Parallel (A Virtual Gamer's Story) [Vol.1 - Vol.4 Complete]

Chapter 55: Merriheim

???

Somewhere in Eastern Europe.

16th May 2043.

"...It's out of my hands, Sergeant. Get it done."

First Seargent Jarod Carter set the phone on its receiver. He reclined on his chair, releasing a huge sigh of exasperation. He picked a cigar from atop his desk, lit it, then drew a long calming puff. He picked up a binder titled 'United Front.' This was HQ's newest plan? Those bureaucrats had far too much time on their hands.

Meh, he wasn't paid to overthink. Carter pressed the intercom connected to his secretary's office. "Call up Private Dayle. Specialist Raines and Private Yount of Blitz."

"Yes, sir."

Five minutes later, a knock on his door drew Carter from his files. "Come in."

Following his order, three young soldiers in full uniform walked into the office and assumed a salute. "At ease."

"Private Dayle Butcher reporting, sir. Was told you have a message for us?" The oldest, and their leader, Dayle said.

"Yes. HQ called. They want you three to participate in a new operation."

"Where will we be headed, sir?"

"New York." Carter looked up. "You will be returning home."

Dayle's eyes narrowed, confusion apparent in his frown. "New York? Why would you be sending the best infiltration unit you have to New York?"

The Seargent sighed. He hated to admit it, but the lad was right. Ever since the unit was formed, they'd had a success rate of 98%, the highest in any agency. If the lad was bewildered by the relocation, wait till he heard their mission. "'Are you familiar with United Front?"

"Which one? The union or the game?"

"The game."

"United Front," Raines flicked her dark-brown hair behind ears as she answered. "A sci-fi shooter developed by Genaco Gaming for its western audience. Its addictive nature has sparked a global debate whether such games should have restrictions."

Carter's brows rose. "You play?"

"God, no," Raines scoffed. "My younger brother living in the states loves games."

The Sergeant nodded, satisfied by her answer. "And you, Private Yount?"

At eighteen years of age, the white-haired teen was the youngest of the squad. His small stature and natural 'baby face' mirrored his shy personality. He panicked at the sudden attention and turned to Dayle for help.

Dayle patted his shoulder and nodded his encouragement.

"N-no, sir," Arthur finally managed. "My engagements have not exactly left me with free time."

"I see," Carter murmured. He pointed to dossiers on his desk, which they picked up. "Familiarize yourself with the briefing. You leave at 1700 hours."

Dayle frowned as he purveyed the document. "Wait.. this makes no sense. It says we're going to play this game?"

Carter nodded, a tinge of humor in his eyes. "I had the exact same reaction."