NBA Dramatique, Prelude 17

Scott came around the side of the conference table and handed a sheet of paper to his newest acquisition. Posey looked at the page he was handed and noticed the large CLASSIFIED stamp across the top.

“I have no doubt that you’ll fit in well here, Posey. I know the kind of work you’ve been doing for the past couple of years. We have a tight-knit unit, and I’m sure the guys will bring you into the fold in no time.”

As Posey read the document detailing his new mission, he thought back to facing this squad in the past. They were extremely dangerous. They were quick and deadly and they were rising as a serious threat during times of war. That hadn’t always been the case, but in the past several years a young killer had been leading them in the field. Posey saw him referred to in the document in his hands.

“Strike Force HORNETS proceeded further west from their victory over western Deputies and encountered opposition forces (the Machine). Tactics and strategies were correctly executed under field direction from commando designate: CP3. CP3 performed with a surprising level…”

“Our plan is to make a decisive strike in the coming weeks” said Scott. Posey thought that the squad chief had probably been speaking already, but he had been absorbed in his reading. “We have several possible target candidates and we’re looking at the advantages and disadvantages of those choices. Lowering the morale of multiple enemies by defeating a single, strong opponent is one of our goals.” Posey nodded in understanding and looked back to the page.

“…suffered from a combination of disadvantages. Commando designate DX was limited in effectiveness by minor injuries, and the squad as a whole was young and inexperienced in prolonged campaigns. Despite impressive assaults, the Machine withstood and adapted to HORNETS attacks and initiated counter-offensive measures that eventually resulted…”

“Of course, not every minute of every day is about our job” Scott continued. “I just need my agents to know their priorities. My priorities are their priorities. Do you understand?”

“I think I do” answered Posey. “You want a guy who isn’t going to mess up team chemistry, goes into his missions with focus, and knows how to listen.”

“Exactly. I don’t need anyone to come in here trying to make a name for themselves. We’re after the Prize, but we’re after it as a unit. I don’t have a spot for anyone chasing personal glory. I think you’ve had your hand on the Prize enough times to recognize that as the proper approach.”

Posey smiled and looked at the two large rings he wore – reminders of the ultimate victory. The rings were on the hand that still held the classified debriefing.

“…firepower of sharpshooter designate Stojakovic could be augmented. Recommendation of pursuing offer of agency to Bastion soldier Posey should be pursued. In addition to long-range sniping abilities, this individual has been observed to be a superb negating element against opposition offensive strikes and has been credited with effective sabotage against enemies. In some theaters of combat, this individual carries a reputation for…”

“So, are you ready to enter the Hive?”

Posey stopped his reading again, and this time he folded the paper into a small square and put it in his pocket. “Yeah, I’m ready.”

Scott flashed bright teeth and nodded. He shook Posey’s hand and said “Let’s go.”

“I have a question” said Posey. “Do I get a code name, like ‘CP3’ and ‘DX’, for these debriefings?”

Scott laughed and threw his arm around Posey’s shoulder. “We’ll see how it goes” he said, smiling. They laughed together and walked out of the room into the long corridor that would take them to the Hive.