Part of the relief column left, taking the prisoners back. They were escorted by the LAV III. There was no opposition and they were back in the half hour. In the mean time dinner was served. There was fresh milk from a pair of dairy cows and Old Willie had stored a considerable quantity of eggs, smoked fish from the river and preserved salted meat.

At the fort, the night passed peacefully. Sentries on the palisade kept watch using night-vision goggles. This was a capability something the Hudson's Bay Company soldiers would have envied although this trading outpost on the edge of the Empire had never seen a shot fired in anger. Everyone else slept peacefully as there were plenty of (small) buildings to be used as quarters. Many were filled with building supplies and other salvage gathered throughout the area by Old Willie.

Dawn broke with the crowing of roosters and clucking of chickens from the coop. A dog barked, the pair of dairy cows lowed in anticipation of their morning milking.

'Farm boy' Mac will check Old Willie and, provided it's all right to leave him, go and attend to the milking.

Kelsey is an early riser, moving to check on each position, making sure people get food, get rest.  Taking over as need, making sure her people are taken care of.

In reply to Christopher Little Hawk MacDonald (msg # 2):

Old Willie seems all right. His face was now grotesquely swollen and multi-hued from bruising. But he was responsive and it was fine for Mac to see to the farm chores.

The radio airwaves were still under some jamming, and communications with UBC was still a little spotty.

Everyone got ready to roll out. A vehicle was spotted rolling up to the fort. It was the SA-8 TEL vehicle, under the command of (fmr.) Capt. Vitaly Bezhov. Bezhov was a friend of Taras' who recently defected along with his vehicle and crew, and were now in the pay of the DRI and the government enclave at UBC. What they were doing here was something of a mystery, as there was no word of them coming.

Thomas busied himself in the morning helping out where he could. He ate his breakfast and then readied his gear and weapons, checking over them for quite some time.

It was certainly a strange place, somewhat untouched by the war apart from the depopulation. He wondered if his own home town had feared as well. Probably not as they had disembarked because of an incoming attack. The SSIXS message warned of a high probability it was nuclear attack and the shock wave they felt in the Solent seemed to confirm that.

Taras was happy to re encounter his ol friend Capt. Bezhov. He met him in the thick of the
war. He would help with his Combat Engineer unit to set up the air defence positions protecting the Motor Rifle Division. They shared common interests. The curious vehicle heralding his presence was unmistakable. That put a smile on his face.

Holy Mother of Kazan! We get to meet again!

Kelsey moves to take a look at the incoming vehicle.

"Tabarnac!  Ees that a Gecko?  Looks like the TEL variant, that's merde, radar would have been pretty awesome."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:13, Tue 09 Sept 2014.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 7):

The Gecko approached the gate as dawn was breaking. The TEL(AR) (Transporter, Erector, Launcher and Radar) vehicle looked like a spaceship from another age. Boat-shaped (and actually amphibious) with the box launchers and radar, it would be a shame if she never actually engaged an aircraft!

Bezhov dismounted. "Permission to be approaching!"

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 4):

Corporal Abbot had just finished breakfast when the sound of tracks set the camp on alert.  He grabbed his C-9 and took up a defensive position near the gate. He wasn't exactly sure what an anti-aircraft platform could do to a ground position, but he was ready to fend it off.

"Armor team up! Russian IFV approaching!", Abbot yelled over his shoulder.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:09, Tue 09 Sept 2014.

In reply to Stanley Alistair Abbot (msg # 9):

Hawk hears Abbot's call of "Armor Team Up!" and finishes the last of his breakfast before throwing his pack on and grabbing his rifle.

As he heads toward the gates, he looks for cover/concealment and takes up a position well back from the gates, but close enough to respond to cries for help.

Easy boys! That's my good friend Captain Bezhov! He may bring news from HQ.

"Oh!  There's the radar!  Excellent."
Kelsey moves near Taras to get a better view.

She confirms on radio "This is Bishop one, Knight confirms that is a friendly vehicle."

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 11):

"Great.  More Russians.  I don't know whether to shoot them or salute them anymore.", Abbot said, obviously annoyed.  He lowered his weapon and walked back towards the vehicles.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:56, Wed 10 Sept 2014.

The Gecko was brought inside. In the predawn light, it did have low-visibility "Canadian Forces" markings, to prevent a misidentification. Many Soviet and WP forces in BC, the Yukon and Alaska had received amnesty, and formed a significant portion of the armed local security forces, which (as Abbot noted) was somewhat emotionally complicated for their former foes.

Bezhov guided the 9K-33 OSA (Gecko) inside the gate. He was wearing Russian cammies, but with a Canadian flag insignia. Not officially government, but not civilian, something in between.

"Hello everyone. Friend Kelsey! Am hearing not too much from valley area. Is old frontier fort? Police? Military?"

He looked around inside the compound.

"LAV is being detached to local forces, possibly transported to island to defend against suspected Soviet push. My vehicle is being last uncommitted reserve unit available for your use, am thinking is best to be where could be useful."

In reply to Vitaly Mikhailovitch Bezhov (msg # 15):

Walker stepped out and looked up at the vehicle.

"Fookin' huge," he says, quietly to himself.

Now that the other patients are gone, he's going to go round and check on the troops, make sure they're all good.

"Vitaly!  That's a real sexy truck you have there."

She grins and will move to greet him, even crush him in one of her hugs.

"Is an old frontier fort... So... can you engage ground targets with that thing?"

Any help was better than no help at all, as they say.

Thomas had not rushed for the Charlie G as he had a feeling a detached anti-aircraft asset was probably not a threat on its own. He walked out with the others taking the chance to get a closer look.

Oh yes! This great proletarian war machine can engage targets like an anti tank missile! It has a camera for it apart from the radars. Captain Bezhv have the rare distinction to have shot down one of the Canadian Forces jet near Bella Coola.

[For that episode you can check the fan-fic section]

So, do you have any news from head qarters?

Bezhov nodded.

"Yes, with being lack of radar guidance the rockets can be guided tele-visually. The projectiles still are having proximity-fused explosive warheads, plus an unburned quantity of fuel. Will be causing significant damage. Is expensive on per-round basis but really, have no better uses for munitions at present time.

"Oh, yes! Perhaps was being last shoot-down in war. At least in western Canada. Am sure pilot ejected and survived, so is being no hard feelings, yes?"

He lit one of his precious cigarettes and offered the pack around. "Commander Clarke-Sullivan has been moving main base for RCMP and DRI from UBC to E Division headquarters. Is suspicion of last Soviet drive down island.

"Was sent to forward base in Burnaby but assets being stripped to aid forces on island. Communications being what they are, have decided to deploy own vehicle forward to this location.

"What news are you having for me?"
This message was last updated by the player at 22:31, Thu 11 Sept 2014.

Kelsey grins like the Cheshire Cat.

"Sometimes I just fucking love the Russians and their very practical multi use engineering!"

She claps her hands once and laughs, like in delight.

Sure, some folks had issues with siding with Russians now.. but...

"You know, that was war.  Our countries make the decisions, and soldiers carry it out.  But these scumbags.. they rape, torture and kill for fun.  Big fucking difference.  I will take a good soldier at my side any day against merde like the Hell's Angels, regardless of their former allegiance."

She claps Behzov on the back (Probably a bit forcefully, unintentionally... she's a strong girl)

We just had a great battle against the Hells Angels. They even brought a tank! We give them a good licking bt there is a problem...When we finish them a bunch of crazy americans with elephants wanted to share the prize. The information that we have is that are illegals operating in Canadian territory. They threat the stability of the Government so we may have to go after them. If so, I'm willing to go well prepared and I could use a good old friend from the Artillery!

"I'll be honest Taras, I am not so sure that the people we beat, and the people we talked to weren't answering to the same folks.  There was definitely some red flags going on.  Course, now we know why they were so antsy when we mentioned this fort."

Criminals after all...Probably they trade between them? In any case I don't like what they did to the poor old man. They are armed and well organized too. We need to secure this part of the country. We cannot afford a weak border with the incoming Soviet offensive. We'll see what we can do.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 24):

Tyler spat. "Assholes. Just a bunch of meatheads. Let's say I don't much regret "deserting" from that chickenshit outfit.

"OK, it's dawn now. If we boogie we can catch them before they hit the border? One of the elephants was injured. But I do recall they have an M113 with a minigun, attached. Also, can I get my fuckin' car? Please?"

In reply to Tyler Gabriel Hope (msg # 25):

"I'll go back for the Charger with friend Tyler."

He slung his AKSU over his shoulder. "Let us get moving. Are thinking can intercept before group makes border?"

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 24):

Yawning, Tyler rubbed sleep from his eyes as he slung his CAR-15.

"Right. It's going to be full light in a half hour. Tars, you gonna let Koldan and me go get my car? I got a feeling scavenger's are gonna be along any time now."

Yes, have a little team to recover the vehicles. I don't think it will be wise to chase after the elephants...

Kelsey nods.

"What did you have in mind for the team?  I know we have at least two persons in mind already."

She nods to Koldan and Tyler.

We should consolidate the team. Recover the vehicles. We have to maintain the fleet and it combat ready. Hmmm...personal equipment too. I want to create two combat patrols and go for a mission. The plan is to secure the border and eliminate the threat. We need to be organized as the  enemy is well armed.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 30):

"Ah.. Sergeant I only have one round for the Charlie G left so if there is a chance of a resupply before we move off I would appreciate it.

Mac looks sad. He's worried about the elephants' welfare.

"If the relief column didn't bring spares you are down to scrounging, sorry.""

Probably not the sergeant he was hoping would respond, such is life.

Tyler was eager to get on the road.

"Sergeant, let's make the call. We'll need at least 4 people plus the Humvee and the winch. How about Koldan and me, you and Andrews?

"If I understand Taras, he's going to consolidate the unit here. Then form patrols. We're close, we know where we're going and we can be back within the hour."

In reply to Thomas Matthew Andrews (msg # 31):

Bezhov said something in Russian. One of his crew vanished into the mammoth SA-8 vehicle.

"Do not worry. We are having some supplies. The 84mm rockets are being very valuable for trade, so have couple somewhere. For you? Free of charge. Because of old friend Taras."

The crewman reappeared with a hard plastic ammo case containing 2 HEDP rounds for the Carl Gustav. Due to the amphibious construction of the Gecko's boat-like hull, there were no side hatches or doors for access or egress. Instead, roof hatches or front driver/passenger side window hatches sufficed. The man climbed down and handed the case to Andrews.

In reply to Tyler Gabriel Hope (msg # 34):

"I'm game.  It's my fault we found the septic tank."

In reply to Tyler Gabriel Hope (msg # 34):

"No problem, should be ready for anything." He thanks the crewman for the additional rockets as he stows the case and stands ready to move off.

Kelsey nods to Tyler.

"I am good with that.  Sergeant Taras?"

That's fine. But get Kelsey to go with you. I'll have plenty of work over here trying to consolidate and prepare the next patrols. Make sure you have the comms and I will set up a quick reaction team just in case. I guess it will be the Cougar...

"Right.  Since it is your vehicles, let's hear how you want to do this, and if I approve we'll execute in that manner.  Let's hear it."

Tyler believed Kelsey was asking him so he answered the best he could.

"Me? Ah, ok. Let's go down the freeway the way we went yesterday. Grab the Challenger, then the Humvee. Or we could go south of the freeway, but that would put us close to the Hells' club house."

In reply to Tyler Gabriel Hope (msg # 41):

Kelsey nods.

"Let's get a vehicle and roll in 10 minutes."

They were ready to roll in less than 5 mikes. The Humvee rolled out the gate with Hawke driving, Andrews in the passenger seat, Kel on the M240 and Tyler/Koldan in the rear.

OOC: Or, we can arrange seating another way?

If not needed for the trip, Mac can find plenty of farm chores to do. He's still troubled about the elephants, though.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 43):

Tyler spoke from the back, "Andrews, you're in the front. You want to trade places? That way you can deploy your Carlie G. a bit easier."

In reply to Tyler Gabriel Hope (msg # 45):

Andrews was just humping his gear up to the Humvee when he heard Tyler; "Yes that's a great idea. Though lets hope I don't need to jump out in a hurry." He gets his stuff orientated in the back and takes his seat ready for the off.

Once they got on the road Tyler said, "let's get the Charger first. It's mobile, the Humvee isn't going anywhere. Anyone fucking with it is going to take a long time. Or, you can drop Koldan and I off where I stashed the car, we can meet you at the Humvee?"

"Let's get the car first."

OOC:  Is there anyone that is actually GOOD at MG?  Kelsey will be sitting up in the hatch with her rifle, otherwise.  Damn well claiming that M-21 we picked up, will send the Barrett to the actual snipers though.

Abbot found himself standing in the gunner's hatch behind the Humvee's M240.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:15, Mon 06 Oct 2014.

Andy saw the others getting ready to pick up the vehicles they'd had to leave the night before. He picked up his rifle and the Barret and said to Mac, "Heads up, time to go out again. Do you want to drive this time?"

He got in to the Iltis and readied it for leaving.

"Sure... just let me wash up. I've been doing the farm chores."

Shortly thereafter a rather more pleasantly-smelling Mac settled in the driving seat.

"Where are we going?"

"We're picking up the vehicles we couldn't retrieve last night," Andy explained, "our job will be sniper overwatch again."

"Right. Let's roll..."

Mac put the Iltis into gear and headed out after the others.

"I'm worried about the elephants. Wonder if we'll see them again."

Andy nodded, "I know, but I'm worried that the next time we see them we'll have US machinegun teams riding them. If that happens we might be shooting Jumbo rather than helping him."

He scanned his surroundings as they joined the convoy.

Carefully, the two vehicles moved out into the breaking dawn.

They made their way down the highway in a southeast direction, past the downed Soviet helo, then took the Aldergrove exit. They passed by the long-abandoned checkpoint, then turned back west. The snipers in the Iltis jeep provided overwatch for the Humvee as they inchwormed along, Abbot manning the M240 in the cupola.

Thankfully, the Charger seemed undisturbed where it was hidden in a carport under some cardboard and hastily-cut tree branches.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 55):

After checking for booby-traps, a relieved Tyler got behind the wheel and leaned his CAR-15 in the middle of the front seats.

"Get in, Koldan. OK, Kel, we ready to go? I don't know if I want to travel with you guys, I'm supposed to be undercover and palling around with you might blow my cover."

In reply to Tyler Gabriel Hope (msg # 56):

Grumbling a little at the early hour, Koldan climbed in the passenger side and shut the door.

In reply to Koldan Arkadyevitch Dzhamgerchinov (msg # 57):

Hawke settled in as driver.  With a little luck, they'd grab the other Hummer and get back to work.  Plus, the sooner they get back to the HQ, the sooner he could go back to work in the hospital.


Hawke (Bishop-3)
L119A1 (30/30 + 6 spare mags)
M203A1 (1/1 40mm fragmentation)
Pistol in vest w/magazines
Driver's Seat of the Hummer, driving
Helmet on

"Tyler, you hide.  Everyone else pack in, make your buddy smile.  Let's roll.  Every time the vehicle stops, I expect everyone but driver and machine gunner to pile out and ready weapons.  Tyler, you maintain your cover as best as possible."

She makes a chopping motion, after climbing in the back.

"Let's roll.  Tactical."

"Copy that, Sergeant."

Rolling down his window Tyler checked his tactical radio. "The backpack radio in the trunk is not set for today's channel but you can call me on the hand radio. We'll stay in the area, if you really need extra backup we'll be a few minutes out at most."

The sun was peeking over the trees in the east as they approached the stretch of 56 ave where the Humvee was stranded.

The team had a choice: approach from the east or west, and additionally, if the sniper team was going to be moved up on overwatch beforehand.

"Snipers, think you can set overwatch in advance?  I am thinking about approaching from the west, so that the rising sun is in other's eyes.. "

"On the way," Andy replied.

He looked over at Mac and said, "OK, they want us to set up overwatch on the Humvee before they go to recover it. We'll move up and park the Iltis somewhere we can hide it and then move to position on foot, what do you think?"

as he waited for a reply he scanned the map and terrain to find a good firing position and a place to hide the jeep.

"They want, they get," smiled Mac. "You've got the map. Where do you think would be a good spot?

In reply to Christopher Little Hawk MacDonald (msg # 65):

As it was a tree-lined rural street, there was no obvious good position. If the Humvee was approaching from the west (the battered corner store) then they could make their own approach from the east. They could only get so close via vehicle without alerting anyone there but they could see for around 500m down 56 ave.

"OK," Andy said, "we'll move down Fifty-Six until we can't risk any further noise and then carry on by foot."

Once they had gone as far as Andy and Mac's experience would tell them was safe, they would stop, secure the jeep and then move further forward on foot.

Using abandoned suburban streets, they circled around and came from the east down 56 Ave. At about 500m to the west, at where they Humvee was stuck in the septic tank, was parked a tow truck and an SUV. There were a few people there as well, probably civilian and not heavily armed. It was clear they were trying to pull out the Humvee.

"Better call the others, tell them that they have competition for the Hummer," said Mac.

"Or shall we just go and talk to them about it?"

"Given the way things have been going I think observation is the best option," Andy said, "start covering them whilst I use the radio."

Andy keyed the mic and said, "Be aware, we have civilians with a wrecker and an SUV looking to recover the Hummer. We are covering them."

Andy readied his rifle and started to cover the strangers.

Mac found himself a good vantage point and settled in with his rifle.

In reply to Christopher Little Hawk MacDonald (msg # 71):

"Dismount a bunch and drive me up, I will get out and talk to them.  Remember guys, our countrymen.  They are being nice and giving us a hand."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 72):

Hawke brought the vehicle where Champlain indicated.

"Everybody out who's getting out."

Then he drove where Champlain pointed.

Abbot twisted in his turret to look around a bit, scanning for possible threats.  He knew that the civilians would be outgunned but he wasn't sure if they would back down from their prize.  Hopefully, Sergeant Champlain could keep this situation from escalating.

Kelsey dismount, trying to be casual, though her carbine is slung to be ready in a moment, but safe is on, round chambered, finger off trigger.

"Bonjour!  I'm Sergeant Champlain from the local garrison, how are you all?"  She smiles, turns on the rough charm.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 75):

Seeing the soldiers roll up, and making the connection to the abandoned Humvee, the group of men looked at each other and then Kel. Realising they were outgunned, they didn't make a hostile move. There were six men, four white, one native and another in a turban.

Of the six, four were dressed in outdoors/hunting clothing. Two of these men had hunting rifles, one a shotgun and a fourth a crossbow. The remaining men appeared unarmed and were dressed in mechanics overalls. The mechanic in the turban nodded in a friendly way to Kel.

"Uh, hi, Sergeant. Bit of a fight here yesterday. So we heard. This your, ah, Humvee?"

Kelsey smiles and nods, still walking and trying not to look guarded at all.

"Indeed it is, we had to choose to leave it or risk some of the wounded.  Some sort of Yank mercenaries.  We did quite a number on them.  I'm former Van Doo, and my unit is stationed out of the local Canadian government in Vancouver.  We're starting to get to the fine folks in this area to see what we can do to help."

She gestures to them.

"We appreciate your help, what can we do for you in return?"

Andrew's took up a position beside the Humvee but keeps it casual as the negotiations went on. He keeps his eyes on the surroundings as the conversation with the civilians goes back and fourth.

In reply to Thomas Matthew Andrews (msg # 78):

Hawke leans out of the vehicle, and says loud enough so that the others can hear him

"Yeah, I found the septic tank yesterday.  That was a shitty surprise."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:07, Sun 19 Oct 2014.

In reply to William Hawke (msg # 79):

"And what an interesting smell you discovered in the process. At least we did'nt end up in it completely."

Thomas changes his position and continues to watch the conversation taking place. "At least we know that the area is not completely deserted. I wonder if they have recovered anything else or people."

In reply to Thomas Matthew Andrews (msg # 80):

"Yeah.  Firefights make a lot of noise, but these folks had to be close by to get organized for this, this quickly."

"If we're not going after the elephants, I can do some 'Hearts and Minds' here to generate some good-will."

The man looked more relaxed, although his companions looked somewhat put out by the fact they weren't going to keep the Humvee. Because, hey, free Humvee!

"Oh, right. I'm Jaspal. We heard from some traders there was a federal government enclave in Vancouver. We've had some problem with bikers and bandits in Langley. We have a volunteer militia and an RCMP detachment but I'm sure the Mayor could use some help."

Langley was a farming community to the west, located between Aldergrove/Abbotsford and Surrey. Before the war is fairly large (as far as these things went) and a primary source of agriculture for Vancouver.

One of the men grins at Hawke. "No doubt, eh? Old house, must have been before they put the Hydro lines in."

In BC, electricity via hydroelectric power and water were handled by the same utility. "Hydro" was therefore synonymous with both power and water.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 83):

Hawke grinned back at the guy who spoke.

"Yeah.  I had a friend who's a fireman, back home.  She had the joy of going after a 70-something year old lady who stepped out her door, then onto the top of her septic tank.  Tank top cracked, and she wound in deep shite."



[True story, happened to my GF, when she was a fireman in NJ]
This message was last edited by the player at 16:16, Fri 24 Oct 2014.

In reply to William Hawke (msg # 84):

Jaspal looked back at Hawke and Kel, then at the Humvee.

"Right, uh, so you want us to pull this out for you?"

He looked like he hoped they weren't in trouble. Although, not being disarmed seemed like a good sign.

Bishop...Bishop...This is Knight. Provide SITREP. Over

Kelsey nods and smiles to the nice man.

"If it's not too much trouble.  Oops, that's my boss, we are detached to the RCMP."  She shrugs.

She keys her mike.  "Roger Knight, you are lima charlie.  This is Bishop.  We have charlies, civilians, on site.  I am negotiating them helping us get the poo baby out of the septic tank."

Very well. Remind the civilians about the  Government program for reconstruction. See if you can get more INTEL on the Hell's Angels clubhouse.

Seeing they didn't have much of a choice, the men started hooking up the Humvee for extraction. This required bringing the tow truck around to the rear of the house, as it would need to be winched out backwards.

The men looked okay with the decision, or at least both resigned with not getting their hands of a free Humvee but glad they didn't seem to be getting busted.

Seeing as things seemed to be progressing well with the humvee extraction and there seemed to be no threat from the civilians, Thomas turned his attention to the countryside around the vehicles. He took out his binoculars and used them sparingly as he scanned the surrounds for anything that looked out of the ordinary.

He started with the locations that had been part of the fire-fights the previous day. He tried to astatine if scavengers had been at work and he also tried to pick out the other vehicles they had left.

In reply to Thomas Matthew Andrews (msg # 90):

Kelsey goes over the Government program for reconstruction, detailing where's and how's and how to connect.

"So, the RCMP you guys have, your locals from before the war?"

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 91):

One of the men not helping with the Humvee answered, "a couple are from the local Langley RCMP detachment, the rest are from the Surrey and Burnaby RCMP detachments.

"Abbotsford has its own local police. We think they might be working with the bikers."

The bodies looked to be where they dragged them, in the bullet-riddled remains of the corner store. All that remained in the road were bloodstains and drag marks. The vehicles that were on fire seemed to have burned themselves out, and the fire hadn't spread in the woods due to it being wet.

There was an abandoned station wagon parked down the road that seemed to be gone now. Otherwise, the dropped weapons had been gathered up and there was little else for scavengers to pick up.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:34, Sun 02 Nov 2014.

He puts the binoculars away and continues to provide security for the parked vehicles. "I can't see anything out of the ordinary since we were last here."

"Good, I hope they have been in contact with the local headquarters.  If they have not please ask them to do so.  You guys are some of the last outlying areas not receiving aid.  Need to fix that pronto."

She nods, serious faced with them talking about the local police.

"Police, huh?  What can you tell me about Abbotsford?  Anything you have seen or heard that is reliable will help.  We'd rather work friendly with them, but we have had problems with the Hells Angels in other places, and they don't tend to survive well against a properly trained and organized military force.  Too much bravado, not enough following orders."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 94):

The man, Jase, looked impressed. "You fought the Angels? Yeah, I guess they're no match for real soldiers.

"Nah, I don't think the local Mounties in Langley have been in contact with HQ. I guess their radios didn't work too good after the EMPs or whatever. Abbotsford police is an independent police force. They were made up of former RCMP before the war, I don't know about now. I've been to "Abby" and they seem to not be struggling. It's not like bikers are riding down main street. Still, there's been runours the Hells have gotten their hooks into the local government.

"One thing, we've been seeing Yank patrols around. They haven't been trouble, and seem to be patrolling for bandits, but hey, stay on your side of the fuckin' border!"

"The angels came into power because of the vacuum of government.  They lack the real discipline and training to hold it.  We have proven that several times.  They do get some ex soldiers, and think that because of that they are a match for us.  They are wrong."

She smiles and shrugs, scratches a few things on a piece of paper and turns to the HMMWV they came in on.

"Guys, if the one in the septic is working fine, we still need the other?"

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 96):

"Uh huh. After kicking Soviet ass, I guess some bikers aren't gonna be a problem. Ah, so, what about all those dead guys in the market?" He looked at where the casualties from the day before had been dragged, then back at Kel.

"Above my paygrade, Sergent."

"Not our mission this moment.  Just came to pick up some equipment we left behind.  It may be my pay grade later.  Tell you what folks, pull her out and let me take a peek and I will give my boss a call.  Might be able to not send you home empty handed."


<red>OOC:  If I remember, the one in the drink is up armored some, and that is why we want it back.  The one we came back in is just a soft sider?

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 99):

The men looked hopeful at this.

In fact, they had come in a captured soft-sider, but the one in the septic tank had some added steel plating and a cupola, making it more valuable but heavier and more unstable.

While waiting on Taras' answer, Kelsey became aware that there was incoming traffic from HQ on the long-range net.

Using the tow truck (which had faded BCAA decals) the men pulled the Humvee out.

Squattind down to look at the suspension and tires, Jace said, "Ok, not too shabby. Looks like she should drive with no problem. That'll be Eighty bucks for the tow, plus GST and PST."

Kelsey takes a moment to tune in the HQ traffic, apologizing a minute as she does.

She will also do a quick inspection to make sure the recovered HMMWV is fine, if possible, chuckling at the joke.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 103):

The message from HQ at UBC was brief. The prisoners were taken to "cells" (into custody) at the RCMP detachment, and the wounded were in hospital. The DRI and RCMP were in the process of transferring to the RCMP headquarters complex near Oakridge mall in central Vancouver, abandoned after the nuclear attacks but mostly intact. This complex included some modern low-rise office buildings and even the old red brick RCMP HQ built in 1906.

As well, there was a confused situation from the Island. Loyal Soviet forces had been staging a major offensive along the eastern side of the Island down the Trans-Canada. Apparently, they were aiming for the naval base established at Ladysmith.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 104):

The middle-aged Sikh man wiped his hands on a rag to get the grease off.

"OK. Looks like we got your Humvee out. Look, we were hoping to do some salvage here. After we heard the firefight last night we figured we could wait until morning, in case anyone was here they'd probably have a very itchy trigger finger. But we're just glad to help. We, ah, took a Volvo station wagon that was abandoned down the road, we can bring it back if you want. Otherwise we're going to head back to town. Want to come with us?"

The other men started packing up their gear in preparation of moving.

In reply to Jaspal (msg # 105):

If Kelsey is close enough, Hawke says quietly,

"Chief, if you can get some way to contact them, I'd be willing to come back as part of an aid mission."

"We're booked right now, but once this is over, helping these folks out would be useful."

Bishop. This is Knight. You can offer one of the humvees to the locals. We need to gain their friendship after all. Over.

Kelsey grins and replies to the radio, then approaches the Sikh man.

"Care for a lightly used softback Hummer?"

She gestures to the vehicle the arrived in.

"Gentlemen, let's get our stuff transferred over and ready to roll."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 108):

"Would we? Yeah! Sounds great. Let my crew finished packing up."

He turned to check out the Humvee that Kel was offering (the one they were riding in) and then to see if everything was getting properly stowed away on his tow truck.

"We salvaged it ourselves because we didn't have the time to recover our own.  Glad to give to you all."

Turning back from another can of the surroundings Thomas again glances in the direction of the humvee and the civilians. He watched the group again for a few seconds and then looked back down the road they had come and into the surrounding fields and countryside.

If he spots anything he raises his rifle and uses the optics on his rifle for an ID.

"OK! No problem. Let me talk to my boys, let them know the score."

He turned to discuss the matter with the other men.
This message was last updated by the GM at 09:48, Thu 20 Nov 2014.

In reply to Jaspal (msg # 112):

It was agreed that one of the men, Jace, would drive the Humvee.

As the morning sun climbed higher, the men finished up their tasks. Jace stood by the Humvee's door, waiting for the driver and crew to vacate the vehicle so he could take over.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 113):

Walker slid out of the driver's seat, then reached back for his pack, rifle and other assorted items.

"Here you go," he said as he handed over they keys.

[OOC:  Do hummers even have keys?]

In reply to William Hawke (msg # 114):

"Ok team, the boss is expecting us back.  Let's get this gong show on the road!"

She makes sure the radios are hooked back up in the new vehicle and everything is working.

The only keys a milspec HMMWV has is the one for the padlock you put on the chain installed on the steering wheel.  Probably no keys.

Andy relaxed and looked over at Mac, "No drama at the moment. Let's get back to the jeep."

Mac grinned back.

"That's good. No drama is good in this trade!"

He got up and headed back to the Iltis.

"Before I forget, do you guys have a Doc?"

In reply to William Hawke (msg # 118):

The young man nodded as he climbed into the driver's seat.

"We don't have a doctor in town. There's one in Abbotsford, a vet from the zoo from before the bombs dropped.

"Better get all your stuff out, don't want to take off with it by accident."

The news there was a veterinarian in Abbotsford rang some bells. The office at the animal farm they looked through to find information on who could car for an elephant had records that indicated that one, maybe more, staff of the Vancouver Game Farm lived nearby in Adlergrove, Abbotsford or Cloverdale. This could be her, or another one of the zoo's veterinarian staff.

In reply to Jace (msg # 119):

"If everyone is ready, give that set of frequency to your mounties, and we will hopefully drop by soon.  Rejoice Rejoice, the government is so close to going back you can almost fucking feel the taxes!"

She laughs, and slips into her passenger seat position.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 120):

Hawke walked over to the one he got stuck in the septic.

"Would you guys stick around until I get all 4 wheels on th' tarmac?  I'd hate to get this bastard buggered again."

To the team lead he makes a low comment, "That sounds like someplace we should visit, if Command approves it.  I'm sure they could use a traveling doc."

In reply to William Hawke (msg # 121):

The men waited around to see if the Humvee would run. It did, and they made ready to lave.



Accepting the information with a nod, Jaspal replied, "yeah, you and me both. What's our motto again? "Peace, order and good government". For years now we didn't have any of that, I'd even be willing to pay taxes again if you can deliver. OK boys, let's get going."

The civilians pulled out, forming a little convoy heading west towards Langley.

"You heard em, let's get the shit off our tires by rolling em."

She radios back to the fort that they are leaving.

Abbot finished stowing the last of his gear from the soft-sided HMMWV.  He climbed back into the cupola and tested the traverse to make sure it was working.

"Looks like we're good up here.  Whenever you're ready, Sgt VanDoo."

In reply to Stanley Alistair Abbot (msg # 124):

Hawke drops his gear in the hummer, then looks under the vehicle for anything odd.

OOC:
If he finds nothing, he'll get into the driver's seat and waits for orders.
If he finds something, he'll point it out to the team lead.

In reply to William Hawke (msg # 125):

It looked like there was no major damage to the Humvee. If nothing else, the Yanks did make them very solid!

The civilian vehicles pulled out onto the road, their newly-acquired Humvee joining their little convoy. They headed west down 56 Ave, towards Langley. As well, towards the last known location of the Angels' White Rock Chapter club house, although they would likely turn left and avoid it at some point.

It was early morning now, the sun had risen and was burning off the dew and mist that clung to the fallow low-lying fields of the Fraser Valley. Sight lines were so-so, there were plenty of overgrown fields but the road was often bordered by untrimmed hedges and lined with trees.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 126):

At this point, there were 3 routes to take back to the fort where Taras was waiting.

The shortest was west, then north. This would take them past the community of Abbotsford but also the HA chapter club house.

They could travel the route they'd cleared along the freeway. A little longer but they'd gone that way a few times now without problem.

Or, probably the safest was the farthest northern route west along the river pioneered by Taras' detachment the day before. This would take them a little out of the way, but it was the farthest from the HA compound and it wasn't one they'd used repeatedly, but it also had been cleared.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 127):

Kelsey proposes the far north route, and asks if anyone disagrees.

From his position in the rear of the Humvee Thomas adds: "No you guys have a better idea of what's going on then I do and its your ride." He reposition the Charlie G.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 128):

"Your word is my command, Sahib."

In reply to William Hawke (msg # 130):

The group headed the opposite direction from the civilians, looping east, then north along Highway 13 to River Road. River Road was washed out in several places but it led back to Fort Langley with no additional headaches as they travelled slow and their vehicles had good off-road performance.

Within the hour they returned to the old Fort. It was mid-morning.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 131):

Kelsey dismounts and heads to report to Taras the details of the outing.

Taras could hear a familiar soun. Apparently the convoy was returning to base.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 133):

One of Bezov's crew plus Tremblay, the Marine, opened the vehicle gate.

The team was returning with the armoured-up Humvee and the Iltis. But Tyler's Challenger and the other, captured Humvee was not present. Tyler had confirmed via radio he and Koldan were ok but splitting off from the team so they could maintain their undercover status. The other humvee had been given to a salvage party from Abbotsford.

So far communications with HQ was still spotty. It seemed there was still heavy fighting going on over on the island but it didn't seem likely the team would be pulled back to UBC.

A quick head count and Taras was happy to see that the return of the team was free of troubles. It was the culmination of the prior mission. The outstanding shoot-out that gave the government troops a clear victory over the outlaws.

The victory didn't come without a price. The savage battle witnessed the fight between two well equipped and dedicated set of combatants. The rearguard that was the Lower Mainland was far from being free of "battles" were nothing was to be spared.

Ahead of the eclectic government team was the decision to move forward while the war embers seemed to be rekindled in the island. The Ukrainian could imagine that the soviets could muster enough strength to push forward. At this point he thought that not much of the original force was still standing. The breakdown of the soviet steam-roller in warlord groups probably forced a sort of "federation" to regain territory and overall "loot" for them. Hopefully the island forces could weather this threat the best they could before recalling the team from the Lower Mainland.

Welcome back! How is everybody doing?

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 135):

Darek walked up, wiping his hands on a grease rag.

"I've just gone over our new tank. The gunsights are gone. The engine has taken damage. I wouldn't trust it.

"The armoured car, the V-100, it's in good shape. It's got twin 7.62mm MGs and some ammunition."

Great, that thing looks like one of ours BDRM. We can make good use of it!

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 137):

Darek studied the V-100. "Yes. I guess it does! Not as good off-road, I bet. But fine on the road.

"The tank... much as it pains me to say this, we can't fix it here and we'd need to make sure it stays out of enemy hands. There are dozens of anti-tank and anti-personal rounds for the main gun. Plus machine-gun ammunition. Very dangerous! Want to send Lee and I back with it to New West or the forward base at the high school? We can catch a ride back this evening."

In reply to Darek Sochacki (msg # 138):

A disgusted-looking Lo was washing the remains of one of the tank crew out of the crew compartment. It looked like it was the loader. The commander, who Kel had sniped out of the TC's hatch, was already in a body-bag.

Oh crap! That thing sure took a beating...
The monster of steel was a monument to the soviet resilience or at least that was Taras thought about it.

Useless for now. I'll give you a hand to dismount the Dushka. See if there is anything of value left inside.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 140):

Bezhov walked over, studying the tank.

"You know... is lorry trailer that can haul machine back to secure zone. Is civilian vehicle meant for transporting construction equipment, but should work."

The Dushka had half a belt left, and there were 2 spare belts in ammo boxes. The coaxial SAFN machinegun had been fired more and there was only half a belt of 7.62mm ammunition remaining.

Inside the tank were 2 WP grenades, 3 smoke and 5 frag grenades (Russian type). The commander had been armed with an AKMSU-74 and there there 4 spare magazines for this weapon. As well, there was a Mossburg shotgun with a folding stock and 5 shells in loops along the receiver.

The tank had 2 US Army AN/VRC-8 digital radio sets (SINGCARS). There were a few boxes of US MREs, and a few papers and a road map.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 140):

There was a sound of retching behind the tank. A queasy-looking Able Seaman Lo came around the side into view, wiping his mouth.

"Taras, we leaving the tank here then? I can see if there's a tank-transporter back in the city. I don't think a flatbed's going to cut that weight load. This thing's 30-40 tons at least."

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 142):

Being a US Marines weapons specialist, Tremblay started looking over the machine-guns that had been pulled out of the tank.

"Looks good. I think we can mount the Dushka on the Humvee. Shoulda kept the other Humvee as well, we could have mounted it there."

"Why not turn it into a bunker? Find a good spot for it and dig it in. It would be a hell of a deterrent."

Yup, yup...36 tons to be more precise. Many of them were removed from the roads in the last Soviet offensive. Things weren't going too good and my Combat Engineer Unit was re tasked with recovery, attached to the Transport and Logistics folks. We used those monsters MAZ from Minsk. The idea of recover a tank is that it can be used again in combat. Well, it seems to me that the engine could be fixed but the main gun looks bad without the Fire Control. Lets leave it here for the time being. Another option is to "hull it down" around here.

Taras recovered the hand grenades inspecting their fuzes and safety mechanisms.

Yes, it would be great to put the Dushka in the hummer. Mobility and firepower is what we need...

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 146):

"We only have the one Humvee, I see. The other one got given away. Not a bad decision, at the time, I guess. Want me to pull the M240 and replace it with the Dushka?"

He started looking around for a place to emplace the tank.

"Depends on what we want. We can put it away from the fort covering the main road in to Ft. Langley. Outside the vehicle gate, near or at the end of the parking lot covering the streets leading up to the fort: Hudson Bay St and Mary Ave. There are some concrete barriers and other fencing we could use to create a revetment that will defeat anti-tank rounds."

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 146):

"For ammunition, the main gun has seven fragmentation rounds, four anti-armour solid shot and one anti-armour fragmentation round. Nothing too unique.

He brightened.

"Oh, but really good news! The night vision equipment works for the gunner's and commander's periscope, as well as an infrared viewer for the driver's main vision block. There are infrared headlights and the coaxial L-2 "Luna" infrared spotlight is still working. The only problem is that the infrared capable TPN-1-22-11 gunsight is, ah, non-functional."

Thank you, Darek. That will do as a fortress gun! Covering the Fort entrance will look impressive. And yes, lets refit the humvee with the heavy MG. It will be able to defeat protected targets. For the next mission I want to have and the extra 240 will go to the infantry. For a machine gun squad.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 149):

Tremblay got to work dismounting the M240 and replacing it with the Dushka.

There was a roar as Darek started up the T-54's engine and began slowly backing it up out of the parking lot. The steel tracks clashed on the pavement. Lo assisted him by ground-guiding the vehicle. They only took out 1 "NO PARKING" sign in the process. Eventually, they parked it on the northern corner of Mary Ave and Hudson's Bay St., on  a bit of a rise. That way they could also look out over the fields to the north.

"Gave away the captured vehicle to pay for services, more or less.  We don't need to come off to the civilians as greedy and thoughtless.  Don't forget that while the wheels are good for speed, boot leather is always safer."

We need the support of the locals. They will be able to travel, trade and spread the news.

Taras sat down by one of the concrete features.

Worries me that Soviet offensive...seems like we are fighting in two fronts now.

We need some way to make one of them friends, we want to rebuild, not fight a war.  Do you think the Soviets can be reasoned with?

It is the same strategy as in Central Europe; they will like to trade space for whatever they can get in the negotiating table. The military power is there, plenty of it! Probably they got a hold of part of the units that became rebels to push the offensive.

I wonder what capacity they have in Vancouver Island to contain them. The Red Army is at the tail end of their own logistics. In that case the attack must be short and in strength to ensure quick victory. As far as I remember they stopped at the road towards Comox as this military based was nuked... Clearly, taking advantage of the lack of radiation they could deploy a reduced Motor Rifle Division to take over two thirds of the island. From there is easy to access the Sunshine Coast and eventually get to Vancouver. But that will require a good size Navy...

Probably they are trying to negotiate over a settlement or maybe the war is going too well for them and we don't know it!

A message was coming through on the long range net.

It was Cdr. Clarke-Sullivan at the HQ out in UBC. The gist was that there didn't seem to be a point in recalling the recce team as there wasn't much they could do to influence the situation on the Island, and even if there was transport couldn't be arranged for a couple days. In the mean time, Taras was to conduct a patrol down to the border area and determine the status of the Truck and Peace Arch crossings. As well, any US forces on Canadian soil were to be located and escorted across the border. Until the situation with the Soviets was resolved conflict with the US military forces was to be avoided. Any goods and supplies looted on Canadian soil were to be confiscated if possibe, and Taras was being given the authority and leeway to press charges as he saw fit although it would be doubtful that any Americans would go peacefully.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 155):

Relaying the message to Taras, Tyler asked, "what's the plan, Sergeant? How we gonna track those guys down?

"It's funny, I haven't been back to the USA for over a year now. I guess the US military would consider me a deserter. Or turncoat. Although I am working for an allied force under the auspices of the US federal government, it's not a government they recognise."

Well, the orders are to move towards the border. Make sense. On the other hand we have those bandits around. I think we should raid the Hell Angels clubhouse now that they are defeated and then follow orders and go for the border. Seems like there are two crossings that we have to cover. I will need more information. Le3ts get the team together!

Andrew's gave Tremblay a hand moving the heavy MG across from the tank. He also took the opportunity to look inside and see the damage the Carl Gustav had done to the tank. Not envying the crew even if they were not under attack with anti-tank weapons he took a moment on top of the turret to survey their surrounding before returning to the task at hand.

In reply to Thomas Matthew Andrews (msg # 158):

It looked like the 2 hits from the Carl Gustav didn't do major damage. Obviously, or the tank wouldn't be drivable! The holes caused by the 84mm HEDP shells were easy to tell from the 76mm HESH rounds. The former left little holes from the HEAT warheads while the latter didn't leave any holes at all but had sloughed off a quantity of interior armour as spall.

One 84mm round had penetrated the engine compartment on the rear left. It hadn't done enough damage to stop the tank but it had affected the engine. Two of the Russians from Bezhov's SAM carrier had the access hatches open and were trying to see if they could repair the engine. The other 84mm penetration was through the gun mantlet. It too hadn't done a lot of noticeable damage but the shockwave inside the turret had knocked the gunner out. That left only the driver active at that point, and he'd decided to bail out.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 157):

"Or at least get the band back together. The MG is mounted on the Humvee. The M240 has been dismounted. Please let us know who's doing what, and where? And where we're going?"

Tremblay indicated the Humvee, which now had the massive Dushka mounted in its cupola.

Very well. I think the border crossings are close to the coast? In that case we should go back to our base in New Westminster. But I still thinking that we should pay a visit to the Hell's Angels clubhouse. What do you think?

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 161):

"If we are going to pay a calling card now would be the best time. I don't even think they will be expecting it." Andrews ran his hand over the stubble on his chin.

That's what I think. With their leaders arrested and beaten after the fight we should take advantage and see what we can find there. Hey Polski! Gear up, we are leaving then. Folks, get ready with your humvee.

Andrew's gave a nod "Sounds good lets get some eyes on the place at least." and made his way to the Humvee. He does a quick visual check of his gear and then a function check of his rifle before stowing the Carl Gustav on the back seat while everyone walked over

The Cougar vehicle was ready to roll with the original crew: Wayne Lo at the wheel, Darek as gunner and Taras next to him. The previous shotout had left a dent in the ammo levels but after a little bit of TLC the interior was somehow more welcoming. Once again the Maple Leaf was fluttering in the air.

And onwards to the starrrsss!!!

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 165):

"All right, holdon you Russian bastard. I'm coming!" He grabbed his AKSU, tools and gear from the parked T-54 to transfer them back to the Cougar.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 165):

Keith looked at Taras, then at the other vehicles.

"Fine, that's the Cougar. Who else are we taking? Where are people going?"

Anybody else goes in the humvee. Destination: The Hells Angels Clubhouse.

"Do you want me to come, or to stay here?" asked Mac, who had been attending to farm chores.

There is room for you if you want to come along. I'm not expecting much resistance if any. I don't have a special plan for this. I just think is just a good oportunity!

"Thank you," said Mac. "I was kinda reverting to my farmboy youth, there!"

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 170):

"I can stay here at the fort, then.

"Who all's going and who's staying?"

In reply to Keith Michael Tremblay (msg # 172):

"I'll go.  From the sound of it, this trash has been a problem for too long.", Corporal Abbot said from the back of the group.

In reply to Stanley Alistair Abbot (msg # 173):

"If they go, I go.  One of them might fall down and need a band-aid," said Hawke, joking.

In reply to William Hawke (msg # 174):

There is a call from HQ on the radio asking how the recce of Abbottsford is going.

As well, the loyalist Soviet units on Vancouver Island appear to be in the middle of a big push, and there were a series of commando attacks up and down the Lower Mainland, accompanied by jamming, to sow confusion and cause a distraction.

Kel will make sure that Taras is aware of the message.

"Want to talk to them, or pass on.. something?"

Oh, just give them a quick SITREP. We are on our way...