Elsbeth surveyed the carnage rather impassively.  She shook her head slightly at all of the death, it was not that she was immune to it or that she was sick of it.  Mostly, a scene like this just did not make sense to her.  In her reasonably short life, Elsbeth had seen many grizzly scenes and acts of mindless violence; so, she was not a stranger to them.  But, they always carried an air of mystery.  She had been born and bred to try and protect life, to give hers for other that were designated her charges.  That had not worked out very well so far, but that didn't stop her from trying.  That didn't change who she was or what she was built for.

But then, what she was built for did not help those that died here either.  Elsbeth had failed to help these people, too.  She grimaced behind the visor of her armor.

Elsbeth was nothing, if not meticulous and a professional.  She let her video monitor track the telemetry and she took what limited point of view video that she could of the scene.  She only hoped that someone back at the main colony would be able to recognize and identify the people that were here.  There was not enough time to bury them, likely.

She did summarize her findings, both for the tactical recording, but also in case, Victor was listening in.  Through pursed lips that were pressed thin, Elsbeth noted, "The area is a total loss - of the last stand kind.  No survivors."  She estimated the count as she picked her way through the field, "It's a mix of, presumably, civilian colonists - Human, Tau and Q'tzl.  There are double, if not triple, the number of Q'sa dead.  Still, the colonists were overrun."

Then Elsbeth set about the distasteful, but necessary task of clearing the vehicle of bodies.  She was careful to disturb the dead as little as possible and since she knew that live grenades had been used, she took extra caution while moving the bodies and munitions around in that limited mobility space.  Once the vehicle was clear, Elsbeth started to collect all of the munitions laying about.  She did not want them to be left lying around to be found at random.

As she loaded the back of the vehicle with the various firearms and such, Elsbeth realized that the radio in the vehicle was being hailed.  She picked up the receiver and held it to her external comm speaker.  "Colony Central.  This is Lance Corporal Smythe of the 359th Recon Team.  We are at station... " she glance about the radio to determine its station designation, so that she could give it as well as the coordinates of their position.  "The site is ... er... abandoned.  All personnel killed when it was overrun by the Q'sa.  Do you copy, Colony Central?"

   " This is Chief Jon's security division," A different voice came on the line," I have no records of any Marine presence on planet, please transmit authentication codes at once...be aware we have starship, and fighter support any attempt at infiltration will be met with force. The man's voice sounded tense, as if he were expecting trouble. something in his tone hinted that he might not be lying about starship support.

---

Outside Grym had a good view of the camp, 'Tiny' and her pilot were standing guard weapons ready to respond to any sudden threat. nothing n the area moved except for dust kicked up by the winds, and tent flaps fluttering in the breeze. the heat of the sun was brutal, even through the faric of his Ghillie suit as grym lay in ambush position.

OOC: spot and search checks please

Reminder
Both Grym and tiny have alternate spectrum capability on their sights and sensor packages...

He pulled at the collar of his suit for a second. The heat was near unbearable but he would not forgo the advantage the suit gave him. He quickly scanned the area through his scope, even checking the thermal optics as well as he waited to see what they would do down below.


[Private to GM: 10:13, Today: Secret Roll: Victor Grym rolled 24 using 1d20+12. Spot. ]

Elsbeth tilted her head slightly, when the person at the other end of the line threatened her with (presumably) death from above.  She merely paused for a moment and then began to recite her memorized Marine identity codes - both personal and unit, insofar as she knew the latter.  Elsbeth then added, her tone lacking in any noticeable sarcasm, humor, or flippancy, "Immediate extraction via available fighter or starship craft would be appreciated, Colony Central."

After transmitting, Elsbeth checked the frequency on the vehicle transmitter and patched her armor's communication suite onto to that frequency.  She then continued her clean up and survey of the area in preparation for leaving via either extraction or the exploration vehicle.

[OOC: 23:43, Today: Elsbeth rolled 20 using 1d20+3. Search/Wis Check. - Oops, should be Spot/Wis Check
  23:43, Today: Elsbeth rolled 14 using 1d20+1. Search/Int Check.]

   " ID Confirmed, sorry we have had some internal security issues her..." The voice on the other end sounded relieved.<blue>I have your location triangulated, I'll see about the extraction, How many.... The radio signal was drowned out in a sea of white noise the piercing squelch of a jamming signal all to familiar.

    Outside Grym catches movement a patch of soil slightly cooler than the rest of the terrain lifts and the heavy blunt muzzle of a shoulder fired rocket launcher pokes out of the spider hole. there is a blast of smoke and a cloud of dust as the weapon fires, a rocket hurtling across the cap, directly toward "Tiny" as she turns toward the blast. Sgt Garrow caught off guard by the attack.

     A second and third rocket fires from concealed positions as shapes begin to clamber out of concealed holes around the camp.The forms no warmer than the air around them as the Q'sa emerge to spring their ambush. The cold blooded aliens perfect for ambush work as they are no warmer than the ground and air around them.
   Tiny is staggered by one explosion then another, the first a glancing blow that seemed to do little damage, the second explodes directly against her chest plate a blast that send the heavy machine to one knee as if stunned by the brutal impact.

OOC:
02:00, Today: Prometheus rolled 34 using 10d6. M72 LAW rocket impact.
01:49, Today: Prometheus rolled 23 using 1d20+5. crit confirmation.
01:49, Today: Prometheus rolled 27 using 1d20+7. missile attack 3.
01:48, Today: Prometheus rolled 22 using 1d20+7. missile attack 2.
01:45, Today: Prometheus rolled 15 using 1d20+7.


Grym and Elspeth can respond this round. Tiny and Garrow are flatfooted till next round. It seems you are up against a full platoon of Q'sa...18 men, at least 3 have fired their LAW rockets... assault rifles and light combat armor evident.10 Q;sa moving to close range five providing covering fire... If Elspeth exits the Explorer she needs to make a save versus an auto fire attack.

ranges:
Moving Q;sa 100 yards (moving at a dash 150ft per/rd)
Covering Q'sa 120 yards( crouching 1/2 cover)
Rocket Q'sa 150 yards( crouching 1/2 cover)

Sometimes he hated that gut instinct that had warned him against going into the camp, other times it seemed an angel was watching over him. He only hoped she would be able to help the others as his blood ran cold. He pulled the rifle in closer to his shoulder a snug fit as he began sighting down the scope. He would have to trust that Elsbeth and Garrow could hold the rush of enemies approaching as he dropped his sights on the nearest one Providing cover. His breath became even, his initial emotional response was killed as he took the shot.


[Private to GM: 06:18, Today: Victor Grym rolled 6 using 2d6. Explosive damage.
06:18, Today: Victor Grym rolled 10 using 4d6. Damage.
06:17, Today: Victor Grym rolled 29 using 1d20+10. Shot. ]

Elsbeth frowned as the comm link was severed, well, jammed to be more accurate.  She had just pushed another load of munitions into the Explorer when the Q'sa ambush had been sprung.  It was not as though she had not thought about the possibility; far from it in fact.  Elsbeth had almost expected it.  Turnabout is fair play, she thought simply and directly to herself.  Of course, whether she thought that the Q'sa were allowed to use this tactic as she and they had before, or if she intended the outcome to be vastly different than her ambush was open to debate.

What was not open to debate was the fact that Elsbeth was ready to fight - she was.  Elsbeth cast her mind back to her lessons - she had been taught early how to drive any good Praetorian did - their charges could not be protected without vehicle skills.  "Keep your options open," it was another dictum from her CM instructors, "Use the available terrain and any improvised weapons.  Never dismiss any item or piece of equipment as useless as a potential weapon just because that was not its original purpose; Pencils, piping, paperweights ... vehicles are all useful.  Never underestimate any objects ability to distract and, ultimately, to kill."  Elsbeth nodded grimly All it takes is the will and the skill to use it.

She moved to the driver's seat of the Explorer and fired up the engine.  It may not be the fastest moving thing around, but it could take a heck of a lot of damage and the minimal number of entrances limited her enemy's ability to hurt her through the advantage of numbers and maximized her ability to protect herself and remain under a modicum of cover.  Elsbeth pointed the Explorer at one of the flanking positions that contained a Q'sa with a LAW rocket and then pulled one of the spare rifles - wedging it on the accelerator.  Then she pulled her laser carbine, checked the power curve, flicked off the safety, and situated herself between the two front seats; Elsbeth crouched low and waited for the first unlucky victim... er... Q'sa to get to the vehicle and try to board.  Her armor's electro-optical camouflage also flickered on - it may not be that much use, but it couldn't hurt either.  The quiet vibration and the low hum of the laser carbines power cycle was a welcome feeling to Elsbeth.  Her eyes narrowed and her vision tightened as she focused on the task at hand.  Possibly, Elsbeth reflected quietly and calmly, this is all the time left in the universe for her - all encapsulated in the next couple of minutes - no more, no less.  She intended to make it count.

[Private to Prometheus: OOC:
Actions:
First Round Actions :  Free Action: Start Explorer
                       Move Action: Point vehicle towards flanking LAW position, wedge rifle
                       Standard Action->Move Action: Draw laser carbine, crouch and wait
                       Free Action: Activate Photon Shield
Rolls:
00:12, Today: Elsbeth rolled 17 using 1d20+2. Initiative.
00:12, Today: Elsbeth rolled 4 using 1d20+2. Know (tactics)/Int Check - as necessary.
00:13, Today: Elsbeth rolled 16 using 1d20+3. Drive/Dex Check - as necessary.
00:14, Today: Elsbeth rolled 26 using 1d20+9. Attack: Laser Carbine - if possible.
00:14, Today: Elsbeth rolled 15 using 3d8. Damage (Carbine) - if necessary.

Notes:
If this is too many actions for the current round, just let me know.  I'm sure that you will arbitrate what happens anyways...:)

Combat Stats:
VITALITY (max/curr) :  65/65 (105/105 w/barrier shield (not currently active))
HP (max/curr)       :  29
INIT                :  +2
DEF (hardsuit)      :  +25 ACP: -3  DR: 4
                    :  +27 ACP: -3  DR: 4 (w/ barrier shield)
BAB (Melee/Range)   :  +6/+6 (+9 w/Laser Carbine)
SAVES (F/R/W)       :  +8/+6/+4
ACTION POINTS       :  7
BASE SPEED          :  50ft (30 (base) + 10 (armor) + 10 (class))
NOTES: Fearless, Uncanny Dodge I, Evasion, Energy Resis (sonic/conc): 4/-
       Photon Shield (50% concealment, DC 20 to spot while moving)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
WEAPON             DMG   Crit  Range  Weight  Size  Type     Notes
Concussion Rod     2d8     20    -     2lbs   med   Bludg    MW (+1 atk)
Laser Carbine**    3d8     20   90ft*  6lbs   lrg   Laser    Mag: Eclip 50
   * Rangefinder Scope Gadget       ** Accuracy: +3 (+2 (inherent) +1 (MW))]

   The first shot of the exchange slammed home, Gryms round detonating hard against the Q'sa manning a squad automatic the blast was small and didn't generate the big boom and cloud of dust a grenade would have but the effect was as great. the Q'sa Q'sa hurled to the side sinking into the pit he fired from not to return.
     having their target suddenly begin to charge into them seemed to throw the Q'sa charge into disarray the grunts sliding to a halt several in the line of travel now looking at the onrushing Explorer with a deer in the headlights expression on their alien faces. the slow moving vehicle was not a speedster but it was fast enough to force several of the grunts to dive for cover at the last moment. the rounds from their weapons pinging off the hull and knocking spiderwebs into the heavy glass windows of the drivers cab without visible effect on the heavy machine.

OOC one down
Next round. Q'sa have used up their move to close range.

Elsbeth watched the line of Q'sa scatter before her and the Explorer.  She gave into the urge to try and run into or over any unfortunate Q'sa that might present themselves as reasonable targets along her way.  So, her left hand reached out to the controls and jerked the wheel back and forth as the Q'sa scattered, trying to make the path a little less predictable and to tag anyone foolish enough to try and shave it too close.  Since none of her opponents had yet jumped up onto the Explorer - though she knew that was only a matter of time.  Still, this video game-like activity preoccupied her, while her laser carbine sat waiting and ready, trained on the passenger side door.  And while the Explorer generally made its way towards one of the LAW wielding Q'sa positions.

Elsbeth did note out of the corner of her visor, the small explosion in one of other the heavy weapons Q'sa positions.  She nodded and hoped that was Victor.  At the very least, Elsbeth took heart in that not that entire universe seemed to want her dead.  She appeared to have some other ally, somewhere.  Elsbeth was pretty sure it was not Tiny and Garrow, since they seemed to be preoccupied with their own troubles, but it could have been.  Perhaps whoever it was would be able to pick up the pieces of her when all was said and done.

Having seen Tiny take a couple of direct hits, Elsbeth could only hope that the Sergeant and the Recon Mech were okay.  She tried the secure comm frequency that John, Victor and she had shared, though she feared it was also being jammed.  Her tone was urgent, more out of expedience and multi-tasking than anything else, as she spoke "Sergeant, are you okay?  Sergeant Garrow?  Are you hurt?"  Elsbeth frowned as the sinking feeling that Garrow might not be all right settled into the pit in her stomach, but pushed on, "If you can, lay down covering smoke and disperse the crowd.  Inflict maximum damage.  Or retreat, if necessary."  Then Elsbeth refocused her attention and went back to trying to get at least one satisfying crunch and to feel the bump of having the Explorer's treads roll over something that was more than a rock, but probably just as inanimate by the time the vehicle she was wielding was through with it.
[Private to Prometheus: OOC:
Actions:  Free Action: Try to contact Garrow and Tiny
          Move Action: Drive!  You asked for GTA, you got it!
          Standard Action: Held
          Free Action: Notice Victor's handiwork
Rolls:
00:46, Today: Elsbeth rolled 19 using 1d20+3. Drive/Dex Check - as necessary.
00:46, Today: Elsbeth rolled 27 using 1d20+9. Attack: Laser Carbine - if necessary.
00:47, Today: Elsbeth rolled 13 using 3d8. Damage (Carbine) - if necessary.
00:48, Today: Elsbeth rolled 9 using 1d20+3. Spot/Wis Check - Victor's Handiwork.

Notes:
1)  You get to roll any vehicle damage - I am not sure if she hits anything or what damage an
Explorer would do.  Are Q'sa worth more points than a mailbox?
2)  Do you need more drive rolls?  Feel free to roll them, if it speeds things up.
3)  Oh, and I did not apply any multiple action penalties, since I did not know if she would
get a chance to fire her carbine or would need more drive rolls ...

Combat Stats:
VITALITY (max/curr) :  65/65 (105/105 w/barrier shield (not currently active))
HP (max/curr)       :  29/29
INIT                :  +2 (17 - rolled on round one)
DEF (hardsuit)      :  +25 ACP: -3  DR: 4
                    :  +27 ACP: -3  DR: 4 (w/ barrier shield)
BAB (Melee/Range)   :  +6/+6 (+9 w/Laser Carbine)
SAVES (F/R/W)       :  +8/+6/+4
ACTION POINTS       :  7
BASE SPEED          :  50ft (30 (base) + 10 (armor) + 10 (class))
NOTES: Fearless, Uncanny Dodge I, Evasion, Energy Resis (sonic/conc): 4/-
       Photon Shield (50% concealment, DC 20 to spot while moving)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
WEAPON             DMG   Crit  Range  Weight  Size  Type     Notes
Concussion Rod     2d8     20    -     2lbs   med   Bludg    MW (+1 atk)
Laser Carbine**    3d8     20   90ft*  6lbs   lrg   Laser    Mag: Eclip 50
   * Rangefinder Scope Gadget       ** Accuracy: +3 (+2 (inherent) +1 (MW))]

He saw what Elsbeth was doing and quickly made up his mind. He swung the barrel of his rifle tracking her, waiting for the first Q'sa to try and board her vehicle and then he pulled the trigger, watching through his scope as the high caliber round left minute wakes through the air.


[Private to GM:
06:47, Today: Victor Grym rolled 10 using 2d6. Explosive damage.
06:47, Today: Victor Grym rolled 13 using 4d6. Damage.
06:47, Today: Victor Grym rolled 29 using 1d20+10. attack.]

  The wait wasn't long, the Q;sa we're not normally well organized or disciplined but they were fast. the grunts jumped aboard grabbing onto equipment racks, storage bins and two managed to grab the frame of the door into the passenger bay. the first made it up to the doorway before his back exploded under the impact of the high velocity round from Grym's gun. the Q's might have survived the shot but he was definitely out of the fight. thrown to the ground and tumbled across rock and dust as he fell.
   The second Q'sa was greeted with a pulse of focused light as he pulled himself up into the cab, the pulse filling the air with the stink of molten armor and burnt flesh. wounded but still int he fight the Q;sa turned his head toward Elspeth, the small dark too human eyes between the two large compound eyes on the side of his head fixing on her as armored plates and leathery skin peeled back to reveal a mass of mouth parts, and carnivorous teeth as he hissed in anger and reached to unsling his rifle from his back.

OOC:
Q'sa

Grunts: full round action to catch explorer and jump on.
Covering Q'sa. full autofire on Explorer.
Missile Q;sa...drop M-72 prep new ones.

Okay now you got on ein your face Elspeth...
Grym it looks like the Q'sa haven't been able to spot you yet.

He quick sighted the next shot the one reaching for his weapon. He fired his instincts screaming to take the shot before they could harm the marine. "Marine, you better start getting the hell out of there!" He said into his mic, hoping she realized that without any fire from Garrow, that cowardly mech pilot the two of them were out gunned and out numbered.

[Private to GM: 11:54, Today: Victor Grym rolled 4 using 2d6. Explosive damage.
11:54, Today: Victor Grym rolled 14 using 4d6. damage.
11:53, Today: Victor Grym rolled 19 using 1d20+10. Attack. ]

Elsbeth grimaced as the Q'sa was not downed by her laser carbine shot.  However, the good news was that Victor was in fact around and even worried about her potentially. "Thank you, Mr. Grym." she noted flatly into the comm, "I am trying."   Then she focused on the task at hand, her lips cracked into a slight smile as her weight shifted and she stood to meet the rushing Q'sa head on.  Elsbeth felt the rush of adrenaline take a hold of her.  The blood became a rush in her ears as her focus narrowed and her vision started to close in on her opponent.

The laser carbine shifted to Elsbeth's left hand as her right went first to her belt, activating her barrier shield, and then to her thigh holster where the collapsible concussion rod was housed.  As the energy barrier coalesced into its semi-solid form, in a simple, yet effective, flick of the wrist the rod was extended with a snap and brought to bear upon her opponent.
[Private to Prometheus: OOC:
Actions:               Move Action - Engage Q'sa, while shifting carbine
                         to left hand, then activate barrier shield and drawing
                         concussion rod with right.
                       Free Action - Ability Surge (+8 Str, -2 Def, Duration: 3 rounds)
                       Standard action - Attack Q'sa w/concussion rod
                       Free Action - Spend Action point to negate fatigue from Ability Surge
                       Free Action - Talk into comm link
Rolls:
01:39, Today: Elsbeth rolled 14 using 1d20+13. Attack: Concussion Rod.
01:40, Today: Elsbeth rolled 12 using 2d8. Damage (Rod) - if necessary.

Notes:
1)  Well, I guess that is a fumble...  Ugh. No love from the dice.
2)  If allowed, I'll spend an Action Point to improve the roll (you can roll for
    expediency; you definitely cannot roll worse that I have).  Otherwise ... *shrug*

Combat Stats:
VITALITY (max/curr) :  65/65 (105/105 w/barrier shield)
HP (max/curr)       :  29
INIT                :  +2
DEF (hardsuit)      :  +27 ACP: -3  DR: 4 (w/ barrier shield)
                       +25 (w/ current actions: -2 (ability surge)
BAB (Melee/Range)   :  +6/+6 (+9 w/Laser Carbine)
SAVES (F/R/W)       :  +8/+6/+4
ACTION POINTS       :  7 (5 after actions)
BASE SPEED          :  50ft (30 (base) + 10 (armor) + 10 (class))
NOTES: Fearless, Uncanny Dodge I, Evasion, Energy Resis (sonic/conc): 4/-
       Photon Shield (50% concealment, DC 20 to spot while moving)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
WEAPON             DMG   Crit  Range  Weight  Size  Type     Notes
Concussion Rod     2d8     20    -     2lbs   med   Bludg    MW (+1 atk)
Laser Carbine**    3d8     20   90ft*  6lbs   lrg   Laser    Mag: Eclip 50
   * Rangefinder Scope Gadget       ** Accuracy: +3 (+2 (inherent) +1 (MW))]

  Gryms round slammed into the back of a Q'sa on the rear of the explorer. The blast sending bit of shrapnel whistling through the air around the rest of his squad as he was knocked off the back of the explorer and rolled across the rocky terrain. The Gunners manning the gun pits shifted their fire, raking rocky outcrops and hillsides with blind fire as they tried to find the hidden sniper they now realized was firing on their men.

          Inside the Explorer the Q;sa grun stepped back an instant before the Concussion rod slammed into his head. the force of her swing carrying the rod ina viscous arc to end in the radio controls for the explorer. The force of the blow knocking a fist sized dent in the hull of the armored machine. The Q'sa turned back his emotionless insect eyes giving away no hint of his reaction. but the smaller human looking eyes at the center of his face went wide and he hesitated for a moment before he drew a heavy pistol and fired a quick double tap at Elspeth.

    The rounds deflected off her barrier shield and ricocheted around the interior of the Explorer sounding like angry wasps as they whistled by Elspeth's head.

    As Grym sniped and harassed the Grunts outside and Elspeth and the Q'sa inside traded blows. Tiny began to move, sluggishly, clumsily struggling back to her feet.

Elsbeth grimaced slightly as her swing went wide and left her open for small arms fire.  She mentally chided herself for leaving such an opening.  However, she did not expect the Q'sa to be much of a gun-fu expert.  So, she pulled the concussion rod from the radio with a jerk of her hand, and closed the distance to her enemy.  She minded her footing and knew that the Q'sa would run out of room to retreat soon enough.  Either that, or he would be forced out of the passenger door and onto his fellows - either situation was a win for her, Elsbeth figured.  Elsbeth had seen the smaller set of eyes react to the violence of her first swing, and while the Q'sa were not know for exhibiting fear - she suspected that this one's healthy survival instinct could be used to her advantage.

Elsbeth ignored the ricocheting bullets - if their initial momentum was not enough to penetrate her shield, then they would not be gaining any additional momentum; so, they were not a threat to her.  They were more of a danger to the Q'sa than they were to her- and that again worked to her advantage.

The servos in her armor augmented her adrenaline charged strength, and the same snap of the wrist that pulled the concussion rod free, brought it around for another quick pass at her enemies head.  The motion sensor integrated with her armor had a number of proximity alerts being set off.  Elsbeth knew that these confines could become a death trap.  But for the moment, she was not overwhelmed and the restricted access gave her the advantage since it restricted their numbers and not hers.

So, she concentrated on the opponent in front of her.  The myomar pistons that augmented her legs helped push her forward, keeping her engaged.  She feinted with the carbine her left hand, as the concussion rod cycled and surged forward.  Elsbeth felt in tune with the motion, the rod an extension of her arm and the pitch of the singularity's hum at the tip of the rod went up a notch.
[Private to Prometheus: OOC:
Actions:        Move Action - Free concussion rod from radio/bulkhead.
                       Free Action - Shift with Q'sa
                       Standard action - Attack Q'sa w/concussion rod
Rolls:
23:09, Today: Elsbeth rolled 33 using 1d20+13. Attack: Concussion Rod.
23:09, Today: Elsbeth rolled 23 using 1d20+13. Threat Confirmation - Concussion Rod.
23:10, Today: Elsbeth rolled 12 using 2d8+8. Damage (Concussion Rod).

Notes:
0)  Yay! Finally, something other than a single digit roll on a d20 in combat!  And a
      possible critical!
1)  Ability Surge (+8 Str - current effective strength: 26 (+8)) Duration: 2 more turns
2)  Do I need to make a strength roll to free the concussion rod?  If so, let me know (or
      feel free to do so for me - your luck with the dice roller is likely better than
      mine at this point).
3)  I did not roll extra damage for the concussion rod (let me know if you want me to do
      so - or feel free to do it yourself), as I was not sure about the mechanics for
      criticals (are they extra damage or just a multiplier - in which case, I am sorry I
      rolled so poorly for damage - c'est la vie.)

Combat Stats:
VITALITY (max/curr) :  65/65 (105/105 w/barrier shield)
HP (max/curr)       :  29/29
INIT                :  +2 (17 rolled in first round)
DEF (hardsuit)      :  +27 ACP: -3  DR: 4 (w/ barrier shield)
                       +25 (w/ current actions: -2 (ability surge)
BAB (Melee/Range)   :  +6/+6 (+9 w/Laser Carbine)
SAVES (F/R/W)       :  +8/+6/+4
ACTION POINTS       :  7 (5 after actions)
BASE SPEED          :  50ft (30 (base) + 10 (armor) + 10 (class))
NOTES: Fearless, Uncanny Dodge I, Evasion, Energy Resis (sonic/conc): 4/-
       Photon Shield (50% concealment, DC 20 to spot while moving)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
WEAPON             DMG   Crit  Range  Weight  Size  Type     Notes
Concussion Rod     2d8     20    -     2lbs   med   Bludg    MW (+1 atk)
Laser Carbine**    3d8     20   90ft*  6lbs   lrg   Laser    Mag: Eclip 49/50
   * Rangefinder Scope Gadget       ** Accuracy: +3 (+2 (inherent) +1 (MW))]

A cold fear raced down his spine as the gunner pits opened in blind fire trying to locate him. The sounds of rounds whizzing by like a thousand angry wasps ready to end his life at a seconds notice. He did not wear the heavy armor and shields the marine did his only advantage was stealth and distance.

He hesitated for a moment, the marine looked like she could use some more cover but the gunners might spot him. He made his decision, she would have to trust to her training and gear a bit longer. The barrel of his rifle shifted aim and centered on a gunner spraying a bit to close for comfort.

He took a breath held it and the squeezed the trigger, another round carrying his deadly intentions towards his target.

[Private to GM: 22:35, Today: Victor Grym rolled 12 using 1d20+10. Attack. ]

 A great many things happened Very quickly as Grym Hunkered down to avoid the wild fire of the Q;sa machine guns. Elspeth did her impression of John Henry on the Q'sa head. and the crow turned southward on the final leg of its out bound Search and Rescue Patrol over the "Great Stone Sea region".

   The Q;sa in the Explorer left a sickly yellow green stain on the wall as it's head rebounded the impact of the singularity drive weapon not only dealing a knock out blow but hurling it into the wall with enough force to crack it's skull.
     Grym's round missed the hunkered down Q'sa machine gunner. but the small round packed an explosive impact. inside the firing pit there was a muffled blast and then a second almost imperceptible pop...pop..poppopopop and tracer rounds began to erupt up out of the pit at random as a metallic sound much like metal popcorn began to fill the air coming from ammo cans stored int eh pit.
    Outside the Q'sa infantry crawling over the explorer dove for cover as an earsplitting chirring, grating whistling sound broke over the sound off gunfire. Two Shoulder fired rockets slammed into the deplorer their shaped charge warheads cutting deep into the vehicles heavy hull and showering everyone near it in shrapnel and tiny pellets of molten copper.
      Tiny began to move jerking upright and spinning to face the south her armor scorched as she turned a fist sized hole in her chest plate leaked smoke and sparks from internal shorts could be seen by Grym " I WILL KILL YOU ALLL!!!!! her voice filled with rage and pain as she turned her attention to a dust cloud coming from the south. she took two steps planted her feet and hunkered down. raising her right arm the multi barrel cannon mounted there spinning up as she faced her enemies.
   Gym had only seconds to realize there was something extremely wrong with the way the Mech was moving and that the voice was the AI's not the pilots. Before rounds began to scream past his head, a tight burst from one of the gunners was directed at hs position not wildly sprayed. in vain.

---

To the north a roar filled the air the sound of thunder rolling across the stony plains an ear splitting scream that sounded as if a giant beast was roaring in anger issued from the heavy Gravitic Assisted Ion Plasma drives of the crow as she burned at full atmospheric power low over the ground to avoid anti aircraft fire.  the sound was no accident, Clever Furesh engineers had worked hard to tune the engines to produce the sound, the air rushing over the ships hull added an eerie nerve jarring shriek to the already deafening roar. until the Crow screamed like a Cesti warrior charging into battle.
    The ship was small by starship standards but it was still larger than a pre-contact 747 and packed the fire power of a WWII naval destroyer in her compact frame.
    The ship came in low enough to kick up a wall of dust behind it. turning on a wingtip after passing over the abandoned camp it swung into a turn that would have broken the back of lesser ships, Cesti were among the best close quarters combat pilots in known space and their ships were designed to handle turns that killed other ships.

as he camp was covered in a blinding wall of dust a second line of dust appeared smaller and coming from land borne craft a dozen human built rovers rolled at top speed toward the camp, each one filled with Q'sa shock troops. among the vehicles four Q'sa built Mecha charged into the fray.

As he hunkered down behind his cover a thousand curses running through his head he looked up at the scream of high powered engines. The Crow? Could it be? Him and Elsebeth might make it out of this yet. He quickly adjusted his radio, hoping they were still using the same frequency as before. "Aziza! This is Grym and I am in a bit of a bind, thank god you guys showed up! There is a Marine down in the base and I am pinned down. A little love from those guns and quick Evac would sure as hell save my ass." He yelled.

He popped his head over cover his rifle sliding up in one single smooth motion as he sighted in at the gunner still firing his way. He quick scoped the shot knowing he would have one chance before he had to duck back down or Tiny got it in her AI head to use something other than that mini-gun. He pulled the trigger not even waiting to see if he landed the shot before ducking back down.


[Private to GM:
22:05, Today: Victor Grym rolled 8 using 2d6. Explosive damage.
22:05, Today: Victor Grym rolled 15 using 4d6. Damage.
22:05, Today: Victor Grym rolled 23 using 1d20+10. Attack. ]

Going over the readouts on her powered armor she runs system diagnostics silently. Granted she performed routine maintenance every day to make absolutely certain she was always combat ready. However it was prudent since they had seen some action lately.

While doing that she also takes the time to keep an eye out on what was going on around her. There was no guarantee they wouldn't be attacked while in transit. For now all was silent leaving her time to wonder what the person would be like when they found her. This place had held more the a few surprises both pleasant and unpleasent.

  I think I'm going to be sick. Balkiir laughed as he hung onto a grab handle by the Crows loading ramp in full armor and packing an assault cannon over his shoulder. as the ramp came down he groaned and laughedas a nearly inverted view of the world presented itself. " Next Time I walk."

    He wasn't that sick to his stomach but it helped to calm the pre-jump adrenaline spikes. Home Guard duty seldom Included combat drops, orbital assaults or high speed low level passes. Which might be why I left home.....gods The Moms would be having a ball right now.Balkiir added thinking out loud.

  " How ya doing Conrad, miss MY driving yet!!!?" Balkiir boomed out laughing as he glanced back to the Tae tech now dressed in proper ass kicking attire.

"Relax everyone, be careful out there. I think the incoming mecha might prove to be the biggest threat. Aziza use the ships weaponry to keep them occupied. Sergeant Grym, if you could keep the crew served weapon wielders from firing at our people that would be good. Balkiir, you're going to see waves upon waves upon waves of Q'sa. Feel free to shoot at them all...you're talents mean you are best going for the masses of infantry. M'Kira, as you pilot Powered Armour, you're going to be a prime target for everyone out there. You'll draw a lot of attention, keep moving and go for the officers you see....like we did on Oneidi Prime. Conrad, I'd no idea what you have up your sleeve, but if you can come up with something to help take the mecha down....or large numbers of the infantry. You all know what we need done. Go do it. Bring yourselves all home safe to me."

Each of the crew is filled with an instinctual idea of what they need to do and how. Everything seems to come together, they can tell which way the enemy is about to move a few seconds just before it is about to happen.



OOC:
15:58, Today: T'risa K'mahda rolled 25 using 1d20+13. Knowledge:Tactics.
Everyone (except Elsbeth) take a +3 to hit for next 4 rounds, if you don't mind T'risa being inside your head a little. Elsbeth, sorry, I need to know you before I can help you out.

Going into combat was nerve wrecking.  No matter how much training received at MIT couldn't even begin to describe the fear he was feeling.  This was the real deal.  Hopefully... he wasn't going to get shot.  Listening to Balkiir laugh only made Conrad feel worse.  Putting his hand on his new rifle, and then checking to make sure his heavy pistol was still attached to his leg.

"I don't miss your driving yet.... nor your damn laugh.  Lets go mow down some lizards and get the hell out of this place!"  Grinning at Balkiir to hopefully hide some of the uneasy feeling.  And to add to the stress, Conrad had to help take out a vast amount of troop and/or the mecha that will be joining soon.

Reaching down to his rifle, he charges the weapon and prepares for whatever may come.

 Aziza puts the crow over on it's back rotating her biggest guns, and thickest armor onto target plasma cannons hammered a line across the desert scything across the advancing Q'sa they were designed to hit ships at thousands of meter moving at velocities approaching hypersonic. unfortunately they were the exact wrong weapon for precision work at one or two miles. they made up with close range precision by packing a massive concussive blast in atmosphere. sand fused to glass and shattered into shrapnel in milliseconds as megawatts of pure energy slammed into the ground moving faster than most rail gun rounds.
     " Please to be exiting quickly, undoubtedly many hidden anti ship batteries are preparing to reduce us all to molten vapor. Aziza urged as she slid the crow in for a near textbook assault landing. [Private to Conrad: Conrad you do have acess to tha mech a we were talking about and balkiir has given you enough training not to break your neck in it. Prometheus]

Getting a great idea, Conrad stashes his rifle in a locker after he disengages it from firing.  Racing through the ship, Conrad hustles to get to the Mecha and gets inside and fires it up.  "Hey Aziza, this is Conrad.  I'm taking the mecha out on its maiden voyage.  Hopefully I can help M'kira take down the approaching mecha.  Take care Aziza."

With that, Conrad continues with the system start up and gets ready to exit the Crow.

[Private to Prometheus: OOC: Prometheus please make any needed attack rolls and damage rolls. With the new mech I don't have the faintest clue what damage I do or any bonus beyond T'risa's +3. Feel free to NPC me as needed to move combat along. I simply can't guarantee I won't slow things down if everyone can post regularly today et.] "Roger that T'risa. To bad I don't have a proper heavily armed and armored fighter to provide air strike support. Course I love my powered armor so I will rock their world regardless." She grins knowing she could take advantage of this for a air drop. Nice touch having a mecha or powered armor that could fly.

She checks the sensor readings to get a feel for the terrain and what cover if there was any she could take advantage of. Fast hard hitting tactics were good when you were outnumbered. Not to mention she wanted to stay out of the way of friendly fire while supporting her companions and pounding the enemy.

She gives Conrad a thumbs up being supportive even though she was a tad worried she might have to babysit him. He was a engineer which meant he was probably a little green when it came to this type of combat. Plus he had never piloted a Mecha before that she knew of. It wouldn't due to let the new kid on the block die in the first battle. She liked his guts and enthusiasm so she wasn't about to put a damper on things by saying anything that might tick him off or make him lose his nerve. Never knew how someone would handle combat till you actually fought by their side. Though combat records could be informative to a point.

If it was possible she chooses her targets carefully possibly even suggesting to Aziza a point to lay down a bit of fire if she was confident a leader was there. (OOC: Take it for granted she tells Aziza as I won't be able to post again until after work at best.)

Jumping out of the ship at the proper time she flies opening fire with her plasma cannon and the other weapon as appropriate. If nothing was in range just yet she takes advantage of whatever cover there might be while moving into position to attack.