The selected team heads out on foot towards the town of Lask.

OOC: Please confirm your equipment here. Dimitar, Smythe and Guido's equipment should need no changes. Refer to each other and the available stores in the "equipment" thread.

How many soldiers in Lask and do we have enough ammunition? ;P

AK-74, Bayonet, 6x30 round mag
2 frag grenades
1 set IR goggles, Binoculars, gas mask
steel helmet set of combat webbing
pack, sleeping bag,
uniform & boots

All taken from Pols

How much food can we swipe?
Can I get a bandage and wrap around my neck and ears splattered with blood, can,t talk (neck injury) can't hear (shell shock), covers immediate problems of being challenged.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:56, Sat 10 July 2004.

Gary, having been trained on foreign weapons by US Special Forces in New York and having been on his unit's rifle team for many years, takes the SVD from Colonel Nelson along with it's ammunition. He trades off his CADPAT fatigues for Pact fatigues with anyone his size, and he's small and slight - he could wear bigger fatigues if need be, just roll up the sleeves and blouse the boots. He loans his Kevlar Helmet and his Canadian Webgear with a Pole for some Pact gear. He'll leave the AKR for someone else.

In order to travel light, he'll be carrying
SVD with optics 4.6
Ammunition for SVD (2 10 round mags) 0.6 + 2 empty mags (leave bullets with Col.)
Walter P-38 1.0
Ammunition for P-38 (1 mag, full) 0.1
Pact Webgear 2
Canteen (full of water) 1
Pact Fatigues and Boots 4
Bandana/Cloth (worn as headcover to conserve weight)
4x Binocs 0.5
IR Goggles (fully charged) 0.5
Personal Medkit 0.2
Claymore Mine 2

Total: 16.5 kg + 2 empty mags?  (under 27kg load limit)

The balance of my kit can be divided out to the survivors, but focusing mostly on our people, especially for things like the laser RF and my weapon.

Remember, we're supposed to be low on supply. This is why I'm taking no food (well, maybe a granola bar or something for the trip in). And two empty mags. I figure we aren't going to fight our way in and out...

Make sure to get any 'geographic info' out of the locals with Michael's help before we go Re: Lask (ie where are likely spots for checkpoints, where is the enemy likely billeted in the town, what was left standing, where are local sources of clean drinking water, do they have a hospital, etc). Get one of the locals to draw us a basic map too.

"OK OK!, 6 mags, 5 empty and two mags worth of ammo rolled in the sleeping bag, it will just take a little longer to bayonet our way out if we have problems."

It might... but all you really have to do is bayonet one with a loaded gun, then just like a Hollywood Blockbuster, you're off to the races. Besides, if it gets down to bayonets, we're in some trouble.

Gary finds himself chuckling at Dave's can-do attitude.

"Why not? the Yanks claim they can do it without a bayonet." Guido gives a grin The only difference is we have a sense of reality, and if it does turn nasty the only way I can sum it up is 'I hope that there are not may left after the dust settles so our deaths are not in vain.'" indicating sticking the grenade in his mouth.

Okay. M177 with three mags, two empty
      Vest
      Kevlar
      Bayonet (Used as a knife)
      Personal med kit
      Doctors med kit
      Sleeping bag

"Oh the batteries for my IR google in with the ammo in my sleeping bag, It's worth a try to get spares."

AK74 + bayonet (for that personal touch)
2 x 40rnd, 1 x 30rnd mags.  only one mag full, empty out others.
plus any extra mags aquired before leaving

Frag grenade
Torch, extra batteries would be nice
Gas mask + extra canister
Steel helmet, Polish
Flak jacket
Webbing
Pack
Sleeping bag
Polish uniform, relatively free of bloodstains, Rank?
Boots, Polish? Nuked?

All liberated from polish cavalry.

You have been walking for an hour or so towards Lask when you start to encounter the remains of the 256th Infantry Brigade. Burnt out M2 Bradleys, trucks, HMMWV’s and other American military vehicles litter the countryside. The smell of decaying bodies fills the air as you make your way around artillery shell craters. You begin to feel as though the battle was all one sided when you come upon three destroyed BMP’s, their hatches thrown open and the bodies of some of the crews still half inside. They must have walked into a localised ambush as there are signs of claymores and improvised explosive devices. The accompanying infantry were cut down as they exited the IFV’s. All weapons and other usable equipment have been collected. There are horse and wagon tracks about the battle site and it appears as if some vehicles have been towed away.
The sounds of metal banging against metal, men swearing and a generator can be heard up ahead.

What language?

Is there much cover? Perhaps one of the stealthiest of us can climb a nearby vehicle for a better view?

Fight or Greet folks?

"First test for trick.", offered Dimitar in a murmur.  "Who will scout?  Very good we have some hidden in cover in case they give trouble.", he added looking around at the small group.

The terrain is mainly tall grasses but has a lot of low scrubby bushes. The recent battle has created areas that are burnt clear of vegetation and a number of craters. There are a few burnt out husks of vehicles scattered about that may provide some cover but probably aren't safe enough to stand on.
After a few moments of careful listening, Gallin and Kett recognise a few common phases in Russian usually reserved for "rougher" company. [Private to Sergeant Michael Gallin; WO1 Gary Irwin Herbert Kett: It sounds as if somebody just skinned their knuckles on something.]

Guido rolls his eyes and whispers "Lets get this over with.", Guido starts moving quietly through the grass moving from cover to cover until he gets to a point where he can see what is happening and can still see the group if possible (for hand signals).

OCC: 04:02, Today: Staff Sgt Dave Guido rolled 2 using 1d10. stealth.
04:08, Today: Staff Sgt Dave Guido rolled 2 using 1d10. Observation.

Is our "Spetnaz" cover going to work against russians who are more familiar?

Ok, folks, find yourselves some cover. Fan out, they may think they're being hit by a larger force if it comes to that. I'll let Sgt Nikolov call this one.

Dimitar looks alarmed when he hears that it is his job to approach.  He visibly squirms about and only ceases when he realises there was no real way to avoid the task.  He considers ignoring the directive and taking cover behind a vehicle but recognises it would cause serious damage to the tenuous relationship with his new found friends.

Mumbling under his breath in his native Bulgarian, he attempts to hide his agitation by checking that his rifle is ready for use in an instant.  His plan was to attempt to talk to them and find out some sort of information.  After that, it was a case of getting out of the firing line and letting the crazed fools hiding in cover let them have it.

Serzhant Nikolov waits for a signal from Guido, hiding in the grasses to their front.  When the others are in position, and assuming Guido has relayed the all clear he will begin walking forward with leaden steps, attempting, but failing to whistle nonchalantly.

Relax Dimitar, it's not my intention to fight our way into Lask, just being cautious.
Make contact and if they turn out to be hostile we'll be ready, don't expose yourself too much as yet. I would have prefered Poles for first test of our cover.

Turning to Smythe, Dimitar relays his idea.  "I have plan.  When I take hat from head, you shoot.", he said, pointing to the faded brown beanie on his head. "Shoot all but me.", he added after consideration.

Dimitar did not miss the signifigance of the fact that with him standing amongst the unknown Russians, there would be purely Pact forces on display in front of the concealed group.  Now was the time to ask himself how much he trusted his "allies"...
This message was last edited by the player at 08:04, Thu 15 July 2004.

OK. I don't want to kill them if there is no need, they may be the means for us to get into town unchallenged as recognised friends.

Although, that Genny of theirs is running on something, I'm sure our UAZ could be adapted...

Gary readies the SVD and moves, using vehicles as cover, very cautiously to a space where he can observe the situation. Knowing he is no 'master of stealth, he accounts for this in his planning. All he wants is 'eyes on' (he has a sniper weapon, so range should not be an issue) and visual cover like a burnt out vehicle.

If the hat goes off Dimtar's head, the first shot will be into the most heavily armed opponent. Pray no accidental wind gusts.

But all those Commies look alike. What if we get him mixed up and one of the others takes his hat off.

Then I'm sure Dimitar will go to great pains to take your hat off...

OOC: Move to my left until I can find a concealed vantage point from where I can see Dimitar and the Soviets without getting any closer.

Stealth: 2
Obs: 3

Assuming Gallin has also found a position with a good forward view, Dimitar starts walking forward deliberately.  He trys to make progress forward that does not take him close to any of the concealed members of the group, for fear of drawing unwanted attention to them.

He walks slowly forward, running the situation through his mind.  Frankly, it could turn out very badly for him.  He makes sure the safety on his AKMS is off, but he keeps the weapon away from his hands for now.

Passing within 20 metres of Guido hiding in the centre of their position, he resists the urge to look and see if he is ready.  He marches stiff legged onward, and continues thusly until he is in calling distance of the unknown people ahead.

Got you coverd, and me as well.

I'm ready, which one is he again?

Only kidding I am "aiming" a shot for the one closest to me, not Dimitar, the next one, if things go bad.

Dimitar hesitantly approaches the noice of Soviets working. Cresting a small rise (not a major block to the others line of sight) he sees almost a dozen men in oil stained soviet uniforms working on a variety of military vehicles.
They have obviously had the assistance of a heavy vehicle in gathering these battle damaged machines to a central area.
In additon to the mechanics, there is an M2 Bradley, BRDM-2, BTR-80 and a 2½ tonne truck of Soviet origin.
The generator is powering various power tools and a welder. The stripped husks of several other vehicles have obviously supplied parts to those they are presently working on.
There appears to be no security presence although they have their weapons (AKR's and a couple of M231's probably scrounged from the M2) close by.

I will walk toward the middle of the group in a non-threatening manner.  I will try to look as relaxed as possible and will show the palm of my hands immediately if I am challenged by anyone.  The first person who acknowledges my presence is the person I will approach slowly, making sure I have at least a half-smile on my face.

If the men are too deeply engrossed in their labours to notice me, I will call out a quick "Priviet" when I get within about 20 metres.

What else can I do? still aiming.

The startled mechanics drop tools and fumble for their weapons. Although none immediately open fire, they look very, very nervous and suprised. A Starshina calls out in Russian.
[Private to WO1 Gary Irwin Herbert Kett: You don't understand the words beyond an inkling that it is a question.]
[Private to Sergeant Michael Gallin: Who are you? Where have you come from?]

Michael will whisper quietly to the person closest to him.
 Its Russian, they want to know who he is and where he comes from.
 Gallin gives a deep intake of breath as he hopes Dimitar knows what he is doing.

Guido prepares to speak one of the many international language understood in this day and age, "5.45mmB"

Take a bead on one farthest from Dimitar, don't want someone slipping into cover and flanking us.

Done

OOC: Waiting on Dimitar it seems. He was supposed to be back with us a few days ago but I fear his work took a bit longer than expected. I'd NPC him but unfortunately it's a rather delicate situation and could go either way.
Also, I've created a docuent with pics of the vehicles that can be seen and posted it on the website.

IC: In addition to the four vehicles that are being immediately worked on, several others can be seen nearby stripped of any usable parts. Those that are being worked on obviously have sustained serious battle damage.

The Starshina who spoke before, speaks again.[Private to Sergeant Michael Gallin: Well, are you going to answer?]
[Private to WO1 Gary Irwin Herbert Kett: Well, are you going to answer?]
He seems impatient for a response from Dimitar.

NPC'd
Dimitar looks blankly as the Russian speaks. Then, realising at last that he has no comprehension of the man's language, he tries his own native language of Bulgarian.
OOC: It can't hurt can it?[Private to Serzhant Dimitar Nikolov: I am Serzhant Dimitar Nikolov of the Bulgarian Army. These are part of my team and we seek resupply and information on the enemy Nato forces in the area.]

<under breath> Shit... shit, shit, shit...

If you can't baffle them with bullshit, riddle them with lead.
Guido start to get an ichy finger, I need to scratch....a couple of commies.

Ooc: how far are Gallin and Kett from my position, is it possible to speak to them without alerting the Russians?

Stay calm.

Gallin and Kett are within speaking range but to do so would alert the Russians. Hand signals can be used without problem though. (Note that Kett hasn't logged on for several weeks).
Everyone (besides Dimitar of course) is now in a nice "comfortable" firing position with at least partial cover. In other words, if the bullets start flying, you can only be hit in the head, arms or chest - any other location rolled is a miss regardless of the actual roll to hit.

Dimitar is looking more and more uncomfortable and his hand is beginning to head towards his beanie - although that could be just to wipe the nervous sweat from his forehead.
The Russians are also looking rather nervous. Dimitar is not carrying very much gear so the obvious conclusion is that he is not alone and has support nearby.

Try to get Gallin's attention quietly and signal him forward.

Michael will sling his weapon and walk out of his cover, and motion to DImitar. He will say in Polish, "Hey, you need to slow down." Gallin will also fake a limp. Upon seeeing the russians, he will stop and raise a hand.
  Eyeing thier uniforms, he will speak to them in Russian.
 "Hail, we mean no harm."

[Private to GM: Okay, I'm not really good at this part, but who and what are we pretending to be? The polish and Russian are friends, right?]

The Russian barks in laughter before speaking again. [Private to Sergeant Michael Gallin; WO1 Gary Irwin Herbert Kett: You harm us? There are only two of you with rifles and we have tanks!] He indicates the vehicles as he speaks.
[Private to Sergeant Michael Gallin: you are pretending to be Polish Spetznaz (special forces). Technically the Russians and Poles are allies but the Russians tend to treat the Poles as second class.]

Can I shoot them yet?
Just waiting, watching, aiming

Well, Dimitar's hand is creeping closer and closer to his hat.......

 Gallin will smile slightly, and begin conversing in Russian. You do have a point in that. We were actually looking for the rest of our group. we got separated and are hoping to get back up with them. They wouldn't have happened to pass his way,  the rest of the Spetznaz? Were were hoping too regroup.

The Russian looks insulted and totally confused. It seems as though Gallin has managed to say something to upset him.
(Skill roll: 9, Russian Skill: 2 - Catastrophic failure)
He speaks again. [Private to Sergeant Michael Gallin; WO1 Gary Irwin Herbert Kett: You want to pass wind on spetznaz and ask us to join your groping them? Who are you really?] he asks suspiciously, his companions shifting into more protected positions.

Okay, so I will switch to Polish and see if any of them understand that.

He seems to understand your Polish better than your Russian but still appears very suspicious and wary.
He speaks in Russian again. [Private to Sergeant Michael Gallin; WO1 Gary Irwin Herbert Kett: A lot of people are separated from their units lately, he says, and plenty of them have passed this way too.]
He then indicates Gallin's American M177 carbine before continuing.
[Private to Sergeant Michael Gallin; WO1 Gary Irwin Herbert Kett: Where'd you get that? It's not exactly common around here. And why is a "Bulgarian" with you?] He almost spits one word towards the end as he waves towards Dimitar with a sneer.

OOC: the M177 is listed as "rare" in Pact areas.

Gallin looks to his rifle. Oh, we run into a little firefight coming down from Kalisz, I liberated it from there. As far as the Bulgarian, hey you pick up cannon fodder where you can." He looks around at the tanks and equipment, seeing the repairs done already. "Do you happen to know who the last group was that come through? I was really hoping to catch up with at least some of my former unit."

He still seems suspicious as he replies. [Private to Sergeant Michael Gallin; WO1 Gary Irwin Herbert Kett: That would be some Polish Cavalry or something. What unit did you say you are from? ]

"Polish Spetnaz." Michael will stand easily, prepared to hit the dirt if anything should happen to go down.

His posture seems to relax if only slightly as he asks another question.
[Private to Sergeant Michael Gallin; WO1 Gary Irwin Herbert Kett: So is it GROM or the 1st Special Regiment that you are from?]

Thinking to himself, "PLEASE, just one bullet, just a little one."
keeping his aim.

Gallin will shift his wieght uneasily from one foot to the other and speak again, getting a little agitated.
[Private to GM: "Well actually, we were attached to a rather classified Unit with a classified mission. I would like to think that our mission is still completable, therefore, still classified."]

Dimitar is getting more and more obviously nervous. Without thinking, he takes the beanie from his head and wipes the sweat on his brow with it.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:41, Mon 25 Oct 2004.

Well one must follow orders. And the light is green and were off.
What range are we all?, what cover do they have until they react, then what cover can they get to?, I need this for tactics, headshots or otherwise.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:41, Mon 25 Oct 2004.

Range is short (within 50m) and cover is comparable to what you have. Basically, hit probablities are the same but the hit location possibilities are reduced - if a 6-10 is rolled (abdomen or either leg) it's a miss regardless of the roll to hit. Exception to this is called shots which must be "aimed" - no location roll is required.

There are at least 10 Russians armed with either AKR's (from memory) or M231 SMG's. All but the spokesman is in cover. They do not appear to have noticed anyone besides Gallin and Dimitar. (guess who's being aimed at?)
Initiative 6 characters (Dave only) may act but those who have been aiming may fire also (see the section in the rules on ambushes and repetitive actions).
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:42, Mon 25 Oct 2004.

NPC'd
Gary Kett had been aiming at one of the mechanics the whole time of the conversation so it was little suprise that when it came down to it his shot was true. The Russian never knew what happened.

Aimed shot to head with SVD sniper rifle
To hit: 1
Dam: 12 (doubled due to head shot at NPC for total damage of 24 points - DEAD)
This message was last updated by the GM at 06:40, Fri 27 Aug 2004.

As soom as the first shot is fired Gallin will hit the ground and roll to the nearest cover. As soon as his initiative is made.

Well, since we've all been aiming and waiting for the signal we all get a shot off this phase.

To hit: 9 Ooops.

Every one is ready to go so first shot aimed head and followed quickly with 2 successive semi auto shots, 3 in total
Phase 6
To hit: (Head aimed) 7,8,8
Dam 13 Head (doubled for head shot to an NPC: 26 - dead!
Dam I missed
Dam I missed
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:43, Fri 27 Aug 2004.

The Russians are caught by suprise as two of their number collapse with massive head wounds.

NPC'd
Kett takes quick aim at the spokesman before pulling the trigger on the SVD. The shot is true as it strikes him in the abdomen, bowling him over.
To hit: 1
Location: 5 (abdomen)
Damage: 13 (target down)

Phase 5
To hit: 7,8,5
Location: 4 chest
Dam: 7
Location: 2 right arm
Dam: 11
Location: 6 abdomen (miss as they are in cover)
[Private to Staff Sgt Dave Guido: I assume all at the same target.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:11, Sat 28 Aug 2004.

Both Gallin and Dimitar hit the ground and scramble for cover from the bullets beginning to fly unexpectantly overhead. Both are almost as supprised as the Russians.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:47, Tue 31 Aug 2004.

Repeat action at same target

To hit: 4 - miss
[Private to Major Richard Smythe:
1) You halve the target number when making quick shots. Therefore you need a 2 to hit at short range with a rifle. Also, your strength enables you to fire the AK-74 up to 3 times per phase without penalty to your target number.
2) As previously stated, (and moot since you actually missed anyway) the enemy (and you) are prone and in cover. This means that they can only be hit in the head, either arm or the chest (1, 2, 3, or 4)
3) I suggest that when you reach your initiative phase (3) you think about switching actions. Spray and pray may be the best option for you but it's up to you to do the maths and see what the probabilities are. If you had any grenades left I'd suggest you threw them instead but I believe Smythe is all out.
4) Get a pistol]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:39, Mon 25 Oct 2004.

Gallin may now begin to act. Dimitar is hugging the ground. Smythe and Kett may conduct repetative actions (firing) and Dave may continue dishing out death as he sees fit!
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:49, Tue 31 Aug 2004.

NPC'd
Kett fires a third shot but the bullet spangs off the armour plate of the vehicle the Russian is sheltering behind.
Target number: 5
To hit: 5
Location: 5 (abdomen - miss)

I'll see what I can do.
To hit: 1,5,2
Location: 3 Left arm
Dam: 12
Location: 3 Left arm
Dam: 14
Location: 3 Left arm
Dam: 15
[Private to Nuked: If the enemy drops, I will plug one more into him (in case they are stunned) and then move to the next unless it is the end of a phase, the chance to hit is half when you change target in a phase?]
[Private to Staff Sgt Dave Guido: Chance to hit does not change just by changing targets. Apply a little common sense as to arcs of fire and all that but basically there is no penalty to change targets. Exception to this is if you fire at a target other than the one you have been aiming at.]
[Private to Nuked: If that is the case keep moving on, if they are stunned we can clean them up on the clearing patrol. I was reading chance to hit is halved if you change targets.]
This message was last edited by the player at 18:21, Wed 01 Sept 2004.

Same target

to Hit: 7, 1, 2

Loc: Miss, Cover, Cover

<zing, tang, tang>

NPC'd (got to keep things moving)
Sgt Gallin hits the dirt hard and rolls into cover. Once there he brings his M177 carbine to bear on the nearest Russian and squeezes off two rounds, missing both times.

NPC'd
Repetative action.
Kett fires another round from the SVD but misses the intended target by a hair.

OOC: Everyone but Kett gets to act however they wish. (Kett has Init: 2)

NPC'd
Dimitar quickly brushes the dirt from his AKMS sights and lines up one of the nearer Russians. Three times he pulls the trigger only to see dust thrown up around his target and no hits.

NPC'd
Gallin fires off another two shots with no effect.
Anybody got any grenades? he yells out over the gunfire in English.

Who's next?
To hit: 6,9,7
Location: 1 Head
Dam: 10
Location: Miss
Dam: Miss
Location: 9 L Leg
Dam: Miss
How many left?

NPC'd
Smythe begins to fire another few shots. His first is a miss but not by much. His second however is disastrous. It seems the brass catridge had been reloaded one too many times. The bullet flies from the barrel but Smythe knows immediately something is wrong. A quick inspection reveals that the catridge has been torn apart inside the chamber and is jammed fast.
[Private to Major Richard Smythe: To fix the weapon you need to roll a Small Arms (Rifle) skill check at average level. For you this means a 2 or less on a D10. Might as well use it as a club!]

Dave and Kett have been exceptionally effective in taking down the Russian mechanics. Eight are on the ground either dead or wounded and no more can be seen.
Suddenly, you hear the sound of a large diesel engine start up, the familiar sound of alcohol fueling the powerful vehicle. The rear ramp of the M2 Bradley begins to rise, ready to seal whoever it is inside.

OOC: The Bradley is approximately 30 metres away from Dave, Smythe and Kett - 15 from Gallin and Dimitar. The front is towards you. It is also apparently only slightly damaged although very recent repair work is evident. What is obviously still damaged is the TOW launcher and some of the road wheels. It apparently still has the 25mm autocannon and MAG machinegun still functional. (At the very least it could run over you!)

Everyone may act as they see fit.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:08, Fri 10 Sept 2004.

Gallin will sprint for the Bradley, hoping to jump in before its closed, and get to whoever is inside.

Screaming at Gallin "TOSS A BLOODY GRENADE INSIDE!!" Guido attempts to get a few rounds inside the closing door hoping that they rattle around a little and find something soft to stop in.

To Hit: 2
To Hit: 7
To Hit: 10
Critical: 7

OCC: can I get two more rounds in, if so you can roll Nuked and edit the message.
[Private to Sergeant Michael Gallin: I am not thowing a grenade (thrown weapon 1), I am more likely to hit you.]
[Private to Staff Sgt Dave Guido: Ah, the irony. Dave, you are the only one who has grenades on them!]
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:55, Sat 11 Sept 2004.

 "Give me a bloody grenade and I'll throw it in!" Gallin will yell back, slowing a little. He opens his hands as if preparing to catch a football. "Just be sure to leave the pin in!"

The only person who is carrying any grenades (Dave) would be at the back of the M2 quicker than they could fish one out of their webbing and throw it to anyone. Best to spray the inside of the M2 with bullets and hope to hit something not explosive.

NPC'd
Dimitar picks himself up off the ground and dashes forward as the ramp is closing. At the last possible moment, he shoves the barrel of his AKMS inside and pulls the trigger. Bullets fly about inside the armoured vechicle and the ramp stops closing.
[Private to GM: Driver is killed. Gunner still active and unharmed.]

Gallin will look quickly around him for any immediate threat, there are other soldiers around, and the gunfire would draw attention from any nearby units.

NPC'd
Kett draws his pistol and begins "taking care" of any wounded Russians.

Now seems like a good time to clear my rifle.

Oooops. That can't be good

Rolled 10 vs target of 2

{I'm sure I was holding a rifle a moment ago}

Everyone gets to act again. Smythe is still about 30 metres away from the M2 with an inoperable rifle, Dave is 15m and closing fast, Kett is approximately 20m, Gallin and Dimitar are on the spot.
The engine is running although  the rear ramp has stopped closing with only a few inches gap remaining. No other activity is observed at this time (besides a few moans of seriously wounded Russian mechanics).

Gallin will look for a way into the bradley through the drivers hatch. He wants to shut off the engine to save the fuel inside, which was one of the main reasons they were here.

Some grass out in the fields does ... nothing.

[Private to GM, Aaron Winters: Mills will cover the group as they make entry into the Bradley and conduct a sweep of the repair depot.   In particular, Mills will keep an eye out for any hidden Russians and/or any attempting to flee or radio for help.

Using hand signals, Mills will indicate to Winters to ready an AT weapon, if necessary.]

And if we do the problem would be?
Your kidding, no-one thought to grab grenades I have 2 frag, anyone with a good thrown weapon?. Back to the story

Guido looks around for any movement sticking the bayonet in to see if they are still alive (standard clearing patrol), while pulling out a grenade if anyone wants it.

OCC: Just a funny one on clearing patrols, the Australian army was berated by the UN for kicking the dead on clearing patrols in East Timor.
As it wasn't a war so they were not allowed to use bayonets. Shooting them would have been easier.

As Gallin climbs up onto the front of the Bradley (to get in via the drivers hatch), the turrent swivels around to face him and bullets begin to spray from the coaxial machinegun!
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:37, Mon 25 Oct 2004.

The wind blows, and more gass does....nothing.

Am I close enough to "drop" a grenade in? concussion alone would stuff anybody up in there, not to mention loss of balance and hearing.

Gallin is caught by suprise as the turret comes around.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:37, Mon 25 Oct 2004.

Dimitar empties his magazine through the gap between the ramp and body of the M2 Bradley in a vain attempt to hit something, anything (as long as it's that damn gunner!).
Bullets zing around like angry wasps inside the armour.

Gallin tumbles back down the front of the Bradley barely avoiding the stream of deadly hot metal.
Dave runs the few intervening metres, retrieves a grenade from his webbing and after pulling the pin, drops it inside as soon as the bullets have stopped flying. A few seconds later, it goes off with a bang!

The machinegun stops firing (perhaps through lack of a target) but the engine keeps running.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:38, Mon 25 Oct 2004.

Gallin will scramble to his feet and begin a long line of polish curses that would make a sailor blush. he checks himself over making sure he didn't get any bullets in his body and nearly jumps out of his skin as he hears the grenade go off.

Dimitar climbs up over the back of the vehicle and pulls open the turrent hatch, empty rifle left on the ground, pistol at the ready.

NPC'd
Kett continues "dealing" with the downed Russians, content to let the others deal with the M2.

Dimitar pulls the hatch open ready to fire at the gunner inside that had very nearly perforated Gallin. Inside the grenade and an almost full magazine of 7.62S bullets have more than done their job. Two (very dead) Russians are coating the interior of the vehicle.

Dimitar clambers over the top of the M2 to the drivers hatch, pulls it open and switches off the engine.

After the din of battle, the lack of noise is almost deafening.
That is until a few seconds go by and ThuThuThump! is heard. The unmistakable sound of several mortars firing nearly similtaineously is enough to send a chill through your bones, especially when you realise that it came from the direction of camp and could possibly be about to rain down upon you!

"Gather what you equipment you can, including fuel and dont forget to search the corpes, we must be ready to move at a moments notice."
"Who is most qualified to move this thing, we can hose the previos occupants out latter."
When we interupted them, what were they fiddling with?

A male voice in an unaccented English from the grasses calls out, "Check the generator and welder for fuel."  A tall, broadly built man then steps out from behind a wreck 50 or so meters away, clearly having been observing the last few moments of the quick gunbattle.  His face is covered in camoflage markings and he's carrying an M249 automatic rifle with a full canister of ammo.  His gear is all unmistakably of US origin.

Keeping his head down at the sound of the mortars, he calls out a quick greeting, "John Mills. Who the hell are you guys? And more importantly, whose firing those mortars?"

Crouched behind John but faceing the other way to cover their six Aaron scanned the area slowly, his finger on the outside of the trigger gaurd of his own M249 with a drum full of ammo. Next to him sat a black bag with his other gear. "Yo John, don't forget about me , don't need these guys shooting at me thinking I'm sneaking up on ya." The Navy SEAL was clad in black BDUs and black war paint on his face, neck, ears, and hands.



[Private to Nuked: I'll PM you with whats in the bag and or what I'd like once i get the files checked out, till then I won't open it, hope it was ok to do this way.]

With a flight time of only five to ten seconds or so, your next (and last!) warning is the peircing scream of several high explosive shells looking for a nice place to explode in your vicinity!
Realization of the terror about to rain down comes swiftly as somebody screams out

TAKE COVER!!!

Still partly inside the drivers hatch, Dimitar wastes no time scrambling completely inside over the top of the recently deceased Russian.

"I guess somebody doesn't like Russians" noting that it was too soon for a retaliation.
Guido looks for the nearest cover moving between shells.
"Drop the tail and get it started, we have to drag the wielder, generator and any other equipment in and get out of here.

OCC: Knowing full well that Andrew will destroy it at the first opportune moment as he does in this game.

Stuff that! Kett dives under the nearest solid cover (probably an armoured vehicle).

"GET DOWN!" yells Mills, to no-one in particular, perhaps to hemself.  He then drops to a ready position and tries to see if he can locate the source of the mortars.

Gallin will head for the best cover he can get to, inside the vehicle he nearly got killed on.

What rounds are they dropping?

SHIT...

Dropping my inoperative rifle, I dive for the closest available cover and scramble underneath, pulling some scrap iron across the opening if available.

Str: 10
Agl: 8

You've never seen a big man move so quick.

"MOVE IT! Were dead either way, move between shells or they will just overrun whats left of us when they finish shelling."
Guido moves between shells from cover to cover and attempts to drag any equipment to the vehicle
"Gallin get that bloody thing running and drop the tray were getting out of here."
What cover is there nearby (trees or even some large hills).
Dumb question, who can drive? (wheeled vehicle 1)

Gallin will start the machinery going and begin to drop the hatch.

OOC, I got wheeled vehicle 3

NPC'd
Winters hugs the ground and kisses his arse goodbye as the mortar shells whistle down.

Dimitar has full cover. Everyone else has managed to find partial cover.
Three high explosive rounds hit the ground and detonate with resounding booms. The closest is 30 metres away to the left, the next closest is 50m long, and the last 90m long right (and no threat to anyone).
Shrapnel flies and spangs off vehicles, cuts through vegetation and attempts to mutilate flesh.
Dimitar: no damage
Guido: Head 1, chest 1. hit by one fragment R arm 6
Smythe: Head 1, L leg 1, no fragments
Mills: Head 1, L Arm 1, 1 fragment, L Arm 2
Gallin: Head 1, R Arm 1, no fragments
Kett: Head 1, L Arm 1, no fragments
Winters: Head 1, R Leg 1, no fragments
... and consider yourselves extremely lucky!

What do you do?

Skuttling under the wreck that had been their cover Aaron began to scan the area looking for the source of the motar fire.

Mills joins Aaron in looking for either the mortar's position or the spotter who is directing them.  He stays ready, though, to hit the deck if he hears them firing again...

Once the noise of the three mortar explosions dies down, the surrounding countryside seems relatively quiet. A few seconds extends to a minute with no more mortar fire. The birds begin chirping again and life seems to return to normal.
Inside the M2, Dimitar struggles to remove the body he scrambled upon when he hears the radio burst to life. Unfortunately ha can't understand the language.

"Alright, Everybody Up. Move it and grab everything you can lay your hands on. We're Outa Here ASAP!!!"

Mills cautiously approaches the group of vehicle wranglers, keeping his eyes mostly on whichever direction he thinks the mortars came from.  He quickly addresses the Major, who seems to be the one most in charge "Mind if Winters here and I hitch a ride to ... wherever it is you're going?  Let's hope that isn't the two 122's we saw in Lask on the radio there.  We'd probably be in range of those guns."

Crawling from beneath the husk they had used for cover Aaron let the M249 hang around his shoulders as he lifted his overly filled and overly heavy gear bag. Ok so he may not need all the hardware he brought, but damned if he was going to find a reason to have it and then not have it. Walking over he nodded to the wranglers.

A quick glance around the area reveals a treasure trove of equipment. Included are (and this is only the obvious stuff):
1x Medium Still, 1x 5 kilowatt generator, Basic Tool Kits, Power hand tools, Wheeled Vehicle Tools, Tracked vehicle tools, Small Arms Tools, Heavy Ordnance Tools, Electrical Repair Tools, Electronic Repair Tools, Arc Welder, White Light Spotlights (on stands), 20 litre jerrycans, Rope, Air Compressor, 10 Man Tent, AKR's, M231's, M2 Bradley IFV, BTR-80 APC, BRDM-2 armoured scout vehicle and a GAZ-63 2 1/2 tonne truck (up on blocks though)

A search of the vehciles, tent and casualties is sure to yield yet more....

As you dust yourselves off you hear the sound of small arms fire from the same direction and possibly at the same place the mortars fired from (possibly near or at camp).

Dropping his bag to the ground Aaron turned quickly and brought the M249 to his shoulder. "OK this, I am getting tired of.

OOC: Camp is about 3 or 4 kilometres away.

<striding into the center>

OK folks, find out what works and what doesn't. Pack up everything, I doubt we'll get a chance to come back later.

Who can drive what? Any mechanics apart from myself? How long to get it moving?

Mills, Winters, to me! Sitrep, who are you, why are you here and what do you know of our imediate suroundings?
When you say 122's do you mean SAU-122's or towed arty?

...and would somebody clear my damned gun, where's an armourer when you need one...

"Cheif Petty Officer Aaron Winters, United States Navy SEALs, Team 2." They may seem like the good guys but untill Aaron was sure he was not saying what their mission was.

"Load up all that you can, we don't have much time, they are probably asking for our surrender." as an after thought "They must be recuiting yanks, they are bombing there own allies."
You can't win either way, they shoot us if we are NATO and they bomb us if we are solvo block, its no wonder they started nuking everything. Kill everyone and you won't have to worry about feeding the masses afterwards.

"Staff Sergeant John Mills, Ranger, with the 5th Infantry," barked Mills, picking up on Winter's lead of omitting some of the requested info.  "It's safe to assume you are not Polish regulars..." he added.  "And the guns were towed, set up in Lask," he hoped this answer would satisfy the man's curiosity for the immediate time being.

"Staff Sgt Guido, Danish special forces, nice to meet you but I think there are more pressing matters so MOVE IT!", Guido attempts to lug as much equipment to one of the operational vehicles.

Gallin does a quick check of the four vehicles.
The M2 Bradley (besides needing a hose out) has damage to it's Range Finder, TOW launcher, loader, and minor damage to the suspension (moves at half speed till repaired).
It has 28 rounds of 25mm HE and 14 rounds of 25mm API left. There are 4 M231’s with a total of 12 empty 30 round magazines. The fuel tank has 11 litres of Ethanol in it (not much more than fumes).

The BRDM-2 has suffered damage to it’s Night Vision equipment, PK machinegun, and suspension (also moves half speed). In addition, the fuel tank (empty) has been perforated by 25mm cannon fire and only has a capacity of 40 litres until repairs have been made.
The vehicle had suffered suspension damage, which has since been repaired by the Soviet mechanics in the repair yard.

The BTR-80 has suffered damage to it’s Radio, Engine (again half speed) and Traverse. It is no longer capable of swimming due to numerous holes in the armour. It has a dry fuel tank.

The truck has major suspension damage (immobile) and was raked by machinegun fire. As it was in use as a troop carrier at the time, many passenger casualties resulted. It's fuel tank is also dry.

The good news is that there are parts available to repair all damage to all four vehicles. What isn't necessarily there is the time to do so.

A total of 100 litres of ethanol (in addition to the 11 litres in the M2) can be scrounged out of the still, 10 jerrycans and the fuel tanks of the air compressor, arc welder and generator. Unfortunately, the BTR-80 and truck have both been converted to run on diesel while the BRDM-2 and M2 Bradley are set up for alcohol. The Bradley's engine access panel has been removed and it appears that the initial stages of convertion to diesel has commenced.

These guys were converting TO Diesel? Jesus wept. Those Soviets in Lask have a lake of Diesel at their disposal.

OK, Maximum effort into the truck suspension, even if we don't have the fuel I want to be able to move it, towed if we must, same goes for the BTR-80.

Fuel up the Bradley with half the available fuel, even if we run out of time I want to keep at least that vehicle.

Can we Jerry-rig a flexible fuel line inside the BRDM to supply fuel until we can fix the tank?

I assume that the Soviets will send scouts to find out what happened here, how long before we can expect them if they come all the way from Lask? Assume they have diesel fueled vehicles. I want to be mobile at least ten minutes before that. Even if we win a firefight the 122 arty will arrive immediately afterward.

Mills, Winters, any other Mechanised Soviets between here and Lask?

Why bother? It still holds 40litres as is and you only have a few 20 litre jerrycans.

It's less than 10kms away so........
[Private to Aaron Winters; John Mills:

Major Richard Smythe:

Mills, Winters, any other Mechanised Soviets between here and Lask?

Not that you know of although there does seem to be fairly regular heavily armed supply convoys alone the east-west road a little to the north. Also, it's only horse mobile cavalry located in Lask. They don't have any vehicles at all.]

As Gallin is checking out the vehicles, he keeps an ear open to the radio and translates from Russian as he goes.
1st Voice: Alpha zero to Alpha four. Request sitrep over........ There is a pause for a few seconds while they wait for an answer then, What was that firing, over.
2nd Voice: Almost half a minute later... Alpha four. The shooting was the guard killing off a couple of rabbits. Position secure.
1st Voice: The reply comes back almost immediately. Acknowledged. Continuing to revendous. Alpha zero out.

Gallin frowns. "That much shooting over rabbits? Coded talk maybe? "I'm not sure but we need to get the hell out of dodge. I hope it wasn't someone that found out our little refugee camp."

OOC Sorry for the long absense was gone for surgery, just got out of hospital. doing okay, still a bit sore and stiff.

Kett finally takes care of the last of the Russian and assesses the "goodies" he has gathered from them.
5.45mmB 30rd mags (full)x30
5.56mmN 30rd mags (full)x6
5.56mmN 30rd mags (empty)x12
Fragmentation x20
Binoculars x2
Chemical Sniffer x1
Geiger Counter x1
Gas mask x10
Chemical defence suit x8
Steel helmet x10
AKR x10
M231 x2 (in addtion to the four in the M2)
Fatigues x10
Pack x10
Flashlight x2
Combat webbing x10
Sleeping bag x10
1 litre canteen x20
5 litre reserve canteen x10

Looking around at the empty horizon Aaron shuddered to himself slightly before lookign at the group. "Anyone else think we need to haul ass out of here like yesterday?"

Perhaps we post people in vehicles behind guns? They watch while rest load? Not many tanks around can live after TOW missile hits. He motions towards the TOW launcher on the side of the M2's turret.

The radio bursts into life once more. This time it's not Russian.
[Private to Staff Sgt Dave Guido: Camilla is on the other end and speaks in Danish. She tells you that the Mortar basplates have been taken along with half a dozen Russian prisoners and several others killed. They foolishly set up near camp and neglected to conduct a clearing patrol. Sergio and Don did the damage.]

Guido understand the message an then starts cursing out loud "@#&*%*& $&%## $#@%$$ $##@$ #@@%$ %#%$#%" Everyone gets the idea he is not happy "I should have ^%#$# killed Don when I &^@# ^@$@&* said I would and Sergio I will shoot that (*^&% idiot for good measure" Guido takes the receiver and replies in Danish to Camilla initially in a calm voice that quickly changes to rage "Message received, Please SHOOT those two IMBECILES or I will. OVER" and then quickly informs the rest what is happening.
Private to Staff Sgt Dave Guido: Camilla is on the other end and speaks in Danish. She tells you that the Mortar basplates have been taken along with half a dozen Russian prisoners and several others killed. They foolishly set up near camp and neglected to conduct a clearing patrol. Sergio and Don did the damage.
[Private to Staff Sgt Dave Guido: It was the Russians who stuffed up. Cam was the one who, along with Don and Sergio, found them. A quick attack was organised with Don and Sergio as fire support and by the time the assault group had closed the 30 odd metres to the baseplate, the masacre was over.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:13, Thu 14 Oct 2004.

After more Danish over the radio, Guido replies "Just shoot Don anyway"
Private to Staff Sgt Dave Guido: It was the Russians who stuffed up. Cam was the one who, along with Don and Sergio, found them. A quick attack was organised with Don and Sergio as fire support and by the time the assault group had closed the 30 odd metres to the baseplate, the masacre was over.

So what's the final plan? It seems that you now have mortars in support and armoured vehicles (although they are damaged and not fully combat ready).

Looking at Mills, Winters picked his pack up again motioned for the other soilder to follow him.

[Private to Nuked: What are Mills and Winters's ranks? and who is a higher rank?]

NPC'd
Smythe takes the radio and speaks in halting French.
This is Smythe. We have acquired around one hundred litres of ethanol and several armoured vehicles. All four vehicles are in need of repair and one is unable to move. Repairs will take approximately two hours for mobility to be attained. Suggest relocating to this location.

Sergio's voice comes back to you speaking again in French.
Acknowledged. Have aquired three 82mm mortars, a quantity of ammunition, 10 pack horses, and 480 litres of diesel. Please deliver a quantity of alcohol for existing vehicle and we will move to your location.

Keeping an eye on his own ruck, Kett loads up the gear as ordered taking special care when stowing the munitions.  He takes a moment to top up his mags of 5.56 for his C7 and stuffs them into his camos and combat web.

We should speak in uncommon languages on the radio to reduce the chances of our communications being intercepted.

NPC'd
Alright, I want a couple of people to head back to camp with aq few jerrycans of fuel for the UAZ. Any takers?
Meanwhile, the rest of us will take turns at sentry and repairing what vehicles we can. Gallin, I think it goes without saying that as the only mechanic, you'll be needed here.

I think I stay too as am the only tank driver. If Russians come I drive M2?

"This should be fun" Guido mutters under his breath."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:35, Mon 25 Oct 2004.

That sounds like a volunteer! he says looking pointedly at Dave.

"I only speak a smattering of German, Russian and some highschool latin so I had best stay off the box.", Kett says.

And there's two refering to Kett. Lets keep our new friends Winters and Mills here for the moment, don't want to scare anybody back at camp with unknown faces.
I want you two to head off as soon as you can with a 20 litre jerry can each full of ethanol. Try not to get into any trouble won't you.

Kett nods and gathers his ruck.  He slings his C7 and takes out his P38.  He then gathers up his jerry can and puts his helmet back on for the trip.

"If we run into any resistance do we engage or fall back?", Kett asks.

NPC'd
With only the two of you I think you should try and avoid contact. I'll leave it up to you though.

"Got it, sir.", Kett says.

He waits for the other volunteer to join him before leaving.

Gallin will nod."I think lately I'm a better Mechanic than I am a translator. I'll set up and get started, hopefully we can avoid someone else doing what we just did to these people." He will check his surroundings and get to work on the easiest piece first.

Camilla only speaks Danish, what is she going do, mime the message?

NPC'd
That's why I switched over to using my schoolboy french. At least Sergio could pass the message on even if my accent does make him cringe.

Within minutes, Dave and Kett are ready to set off to cover the short distance (a little less than 3 kilometres) back to the camp. With a 20 litre jerrycan full of fuel each, both are significantly overloaded but should still take less than an hour.

With Gallin working feverishly on restoring the truck to mobility, it leaves just four (Smythe, Dimitar, Mills and Winters) to provide security and extra hands for repairs.

"Sorry if I am a little quiet Sargeant, humping a gas can isn't my idea of fun.", he grins from under his helmet as he lugs the heavy load.

[Private to Staff Sgt Dave Guido: New to the game and taking over an existing character is hard.  Still trying to read through all the past information.  Were our characters friends?]