurt or anything and-"

Destiny cut her off. "Don't worry about it, Zebs, I've taken harder hits than that. My head's just not metal, that's all."

With that, she flung an arm around Ice's neck, glancing around the camp and stopping when she spotted Sigma.

"Hey, look. Mr. Clean finally decided to grace us with his presence," she commented dryly.

Zeb sighed. "Des, haven't you learned anything yet? This is a truce, you fool. I don't suggest calling names."

Destiny simply shrugged. "Just telling it like it is." Turning slightly, she squinted at Gohan. "Gohan, right? I'm Destiny. Pleased to meet you and all that junk."

Resting her forehead in her hands, Zeb sighed again, hoping that Destiny would at least learn some manners while she was here.

(hears Destiny's Mr.Clean remark,cringes and at the same time trying to keep himself from laughing in Sigma's Face)

Zero: (To Sigma)...perhaps we should begin by having both armies combining in one location...a Base of Operations if you will...(rubs his head from the Rock Roe threw at him)...Do me a favor,will ya...Keep Roe over there away from things she can throw at me...otherwise...I won't be held accountable for my actions

Gohan: (still laughing from Destiny's remark)Now that wasn't very nice was.... it.(looks up and smiles)It was funny..... but not nice.

Zeb:It's not nice to laugh about it either Gohan...even though it was funny.

Destiny: (smileing from her own remark)Well I can't help saying somthing about it.....well it's true.Look at him.He looks just like the picture on the bottle.

Zeb: (shakes her head)You don't have to be so rude.I wish that you could learn some manners

(looks back at his group)

Zero: (thinking) they're going to end this truce before it begins...

(with that he walks to Zebuhachi,Destiny and Gohan)

Zero: Look you guys, with all of your "Mr.Clean" Jokes I can't keep a straight face, but keep it up and we'll not only have to deal with the enemy here, but also Sigma and his Army...I for one,don't want that... it's not in our best interest

(his tone becomes a whisper almost)...make the jokes AFTER he's out of Earshot...He HATES that...

"I'd suggest saving those comments for 'out of earshot' as well," Sigma replied to Zero's comment, making the Hunter jump slightly. "Now, are we about done with talk?" He pressed.

Roe, a distance away, sitting on a log, was getting over a slight brooding. She had figured her father would have asked a question like that, but it still caught her off guard. "Ep wouldn't even know -how- to do anything 'inapropriate', " she said, more to herself.

She looked up after her father had asked about finishing things up. "I think the only thing you have to do now is finalize the agreement. Sign a contract, shake hands, whatever," She interjected.

Sigma and Zero had the same expressions on their faces: 'Shake hands with -HIM-?'

They'd be here all night at this rate, Roe decided, so she stood up. She knew of one thing that might speed up their closure...

"Well, until you work things out, I guess you should stay here," She said, begining to walk away.

"Where are you heading off to?" Sigma questioned in a parent's manor.

"I'm going to go find Ep," She said quaintly, then added, "maybe we'll try to figure out what 'inappropriate' constitutes..." having no intention to carry it out, but she knew that comment, if nothing else, would get them to hurry up.

Zero: (to Sigma) ...Your hearing's a little better than I remember, look if Roe does anything that may look like she's going to harm Ep...it's not going to be -ME- you're going to have to worry about (hinting about Alpha), so let's finalize this and let's get moving already...

(with that being said, he extends his hand out) Here's hopin'.

Ep was slowly making his way towards Jag. He was recovering, but not fully yet, so he had to keep resting every once in awhile. Alpha stayed close by him, keeping guard.

"Geez, Jag chose a far-off place.." Ep muttered to himself. Alpha murmered and agreement. Ep stood back up, getting ready to start travelling again.

As Ep began to start walking with Alpha, he turned his head slightly, continuing walking. He felt Roe comming his way, and he feld Sigma's viral signal. Seemed the 'truce' had begun.

Ep stopped walking for a second, wondering to himself if it would be such a good idea to lead Roe to the camp. He knew Roe could sense and follow him. Then again, if she could follow him now, why would any secret hide away help to begin with? She'd be able to find him just as easily.

Ep sighed slightly, trying to figure out what to do...

Sigma and Zero, after a moment, finally shook hands, gingerly. Niether liked the idea of a truce, but it seemed like a necissary nausia. The handshake lasted only about .5 second, as niether wanted to remain that close to eachother...

"Well, that is finally done..." Sigma muttered. "You'll have to excuse me for a moment. I must located my daughter..." He left, following the direction Roe had gone.

(as Sigma leaves to find Roe,Zero begins to think he'd better Find Ep)

Zero: (thinking,while watching Sigma leave...(Not that I don't trust or want to trust him, he could be up to something...I'd better find Ep and Lead him to Jaguar). Zebuhachi, if you and Destiny want to stay here...be my guest,but I suggest we all stay close to each other.

(with that he Draws his Sabre for some light and heads off looking for Ep and Jaguar)