Thomas pulls Johnny and Dizzy to the side as Troopers walk back to their platoons.
Thomas: "Alright you two listen to me and listen good. I know you trained for this, but the real thing is so much more than you think. Firstly, leave all the arrogance and cockiness here before the drop. Secondly, these aren't just some dumb bugs there fast, strong, and relentless. Remember your training. I'll look for you two on the battlefield."
Dizzy nods before walking away. Johnny goes to move but his arm is grabbed by Thomas.
Thomas: "Johnny, I just want you to know how proud I am of you. Be careful down there."
Johnny: "You too."
Thomas watches his little brother walk off back to his platoon.
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Johnny and his platoon, wearing fully armed Marauder Power Suits, wait to drop with other cap troopers. Their mood is grim. Lt Willy enters.
Ace: "Officer on deck!"
Lt. Willy: "At ease. Alright we got a little last-minute briefing from military intelligence I think you're gonna like..."
The briefing plays on head up displays and the ready room screens. A captive Bug Warrior clicks and shrieks as Federal Scientists torturer it. The troopers cheer.
Official: "Everyday Federal scientists are looking for new ways to kill bugs and you can help..."
The head scientist turns to the camera. It's Carl. Johnny and Dizzy share an amazed grin, noticing a difference in their old friend, something that speaks of...authority.
Carl: "To defeat the enemy, we must know the enemy. Take for instance your basic Arachnid Warrior. Minimal IQ, armored, completely lethal. You can blow a limb off..."
Carl picks up a pulse gun and blows one of the bugs legs off. The insect screams.
Carl: "...and it's still 86% combat effective. But here's a tip: Aim for the nerve stem and put it down for good."
Carl fires again. The bug kicks and squeals as it dies. Carl tosses the pulse gun aside.
Carl: "Now while you are out killing bugs, we want you to be our eyes and ears. The bugs use some kind of plasma burst to divert meteors and aim them toward Earth. We need to know how they do this. If you encounter any plasma, report it immediately to your superior. Good luck and goo hunting!"
The briefing ends as speakers kick on.
P.A: "This is the captain speaking. All personnel prepare for drop. We are at D minus three and counting."
Lt. Willy: "MOVE OUT!"
Johnny and the other troopers climb into the capsules on the port track. Dizzy gives him a thumbs up. The capsule seals as it moves with the others down the firing tube. Johnny gets the shakes as the capsule bumps and booms toward the firing tube.
Silver capsules steam toward Klendathu.
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Carmen holds Rodger Young in light maneuver. Suddenly, a burst of Blue Bug Plasma rips past the starboard bow.
Carmen: "Plasma, ma'am...from the planet."
YOU ARE READING
The Two Rico's (Starship Troopers Male Oc)
FanfictionThomas Rico has been in the mobile infantry for three years now. What will he think when he hears his little brother Johnny has decided to follow in his footsteps much to their parent's dismay.