Third Platoon, the survivors of Sixth Platoon, and the three new recruits make their way back the way the came.

Soon they will all arrive at Hillcrest where they can can take advantage of some much needed repairs.

When they arrive, they are greeted by soldier-guards. Xion and Zephram are ordered to report to Maddox.

The rest of the platoon has no immediate orders.

There are a large number of wounded soldiers in Hillcrest now. The medical station is now over flowing with patients, and they seem to have a dozen or so medics.

The "Exchange" is open as always during the day. Loot from the war is sold at amazing discount prices to mercenaries. It will also buy weapons, and accept trade. Cyber Docs, Mechanics, and Squeezers (slang for guys who make juicers) are often among these exchanges.

There are several spells being taught. They are in a lesson form, where a small number of students can attend, and attempt to learn spells from Tolkeen's mages.

The Spells being taught today are:
Armour of Ithan
Magic Net
Carpet of Adhesion
Chameleon
Timeslip
Invisibility: Lesser
Globe of Daylight
Cleanse
Sustain
Deflect

(see house rules for rules on learning spells)

It all costs money (except for the Soldiers and militia), but everything is seriously discounted for the mercenaries of Tolkeen.
This message was last edited by the user at 15:58, Wed 17 Oct 2012.

 'Masque gives the young woman an oversized grin as she opens the door for him, then assists in the business of putting the various prisoners (woundered and otherwise in the APC) before cheerfully ducking down and climbing aboard (since most APC's can take a fair-sized PA suit, they should just about accept the large 'Borg) in response to the request for assistance watching them...

 No sense turning down a ride, even if you do have atomic legs.

 On the way the Russian chats happily - venturing so far as to deliver a couple of compliments regarding a couple of team-members for their performance (though not of course /to/ those folks). Typical post-battle winding down that no-one who has any particular shreds of their sanity left ever really loses.

 Once Hillcrest veers into view however, the 'Borg contacts Xion on the group Radio (since this is an open debate) with a query, and a suggestion. "Hey boss... is time I think to start to divvy up loot and things - rather than argue about who is killing what, maybe should make big heap of stuff, work out cash value and split equally after repairs and rearming, or maybe by standard mercenary cut? - does not seem fair you regular boys should not get something for trouble... and maybe you could get new hat, khorosho da?"

Arven reins in next to the A.T.V. He is slumped over slightly in the saddle and looks far more pale than is normal. He is in fact a "tough-guy" but his bravado has exceeded his physical capability this time. Apparently taking enough damage to destroy most suits of power armor is bad for you. The slick of blood that has run down his back and onto his ostrosaurus can attest to that. Sliding out of the saddle he hands his reins over to Mephisto. "I'd be much obliged if you could bed her down with dipshit there." Arven says indicating the shifters silonar. "Hey Masque if you could make sure I get whatever share I got coming that would be mighty right of ya. I think I need to mosey on over to the hack shop yonder." The 13ft, 600lb, four armed gunslinger has never looked more humble as he staggers over to the Medical station to recieve treatment. Just as some of the group might actually start to at least empathize with Arven somewhat he can be heard yelling among the injured. "Hey you cocksuckers I took down four SAMAS a Terror-Trooper and three grunts today! You might want to fastrack me to the front of the goddamn line!"

OOC: Silly me I thought he had bio-regeneration. Factoring in blood loss he is probably damn near dead.

   On the journey, Zephram made another attempt to summon an elemental with no success.  Although it was disheartening, such a gift from the elemental planes would be a bonus.  He knew that he could complete his duty and follow orders without such assistance.
   Arriving at Hillcrest was a pleasant moment for him as he enjoyed being on a military base.  After the battle of Izmit, he was looking forward to worrying about nothing more serious than who to salute.  When he received word that Maddox wanted to speak with him and Xion, he turned to the battle magus and said "I suppose we might as well get the debriefing out of the way."

As he walks with Zephram, Xion listens and continues the conversation.

Xion will respond to Masque, "I think that is best for now. I will leave you in charge of doling out the creds, and keep an eye on Fearless for me please."


After a moment, "What's wrong with my hat anyway?" he then chuckels

Van did not speak at all on the way home, and always kept at the back of the platoon. Upon arrival in Hillcrest he went off in the direction of the exchange.

   Once she arrives in town, Lotus heads straight for the exchange to sell off her sword.  She had spent the better part of her journey back to Hillcrest trying to clean the scorching from it after her introduction to Renaldo.  But it wasn't the same - the blade was dulled and the material weakened.  She could not rely upon it as a weapon any longer.  She knew that she was unlikely to find a suitable replacement and even if she could, it would be well out of her price range.  Nonetheless, she will still peruse the wares that are available...

After traveling back to base, Ajax gets bored. Their was no action for him to do...Once they get to Hillcrest, Ajax inform Zephram, "I will be going to the Exchange to be resupply, armor, learn new spells (If possible), get updates on current events, battle, CS actions, and enemies troop movements in the area, Sir."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:14, Fri 03 Mar 2006.

Fearless looks to Xion when he says "watch Fearless". The orc looks puzzled, but shrugs it off, and makes for the exchange area.

One of the areas in the exchange selling equipment is being run by a rather tall and built crazy augment, accompanied by a Mystic Knight and several other rougheons. They are all dealing with mercenaries and such like merchants. Oddly enough a Cyber Knight is among them as well. Perjaps 3rd platoon is not the only platoon with both a Mystic Knight AND a Cyber Knight.

PM
This message was last edited by the player at 05:43, Fri 03 Mar 2006.

A group of four make their way to the main focus of Third Platoon at the exchange.

One is a young girl, another is an older man, the one in the lead is a simvan, and in the rear is a massive Golem of some sort.

"Are you third platoon? My name is Braga - we are whats' left of Second Platoon. We are supposed to join you. Where is the Lieutenant?"

The man, standing behind next to the girl and behind the Simvan, throws in sarcastically, Yeah, we're cream of the 2nd Platoon crop - and the only one's still breathing. he looks over his shoulder and jabs a thumb towards the massive golem, Not that 'Big O' here actually draws breath, but you get the idea.... Don't we just inspire tremendous confidence?

His tone is mockingly pleasant, and a smile is in plain view, but what can be seen of his face beneath his bushy beard appears more than a little grim.

He is dressed in the traditional garb of a Ley Line Walker, but he somehow makes his grubby robes seem less than mystical. An old-style Wilks-Remi is slung on his back with what appear to be shotguns at each hip.

 And, once Xion gives the order, 'Masque gets busy... though being 'in charge' of resupply wasn't quite what he had in mind - in any event, the first ten to fifteen minutes of hitting town is filled with his being a busybody as he moves from person to person, getting a rough idea of the return on the teams little investment, then picking some market representative to do some quick assessing...

[ Allllrighty-then - 'Masque is a tough but fair sort, so I guess he'd do the following:

 Now, I could RP this out person by person, but it would take /forever/ to finish. Basically 'Masque is going to get people to put alllll the Coalition salvage in a big pile. I mean a /big/ pile - this includes stuff people want to keep as well as stuff people want to sell on. We work out the cash value, then folks get to have their share of that value in stuff or creds, not adjusted by their minimal worth as a Merc (if you have a claim to being 'special' well whoopy-do, by my reckoning the entire party is on about 120-140% share and I can't be arsed to do the math. ^_^ ). If you're regular army, rather than a Mercenary well hey, think of it as a bonus. If two people want the same item they can either 'bid' for it or toss a coin or something.
 If anyone is going to ICly object to the process, then please post doing so... in the meanwhilst, I seem to recall that we have:

 Some stuff from the inbound scuffles:
 Ammo, medical supplies, railgun rifles 'Masque looted.

 The Big Fight:
 PA weapons, a 'borg (slightly crunched), /bits/ of armour, lots of weapons, PA parts, demolitions gear.

 So if we have a rough total value for the pile of 'misc' stuff, folks can more or less look after themselves (with the possible exception of Ajax, who is going to be pissed at having to share his gun caddy. ^_^ ). Protests in an IC post please to 'This is going to be done quick and fair', care of : Big Russian Borg.com  ]

At the exchange; the young and visibly distraught techno-wizard nods and feigns politeness, grining vaguely at the large man. He continues his perusal while simply stating "Our CO's are being debriefed. They'll be back..."

He is fairly matter of fact and seems to have his thoughts focussed elsewhere as he quietly plots his revenge, browsing the lost wares available to him. As he picks up a TW flamethrower from one of the booths you can almost see his mind at work, imagining the weapon's use. There is fire in his eyes...
This message was last edited by the player at 07:40, Fri 03 Mar 2006.

Walking up behind the large man, the redheaded girl hits him lightly on the back of his head "Jeez, you think you could inspire any more confidence, Harmon?"  The harshness of the comment is toned down by the friendly tone in her voice.  This, Harmon's unerring ability to make a first impression (we'll forego saying what kind of first impression), is something the two have talked about before.

"He's right, though," the girl looks away to hide the pain in her eyes and blows out a breath, "We didn't do so well out there.  I hope you guys had better luck."

PM

The massive 9ft golem raises a clawed hand in greeting. His entire bulk is composed of a silvery white metal that changes hues slightly depending on which way light strikes it. The masculine humanoid figure looks like it was sculpted from one large piece of metal, so much so that he could easily be mistaken for a statue were he standing still. Provided no one has a mind block up everyone in the general area hears a pleasant telepathic voice that does not match the rough exterior of the golem at all. In fact it has a grandfatherly quality to it.

"Greetings fellow freedom fighters I am Obidiah. I wish we could have all met under better circumstances. Nevertheless here we are so it is my pleasure to make your acquaintance. Might I inquire as to all of your names?"

As far as the loot concern, Ajax will keep the CTT-P40 and any E-clip for it (if there is any)! But, Ajax would like to give the Missile Rifle to Silvermasque. Because, that the only weapon systems Silvermasque does not have and he does not think anyone else can use the weapon properly. The other weapons and gears, he does not really care about or need...

 "Hey, metalhead..." (and that's rich coming from a jumped-up brain in a jar...) calls out 'Masque as things are starting to pile up - he's just finished stacking the Skelebot railguns he had his heart set on earlier and adding them to the pile, before noticing Ajax's attempt to hold back loot.

 "I will explain again - all the toys go on the pile... then we work out what toys are worth... everyone gets equal share - in credit or equipment. Now I have guns, and only RPA-boy or Arven could use cannon, so is unlikely anyone else would want it, but it is part of loot... If we have enough money for one share to be... actually, I am not sure what big gun is worth, is too new... but someone here will know, then you get to keep it."

 And of course this is also a good time for someone from the stalls to amble on over, give a ballpark figure for the value of alllllll the loot (note the lack of specifics here, allowing the GM to sprinkle handwavium on the total ^_^ ) so we can work out shares.


 [ And as a side-note, the CTT-P40 doesn't have an E-clip, or rather has only one built-in one, providing forty shots - it takes up the entire rear portion of the gun. ]

Ajax looks Silver saying, "I am a Weapon Master of all types of weapons and I know the value of each and every weapons in the pile, Borg! Plus, I know how to use all weapons, may it be old or new and some that don't know about... Add-up what you have, so far."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:47, Sat 04 Mar 2006.

"I can help you guys out."
 The large crazy speaks from a short distance away. He calls out while standing in the back of his truck, hunched over.

He hops down, to look at the group. He stands at 6'6, and is wearing Metallic-armoured leggings, and a black under shirt. The leggings are obviosly the lower half of some body armour. Large display shelves are extended form the back of the truck, all sorts of weapons are available on them, Coalition and Quebec in nature mostly, but some Northern gun, and Wilks weapons are among them. They look like display models, and are all empty. There are several crates lying around, and several more in the back of his truck.

Several other rougheons are around, who seem to be partners of the large crazys', they are dealing with other people currently. A Mystic Knight, and a Cyber Knight are among them, along with a Juicer, and a Leviathan model Cyborg.

After he hops down, he walks towards the group to avoid having to shout over the other people around at the Exchange.

"First - there aint no way this guy knows how much that missile-rifle is worth. It has never seen an open market, and just barely went into mass production. Even still it has only been on the field for a year and a half. You can't buy that CTT-M20 anywhere but here - we could only guess at how much the cost will be when it eventually hits most dealers. I would guess at 80 000 - and 60 000 for the CTT-P40."

After a brief pause while he looks the group over, he adds:

"Name's Zed by the way. Nice to meet ya."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:06, Sat 04 Mar 2006.

Ajax turns toward Zed saying, "You are wrong, I can. But, there is a way to find out..." Ajax links with the weapons, he start telling the complete technical spec for the weapons in full detail...

After, he has given out the complete spec for the weapons, he says, "Add-up the data that I have just given you. That will give you it value."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:41, Sat 04 Mar 2006.

"Holy shit is this guy a golem too?" referring to Ajax.

Zed looks closer to see if Ajax is alive, or if he is a mindless golem...

"Don't talk to me" - again referring to Ajax.

Ajax looks back at Silver saying, "These two weapons are more valueable than the price Zed came up with! Ajax unlinks from the weapon and place them both in the file.

"Hello Obidiah. My name is Sharp...Sharp the Red. The laid back crazy throws out the few e-clips and RMK kits he pilfered. When Ajax starts in with his nonsense Sharp just shakes his head in bewilderment. "Geez Silvermasque what is your problem? Don't you realize that Ajax is weapons master of all type of weapons. Just add up his data if you don't believe me. It all adds up! He can defy logic and sound reasoning. He is that damn good.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:38, Wed 17 Oct 2012.

"Ajax, do you ever get tired of sounding like an idiot? Cause if not then keep it up, by all means, it's actually making me feel a bit better..."

Van continues looking through the exchange.

   After having initially separated from the group, Lotus can be seen all of the sudden standing next to the bulky form of Silvermasque.  It would appear as though she is using the borg as cover from something, although there are certainly no apparent threats at the moment.  After a few seconds, Lotus seems to calm down and pay more attention to the divying up of loot.  She appears to be carrying a new sword in a new sheathe however.
   "Seems like forever since the last pay day..." the mystic knight mutters to herself until she spots the other mystic knight at the exchange.  She knocks lightly on Silvermasque's metallic plating before moving to greet the kindred spirit.  "Save a share for me, eh Silver?" She says as she moves towards the other mystic knight.
   As her order rarely bares any rank or insignia, she uses her other senses to identify the approximate rank and status of this individual. 
   As is tradition among the order, Lotus removes her helm and bows to her compatriot solemnly.  She looks into the other knight's eyes and smirks.  "It is an honour.  You are the first knight I have met since arriving here in the kingdom of Tolkeen."
   Lotus has lost her previously omnipresent smirk and appears to be consumed by her discipline.  From the way she is behaving, it would appear that this new mystic knight outranks her.

PM

 'Masque stands there with one of those oversized grins on his face as Ajax cheerfully makes a fool of himself some more, but before he can go into an extended lecture on the power of market forces, the helpful local wanders on over... "Is about what I am trying to get at... " he admits, before laughing uproariously at Sharp's comment "Of course, I should be apologising, da? - or perhaps not... in any case, sounds as if is very nice gun, but I am partial to good, solid NG product - reminds me of home."

 The ting-ting of a little fist banging on an exposed section of armour however, causes him to turn and look down, his lower-left hand coming around to lightly pat her on the shoulder - and lightly is the operative word, for obvious reasons... "Is no problem, youbet... do not want you coming after me with sword, I am having no desire to find out what you will cut off if cannot reach neck..."

 But, back to business - his lower-right hand extends towards the weapons dealer in an amiable fashion, "I am Silvermasque, at least for advertising purposes - chrome plated flunky in mercenary army of Tolkeen... care to be making offer on pile of guns, equipment, 'Borg parts and several partially melted but salvagable RPA suits?"

 And, with some of the technical information Ajax supplies, he helpfully points out that... "Given, for example that particle beam cannon is shooting further than NG-E12, delivering comparable energy to target but doing so from forty-shot clip and comes with integral laser targetting? - unless of course that was offer price, not suggestion for Market price?"

 Ahhhh, the fun part. Negotiations.


 [And a part I would suggest simply gets abstracted... ^_^ ]

Callie shudders a bit, watching the large, semi-articulate, Warborn link with the new rifle, but finds her curiosity piqued.  Damn, choices.  New gun, or weird guy who seems to be another tech-head....

Shooting a look at the pile of bits Pluto company amassed in Hillcrest, she moves towards the armored figure.  I can always play with the toy later  She approaches Ajax hesitantly and taps on...well, on a reachable, non-embarrassing (to her) protuberance such as an arm or a hip.  "'scuze me, but I haven't seen too many hereabouts could do that too.  Though," she adds with after a bit of a pause, "You're a bit more...organic...about it than any I've seen before."

Xion nods to Zephram, "I agree we need to keep them occupied, especially a certain few. Guard duty for some, more menial tasks for others. Perhaps if we put some of the hotheads in the kitchen or somewhere helping it will calm them down, or at least teach them to respect authority. I feel that I am learning as I go and that is probably not the best scenario for some of these personalities, but it is the situation we are in. I am adapting and things are getting better sir. Zephram, would you like first pick of the troops?"

PM

"Let me take a look..."

In the pile:

4 skelebot rail guns
CTT-P40
CTT-M20
C-40 Rail Gun
24 CP-30
15 C-40 rifles
4 C-50 rifles
2 C-29 rifles
76 frag grenades
21 heavy high grenades
65 rifle-grenades (C-50)
26 smoke grenades
several flares, vibro-knives, personals
A borg for parts
and several pieces of Coalition body armour.

(Silvermasque what are you talking about when you mention RPA suits?)
(have I missed anything?)

Harmon stares skeptically at the group he is supposed to join. His look turns even more sour when Calliandra starts talking to the giant supernatural monstrosity, Damn but we must be getting desperate.... he mutters darkly.

It is only so long before the pile of weaponry draws his attention, Ahhh! bravo cat-man! Now there's some booty! he says with real enthusiasm. You can only assume he refers to the guns and not the Tiger's cybernetic anatomy.

A second thought seems to interject itself and he looks at the platoon with a more measured gaze, You guys must have done pretty OK. This is some heavy crap, and I'm guessing the CS scumbags didn't send it over as a house warming gift. Unless, you just stumbled on a weapons cache.... Yeah, that must have been what happened.... he nods his big head knowingly, but his eyes sparkle with playfulness.

He looks over the weaponry casually, but will offer an opinion if zed's offer seems out of line.

Ajax slowly turns to voice saying, "." I am a Warborn, we live for WAR! We have special abilities to merge with any type of weapons, vehicles, body armor, power armor, or robot. By mergeing with them, we can use them better than you ever think of and we know how to repair them all. We use those abilities as warrior to fight...Who are you and is your purpose?"

"Not only that, he's a real lady killer..." Van adds, as some of his smart-assedness begins to return.

He looks strangely at Zed, as if perhaps he's seen him before. But then he shakes it off, realizing that in fact what he is remembering hasn't happened yet, and so he continues on with this timeline.

OOC - Van didn't meet Zed until after Tolkeen, right?

 [ Well, I don't know about the SAM's but the Hellraiser was pretty unharmed, and the two Terror Troopers taken down by fairly pinpoint fire - given that we had an APC, two PA suits and a 'Borg (quite apart from any other resources) we could probably have gotten anything from a big pile of spare parts to a pretty fair heap of salvaged and partially operative suits, at your call, but again they represented millions in credits lying in the dirt - no sense leaving 'em to rust.]


 Now, as it happens our Hero the 'oversized cybernetic Soviet has taken most of his 'wounds' to the front and to the upper body, which means that said backside is still sheathed in BDU's and a layer of synthetic flesh, so when he gives Harmon a broad grin and brings his lower-right hand down sharply on it, there's a slap rather than a resounding clang... "Best that money can buy, youbet..."

 Aimiably, he straightens (and /damn/ that's one seriously big friggin' metalhead) and indicates the pile with another one of his four hands, "Is funny story, we were walking through woods one sunny afternoon and we came across big pile of stuff, just lying around..." he states, apparently straight-faced, despite the dozens of laser sear-marks and railgun slug punch-holes in his tattered clothing and metal hide. "Was strangest thing, but we could not be leaving stuff there, was unsightly, so we did civic duty and tidied up..."

 He places a hand upon his breast, those inhuman but oddly mobile features (save for the blasted section high on the upper-left of his face where plating and armoured servomotors are visible, the cosmetic covering burned away) before stating piously, "Seemed only proper to take all rubbish to someone to dispose of properly..." (yeh right, and the idea of hundreds of thousands of credits didn't move him in the least).

Sharp rubs the stubble on his chin and listens to the banter interjecting after Silvermasque stops speaking. "Come on now Masque you can't be expecting him to believe that tell the truth. You see we were all out suntanning and the Coalition snuck up on us taking us prisoner without a fight. Well Ajax started in educating the deadboys on how they were improperly using their weaponry and how much more effective it would be if they did this or that. After awhile they all just commited mass suicide and there we were left with the loot. You see Ajax is a master of all warfare psychological included.

Callie looks at Ajax blankly, then blinks a bit "Oookay then.  One of those" she says under her breath.  In spite of her comments, the redhead screws up her courage (and a friendly face) and sticks out her hand towards the large...thing.  "Calliandra O'Hare, gearhead and pilot of Bernadette, pleasedtameetcha!"

Ajax would have surprise on his face, if he wasn't in the power armor. He meet her hand with his, saying, "I name is Ajax...So, you are an operator, that is very good. We both have something in common. But, I have deal for you...How would like the detail plans to make some of the new CS weapons and sell them as knock-off weapons. Something that others have not though of done as of yet and with your abilities and minds. It be very profitable for us and are company. Plus, we will be the first ones to sell them and know one as offered to buy the plans from me. I think we can do business, unless I get a better offer from someone!"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:34, Mon 06 Mar 2006.

Yeah, well I do so hate people who litter - that's for sure.... the big, magical merc chimes in while smiling more broadly, And I noticed the fine tan many of you possess there, Sharp- in fact, I almost mistook them for plasma burns, but then Calliandra always says I have a gloomy twist on things.

Name's Harmon, by the way, He waves a meaty hand at the group, seems to notice that his fingers are covered in some sort of grime, and proceeds to spit into his palms and begin wiping them 'clean.'

Harmon glances sidelong at Calli and Ajax. A perceptive individual might notice that he does not seem pleased by the Warborn's attention. In fact, he appears downright agitated by it.

"...and an entrepeneur no less," seeming quite content to throw in these unnoticed jabs at Ajax in the one capacity that the warrior seems to have no defence, "He truly never ceases to amaze me..."

The comments he makes are mostly to himself as he continues looking over the merchandise. He hasn't really joined the conversation just yet, maybe a little standoffish toward new-comers.

The golems friendly telepathic call resonates in everyones head. "That is indeed a nice pile of weapons you have there. I for one commend you on seperating them from their previous owners. It is my sincere hope that we can all create many more piles just like that one in the days to come. Larger even if I have anything to say about it. The golem has no mouth and seems to have lost the urge to gesture while he speaks so talking to him might be awkward for some.

"Nah, but thanks for askin', it was sweet." She grins at Ajax, then turns back to the rest of the group.

"Very Well, O'Hare!" Before he can say something else, Ajax gets a telepahic greeting from Obidiah. Ajax sent a responce to Obidiah saying,  "Thank you...How I can communicate using my psychic abilities...I am sure we will gather more piles, much more piles...How are you and What is your purpose?"

 Resonantes in /almost/ everyone's head - for whatever reason it's more of an irritating tinny echo in the 'Borg's oversized cybernetic skull, perhaps due to the thickness of metal between him and the outside world, or possibly due to unexpected interference from some cybernetic subsystem...
 But let's be fair, the sound of cheap low-quality consumer electronics isn't something he's not going to be used to.


 "Ahhh, is easy thing to mistake... but plasma burns are sort of thing one only picks up in war, da? - we were just going for stroll." 'Masque responds to the small magical merc (all these things are relative), offering an oversized hand (his lower-right) down to the Ley-line walker, the fingers rather alarmingly tipped with visibly silver vibro-claws... which are currently inactive. "Is pleasure to meet you, 'Harmon" he answers, no doubt not terribly fussed at the unspecified organic detritus clinging to the other man's hand (after all, he's rather grimy himself, after the fight).

 And then there's Womble, the towering Golem giving not more than a foot or two away in height and precious little in weight to the entirely nonmagical augmented Russian... "You know, you are awful strange-looking... ever consider maybe going for more stylish chasis?"" 'Masque states, grinning in a not particularly offensive way (whilst, it must be said keeping his visor on the 'Merchant tallying up the loot) as he retreives a stogie stubb from his pocket and lights it with an electric flicker from one hand.
 No doubt it's his idea of a joke...

"You know I think I am stuck in here now like it or not. No trading up for me I am afraid. I do believe the golemancer I hired was about the best in the business in almost all aspects except artistic design. Pity for me I suppose. I was long past my days of looking pretty though even before they put me in this tin-can." The big golem addresses Ajax in particular but everyone interested can still hear him. It is no doubt an unusual way to communicate but with time it would be easy to get used to. I am fine Ajax thank you for asking. My purpose is.... well... I suppose the only purpose left to me now is to be a good soldier. To drive the oppressive Coalition back to Chi-Town and to secure freedom for Tolkeen. That is my purpose.

Ajax sent another telepathic message Obidiah saying, "That is a very good purpose and well said, Obidiah. My purpose is to fight the enemies with tooth and nail. They will fall under my feet. As they fall I can continue to fight and senting death to each one of them. This form of communication is very useful for me." Then turns to looks through all the weapons and armor that are for sale. Selecting, the best one to use and waiting to many credit he will to buy some heavier weapons.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:50, Tue 07 Mar 2006.

"This is gonna get kinda strange," Van says after another of Womble's telepathic messages. He seems to not really know how to take it, "I mean, I have a general idea of when you're talking to other people and when you're just talking to me, but I don't have telepathy, so for me to reply, it just looks wierd, you know? And I'm pretty sure Masque won't be able to hear you ever, and when Arthur's in his armor he'll probably be out of reach. I mean, I think I could probably make you a voice box if you think that thing'll take TW add-ons, but it'd take a bit, and I think I might need the help of someone with Distant Voice and maybe a couple other spells. I'm sorry, if that seems insensitive, I don't want to be, you know, drawing attention to a sore spot or something, it's just a strange impedament to work around, that's all."

Obidiah raises a big clawed metal hand. "Do not worry yourself with such contraptions young man your energy should be fully concentrated on the war efforts. I take no offense, in fact it is very likely that I find myself and my current state of being much more offensive and awkward than any of you. I have deemed it necessary for the days ahead though. I have spent my entire life talking so while it may come natural to me I can certainly do without it. At any rate my actions shall speak louder than my words."

Anniyan sits back and listens to every ones conversation and realizes that he is out of place and alone in this group, but he is used to being alone. He has been alone since his wife died and he prefers to be a lone wolf. As the new soldiers arrive and start to mingle with the rest of the group he begins to observe and analyze each new and old character in the platoon, knowing that he can not trust anyone and deep down no one really trusts him either. Then he heads over to the pile of weapons knowing exactly which weapon he wants, as he join the group he say “ I’mma call da rail gun guys” and waits for an answer from the group.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:56, Tue 07 Mar 2006.

(OOC: I went down the list of loot and worked out a "brand new" equipment cost at a store. That amount came to 1 579 000. They were mostly just educated guesses though, and do not include the power armours - because they may still be in Izmit. Unfortunately - they are all "used", and this is the exchange, which operates much like the black market - so they pay out at 20%. Which cuts it down to 315 800 credits.

With equal shares to each member - not including Ren or Saul, everyone gets
22 557 credits worth of "goods".

I forgot the borg bits - so make that 28 000 each. (remember that is not cash - that is how much everything is worth.)

[What arbitrary cash value did you assign to the particle beam Ajax wants?]

 'Masque seems fairly content with the share-out - after all, it comes to something along the lines of a month or more's wages in a single afternoon's hard work. "Alright... give or take we have twenty-eight k's per person, which should fund pretty hot night out, assuming we accept cash offer for great big pile of guns. That should be enough for Ajax to have big rifle if no-one else wishes to put in bid for it, if anyone wants other thing now is time to speak up before we shake hands..."

 "Meanwhilst we are having two big clockwork soldiers on sled... have worked too hard to bring back here just to leave rust... We are having choice with these. We can be selling, to add money to pile - maybe couple of million each... /or/ we can be finding two of own team who know how to fight them, and spend some of loot fitting up for combat - would be lot of help in tight spot, youbet. Anyone think they maybe be worth salvaging?"

 [ And just to note, as of the current time 'Masque does /not/ include Ren and Stimpy, sorry, Saul in the share-out, or any of the other new boys... just the surviving 'core team' untill he should be told otherwise, not because he's a Bad Man, but because they're not part of the company yet, so that's 16 guys? (Xion, Mithas, Me, Arven, Lotus, Van, Mephisto, Fearless, Razgriz (hiss, spit),  Zephram, Ajax, Sharp, Jelme, Anniyan, Null, Arthur) ]
This message was last edited by the player at 19:13, Tue 07 Mar 2006.

Jelme offered his share up to be split up between everybody else. (This had already been figured in. Saul and Ren were also exempted from the shares.

(Technically Saul could argue that he killed the sniper, which is technically more than some people killed - but I think most people would say that killing the sniper allowed him to keep his life. Getting payed or getting new weapons was the least of his worries.

The terror troopers are normally 4.1 million each. These two are used - and destroyed, and they are both covered in blood (one of them in brains).

Zed will offer 850 000 credits each. For a total of 1 700 000.

This adds an amazing 113 330 to each person. Now each person gets 141 330 credits.

The CTT-P40 was pegged at 60 000 credits. Sold at 20%. That makes it 12 000.

The Rail Gun Anniyan wants was pegged at 50 000. That's 10 000.

anyone else want anything specific? grenades? eclips? pistols? anything?

The skelebot guns are pegged at 120 000 for all 4. That is 24 000 at the new price for all 4.

The missile rifle was pegged at 80 000. That makes it 16 000 here.

Zed offers 141 330 credits to each person for the loot. (minus Jelme, Saul, and Ren).
"I will be happy to buy whatever you guys aren't taking. You can divvy up the credits equally too."

The taller, bigger built, Mystic Knight covered in magic weapons and amulets does not reply to Lotus. He nods to her, to acknowledge that he heard her. He does not remove his helmet, or make direct eye contact with her.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:27, Tue 07 Mar 2006.

   Although slightly disappointed, Lotus shows no emotion and simply bows in respect before turning back to her companions and leaving the other knight to his own business.

   Lotus takes this opportunity to nod a greeting to Harmon, Calliandra, and Obidiah.  She doesn't speak up, but keeps her thoughts to herself.  Once the value of the loot has been established, she takes her cut quietly and then walks off in the direction of the infirmiry.  Once inside, she has a look around for Arven.

Ajax except his share of the pile, but takes the CCT-40 Particle Beam Rifle and the CTT-M20 Missile Rilfe. He laying down 12,000 and 16,000 credits for the weapons. Then Ajax starts looking at other weapons, body armors, vehicles, Power Armors, and gears. Also, he looks for any magic items (such as weapons and other things, if there are any).
This message was last edited by the player at 22:23, Wed 08 Mar 2006.

 [ Sounds good to me... if someone speaks up and says 'oooh, ooh, I can pilot a PA suit!' we might want to think about keeping one of the T.Troopers and using the other to pay for repairs, but elsewise 850k for a damaged suit is fair enough - after all, they're /good/ suits, but they're punctured suits. ]

 'Masque seems perfectly willing to accept the offer made, and assuming all goes well starts arranging for credit transfers, temporarily putting the money for those who aren't here on his own stick (though not, it might be noticed without asking the nearest Cyber-knight at the time to countersign the transaction) - as a result, Lotus is able to receive her cut the moment she tunes back in, as is anyone else simply by wandering by and asking for it (Arven's will be passed onto him when he's out of the medical bay.)

 That done, it would seem to be shopping time, though not of course before he opens a channel to Xion. "All told sir, share came to twenty-eight thousand per man before we threw in suits... told you was good idea to spend hour or two shifting them, they brought us up to 141 k's and change per man. Maybe would be good idea to arrange meeting time and place now - I think maybe some of us could get fearful drunk with hundred thousand in pocket, and we are badly in need of drilling together, as little scuffle demonstrated, youbet."

 "For me..." he goes on, studying his scored and battered armoured self, "I am thinking maybe visiting engineer and getting dents dinged out, then getting some cyberarmour... maybe will have enough left over for tinker-toys. Any orders?"

[OOC: Jerking a thumb over her shoulder back at the hangars, Callie pipes up "Oooh, ooh, I can pilot a PA suit!  'Course I already got one..." ;)]

Callie wanders around the exchange.  Well, perhaps "wanders" isn't quite the right way to describe the girl running here and there, investigating whatever piece of high-tech shiny catches her eye.  For the choicer pieces, she often tries to call Harmon, or sometimes even Obidiah, over to appreciate the technology.  While doing so, the perceptive (and really, how perceptive must one usually be to see through a teenager's "subtlety") will notice that she is looking over the members of 3rd platoon as she capers about.

Saul wanders around the exchange with his escort Arther. Still weary of how the others in the group may treat him, he contents himself with observing the group from a distance, and looking for his opening to join them in conversation.   But at the same time, he is happy to finally see Hillcrest in the flesh, and not just in pictures from intelligence reports.

Harmon is quite happy to be called over to Calliandra's side as she bounces from table to table - though he seems to express his pleasure only by the increased frequency of his grumbling.

Bah! That's a piece of junk - and over priced to boot!.... Now that seems like a fair price, hmmm, its probably broken.... Don't let these theives take advantage - remember, they WANT you to have this stuff.... The fact that everything on the tables is /deeply/ discounted seems to do little to convince him  he isn't getting robbed and cheated.

As Lotus returns to the group, Harmon stumbles into a table. He makes an almost audible hiss as he recognizes the trappings of  the Mystic Knight. Careful, now Calli. That's one means trouble, don't you doubt it. Stay clear.

"Silvermasque my friend, Xion is with the boss... bad timing for mentioning the alcohol..."

"Really?" Callie asks, looking up at Harmon, "She looks so strong."

In spite of, or perhaps because of, the large mage's warning, Callie continues to keep an eye on Lotus as she moves through the hardware exchange.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 01:39, Fri 10 Mar 2006.

Pay attention girl! Harmon snaps at Calliandra in a harsh whisper. His constant irritation is no great surprise, as he seems quite easy to agitate, and yet he tends not to dwell on any ONE annoyance long before moving on to then next.

I didn't say she wasn't STRONG! he whispers again, his eyes glancing back towards Lotus. That's the problem! I'd guess she is /quite/ strong. But don't you see that helmet? The whole get-up? Just like that other fellow over there. He points to the other Knight that Lotus had approached.

You must know what that means. He looks at Calli and waits, but only for a half a moment before he continues, his frustration building, Oh, damn us all to the hells. She's a Mystic Knight! and that tells you all you need to know.

He clearly believes that his revelation is self-explanatory. The big man waits with crossed arms and a smug expression for the girl's profuse thanks to Harmon for saving her from such a diabolic threat.

Ajax look over some of the weapons and gears that at the Exchange. He select a few choice weapons, body armor, ammo, and gear. If any ask about he select, he will only says, "This war, not a party. I fight in war, I plan for war, and war is very real!!! The enemy will not waste one second to kill you or me.  I won't allow that to happen, understand. So, I use everything that I can get my hands on, too kill the enemies without mercy."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:15, Sun 12 Mar 2006.

Van will not ask Ajax about he select, for fear of what he will only says...

Instead, after finishing up at the exchange, Van will make his way to the spell classes and spend quite a bit of time learning. He'll be there for the rest of the day, but he'll have his radio on him.

[OOC Question, how close is Hillcrest to a ley line? Isn't it at a nexus or something?]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:00, Fri 10 Mar 2006.

Callie's eyes get wide at the mention of the feared group of knights "Really?  But...but she's not killing anyone.  She's on our side, right?"  After a few moments more of wide-eyed apprehension she turns away with the indefatigable bouyancy of youth and walks over to the man, or male-looking individual anyway, near the quickly diminishing pile of found-while-sunbathing loot. Holding out her hand to the large cyborg, she says "Hi, I'm Callie."

One might think she's almost baiting Harmon by picking the oddest looking members of the newly arrived group to speak with.

Saul continues to look around the exchange and to observe the group from a safe distance.  Saul says to himself, "The group appears to be orderly and co-operative then back a Izmit. Perhaps the group, will now be open to him, now that they have left the battle field.  Then again, I still don't have may weapons. Perhaps, I will not test their openness."

After deciding not to approach the group, Saul begins to look around the market for a vendor to buy a new uniform and to change the patches on his armor.

Ajax gather his additional gear, then departs to learn some new spells. Once there, he will atempt too learn as many spells as he can that have any value to himm...
This message was last updated by the player at 00:01, Wed 15 Mar 2006.

 For his part, once the equipment has been appropriately divvied, the prisoners turned over to Proper Authority (and signed for), various injuries seen to and the world as a whole set to rights for one more day, the hulking cyborg takes off to browse the many and varied delights of the market stalls.

 Of course, he's already about as well armed as he's likely to need to be, but it never hurts to do some window shopping - and as ever, if someone wishes to tag merrily along, they're more than welcome.




]

Xion will go to the exchange and look around at the wares they have to offer. Speaking to the first attendant who he can get to, "I need grenades, preferably some with a little more pop than the average grenade, any recommendations, and probably a little bit better side arm."

As the Russian 'borg walks past her extended hand, Callie looks put out for a moment, then shrugs and heads back to the exchange.  Her mood improves considerably as she is once more immersed in the technological cornucopia (or as close as one can find to such in Hillcrest).

[Oops]

 The quiet words of the small humanoid woman went unnoticed at first of course, and this is unconscionable in and of itself but the big 'Russian was rather busy, in his slight defence, handing out the various cash shares to those entitled to them and making sure all the various bits and pieces got suitably stacked on the Armourer's truck.

 But the minutes pass by, she pouts and little and wanders off as he in his turn (thoroughly distracted in a way that would be positively dangerous on the battlefield, but is perhaps forgivable given how many holes he's had blasted in him) he seems to recall the words, and since they're both stalking around the stalls, he redirects his attentions to locate her.

 Of course, how successful he might be is another matter - after all, /he/ stands out in a crowd... she might not.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:41, Thu 16 Mar 2006.

The rest of the day is spent differently for each member of Third Platoon...

Some, shop. Spending all their profits on more weapons. Some sit in on teachings, in an attempt to learn new ways to craft the mystic energies of the Earth. Others wait for medical attention, and others for mechanical repairs.

The two officers of Third Platoon return from their briefing. Some members of the platoon are in desperate need of repairs or medical attention. Others ahve already begun learning new spells. The Officers schedule a meeting in 6 hours by the command building.

At least one spell is available to each who need it, and full medical recovery is finished. (the overflow of wounded are the fatally wounded who are being kept alive - and the sheer number of mercenaries and soldiers moving about. Most of Pluto Company is in Hillcrest now.

Silvermasque gets patched up by a companion of Zeds' and the Mystic Knights'. An armorer named Smith. A good four hours of solid work on Silvermasque will restore 50% of the damage. Smith suggests he buys armour, rather than replating himself after every battle. And to save up for a new body model...

(If anyone wants to buy anything still - private message me.)

(Also, it would appear Ren has wandered off...)

   Lotus wanders around the inside of the infirmary looking for Arven.  She knows his bulk would be far too much to rest in a normal-sized cot.  Its quite possible his ego wouldn't let him rest anyway, so she tries asking an attendant where she can find the thirteen-foot-tall rahu man.  It is unlikely he could have passed through here un-noticed.
   When Lotus eventually locates the four-armed gunslinger, she walks up to him quietly and removes her helmet before speaking...

   Zephram leaves the briefing alongside Xion and makes a few radio transmissions to his team.  He is starting to gain some respect for Xion, and hopefully the feeling is mutual.  He feels it is acceptable for him to issue some orders across the platoon in Xion's stead.
   "This is Zephram.  The briefing is finished.  We're going to be on light-duties for the next couple of days until the next assignment begins.  That means we'll be assisting Hillcrest with perimeter patrols starting tomorrow morning.  We'll gather at the main entrance at 0800 hrs to work out the details.  We'll also be splitting into two approximately equal teams.  These will be set up in the morning.  Until then, everyone is on their own merits.  Also, Sarah, come see Xion or myself immediately for reassignment.  In case you haven't met them yet, we'll be taking on a few new people from 2nd platoon.  But we'll cover that in the morning too.  Only rule for the night everyone is to keep your radios on.  That's it."

   Zephram will then signal to Xion that he's going to leave him for now and go visit with an old friend.  Zephram wanders for a bit until he spots the massive behemoth.  He walks up from behind and clears his throat to signal his presence.  "Sir, it is I, Zephram.  Ummm, how are you doing?"  Zephram looks up at Obidiah with expectant eyes and a bit of hesitation.

After some looking around, Saul finds an armour shop run but a man named Smith.  Saul steps into the shop and finds that Smith is busy repairing Silvermasque's armours.  Turning to Smith's assistants, Saul asks,  "Hi,  would any of you guys be able to spray paint my armour?"

Lying on a blanket on the ground hooked up to two different I.V.'s Arven smiles when he sees Lotus. "Nobody sent me a get well card or nothing unless you are here to do a strip-o-gram." The giant says jokingly. When Zephram calls on the radio he rolls his eyes at the Mystic Knight. "That dumbfuck thinks I am doing guard duty he is stupider than he looks. Im on injured reserve till we get the fuck outta here. Speaking of I need to get my creds and get over to the exchange to try and find some kinda mystic armor or protection and maybe even some kinda chestplate. I am used to killing guys two or ten at a time but not fighting armies. I need a little bit of insurance ya know." Arven unexpectedly smacks Lotus on the butt with one of his lower arms and gives her a wink.

As Zephram approaches the golems massive head turns rock grating against rock as it does. When the warlock addresses him Obidiah remains silent and completely still for a moment. Given the way he communicates though it is likely Zephram is hearing something everyone else is not. The golems face stays as it of course always will but he becomes more animated than he has been since he walked up to the group. He moves forward as if to embrace Zephram in a huge hug but then stops and instead reaches down and pats the man very gingerly on the shoulder obviously taking great care to be gentle.

While Silvermasque is in a modified Coalition APC having patchwork done by Smith, Saul mentions he wants to be painted.

Naturally, another of Zeds' companions steps forward and offers to help, using an old security system of Smiths' APC.

The Large 'Borg mentions he can paint Sauls' armour. Big Greasy Mac as he is called now goes on to say "There are alot of mercenaries with stolen suits of Coalition armour coming around, looking to change it so they don't get shot by their own side... Most of 'em go with a green camoflauge job. Whadda ya want?"

Not really having anywhere else to go Sharp stands idly by and watches all the goings on. Haering the ex-coaltion soldier he had previously considered killing talk with the borg about a paint job Sharp chuckles. "Green camo at night is not far from black mate. Flourescent orange or green that glows might be a better choice. If you had even a bit of sense you would trade that clown suit in for a new one. Sharp goes back to leaning on his hovercycle honestly not caring much one way or the other if the turncoat gets himself fragged by friendly-fire.

Callie, once she calms down a bit, spends much of the day perusing the exchange for things that may be useful.  She is fairly selective in her choices as well, spending a bit of time with this merchant explaining how she needs the " . . . left shoulder actuator from a Mark 2.1 Skelebot.  This one is plainly a right shoulder motivator from a mark 2.03, and the molycircs aren't compatable between the models." or with that pile of printed circuits looking for some esoteric version.  Say what you will about the flightiness of teenage girls in general, this one plainly knows her stuff when it comes to machines.

After hearing Sharps remarks, Saul decides to simply ignor his comments and not take the risk of being attacked again. Saul then turns to Big Greasy Mac and says,   "I think I will take my suit in a dark red.  I don't think that camoflage will do much against the coalitions scans and thermal devices.  At lest, I might look somewhat cool in red."

In a deep metallic voice, The 'borg respends to Saul.

"As you can tell I have been around. Met alot of mercenaries. I've seen alot of young ones come and go,  and even a few friends. You are new to this profession aren't you."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:06, Wed 22 Mar 2006.

Eventually most of the team find their way to the sleeping area - the rows of cots. The cots are human sized, with only a limited few larger, alien-sized. The biggest being ten feet in length.

The morning comes, and it is time for this meeting. Arven is cured eventually when the mage finally finds the time, and energy to do so. Unfortunately for this lazy quad-opus the medical station reports in to the officers, and do so regarding Arvens' status, and availability for the upcoming platoon briefing.

It is now meeting time, and all are present, in front of the Hillcrest - army head quarters. Everyone (willing) are present. The officers may begin.

Sarah and Ren are not present. Perhaps the officers will explain that as well.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:19, Wed 22 Mar 2006.

   "Alright, let's just take a quick role-call.  We have a few new members now, so I want to make sure we're not missing anyone who didn't think I was serious when I said 0800 hrs..."
   Zephram looks about the group gathered around to make sure no one is missing.

   OOC - I suppose this would be a good opportunity for anyone intending to blow off the patrol duties to let us know :)

 Bright and early and on the dot of 07:50, the hulking (and now mostly patched-up, but still visibly battle-damaged) figure of 'Masque stomps into view, clutching an oversized mug of coffee in one vibro-clawed hand and a cigar in another.

 However, or whatever he spent his night doing, he certainly seems to have settled in with commendable swiftness and sets about doing so once more, picking out a convenient spot to seat himself next to a chair.

 "Silvermasque, here." he states, quite uneccessarily, when the time comes.

Harmon spends most of his free time at the spell-clinic presumably learning something useful. The rest of the time he simply complains in his rumbling voice about the teachers, I mean, these people couldn't tell a ley line from a simple dimensional anamoly. And they're gonna teach ME? No wonder the CS is makin' headway!  He falls asleep almost as soon as he hits the cot, as it groans under his considerable - though still human - weight.

By the morning, he is still snoring contentedly. Only by some accident does he snort, mid-snore, catch his breath, and find himself rattled awake. Grumbling again, he is about to slide back down to the cot when he glances at a clock.

Oh crap! He reluctantly pulls himself out of the bed and hustles himself over to the gathering just moments before Zephram begins. He is fully rumpled and grouchy from a night of poor sleep on the ratty cot, but then, perhaps he doesn't look so different from the previous day. In fact, maybe the sleep has nothing to do with it.

0800hrs... like a well-oiled machine... he mumbles, happy that he made it.

The orc arrives with Silvermasque. He sits cross-legged on the ground and waits for the meeting to start.

After gathering weapons gear, learned a new spell, Ajax a few hours doing some modifications on his weapons, Power Armor. Once is to his liking, he get some rest for the night. At 0600 hour, Ajax wake up and starts getting ready for the miission of day. Doing a final check on weapons and power armor systems, Ajax travel to the meeting area just in time him to respond for roll call, "  Ajax here! All weapons are ready, armor at full readiness, all system are ready for the mission, Sir!"

Mephisto appears, as if he had teleported.

He awaits what is next.

Mephisto is glad to see that Ren still has not returned.

After everyone who needed sleep retired Obidiah walked out to the perimeter of Hillcrest and waited the night out. He forced himself to think of his family and recall all the wonderful details associated with them. Including the things like the touch of his late wifes caress, the smell of his childrens hair after bathtime and the taste of Sunday afternoon dinner which was always the same and always wonderful. Touch, smell and taste are things he will never experience again. When he thinks of what he has given up he thinks of the Coalition and how if it were not for them he would not have forsaken his humanity. The fires of hatred are starting to burn strongly within what is left of the once peaceful man inside the golem. When the first of the company arrive early that morning Obidiah has already been present for a good while. He only waves a massive hand in greeting but does not address anyone with his telepathy.

Sharp shows up right on time wearing a set of black fatigues he must have liberated from one of the dead C.S. soldiers in Izmit. He was up drinking most of the night but does not look nearly as hung over as he should. It is hard to be a proper alcoholic with M.O.M. implants.

Van arrives at the meeting punctual, drawing little attention to his presence. He will just stand back as people arrive and await briefing.

A good ten minutes after the briefing begins Arven meanders in gnawing on some big hunk of chewy looking mystery meat. When people turn and look at him he spits out a wad of well chewed gristle and barks out, Corporal Hard Dick reporting for duty! Waving towards Zephram and Xion with his slab of meat he says, What the fuck? Git on with it already.

 'Masque doesn't really seem to be inclined to spend much time looking around, but the arrival of each team member in their due time is greeted with a nod of the head, a raise of the hand or some similar reaction. In the meanwhilst he concentrates on his coffee (solid food might sometimes be a bit of a problem with those jaws, but the folk of the Russias appriate how important it is for a man to be able - no matter how he looks - to be able to join his comerades in drink and song) and his cigar, from time to time adjusting the rakish bandana that, along with his new set of fatigues covers the worst of the seared-off synthetic flesh and battered armour.

 He doesn't - as yet - seem to have taken much advantage of the shopping.

In the early morning light, sounds of work can be heard from the "parking lot" in Hillcrest, where the vehicles, power armor, robots, and similar conveyances are left.  Callie happily chews on some food she liberated from the kitchens and works on "Bernadette."  As the sun crests over the open access panel she squints at it then checks her watch, an old, well-cared for, mechanical variety.

"Shit!" this exclamation is followed by the sounds of metal tools rapidly being thrown into a metal box.  "Shitshitshit!" again as the access panel slams shut.  The mantra follows her through the field full of vehicles, and the camp itself.  She arrives at the 0800h briefing, only slightly late but thoroughly out of breath, and finds a seat.

Once everyone arrives, however late some may be, Xion will look to Zephram to see if he is ready to start giving out the assignments. Assuming he is, Xion will start, "First of all, Sarah, you have been reassigned to Hillcrest Medical. You may report to them when you are ready." Clearing his throat, "People, we have split the platoons into two groups, one I will lead, and one Zephram will lead. These teams have already been selected. The assignments are as follows, coming with me are, Null, Arven, Fearless, SilverMasque, Calliandra, Harmon, Lotus, Anniyan, Mithas and Jelme." Xion pauses briefly, "Zephram's team will consist of Razgriz, Obidiah, Sharp, Ajax, Mephisto, Van, Ren, Braga, Saul and Aurthur. Now, once we are done here, I would like to see my unit so we can meet the new members and find out exactly what you people can do. I still need to go back to the exchange and see about upgrading my firepower." Looking to Zephram, "Have I left anything out, or is there anything you would like to add?" The question is a genuine one, not trying to come off as cocky, he is honestly asking if he has left anything out.

Van only moderately masks his displeasure as he glances sidelong over at Ajax. He never was very good with 50/50 chances...

As the sun rises, Saul looks out from his cot and immediately thinks back to all the times that he would get up in service to the coaltion.  They were always running exercises and other activities in the wee hours of the morning.  But, today would be different.  For him there was no more coalition.  Today, was the first day that he would actively move against the coalition, and be a step closer to liberating his home country from the lies he and others had so easily excepted.

Saul, rolls out of bed and takes a early morning walk before making it to the role call at 0750 hours.  He stays to the back not willing to draw to much attention to himself.

Jelme and Braga both arrive on time.

The unusual part is Braga rides in on a horse, and he is followed by 8 dogs.

Mephisto's silonar, and Arven's Ostrasaurus have taken a special interest in Braga, and just stare at him while the briefing continues.

Ajax speaks up by saying, "I see we are on a Hunting Party, perhaps." After, he looks at Braga dogs. He says, "Now, what shall we be hunting today, hunting party?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:24, Fri 24 Mar 2006.

 The oversized cybernetic feline swings his head about when the dogs arrive and gives a hearty, good-natured laugh - plainly the utility of a good hunting hound, and the pleasure in seeing them is something that hasn't been lost in the inhumanising process that turns men into Cyborg Shocktroopers.

 "Is good... but are they having place in time of war when our foes are men?" he asks the newly-manifested beastmaster, whilst wondering if he has anything about his person that might be edible.

Noting the dogs and the way his own mount reacts to the Simvan warrior Arven chimes in after Ajax. "We ain't huntin shit unless its huntin up some brain implants for your dumbass. I just think o'l scaly face there has a way with animals if ya know what I mean." By the the way he phrased his words it is perfectly clear what the Rahu-Man intended and it was not a compliment to Bragas animal husbandry skills. Almost as an afterthought Arven seems to notice the way Braga is wearing his pistols and his overall posture. The giant stiffens ever so slightly. Staring down the Simvan he asks cooly, "You s'posed to be somebody or something?"

Braga looks up at Arven.

"This town had better be big enough for both of us"

(click on his portrait, to see a better picture of what he looks like. If any of you are from that New West game that imploded, Braga wuz there.)
This message was last edited by the player at 07:05, Sat 25 Mar 2006.

Ajax looks at Arven and Braga for few seconds, then he laughs out loud at Braga comment.

"Mayhap it is and mayhap it ain't..." Arven replies cooly. Hearing the gravelly laugh of Ajax the gunslinger turns his attention away from the Simvan. "Whadda ya laughin at you dickless sonofawhore?"

"I believe he said he was the son of WAR, but then maybe I miss-heard..."

Ajax says, I am laughing at you two, acourse...As you two try to size each other up, too fine out who the better man...Which I fine, it very funny to see you two go at each other." He turn toward Van saying, "You heard correctly the first time, Van." Again turning back toward the other two saying, "There are more important things, that are better than your egos. We are fighting a WAR for Tolkeen, that should demand your attention."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:22, Mon 27 Mar 2006.

 Silvermasque glances incuriously at the spot upon his wrist where a watch would be if he didn't have a built-in atomic clock ticking away the minutes, seconds and hours of his life and then looks over to Xion, slowly rising to his feet in a fashion not unlike the advent of an ice-age sending glaciers over a mountain.

 "Ready to receive orders, Sir... youbet." he rumbles, looking for a moment at... well, to be truthful just Arven and Ajax - since it doesn't seem that Braga has had a hell of a lot to do with what's going on - the big 'borg may, or may not be able to beat either of the other two bruisers in a stand-up fight, but for the purposes of banging heads together until people shut up and listen to orders, it would be hard to imagine a more perfectly designed soldier...

 Not least because he waits for orders, just in case his officer should be able to resolve matters without head-banging.

   Zephram doesn't mask his annoyance at the stragglers who arrive late to the meeting, but he doesn't bother scolding anyone either.  Sometimes there's no point when you're dealing with mercenaries.  He is a little surprised that only Renaldo failed to show however - he expected more of the team might have opted out.

   "No, I think you got it all, Xion.  Thanks." Nods in acknowledgement to his counterpart.  "All right everyone.  Just to let you know, I volunteered us to assist Hillcrest with perimiter patrols for today and tomorrow until our next mission starts.  We'll be working easy twelve hour shifts, so you have no reason to complain.  Now, let's break up into our teams."

   Zephram will shake Xion's hand to say farewell and good luck before walking a short distance away in order to separate from Zephram's team.  "This will be pretty simple.  We keep moving and keep are eyes open.  Any questions?"

Braga looks at Ajax and replies

"Greetings, my name is Braga, you must be the town."

Saying nothing else he moves off with his commander, followed by the wolves.

A small bird lands on his shoulder. Braga pets it with one hand. A horse jogs slowly from behind a building and stands beside him; reigns, saddle and baggage still attached. Braga turns to pet it.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:56, Wed 29 Mar 2006.

Arthur arrives late, and with other mercenaries.

He informs the group that his wounded comrades have made a healthy recovery, and that he will be rejoining them. He hopes he gets to work with everyone again soon.

Actually another mercenary has not shown up as of yet. It is likely he has moved on as well.

Mithas is not here.

Over the next two days the new formation of Third Platoon - into two synchronized squads plays out boring, and uneventful 12 hour patrols. In the down time, when not sleeping, or just brain relaxing, more spell learning, repairs and such can be done. Perhaps sustain should be one of the first learned...

After those days, all of Pluto Company has arrived at Hillcrest. 1st, 4th, 5th, 7th, 8th, and 9th platoons are all here. Each led by an officer, and consisting mostly of mercenaries. All co-ordinated by one person. A mage named Hulan. A woman of 30. She is beautiful, and stands strong. She seems to be very reasonable, and extremely knowledgable in what she does. She appears to be constantly busy, always dealing with some officer, above, or below her.

The entire Pluto Company are gathered in a large school auditorium. 117 members in total, left alive or still around.

Hulan stands on a stage, alongside a few other officers, other mages of sorts, of varied races. She speaks to the entire group.

"I want to thank you all for coming. The events of this war directly effect the lengths to which King Creed will go to, in order to defend our city. The more of you that are willing to fight with us, the better. Today I was supposed to brief you all on an invasion. We were going to assault an outpost. But we were chosen for a diferent one at the last moment. I believe it was Saturn Company that will be going on the invasion now.

She pauses.

"Instead, our mission is of great importance. A Coalition Transport has crashed south west of Hillcrest. There were several survivors. Among them, an officer, one of their high command in fact. Our Company is charged with making our way to the crash site, and subdue the opposition, in an attempt to capture the officer. Naturally, we are not the only soldiers of Tolkeen invovled in this operation, but we don't get that kind of info. And of course the Coalition is on their way to rescue the survivors as well. We leave immediately, and all I can say is watch out for surprises."

Hulan also commands 1st platoon.

After the briefing The groups are both briefed by their own officers as to their specific route of travel.

This mission, being of importance - requires every man to be able to travel at 100 mph - or they must ride in the vehicles. Third Platoon is issued several vehicles. Used, but washed.

One Rolling Thunder (From Juicer Uprising book) at 85% MDC.
Hovercycles for any who can pilot them. Desert Fox, or Norhtern gun models. All are 75% MDC and fuel.

Sarah's big Boss ATV is still with you guys as well.

If the riding animals can't go 100 mph, Hillcrest will provide care for them in your absence.

 Somewhere around day two of the patrols 'Masque turns up for his shift in a set of massive, but in truth rather elegant plate armour plainly patterned on the standard 'Borg bolt-on equipment with a number of adjustments made to take into account his considerable size and rather unusual configuration - the helmet, which has a curiuously open-plan format, seeming almost stylised rather than practical is tucked under his arm, whilst studying the suit carefully it becomes possible to notice numerous small reaction-jet ports, gaps for sensor arrays and other tinker-toys giving some small clue to just how sophisticated the Russian actually is.

 And big... seriously, alarmingly, overwhelmingly /big/ - well, so long as you're not a Rahu-man... or a tank.

 In any case, he takes in the briefing and heads on out to join the rest of his team, one-handedly adjusting the fit of his pauldrons... "I am able to keep up with little cars, but am qualified to drive heavy armour - am even cyberlinked for faster reaction, but I do not think you have such things here. What do you wish me to do?" - this of course, said to Xion.

As Zephram call his team together for patroling duty around Hillcrest, Ajax perform his duties very well while on patrol. On his off hours he make trip too his store unit to trade some items and he returns with some items. Once Ajax return after the 3 hour trip (Too and from the store unit), he spend some time reworking some of the item and get some rest for the next day.

Again, after he 12 hour duty, he try to learn one or two more spells before getting some more rest.

Once at the briefing, Ajax listen to every word of the commander about the new mission and objections.