Previously on Blade Hunter:
Chapter 1 - The Pale Rider




The Blade Hunter stood alone in a cavernous space that bristled with the buzzing of technology. The room was a sanctuary, a blend of cold, cutting-edge machinery and the relentless pursuit of justice. Soft, blue-tinted lights bathed the area, casting a glow on the devices and gadgets that filled the workbenches. Massive monitors, embedded in black panels, dominated the walls. They displayed endless streams of data- surveillance footage, encrypted messages, and real-time analytics from the world beyond. The screens painted the room with a dynamic light show, a visual orchestra of information constantly in flux, and in the center of this high-tech hub stood the central processing unit. A structure of tempered glass and titanium, pulsating with internal light. It was here that the Hunter’s only constant companion resided, an artificial intelligence known simply as Computer.

The Hunter’s eyes scanned the room, taking in the holographic displays that projected 3D models and tactical readouts. Futuristic weaponry crafted for lethality, was on one side of the chamber, while various suits and armor prototypes hung in another section, each designed for different missions. "Computer," the Hunter’s voice broke the silence.

"Yes, Hunter," Computer responded through hidden speakers, its voice smooth and devoid of emotion, and one that had been chosen by the Hunter himself upon install.

"Begin analysis of SHL player profiles," he commanded, his gaze fixed on the central monitors as new data began to populate the screens.

The Hunter's headquarters was not just a room; it was a living entity, constantly evolving and adapting to his needs. "Player profiles analyzed," Computer's voice rang through the room, "Your mission has been loaded into the database. You will infiltrate the SHL under the alias Savva Kirik, playing for the Kelowna Knights of the SMJHL."

The Hunter turned his attention to the main monitor, where a detailed dossier on hockey and the SHL began to unfold. Images of players in action, fans cheering, and the fast-paced dynamics of the game filled the screen.

"Hockey," the Hunter mused, studying the images. "Explain it to me."

Computer's voice was steady, providing information with immediate accuracy. "Hockey is a fast-paced, physical sport played on ice. The objective is to score goals by sending a puck into the opponent's net using a stick. Players are known for their speed, agility, and often aggressive demeanor. The SHL, or Simulation Hockey League, is a prestigious league where both the skill and strategy of the game are paramount. The SMJHL is their minor league, and you will be playing your fourth and final season upon arrival."

As Computer spoke, the Hunter's attention shifted to another monitor, displaying the various types of hockey personalities- captains who led with authority, enforcers who protected their teammates, snipers who scored with eagle eye vision, and playmakers who help dictate the game. Each persona required a unique approach.

"You will need to blend in seamlessly," Computer continued. "To be Savva Kirik, you must embody the essence of a hockey player. Confidence, physicality, and a deep understanding of the game are essential. You must look and act the part."

The Hunter nodded as he moved toward a section of his headquarters devoted to apparel and equipment. Racks of suits and gear lined the walls, a mixture of fabrics and synthetic compounds. The Hunter reached out, his gloved hand closing around a matte black bodysuit. The material felt cool and smooth to the touch, deceptively similar to hockey equipment. He lifted the bodysuit, noting its weight- or rather, its lack thereof. Despite its features, it was astonishingly lightweight, and designed to enhance his speed. He admired the protective panels, strategically placed to safeguard vital areas without compromising movement. As he donned the suit, it conformed to his body, adjusting to his shape and movements. He felt the suit's protection system activate, a faint hum indicating the micro-shields coming online. The interior was lined with temperature-regulating material, ensuring comfort in both cold and heat, a necessity for the environments he would encounter.

With the bodysuit securely in place, The Hunter turned to a nearby rack of accessories. He selected gloves made from the same advanced material, offering a perfect blend of dexterity and protection. "Outfit me for the role," the Hunter commanded.

Computer activated a series of robotic arms, each equipped with specialized tools that whirred and clicked into action. The arms extended with mechanical movements, their joints hissing softly as they adjusted to the perfect angles. Each arm bore a unique set of tools- one held a laser cutter, another a micro-servo wrench, while yet another had a high-frequency stitcher for fabric and material integration. The air filled with the rapid sounds of clicking mechanical fingers, and the static of electrical currents.

The robotic arms began their work, starting with the bodysuit. Crafted from smart fibers, the suit was designed to absorb impact. The laser cutter traced delicate patterns, ensuring perfect alignment and fit, while the micro-servo wrench tightened minute fastenings, creating an almost seamless garment. As the suit was assembled piece by piece, it let off a rustle, the fibers intertwining like a second skin. Next, the robotic arms moved to the hockey pads. These pads, though appearing standard, were reinforced with advanced materials for protection and flexibility. The pads were then covered with a green and yellow overlay, reflecting the Kelowna Knights' team colors. Finally, the jersey. The rich green fabric, accented with bold yellow stripes and the Kelowna Knights' logo was draped over the suit. The stitcher’s rapid movements sealed the seams, the fabric conforming perfectly to the Hunter's form. As the last robotic arm retracted, the Hunter stood fully equipped, the vivid green and yellow of the Kelowna Knights' colors striking against the blue lighting of the headquarters.

"Your helmet," Computer instructed, "is equipped with a heads-up display, providing real-time data on game statistics and player positions. It also includes a voice modulation system to ensure your identity remains concealed."

The Hunter took the helmet, feeling its weight before placing it on his head. The display flickered to life, overlaying information across his vision, "What about my tools?" he asked.

A compartment in the wall slid open, revealing a custom hockey stick. Computer explained its features, "This stick is a lightweight, durable alloy. It contains a hidden compartment for small gadgets, including a stun device for close encounters and a micro-transmitter for tracking targets. Additionally, your gloves have enhanced grip and tactile feedback sensors to improve your puck handling skills."

The Hunter tested the stick's balance and the gloves' sensitivity. They felt perfect, an extension of his own abilities.

"Remember," Computer cautioned, "the SHL is a tight-knit community. You must gain their trust while maintaining your goal. The androids you seek could be anyone. Use the Voight-Kampff test to identify them but be discreet."

"Understood," the Hunter nodded, "I'll become one of them, and gain their trust. He was standing before a large mirror, examining his transformation. The reflection staring back at him was no longer just a Blade Hunter—it was Savva Kirik, a playmaking Russian hockey player ready to take on the SMJ… and then the SHL.

“Game on."

(1188 words)