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16:20, 4th May 2024 (GMT+0)

Ditching the ballast.

Posted by NukedFor group 0
Nuked
GM, 800 posts
Sun 13 Nov 2005
at 13:29
  • msg #1

Ditching the ballast

So it's decided. The civilians who had been under your protection and care will be left to fend for themselves.
Now the question is how to proceed from here. Sure the horses are fuel economical, but they are slow when compared to the two vehicles. Do you continue using them as an advance screen, or use the BRDM-2 for the same job, a role it was originally conceived for...
Nuked
GM, 803 posts
Tue 15 Nov 2005
at 10:17
  • msg #2

Re: Ditching the ballast

The Civilians express mixed reactions at being effectively abandoned until it becomes clear that two of you will stay to help.

Goodbyes are made and a few final questions asked. Most do indeed come from Zyrardow and haven't left the area in over a year - far too dangerous to travel away from home. Marauder bands have ravaged the surrounding area like a plague of locusts. The only stockpiles left of just about anything of note are now contained within the towns defences and the fields normally guarded by the ORMO. The inhabitants of most of the outlying villages and nearby towns have been either killed, driven away or moved into Zyrardow.

The few who don't originate there were taken somewhere to the southwest - closer to Lubliniec and the nuked "ex-"industrial strip between Gilwice and Sosnowiec. These had been fleeing the battle raging between two opposing marauder armies in the area, but on clearing the battle zone, had run headlong into the slavers.

There are a few rumours of somebody recruiting a private army but nobody seems to be able to agree on where. Some say up north near Warsaw, others down south. Some even say the Czechs are about to invade Silesia and are after capable soldiers to fill their ranks.

About the only thing anyone can agree on is that Krakow has a reputation as a safe haven for those with the means to support themselves. People have been flocking to the city from hundreds of miles around, all intent on finding themselves a new life in the apparently free and independant city state.
Leutenant Camilla Ashton
player, 214 posts
Lt. Ashton. Danish Army
Special Forces (Recon)
Tue 15 Nov 2005
at 11:48
  • msg #3

Re: Ditching the ballast

Having been recombined with the main force, Cam motioned to the others in the mounted group that they might want to tend their horses and a little get rest for the moment while plans were being  hammered out.  Slinging her rifle again, and taking the helmet off, Ashton set fingers through her hair lightly. Then promptly, the infernal headgear was back in place and cinched down.  From there she gathered the reigns of her mount moving along with purpose.

As she passed brown, Camilla motioned with her hand, walking strait over to where the Major was.  There was a little bit of a greeting, but she was more curious as to how the recent changes affected the over all plan, and since Brown had put the most suggestions in for the previous plan, she saw no reason  not to bring the WO.  “Sir.”, She canted her head to the side with a light nod hello before plunging into the report. “Road -empty  -damage bad. Holes, broken place  As if not road any more.” Her language was probably about as pock-marked as the road itself anyway..  Though she was being redundant as they had crossed much of the same stuff to collect the recon group.

“Same plan?  New plan?..” She stroked the horse across its blaze and patted the animal’s cheek with a light thump.
Sergeant Michelle Gallin
player, 212 posts
Tue 15 Nov 2005
at 12:37
  • msg #4

Re: Ditching the ballast

Gallin does a double check on all the civilians wounds before sending them off, letting the most capable know what to do if certian things happen, showing how to check the wounds, and giving all the information she can to help them survive thier journey. She hated to send them off on thier own, but they had little choice. With a bit of luck, they would make it safe to thier destination, and they would be better for it. giving what little med aid she could she walked back slowly to her own mount and wrapped an arm up around the neck, as if seeking at least a tiny bit of comfort from another live presence.
Donnachaidh (2nd Lt)
player, 183 posts
Cináed Donnachaidh
Lt RAF Reserve (Don Juan)
Tue 15 Nov 2005
at 13:14
  • msg #5

Re: Ditching the ballast

Don, looking after the poor civilians suddenly come to a change.

He walks over to Michelle and Camilla.

"Hey, I really have second thoughts once more. Shouldn't we at least help the worst wounded? They could lie on stretchers here, and we could drive at least THEM home. I can walk if that helps, I really can. I think Bernie has been a little too hard on them. We have to show that we have a huminatarian side."
WO1 William Brown
player, 168 posts
Warrant Officer Class 1
Wed 16 Nov 2005
at 10:12
  • msg #6

Re: Ditching the ballast

Brown gives his head a single, slow, definitive shake as he addresses Don' as only a senior enlisted man can, as if laying down a simple law of physics.

"Nobody's walkin' who's coming with the vehicles, that's the whole point o' this hard choice.  But I agree, we have the room, we could take a couple-few o' the worst o' the stretcher cases, n' not be any slower."

Then he speaks up, so any and all can hear.

"We missed our 'humanitarian' side when we didn't ambush and kill every last one of those slavers.  That's a hard lesson, and one civilians paid for- but let's learn by it, now.  We won't meet no one playin' by no rules of war out here, nor lookin't' make friends,  nor negotiate, except from a position of strength.  The next time we spot trouble, we have a full plan in place before we raise our hands and start waving flags of truce."

He turns aside to Don'.

"You want 'humanitarian'?  Y'shoulda joined the Peace Corps, laddie-buck."
Leutenant Camilla Ashton
player, 219 posts
Lt. Ashton. Danish Army
Special Forces (Recon)
Wed 16 Nov 2005
at 10:58
  • msg #7

Re: Ditching the ballast

Lt. Ashton cut a glance toward Don, and followed up with a slow blink when William started in. Her expression was unreadable as she witnessed the exchange,  and when the final word rolled off the man’s lips she gave the barest of nods…

Twisting in her spot, Cam put a toe to the stirrup, one hand coiled in the braided leather of the reigns and latched on to the saddle as she pivoted, swinging a leg up.  A slight shrug brought her the weapon she’d been toting around for what seemed like the longest time.  It’s heavy reassurance felt more like a burden at that moment and she bit down sliding a glance over to the pair before offering the ghost of a half smile.

With a slight nudge to her mount Cam trotted off toward the BTR.
Plt Sgt Tanya Redgrave
player, 191 posts
Platoon Sergeant
US Rangers
Wed 16 Nov 2005
at 14:33
  • msg #8

Re: Ditching the ballast

Tanya sits and waits while the command structure makes the final decision on to who and or how many of the civilians are coming with us, if any at all.
Major Sergio D'ammond
player, 168 posts
A large well built man.
Aged around the late 30's
Sat 19 Nov 2005
at 19:45
  • msg #9

Re: Ditching the ballast

Sergio shuffled uncomfortably.

Seeing the various exchanges he noted a few things had certainly chnaged in the group since he'd left. Or maybe it was just the people had changed. Thinking back to who was around before he concluded change was just going to be.

When he made a descision, he stuck by it. Decisive. But then that was for descisions that only concerned himself. Trying to deal with all these others, he was as lost as the next person. (And as for love, he'd never got the hang of that, but who had?)

He was unsure of what to say and what weight he'd have with the group. It was an uncomfortable place and he peers out into the surroundings wondering what it's like to roam free. It seems in this world there were always going to be people in need of his help, which just pulled him further from his own home and the safety...
Leutenant Camilla Ashton
player, 220 posts
Lt. Ashton. Danish Army
Special Forces (Recon)
Sat 19 Nov 2005
at 23:57
  • msg #10

Re: Ditching the ballast

Cam swung back down, collecting her pack and bed-roll. She let the braided leather slip through her hands,  and started marching along. They’d do whatever it was they planned, and that suited her fine for now.  Rifle in hand, Ashton waltzed on over to Tanya, and then Winters.

“We scout, they sort..?” She’d even go as far as to approach Dave.  Despite how  Eeer unhinged the man seemed to be.  It was something they could do, and it wasn’t like the team would be able to miss the little band when they started moving again.  Cam kept the hand held, and passed it over to Tanya if she chose to come along.

Camilla’s gaze traveled past the others, she pondered Smith for a time and then, scout group or no, she’d take a little stroll out ahead.  It felt better than sitting, and debating.  When did she become so impatient?..  An inward frown cast itself and was forced back.
Aaron J Winters
player, 66 posts
Petty Officer 3rd Class
US Navy SEAL
Sun 20 Nov 2005
at 00:20
  • msg #11

Re: Ditching the ballast

Winters was getting tired trying to stay constantly vigilant atop the gun of the BRDM. It was a welcome relief to talk to Lt Ashton when she approached about scouting ahead, he certainly welcomed the walk.  The cramped conditions of armored vehicles had never suited him.  Aboard a ship was a different kind of cramped, at least in the tight spaces of a carrier he wasn't thinking he would be blown up first.  Afterall, one reason he had tried out for the SEALs was to be outside and now he was cramped inside this gigantic Bloc-made tin can that coincidentally made all too a tempting target.

He addressed Lt Ashton always with respect, "Ma'am, I'd love ta go wit' ya, but I'm guessin' I'll need a relief on the gun her'."
Plt Sgt Tanya Redgrave
player, 192 posts
Platoon Sergeant
US Rangers
Sun 20 Nov 2005
at 03:34
  • msg #12

Re: Ditching the ballast

Tanya got up off the ground and stood next to Cam, I'll take a walk with ya lootenant.  Beats sitting around here with our thumbs up our asses!

Walking out with Cam, I wonder if they'll be OK?  I know we're doing the right thing by leavin' on their own to make it back but, it feels kind of shitty doing it.  What's your take Cam, I mean, umm, lootenant?
Leutenant Camilla Ashton
player, 221 posts
Lt. Ashton. Danish Army
Special Forces (Recon)
Sun 20 Nov 2005
at 10:12
  • msg #13

Re: Ditching the ballast

Camilla nodded reluctantly, “We a gunner less now..” Her somewhat torn expression seemed to indicate that she understood the dilemma.   Nodding again, she frowned a moment.. Tanya had been known to take a turret now and again,  Brown also..  Dave?.. No.. even if Dave was a choice, she imagined that to be a wholly dangerous path to contemplate. Or was it?. Her countryman seemed a little over zealous when it came to killing.

Unable to come to an agreeable solution with the way things had been going,    Cam thumped the vehicle lightly with her hand, “We miss you for now.”

She turned trudging off with RedGrave, and to answer her question, Ashton canted off a few lines.  “Do I like choice?..  Not mine to answer.  I feel bad for people, I feel bad for lose soldiers,  but feel need for support Major’s chooses or we spend always talking..” She cracked a sideways smile for the sergeant‘s benefit, as if to show that there was no harm in the asking. “We not know what command think on when make choose.” But then she wasn’t exactly asking permission to go anywhere either.   The smile slid away as she considered that, and continued on.  “ Question of trust.. Maybe faith..”
Plt Sgt Tanya Redgrave
player, 193 posts
Platoon Sergeant
US Rangers
Mon 21 Nov 2005
at 14:27
  • msg #14

Re: Ditching the ballast

Leutenant Camilla Ashton:
She turned trudging off with RedGrave, and to answer her question, Ashton canted off a few lines.  “Do I like choice?..  Not mine to answer.  I feel bad for people, I feel bad for lose soldiers,  but feel need for support Major’s chooses or we spend always talking..” She cracked a sideways smile for the sergeant‘s benefit, as if to show that there was no harm in the asking. “We not know what command think on when make choose.” But then she wasn’t exactly asking permission to go anywhere either.   The smile slid away as she considered that, and continued on.  “ Question of trust.. Maybe faith..”


Tanya nods, That's why I'm glad I only had these, she says pointing to her faded stripes from her old BDU's before putting them back into her shirt pocket.  I can live with a lot of things, lately though, I guess the self preservation issue has become more of a fore front contender.  I feel bad for the civvies but, we still have to survive too.  It's nothing against the Major or anything, some things, no matter how right they may seem, just don't seem right Lootenant.
Major Bernhard Finnegan
player, 82 posts
Major US Army Rangers
Rangers lead the way
Wed 23 Nov 2005
at 06:00
  • msg #15

Re: Ditching the ballast

Bernhard collects his thoughts for a few moments before making his decision,"All right! Everyone listen up!" He puts on his best command voice and shouts so everyone can hear him,"We load up on the vehicles, and then head out to Krakow! The Civilians will be on there own with Samuels and Lumper to watch over them. They will be well taken care of so no one needs to worry about them. Mr. Brown, if you could, take over as gunner in the BRDM, and Sgt. Gallin, think you can drive the BTR? I would appreciate it if you could give it a try. The BRDM will lead, and the BTR will be overwatch, and then bound and catch up while the BRDM covers. If we get hit our SOP will be to fight through it. The other six of us will ride in the back of the BTR. If we absolutely have too we will act as dismounts. Myself, Lt. Ashton, and Sgt. Redgrave will be fire team Alpha. Major Smythe, Sgts. Matterson and Smith will be fireteam Bravo. Any questions?"

While he waits for questions he finds Lt. Don and whispers a few words too him.
Leutenant Camilla Ashton
player, 222 posts
Lt. Ashton. Danish Army
Special Forces (Recon)
Wed 23 Nov 2005
at 08:25
  • msg #16

Re: Ditching the ballast

To Tanya, she could only nod with the barest of agreements.. "Yes." A hollow answer perhaps, but an agreement none-the-less.

-The best laid plans… Having apparently not made much progress with leaving the camp site, Cam went still as the Major’s voice barked out over the hum-drum they were passing by.  Her gaze travelled to Tanya, then off at the angle that Finnegan’s words drifted in from.  Camilla shrugged lightly and filed on over in that direction.  “Good thing we walk not far..”  Her pack strap was looped through her thumb and swung down as she approached. Then silently Ashton eyed the crowd  as if poised in wait for whatever questions might follow.  It wasn’t like she planned on asking any herself at that time.
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:03, Fri 25 Nov 2005.
Major Richard Smythe
NPC, 132 posts
British Major (DSM)
Army Aviation
Fri 25 Nov 2005
at 08:54
  • msg #17

Re: Ditching the ballast

"Sorry for the late notice Bernhard, but I think I'll tag along with the civilians for a bit. I've a little medical training so should be able to help somewhat."
He gathers his few possessions and joins Lumper and Samuels.
"We'll try and catch up with you at Krakow."
Staff Sgt Dave Guido
NPC, 278 posts
Don't shoot me!
the officer is over there
Fri 25 Nov 2005
at 09:12
  • msg #18

Re: Ditching the ballast

"I'm off too." Guido declared. "No point hanging about with you lot, I might get shot!" he grinned.
"Besides, there's more chance of doing some damage if I've got a decoy with me." His gaze drifted over to the civilians and some thought they could see an evil glint in his eye...
Nuked
GM, 810 posts
Sat 26 Nov 2005
at 14:01
  • msg #19

Re: Ditching the ballast

With Dave and Smythe electing to stay behind, only four people were left available to act as infantry. In an emergency however, the BTR-80 Commander (Sergio) could also dismount without degrading the combat abilities of the vehicle too much.
Horses handed over and a massive amount of food stuffs loaded on them (over 200kgs) and all was ready. The order to roll on was given and the two vehicles began their caterpiller like movement - the BRDM-2 bounding ahead before halting for the BTR-80 to catch up.
Travel along the remains of the road was remarkably swift now that speed needed to be kept down low enoug not to outstrip the plodding civilians. Many kilometres were eaten up in a very short space of time.

OOC: Where are you intending to head towards? you can travel 160km on road or 60km offroad in four hours including rest stops, refueling and even tactical manouvering - far faster than the kilometre or two with stretchers.
So, on road would get you almost all the way to Krakow - off road! in that four hours. Mind you, the intervening hills and forests might just slow you down somewhat - especially if they conceal an ambush or two...
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:04, Sat 26 Nov 2005.
Plt Sgt Tanya Redgrave
player, 194 posts
Platoon Sergeant
US Rangers
Sat 26 Nov 2005
at 14:28
  • msg #20

Re: Ditching the ballast

Tanya was very releived when the Major said that she would still be with Cam when broken into dismounts for the more mobile convoy of two vehicles.  Sgt. Redgrave grabbed her pack and her Russian SAW and moved to BTR, stored her pack, and then went in and got a seat, more than likely next to Cam.  She looked at her, Not a long walk Lootenant and, we should be there in no time!
Major Sergio D'ammond
player, 171 posts
A large well built man.
Aged around the late 30's
Sat 26 Nov 2005
at 14:34
  • msg #21

Re: Ditching the ballast

(OOC: Is it too much to ask for a list of who is left? I'm sure I've seen one somewhere, but here would be good)

Taking the ride, Sergio manages to survey the surroundings whilst thinking of France in it's better days. When there was peace, and good food. He did miss the cheeses and dressings. It seemed a thing no other country in the world took seriously food. He rubbed his stomach, even he couldn't get a good enough meal out of the food they could scavenge.

Rumbling his stomach replied, "I noticed."
Major Bernhard Finnegan
player, 83 posts
Major US Army Rangers
Rangers lead the way
Sat 26 Nov 2005
at 18:23
  • msg #22

Re: Ditching the ballast

Bernhard shakes hands with Dave and Smythe before seeing them off,"Well we will  miss the two of you, but I understand the need to help the civilians." He stows his gear in the BTR and looks at the dismounts loading up with him,"One more change of plans. I think with Matterson taking over as BRDM commander we only have enough to have one team of dismounts. Although if we do need to split up it would be best if Sgt. Redgrave, and Lt. Ashton stick as one fireteam, and Sgt. Smith and I as the second team." He pops his head back out the door before taking his seat for the trip,"Lt. Don! Lead us to Krakow if you would sir." Once seated back inside he checks his weapon and ammo loadout.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:24, Sat 26 Nov 2005.
Sergeant Virgil Matterson
player, 27 posts
Sat 26 Nov 2005
at 19:01
  • msg #23

Re: Ditching the ballast

Matterson, with a foot up and his eyes alert, scans the area passively, doing his duty.
Donnachaidh (2nd Lt)
player, 187 posts
Cináed Donnachaidh
Lt RAF Reserve (Don Juan)
Sun 27 Nov 2005
at 02:05
  • msg #24

Re: Ditching the ballast

After seeing to that the civilians will have it as good as possible, Don says his g'byes to the other soldiers, helping them out.

"You are doing a big job ofr humanity. Take care, and don't be strangers come see me on my castlie in Scotland, you hear!"

After Bernhard gives his orders, Don starts up the engine and rolls out on the road.
Leutenant Camilla Ashton
player, 223 posts
Lt. Ashton. Danish Army
Special Forces (Recon)
Sun 27 Nov 2005
at 12:15
  • msg #25

Re: Ditching the ballast

The departure of Dave was disconcerting, sure he was somewhat psychotic, but he was a countryman, someone who spoke her language.  Camilla waved, with a bit more trepidation in her expression than what might have been called for..  -what was he planning?-   That, would be an outcome she’d probably never know of.

Ashton put her thoughts toward the there and then, climbing into her place on the vehicle and managed a mildly troubled smile. Most of the people had been referring to these things as coffins of late.  “ This I hope Tanya, very much..  I not like no seeing..” She hiked a thumb to indicate the hull wall.  The Danish Lieutenant’s attention was captured by the Major’s mentioning of her name and she nodded a firm agreement.

A canted glance from the corner of her eye was cast over Smith, and with an uneven breath she resolved to spend as much time as she could finding something to focus on for the mobile journey.
Plt Sgt Tanya Redgrave
player, 195 posts
Platoon Sergeant
US Rangers
Sun 27 Nov 2005
at 14:02
  • msg #26

Re: Ditching the ballast

Major Bernhard Finnegan:
He stows his gear in the BTR and looks at the dismounts loading up with him,"One more change of plans. I think with Matterson taking over as BRDM commander we only have enough to have one team of dismounts. Although if we do need to split up it would be best if Sgt. Redgrave, and Lt. Ashton stick as one fireteam, and Sgt. Smith and I as the second team." He pops his head back out the door before taking his seat for the trip,"Lt. Don! Lead us to Krakow if you would sir." Once seated back inside he checks his weapon and ammo loadout.


Tanya nodded that she understands and tries to find the most comfortable place to sit and catch a nap when they move out towards Krakow.  Our lucks got to change sometime Lootenant, is all Tanya says before trying to get some sleep.  She couldn't help thinking to herself, God, I hope that is true!  I don't know how much more of this I can take, is the last thing she remembers before slipping into sleep.
Nuked
GM, 814 posts
Mon 28 Nov 2005
at 09:48
  • msg #27

Re: Ditching the ballast

Your chosen path is liberally littered with the burnt out and stripped husks of military vehicles probably destroyed back in '98 in the aftermath of the battle of Czestochowa. Weeds grow out of the heavily cracked pavement, and craters and potholes pockmark the terrain, some from time and weather, others more obviously artillery rounds.

The two vehicle convoy makes good time down the battered road towards Krakow until you reach a crossroads. Do you go left (east) towards Zyrardow and Miechow with the reports of marauders and thieves, or do you turn right (south) and head through the radioactive rubble of Sosnowiec?

One small consolation if you choose the southern road is that both vehicles are radiologically shielded - very little would affect the occupants provided you drive completely closed down. Might need decontaminating afterwards though....
There are also a total of 9 NBC suits including Winters own. Gas masks alone would do little.

The east road avoids this major hazard but replaces it with the likelyhood of ambush and the known hostility of the township of Zyrardow. Normally you might risk speaking to the locals for information but the only group you've seen since leaving the ex-slaves behind were a hunting party that fled at first sight of your vehicles.

Of course driving cross country could also be an option - if you want to risk becoming lost without a guide in the hills and ravines of this part of Poland...
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:04, Mon 28 Nov 2005.
Major Bernhard Finnegan
player, 84 posts
Major US Army Rangers
Rangers lead the way
Wed 30 Nov 2005
at 04:16
  • msg #28

Re: Ditching the ballast

Bernhard clicks his mic so everyone can hear him,"Lt. Don, lead out towards Zyrardow, but don't get to close to town. I don't want to alarm the folks there. When we get close try to find a way to go around the town and continue towards Krakow. If we run into any armed marauders I want to take them out. As long as the group isn't too well armed we should be able to mop them up and get some trade goods for when we reach Krakow."
Nuked
GM, 817 posts
Wed 30 Nov 2005
at 12:55
  • msg #29

Realm of misery and pain

The two vehicles and their occupants continue on their way taking the east road. Every so often signs of destruction are seen, most often in the form of plumes of smoke rising from what can be assumed to be farms and small settlements. Occasionally bodies are spotted laying where they were recently killed. Mutilated almost beyond recognition, sometimes hanging from trees or impaled on stakes, it's evident to even the most unobservant that those responsible are no longer following any rules of decency or morality. Freshly torn up ground gives evidence that there is at least one heavy tracked vehicle in the area, probably a tank.
Sounds of distant gunfire is heard from time to time when the engines are stopped for refueling. This is approximately every half hour due to the BRDM-2's damaged fuel tank. Once a large explosion rocks the landscape but experienced as most of you are, you realise it's located several kilometres away and of little immediate threat.
All in all, transit of this region of Poland is nothing short of disturbing. Everyones nerves are on edge and all fully expect an ambush at almost any moment. Despite all the signs of destruction and wanton carnage, your movement is not interrupted by hostiles. No signs of the living are seen - anyone still alive most likely taking to cover at the first sound of your vehicles.

Four hours after leaving the civilians and as close to midday as any of you can agree on, you find yourselves nearly out of fuel for the BRDM-2. Up ahead, your scout vehicle spots a village. A battered and bullet holed sign declares it as the village of Wolbrum. Refering to your assorted maps places you approximately 20 kilometres to the east of Zyrardow and 40 kilometres to the northwest of your destination, Krakow.
There is no signs of life - no movement, no smoke, no crops growing in the fallow fields, nothing... It seems the place has been abandoned for reasons unknown and the marauders either not bothered or not reached this far, yet. From the condition of the buildings and the substantial growth of weeds from the cracked pavement, nobody has lived here for about a year, perhaps more.
Plt Sgt Tanya Redgrave
player, 196 posts
Platoon Sergeant
US Rangers
Wed 30 Nov 2005
at 14:23
  • msg #30

Re: Realm of misery and pain

At hearing there's a possible deserted village up ahead, Tanya knows with all the years in the Army what that means, foot patrol to assess the situation.  She picks up her RPK SAW and waits for the eventual order to dismount.
Major Bernhard Finnegan
player, 86 posts
Major US Army Rangers
Rangers lead the way
Fri 2 Dec 2005
at 02:33
  • msg #31

Re: Realm of misery and pain

Bernhard checks his weapon and ammo loadout for the umpteenth time before giving any orders,"OK Dismounts, lets check this place out before bringing the vehicles in." He opens the door on his side and climbs out,"Major D'ammond, Sgt. Matterson, if you would join us I would like that. Once we do a preliminary sweep we can split up in teams and check every nook and cranny of this place."
Plt Sgt Tanya Redgrave
player, 197 posts
Platoon Sergeant
US Rangers
Fri 2 Dec 2005
at 05:30
  • msg #32

Re: Realm of misery and pain

Tanya smiles as she stands to move out the back of the APC.  'I hate it when I'm right,' she thinks to herself as she pairs up with Cam.
Leutenant Camilla Ashton
player, 224 posts
Lt. Ashton. Danish Army
Special Forces (Recon)
Fri 2 Dec 2005
at 07:52
  • msg #33

Re: Realm of misery and pain

Ashton’s vision drifted over the occupants of the BTR that she could see with a curious slant to one honey colored brow. “Rads?”.

Cam’s features went slack as she gave herself the once over,  slipping the rifle to a more manageable position to debark.  The world outside the hatch beckoned to her with the scent on the breeze beyond. It was a passing  moment, the sort that brought with it a shiver.  Camilla couldn‘t figure out if she was shocked or just not seeing things strait when the Major jumped out first.  A half smile came and went before she motioned to RedGrave and parted quietly with the confines of the vehicle.

Immediately she put herself, and Tanya, between the objective and the major, though it could have just been the way she filed out.. A cool gaze, picked through their surroundings.. -At least the sun was high, but then that could just lead to a greater contrast between the outside world and the shadey gloom within the structures.    She sought high points, window accesses facing their general direction, things of that sort as she waited for the plan.  “How we go?" .
Major Sergio D'ammond
player, 175 posts
A large well built man.
Aged around the late 30's
Sat 3 Dec 2005
at 12:46
  • msg #34

Re: Realm of misery and pain

Nodding, Sergio dismounts and checks his gear before cracking the crink in his neck as he stretches and a smile grows on his face. This is what he was here for. His eyes look to the group as they ready for the move, lingering on Michelle a moment longer, hoping she'll be alright.

Maybe he wasn't going to be back home and find that girl from the other village, but maybe he didn't need to anymore?!
Marcus L Smith
player, 72 posts
Sergeant First-Class(E-7)
US Army SF (18B40)
Sun 4 Dec 2005
at 18:18
  • msg #35

Re: Realm of misery and pain

It's often hard to tell what Marcus might be thinking, but the psuedo-grin on his face at the mention of dismount might be an indication this time.  An unconscious cursory glance of his weapons and gear preceeds his exit from the hulking metal deathtrap.

Hopping down the short distance to the ground there's a slight spring in his step as he walks up beside the Major.  A quick, casual glance in the direction of the other paired dismount team and Marcus kneels to address the Major briefly, "Sir, I think what the good lieutenant there has in mind could be a possibility.  What else can we see?  Foothold sir?"
Major Sergio D'ammond
player, 178 posts
A large well built man.
Aged around the late 30's
Mon 5 Dec 2005
at 19:35
  • msg #36

Re: Realm of misery and pain



Sergio rummages through his bag (OOC: Not at all from a gentle prodding reminder of the GM, sorry I meant to check but I forgot, so thank him) and takes out an object wrapped in an old shirt.

"This is somezin I've been working on ever since I stoppeded a la village, seems I got it working last night and as everyone was azeep I did not be wanting to wake you all. Iz good, worked a long time, but when I was last in a fight a lil swapnel hit it and it didn't work. But now it iz." He grins unwrapping the geiger counter.

"I was thinking it best if the scouting wagon az it? As they move more. Unless I keep it on foot for now, as we have more time to check? Woz you lot be thinking?"

(OOC: Hope the post tries to fill in the gap lol!)
Major Bernhard Finnegan
player, 88 posts
Major US Army Rangers
Rangers lead the way
Mon 5 Dec 2005
at 22:13
  • msg #37

Re: Realm of misery and pain

Bernhard nods to Marcus and Sergio in order as their questions and the geiger counter come out. "Just figured this was a good place to stop and fuel up the BRDM. We need to check and make sure no one is skulking around that would want to do us harm." He indicates the geiger counter,"And that's not such a bad idea either. Sgt. Smith has the silenced weapon, so he will lead out. Then Sgt. Redgrave, Myself, Major D'ammond, and finally Lt. Ashton." Bernhard looks over at the vehicles,"Last call Sgt Matterson, if you want to come on this quick little foot patrol, better hurry." Looking back to Marcus he nods to the NCO,"Lead us out whichever direction you see fit. I just want us to clear the main route through town. Might send the recon team out to sweep the whole place while the rest of us refuel the BRDM." He looks over at the big Frenchman,"You got that little radio of yours in case we need the vehicles to come bail us out?"
Leutenant Camilla Ashton
player, 225 posts
Lt. Ashton. Danish Army
Special Forces (Recon)
Mon 5 Dec 2005
at 22:28
  • msg #38

Re: Realm of misery and pain

Camilla, smiled a pale smile and filed in to take rear-guard. Her gaze traveled over Tanya then settled on Smith for a moment. The smile would fade slowly as she jostled the helmet once with an annoyed expression. Sweat had stung her vision. Clearing it as best she could, Ashton coiled the shoulder-strap around her wrist, the rifle lowered slightly at the moment. Naturaly the Lieutenant's eyes drifting to the point-man, again as if she might be able to tell which way he was planning to go from just a glance.

-But it wouldn't be good to get shot while not paying attention so the wonder didn't last too long. Of course she was also emensely greatful to have a radcounter around, especially with the locust mentality of the peoples around here, and this villiage seeming so... Hmmm
Nuked
GM, 825 posts
Tue 6 Dec 2005
at 01:46
  • msg #39

Re: Realm of misery and pain

Sergio flicks the power switch of the recently repaired geiger counter while all observers wait unconsciously holding their breath. A few seconds warming up and it's reading the radiation levels.
All is safe, at least within tolerable levels. You might not want to live here but at least it would take a few years before the cancers and other tumours began to show. So radiation can be ruled out as the reason the village is deserted but of course, not everyone has a geiger counter to check for themselves. Perhaps the nearby blasts to the southwest a few years before drove the inhabitants away and fear has kept them there?

Marcus leads the way into the deserted village. A window shutter slams, presumably blown by the sudden gust of wind that stirs the dust around you feet. Signs of animal inhabitation are seen scattered about - the entrance of a rabbit warren is noticable tucked amongst the foundations of a house, an old game trail snakes through an overgrown garden, etc.
But no humans are found on the streets. Maybe you'd find something more interesting if you entered a building or two?

Back with the vehicles, the drivers busy themselves with refueling while the gunners (Brown and Winters?) keep careful watch on the hills and fields surrounding your position.
Plt Sgt Tanya Redgrave
player, 201 posts
Platoon Sergeant
US Rangers
Tue 6 Dec 2005
at 18:57
  • msg #40

Re: Realm of misery and pain

Tanya strip sthe drum magazine from her RPK auto rifle and her Polish PM, checks the chamber and magazines, then replaces them and racks a round into each of their chambers.  She nods to Major Finnegan as she is assigned the overwatch for Sgt. Smith.  Tanya falls in and begins the tedious task of checking every nook and cranny for movement or signs of an ambush by, these days, whoever had the most to lose or the most ammo to waste.
Marcus L Smith
player, 73 posts
Sergeant First-Class(E-7)
US Army SF (18B40)
Sat 10 Dec 2005
at 22:03
  • msg #41

Re: Realm of misery and pain

Marcus habitually quietly flicks the tip of his boonie hat so that it's just a little propped up and out of the way.  He looks back to the hastily assembled patrol and with a nod and a forward arcing wave of his arm he gives the signal to 'move out', occasionally looking back as he scans and moves to make sure everyone is in line and the Major isn't calling for him.  He picks a path that seems slow, but provides the best cover and concealmet.  Being that it's sparse in these parts it actually turns out to be rather direct.

As they approach the actual buildings of the town and take notice of all the various signs of wildlife he takes notice of the nearest corner building.  If it appears clear he passes the hand-and-arm signal for a patrol base and indicates the nearest corner structure with good overwatch of the main thru-fare and as much else as possible that appears mostly intact.  As if automatic, probably from years of training, he points to MAJ D'ammond and LT Ashton to pull-security at the corners of the building near the closest entrance with the hand-and-arm signal two fingers pointing at his eyes and then each position.  He then points to SFC Redgrave and MAJ Finnegan to follow him on the breach.

Once MAJ D'ammmond and LT Ashton have their security positions set he looks to the assault element to see if they're ready.
Aaron J Winters
player, 68 posts
Petty Officer 3rd Class
US Navy SEAL
Sat 10 Dec 2005
at 22:12
  • msg #42

Re: Realm of misery and pain

Winters scans his sector of fire assigned by the vehicle commander silently hoping everyone is ok and wishing he could get out of the tin can and walk a little himself.  SEALs weren't meant to be cooped up in a metal box like this, he quietly curses to himself expressing his uneasy feeling at the ghost town, "F**k."
Leutenant Camilla Ashton
player, 227 posts
Lt. Ashton. Danish Army
Special Forces (Recon)
Sat 10 Dec 2005
at 23:22
  • msg #43

Re: Realm of misery and pain

Cam’s gaze followed the roof line initially on the approach,  though made sure to keep her eyes moving, letting them linger too long might be detrimental..  As the set up was outlined… so much as it could be.. Camilla tilted her head, with the slightest of nods, before moving into position. Braced for action she Crossed checking the angle with intent to settle into an acceptable, accommodating, firing arc. Naturally mindful to try and avoid any ground-floor windows on the building if she ends up having to pass them to get into place.
Plt Sgt Tanya Redgrave
player, 202 posts
Platoon Sergeant
US Rangers
Sun 11 Dec 2005
at 04:02
  • msg #44

Re: Realm of misery and pain

Tanya nods to Marcus that she understands and quickly moves thtough the opening before them.  She quickly looks for a good spot to set up in quickly and signals to Smith, by hand, when she does find one.
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