004-1108
0100 Hours

Nothing more happened that day, no one came to see them. Requests to talk to anyone were denied, for any reason. Talia even demanded more medical supplies at one point but was denied.

There were 14 prisoners locked down inside: Ken, Liisha, Thomas, Neva, Linus, Blake, Lorain, Drew, Talia, Jothan, Juan (seriously wounded), Fatima, Hal, and Ross (seriously wounded). The 2 worse off patients were stabilised for now, Ross had regained consciousness.

Inside the hut, Lorain kept everyone's spirits up. Her father seemed understandably subdued. Only Drew seemed to be confident that things were going to work out fine. It wasn't too uncomfortable, the A/C kept everyone cool, water was plentiful. Dinner was a few travel ration packs to split among them (1 each). Even the toilet (an advanced model) seemed to be working up to snuff.

Gradually, activity around the camp quieted down for the night.

GM Note: After sufficient medical care, Liisha and Thomas have recovered their full statistics.

Ken helps with the wounded and keeps an eye on Drew.  He's convinced that the other is a fool or a traitor or some combination of the two.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 2):

Neva was happy when Thomas recovered and spent a little time around him to make sure that he didn't overdo it.  She didn't hover but in typical Neva style, she would be within reach etc.

When she had some time when Drew wouldn't overhear she'd tell Thomas about her "funny feeling" about him although she would point out that she still couldn't put a finger on why she felt that way.

Linus spent most of the time caring for the remaining wounded. He was clearly underimpressed with the bunch of rogues holding them.

Ken talked to the others as they considered their situation.  "With two seriously wounded we are going to have to plan an escape very carefully.  I don't think we want to leave anyone behind in the possession of our captors."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 5):

Further attempts at planning an escape were forestalled by the sound of explosions outside! Ken recognised the sound of incoming mortar rounds. This was immediately followed by the hammering of several machine guns and automatic rifles.

"That's unlikely to be good," mused Linus. "Whoever's attacking isn't going to distinguish between that parcel of rogues and us..."

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 7):

Neva looked at Linus.  "Unless it gives us a chance to get out of here.  Of course the enemy of our enemy could be our friend."

Ken listens for a moment trying to use his experience in combat to determine anything about the attacking forces that might come to mind.

"Let's hope its the government or some official group rather than another bunch of archeological pirates.  The former will give us a hard time but won't kill us while the latter may just kill us outright."

He heads to the door and examines the lock.  "Maybe we can break down the door under the cover of the attack."

"I wouldn't be too sure of the government, not when out here. More likely to shoot first and ask questions of your ghost later, from what I've heard," said Linus. "I reckon making a break for it in the confusion is our best bet."

He went over to check the more seriously wounded again, assessing how easy it would be to get them moving...

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 10):

Walker gets up and assists Linus.

"Ow.  This getting old and shot up is worse than just getting old."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:57, Sun 30 Dec 2012.

Ken nods in agreement.  "I'd agree that the government is likely only marginally better than a group of out and out pirates.  Regardless, let's get everyone ready to move.  Talia, can you get the wounded prepared to move if possible?"

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 12):

Neva looked over at Ken.  "So we get out of this building.  Then what?  We need a plan to meet at or something in case we have to split up.  It doesn't work if we all scatter and then get caught again.  So charge them when they open the door?  THen what?"

"Good points Neva.  We need to get to the air rafts.  Otherwise you are right, we'll get nabbed back by one side or another."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 14):

Liisha listened to the incoming mortar rounds, outgoing machinegun fire and rockets going both ways.

"Things are really heating up out there!

"We won't be going anywhere if we eat a mortar round. Can't do anything about a direct hit, but these walls won't do much to stop shrapnel. Let's get everything we can, the beds, the mattresses, shelves, heck even the toilet, kind of make a redoubt, some shelter to hide behind.

"Where do you think should we make it? By the door so we can take the opportunity to get outta here? Closest to the centre of camp, or the edge of the jungle?"

In reply to Liisha Laagir (msg # 15):

Outside the hut, a booming amplified voice could be heard over the roar of helicopter rotors.

"THIS IS THE POLICE! THROW DOWN YOUR WEAPONS IN THE NAME OF THE RULING COUNCIL AND BE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY! ANY FURTHER RESISTANCE OR ATTEMPTS TO ESCAPE WILL BE TREATED WITH THE UTMOST PREJUDICE!" Many of those present recognised the voice, as did Linus and the others.

Kelso looked up where he and the others had taken shelter in their makeshift redoubt and voiced what they all knew. "Damn it. That's our dear friend, Sergeant Boniface. That tears it, anyone captured is going away for a long time, us or Kalamanru's men, both. Boniface and the government don't like competition, especially if this is a rich site."

A few minutes later the firing resumes. As they cowered under the mattresses, there was a tremendous "BANG!". When they came to their senses, a rocket had slammed into the roof and exited the wall near the door without exploding. In the process, the door was left ajar, slightly buckled in its frame.

"Just so... leaving might be the best course of action. Help me see if we can get this door open..."

Linus got up and started tugging at the door.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 17):

Walker followed to assist Linus.

"Best defense?  No be here."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 18):

"Let me see if I can pick this lock", Blake searches for some items that can help in this en devour.

< 13:29, Today: Blake Renfield rolled 6 using 2d6. lock-pick (Jack of all Trades-1). >

Ken nodded to Liisha as the firefight intensified. "Best near the door I think so we can get away quickly." He frowned at the announcement that the government was present. "I've no desire to rot in prison here. Let's get the hell out of here and to hell with both sides of this battle."

As the missile rushes through he glances at the door. "It's ajar Blake.  Let's just bust it the rest of the way down.  Help me with bed frames and we can make a battering ram."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 20):

Neva shook her head.  "Blake you keep watch and help guard.  I'll help Ken.  I say that I've probably tied bed frame together more than he has."

She didn't stop to realize how that might have sounded but, of course, she was referring to when she was on the streets.  Bed frames were a standard and you used them both defensively and offensively.  She went over to Ken and started to help Ken work on the frames.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 19):

Ken and Neva's work probably saved a few lives, or at least serious injury when the rocket slammed through the thin structure.

After, Blake tried but was unable to pick the door, the blast might have jammed the mechanism. Instead, he and Ken simply broke the Goddamn thing down.

"We're ready!" Lorain and Talia had gotten everyone ready to move, including the wounded on makeshift stretchers.

It was night and of course raining when they made it outside. The overcast sky was lit from beneath by the glow of red parachute flares slowly drifting down, while helicopters droned overhead.

The "jail" was on one side of the compound. The air/rafts were parked in the middle, close to the main offices and armoury of the illegal operation. There seemed to be a fair degree of incoming fire to that area, both indirect from mortars and close air support from helicopter gunships. From around the perimeter heavy machineguns hammered away, firing into the jungle or sending streams of green tracers up into the night.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:29, Thu 10 Jan 2013.

What if any activity is there between the shed we were in and the jungle outside the camp? That might be a good way to go... while it would be nice to pinch an air/raft there's a darn sight too much activity around there! No point nicking one just to get shot down.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 23):

The perimeter of the square camp was a double ring of chain-link fencing topped with coils of razor wire. This would be standard for a secured installation, a road wound between the fencing where patrols would move down the line, checking for breaches or intrusions. The four MG positions were on 1-story towers at each corner of the camp, giving them a good line of fire over the fence and into the 100m cleared space separating the fence line from the jungle. It was unclear if the fence was electrified or the cleared area was mined.

To the military personnel (Liisha and Ken, and to a degree Linus, Blake and even Neva( this arrangement seemed more typical of a prison camp or secure installation than a military combat base. A military base wouldn't have fencing or MG towers. The MGs would be in bunkers close to the ground and there would be rolls of barbed/razor wire surrounding them instead. This arrangement struck them as more protection against jungle wildlife (ground or air) or thieves sneaking in.

They were relatively near the rear gate (there was also a front gate). There was a guard shack and bunker there, and several personnel were returning fire to the jungle in that sector. The fences close to the MG towers and guard bunkers at the gates had holes blown in them from incoming rocket and mortar fire.


[]  = Building
H   = A/R pad/hangar
[s] = Shed
^   = MG tower
*   = Guard shack/bunker
=   = Double gate
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:52, Thu 10 Jan 2013.

Ken laughed at Neva as the two of them worked to build a shelter.  It paid off as the rocket hurled through the shed and they were all tumbled together.  He climbed up and helped batter the door in, fanning out once outside to evaluate the situation.

"This is quite an operation by the government.  This is planetary army stuff not just police."  He looked about, evaluating the situation.  "The government is out in those woods.  On foot they'd catch us and even if we got away we'd not last a day or two on without vehicles or supplies.  We need to brave the fire and make the air rafts.  the armory is nearby and we might be able to pinch a few weapons."

Ken checks to see that Lorain and Tali are ready with the wounded.  "Good show Lorain, Talia.  Keep the wounded in the center while we move quickly.  I hope the confusion and the lack of obvious weapons makes us look non threatening."

"This place is more of a prison than a military post.  The fences and towers are built to keep varmits and such out but not to repel a serious military force.  These people are free lances for sure." He starts to head toward the air rafts, keeping in the cover of buildings and shadows.  "Follow me.  We'll approach quietly and stay in the shadows."

Linus wasn't certain but decided that Ken probably knew more about small group actions than he did, so followed along.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 26):

Walker stuck with the group.

"We need our packs.  Guns are good, but the packs are more important.  I've eaten raw monkey before, I'd prefer not to, and we need to be able to eat, as much as we need to shoot things.  I have some survival gear in my pack."
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:34, Sun 13 Jan 2013.

Ken nodded to Thomas.  "Perhaps our vehicles are staged around or in the hangar as well as the air rafts.  Our gear might still be in the hover craft."

From where they were, it sounded like the centre of the camp was getting pounded pretty good. There was someone there that was returning fire using a heavy machinetun. A circling helo was hit by its green tracers and started to spin around, trailing fire and smoke as it spun into the jungle.

To get to the A/R pad and inner buildings, they'd have to traverse a cleared belt around a manned "inner perimeter" consisting of bunkers connected by a trench line (but no wire).

Looking at the situation, Lorain commented, "we have wounded. So the plan is to fight our way in there, grab our packs and an air/raft, then be away?"
This message was last updated by the GM at 05:31, Wed 16 Jan 2013.

Ken regarded the inner perimeter.  "Damn, bunkers and a trench line all manned it seems.  Even if we had weapons we'd not stand a chance in hell of making an assault across a cleared zone likely covered by machine guns." He considered their options.  "The easiest way would be to bluff our way through without fighting and then grab our gear and the air rafts.  We don't look like government types so we might be able to rush the inner perimeter with our wounded as though we are looking for refuge."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 30):

Liisha also regarded the inner area of the compound, more dubiously.

"You want me to have a look by myself? Might be an idea for 1 person to sneak in and get an Air/Raft, then pick folks up here. Otherwise, we gotta dodge all that incoming mail addressed to whom it may concern!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:25, Wed 16 Jan 2013.

Ken shook his head. "The inner defenses are far more intricate than I would have ever expected.  I don't think we have much chance of getting out into the jungle past the two sides fighting nor do we have much chance of staying alive in the jungle even if we manage it.  Unless someone has a better idea I think our best bet is to grab an air raft and get the hell out of here."  He looked to Liisha; "I have some skill in sneaking as well.  We can try our luck with what are in the buildings near us or just have one of us sneak in and try for an air raft.   Actually with the wounded we'll probably need two air rafts."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 32):

Peeking her head around the side of the shed, Lorain didn't like what she saw of the inner perimeter. "Oh man, I really don't like that! It looks like suicide to go in there."

In reply to Lorain Messandi (msg # 33):

Neva looked out and nodded.  "It's not a good situation but our situation in here isn't going to get any better.  Best not to think too much on it and just do it.  Want me to try and go?"

Neva wasn't sure if she had the right skill set to pull it off, but she did know the streets pretty good and getting out of one firefight versus a gang shooting, well perhaps four gang shootings with how many were there, did have some similarities.

Linus looked rather lost.

"This is outwith my experience. Just tell me what to do."

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 35):

"We run, zig, then zag.  Oh, and don't get hit, at all costs" Blake gives a grim smile to Linus as he readies himself.

"I'll make a point of that," said Linus, managing a weak smile in return.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 36):

Neva smiled as Blake explained.  "Don't forget to try and make yourself as small of a target as possible but not too small that it hinders your running."

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 38):

"So... we have Ken, Blake, Neva and myself going here? Okay."

She looked out towards the middle area. Mortars were still landing there, and the incoming fire from helicopters was intensifying. Something was burning, sending up billows of smoke into the flare-lit sky, and there were secondary explosions going off.

"Some of us will probably get hit doing this. It's going to be bad. If we're going to go, let's do it!"

Ken shook his head.  "I don't like it.  All the government fire is pointed right at the air raft hangar. Our vehicles are somewhere most likely.  Maybe we can find them in the other buildings and avoid charging the trenches."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 40):

They were located in a group of sheds and warehouses in the belt of semi-cleared forest midway between the inner compound and south gate. The prefab buildings (some quite large) were on wide plascrete pads raised about 30cm from the ground. Long shallow ramps led from in front of the warehouses to the dirt road. It reminded them a little of the pads, ramps and "taxiways" at the hoverport in Val Preszar.

Looking down the dirt road leading south, they could see the black of the lake's waters. The road seemed to lead straight into the water.

Ken examined the situation. "It looks like the bad guys use hover craft as well from the ramps in front of the building.  If we could find hovercraft in the buildings around here we could escape straight out south to the lake."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 42):

Indeed, searching the warehouses and sheds, they found one of the tomb robbers' own craft, a large passenger vehicle. There was not a lot of time to check, it seemed the survival locker had some supplies and weapons (carbine, shotgun).

The firing seemed to be concentrating on the centre area for now but it was clear time was running out.

Ken called to the others.  "This will have to do. Get aboard, lay low and let's crash the gate.  We'll flee back toward the coast.  Lorain, Talia get the wounded aboard.  Professor you help them.  The rest of you make a quick check of the warehouse to see if there is anything useful to take.  Lastly, who can drive this damn thing?"

"I can make a go at it if nobody else is good at driving," said Linus, scanning the area for anything worth grabbing.

Ken nods to Linus.  "Have at it Linus!  Go check the vehicle and get it started while we load the wounded and whatever else we might find." Ken moves to the locker on the vehicle, grabs the shotgun and readies it.  He tosses the rifle to Thomas.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 46):

Neva nodded.  "I'm ready to go too.  Want me to help move people or help defend with the guns."

Ken glanced at Neva.  "See what you can find quickly in the warehouse Neva.  You're fast and clever.  The rest can load up the wounded and get the hell out of here."

"Right..."

Linus went over to the vehicle, hopped in to the driver position and fired it up, getting a feel for its controls.

Even though they had searched the warehouse before and managed to scavage some things, Neva repeated her search.  Looking into the areas that she knew things could be hidden in plain sight and just not everybody would see.  It was possible, although she wasn't sure how probable, that they had too many eyes looking before.  Perhaps everybody thought the other person had covered that area whereas nobody really had.

She slunked down a little into herself, a common trick and habit of people from the streets, and started to search again.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 49):

The engines started with a roar and the skirts inflated with a whoosh. Talia and Lorain started to load people into the back of the GEV, along with whatever few bits of gear and tools were in the shed.

"All aboard!" called Linus, beginning to plot a route out of here that avoided the worst of the firing. He waited, ready to gun the engines once everyone was inside.

Ken paused a moment to make sure that everyone was aboard or heading that way.  "Neva!" he called out, "load'em up!" As the machine rose to life Ken moved over to the door and prepared to open it.

"Rush the gates Linus.  Everyone else stay down if you don't have a weapon.  If you are armed then fire ahead to help clear the way.  We get into the woods and strike away from the coast to break pursuit."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 53):

Before loading up, Neva found an advanced medical kit. Score!

"Got it!" said Linus. He looked round, picking a line straight towards the gate and getting ready to open the throttles wide.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 53):

Neva grinned and held up the medical kit for Ken and Linus to see as she started to load up everything.  "Found something...a med kit.  That was it I'm afraid.  We had pretty much found everything else earlier."  Neva, not having been given back a weapon yet, climbed in and helped get everybody else situated.

All on.  Let's make this happen."

"Hold tight and keep down!" called Linus, then rushing the gate as directed.

At least, he was hanging on, keeping down didn't work when you needed to see where you are going!

At Neva's cry of victory Ken gave her a thumbs up.  "Good work Neva!  We can use that."  Then Ken opened the door and then swung up into the cab as Linus gunned the craft out of the warehouse and around toward the gate.  He took whatever cover he could and watched with his gun for danger.  "Go! Go! Go!"

Glaring ahead, Linus gunned the GEV.

It lurched somewhat, as he fought the controls against the uneven terrain of a battle-torn compound, a bit different from nice smooth water. Hopefully the somewhat uneven progress would make it harder to shoot at!

Cursing under his breath, Linus pursued an erratic course towards the main gate.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 59):

At least the hovercraft didn't crash and burn. Linus had some difficulty navigating out of the hangar and onto the road. Then they started to make their way down the slight incline to the gate, slower than Linus would have liked!

Ken clung to the seat as the hovercraft lurched and swayed down the ramp.  He scanned the area ahead of them for enemies of either side as they headed toward the gate.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 61):

Neva tried to stay low and kept some of the others close by so she could help keep them in the vehicle also.  She then noticed that she had been holding her breath and had to concentrate on breathing normally in case they had to make a run for it on foot.

The hovercraft bounced back and forth down the trail, managing to not get hung up on a tree or bush but not really picking up speed even though they were on a downward slope. No one seemed to be firing at them, the gate guards were hunkered down in their bunkers and dugouts, attention focused to the front.

As they got to about 50m from the gate they could see the road narrowed somewhat between two log bunkers on either side that normally functioned as gate houses. A metal pole was lowered which might stop a ground vehicle, rolls of barbed wire were stretched across to stop foot intruders from penetrating the double-fencelines.

Ken examines the situation and then yells to the others.  "Gun it as fast as you can Linus and we'll break through the barrier.  We need to use our surprise to get out of here.  Everyone else duck down!"

"Right!" gasped Linus, aiming the GEV for the barrier and attempting to increase speed.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 65):

The roar of the GEV's engines increased in volume and pitch as Linus poured on the throttle. Their being on a slight downward slope helped some, too. It was a wide gate (not big enough for 2 GEV's to pass side-by-side, but two ground lorries could.

They almost made it scot free, but the right skirt clipped a concrete barrier and they bounced, spinning a little counter-clockwise, finally slamming into the gap and halting with a tremendous crash! Everyone who wasn't buckled in was jolted around. Thankfully, the mercs manning the gate area had no idea what was going on. A few looked up at them out the firing slits in disbelief.

After a few seconds, Linus got them straightened out and they rolled over the barricades and rolls of barbed wire. A couple men ran after them, yelling "hey, wait for us, dammit!" thinking it was some of their own trying to break out and escape.

"Sorry!" said Linus, who belatedly realised he'd forgotten to strap in and stayed in position mostly by hanging on to the controls. Once moving again, he accelerated away from the gate.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 67):

Walker hung on tight for the ride.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 67):

Neva was glad that she had made sure people were secure for Linus driving wasn't the best but then neither were their circumstances.  She continued to hang on as much as she could and let the others do the fighting.  She didn't want to be tossed out of the raft.  That would not be good.

Ken hang on for dear life as they crashed through the gates.  As they made it though he shook off the effects of the impact and grinned at Linus.  "Good work!  Let's get the hell out of here.  Head for the lake."  He looks back; "Loraine, Neva?  Is everyone ok in the back?  How are the wounded?"
This message was last edited by the player at 08:07, Tue 05 Feb 2013.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 70):

Neva turned her head and looked at her charges.  "I'll answer that after we get away.  It's not like this is a good place to stop and see to their needs.  Just try to keep us in the raft and don't tip us over and we'll deal with the rest later."

A couple autorifles opened up at them from the tree line off to the right, someone on the government side obviously saw them making a run for it. Bullets bounced off the Kevlar skirts and then rattled off the metal side of the passenger compartment. Everyone there hit the deck. No rockets or recoilless fire was directed at them.

The tough fabric must have been damaged by the rough run over the barricades and razor wire but was still holding up when they blew down the ramp. They hit the water with a tremendous splash and jolt. They were in a kind of shallow bay (perhaps a silted-over lake port) and needed to get through a narrow reach and around a headland to escape.

"We're mostly fine back here, I think!" replied Lorain.

As they skimmed over the water, those up front could see a clearly Mirayn (4-armed) figure running along the shore of the headland. He was waving wildly at them!

Linus spared the Miriyan a glance, seeing if he recognised him.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 73):

It was their guide, Stanley! He obviously recognised Linus and Ken through the front windshield, as he waved even harder. "Hey! Hey! Come pick me up!"

Linus will swing by to get him.

"Hurry up and jump aboard, Stanley - we're getting out of here!"

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 75):

They swung close to the shore, and Stanley waded out. He protected his face from the backwash with one hand, using the 3 others to climb up. "Thanks! The mercenaries, they just killed everyone else! It was horrible!"

Ken leaned over and helped Stanley climb aboard.  He growled at his news.  "Damn mercs, bastards.  They're getting theirs from the government forces.  I wonder how the hell they knew to attack this place.  Obviously we must have led them here somehow."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 77):

Stanley seemed to agree. "Makes sense. At camp site, was left for dead. Had short time to look for useful gear. Not much left. But found what looked like transmitter hidden in Harmon Jael's kit. Had taken bullet. Looked advanced, powerful. Was not able to see settings or take before mercs returned! Found nothing else, barely escaped with life. Followed them here, look for you."

He looked almost ashamed at surviving where his friends died, but with non-humans it was difficult to tell.

Harmon Jael hadn't survived the Merc's attack. So while this looked suspicious there was really no way to determine if he was some kind of mole.

Ken shook his head.  "The only reason for the transmitter would be to report on our position.  If he was working for the mercs then he should have survived their attack.  I'd guess he was government and was helping them stay on top of Loraine in case she struck it big."  He smiles.  "I'm glad you made it out alive Stanley."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 79):

Putting a hand on Ken's shoulder Stanley replied, "I am saddened at all of our friends killed by these bad, bad, men. But I am happy for having found you!"

The hovercraft skimmed out into the darkness of the lake. Behind them, the jungle swallowed up the red and orange glow of combat, save for the strings of tracers floating dreamily upwards.

Not more than a minute after leaving the headland, they could see the running lights of a helicopter running along the shoreline. A searchlight snapped on, it was obvious someone was looking for them, starting with the shoreline nearest the buried and drowned city.

Ken reached up and grasped Stanley's hand.  "I share your grief at the loss of good people of both races lost.  It seems that vengeance is being brought down upon them."  He points to the help;  "Now we need to get out of here.  I don't think we particularly want to be found by the government."

"I think it advisable not to be 'found' by either side right now," said Linus, steering away from the helicoper.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 83):

As the helicopter was over the lakeshore, they turned out over the lake, disappearing into the inky blackness. The scene of the battle became a reddish glow on the underside of the ever-present cloud layer.

Lorain looked shocked and withdrawn, as indeed did they all. In less than 24 hours she lost her expedition and some of her people, found her father, then captured by mercenaries and shot up by government forces. A lot to process!

"Well, where do we go from here? Not back to the camp. We can try for the river we came up and the native village we stayed in, but that's probably where the police came from. Back along the shore? Further along? Across the lake?"

Ken frowned as he considered their options.  "Let's head across the lake and let things settle down for a while."

"Right..." said Linus, and turned the GEV in that direction, heading out across the lake and away from the ruckus behind.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 86):

The GEV arced out over the lake, running south into the blackness. The closest part of the far shore was across a 20km reach, a distance they could cross in 10 minutes at 60 km/h.

Rain fell and the windshield wipers thumped back and forth. In a few minutes, Linus noticed the engines were heating up a little, but nothing serious. Hopefully.

As the sped along, Ken kept a watch out into the rain and darkness.

Linus slows down a little, watching the temperature gauge.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 89):

"Tomorrow we can go back and take a look for supplies.  We're not going to get very far without our kit, as those big-ass lizards proved."

"I don't know what you guys were carrying, but my bag would allow us to rough-it better than without it."

He pauses again.
"Besides, my tea's back there."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 90):

Lorain looked worried, "maybe we can use some supplies, but this vehicle has a good amount of onboard survival gear, including guns and food. We could always use more, of course.

"Do you think the army and police are going to go away? They aren't just arresting Messandi's men, they're taking over the site to loot it themselves."

Her father added, "speaking of Messandi, he's supposed to be coming, soon. He travels by ship, so he won't know his base is gone until he lands. And they don't land the supply ships at the camp, for security reasons. The landing zone is elsewhere."

Meanwhile, they were coming up on the far shore, they could either go left or right. Linus noted the engine temperature was still rising.

"Left or right, folks?" asked Linus. "And I'd like to pause soon and check the engine, it's running hotter than I would like."

In reply to GM (msg # 91):

"We have survival kit on board?"

Walker looks for the survival gear, to see what is on board this hovercraft.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 94):

"Let's see, this is one of the passenger hovercraft we bought for our expedition. Each had a dozen kits, if I recall. At least, I paid for them. I even checked before we left Val Preszar. There are floor storage compartments for survival gear and a weapons locker by the engine compartment."

In the floor storage compartments the craft had 9x TL7 commercial jungle survival kits remaining, complete and still in their packaging. The markings were in Anglic and the kits appeared to be manufactured on Mirayn.

Each had a rucksack packed with a filter canteen with water purification/salt tablets, tightly-rolled insect netting, nylon hammock, rain poncho, utility knife and machete in self-sharpening sheaths, 3 days rations (9x 400 calorie food bars, expired), magnetic compass (useless on Mirayn), flashlight (batteries dead but rechargeable), fishing lines/signal mirror/sewing kit/para-cord/solar blanket/1st Aid kit, waterproof matches and fire starter tablets.

Additional equipment included a hand-cranked battery charger and water purifier.

Looking at the rations and dead batteries, Jothan slumped back into self-loathing. "Expired. Hope they're safe to eat. I say, these swine really took me for a fool, and I let them."

The weapons locker held 3x semi-auto 18mm (12 ga.) shotguns, 2x 6mm carbines, 1x 7mm rifle, 1x 7mm auto-rifle and 6x 9mm (.38 cal.) revolvers. For ammunition were 79 shotgun shells, 13x 20-shot 6mm mags, 14x 20-shot 7mm mags and 100 9mm revolver rounds. All the longarms had slings and ammo bandoliers (with shotgun shell loops, 6x 6mm pouches or 4x 7mm pouches, depending on the weapon)  but the pistols lacked holsters or speed-loaders.

Ken took in the conversation.  "You're probably right, the government is just going to squat on that camp and loot what they can.  I'm all for getting off this mud ball myself.  If we knew where Kalamanu's landing site was we could ambush him and take his ship.  That would be a slick way to manage things."  He shrugged.  "I'm not sure where to even start looking though.  I say we head north along the path of the stone road and see if we can find anything else that might be worthy of salvage to pay for  a set of tickets off planet."

"OK, right it is," said Linus turning the GEV.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 97):

They continued running into the darkness.

As the headland grew as a large green blob in the navigational radar's scope, Linus pulled on the control yoke and the GEV curved to the right. The land showed up off their left beam. They continued that way for about an hour, but the engine temperature continued to rise.

Ken watched the temperature gauge with concern.  "Can you get us to the high ground on that island that shows up ahead of us Linus?  We can shut her down and see if we can fix whatever is wrong."

"OK, Ken... it's bothering me, too."

Linus headed for the island.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 100):

They began to head straight towards the island. The over-heated liquid-fuelled engine didn't seem to like this, and began to cough and sputter, losing power rapidly.

Ken looks around.  "Does anyone have any skill with engines like this?  Linus, throttle her back so we don't get stranded out in the middle of the lake."  He looks about.  "Is there any weight we can throw overboard to help out?"

Linus throttles back immediately.

"I'm not blessed with mechanical ability..." he muttered, nursing the engines along, trying to reach the island before they gave up the ghost entirely.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 103):

Neva shook her head.  "Not me.  I can't even drive things very well.  If I didn't walk I took public transportation."

Ken shakes his head as well.  "I just blow things up..."

"Carry on carefully then Linus."

"All right..." said Linus, sounding a bit worried. He aimed for the island, looking for a likely place to run the GEV ashore.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 106):

They were still a good 35km away when it became clear they weren't going to make the island. Fortunately, they were only about 2-3km from the southern lakeshore.

Ken sighed.  "These engines just won't make it.  Just bring us to the nearest shore Linus.  We don't want to get stuck out in the lake."

Linus muttered something under his breath. It was probably uncomplimentary to the engines, or at least whoever was responsible for maintaining them. He turned the control yoke and steered for the shore, keeping his eyes open for a good spot to bring the GEV ashore.

Neva did her own muttering but it was along the lines of "what else" and "it figures".  She tried to keep it down figuring that with the engines sounding like they did it might work.

Neva finally points to a spot along the southern lakeshore.  "Try for over in that direction."

"Thank you, Neva," said Linus, peering ahead.

Hovercraft were usually designed to float even without power to supply air to inflate the skirts, using floatation chambers. But they would be stranded in the rainy darkness. The engine started to sputter and cough as they drew close to the shore and Linus glided them in. When they nosed into the narrow strip of mud and sand on the lakeshore between the forest and the water's edge, the engine died and the skirts deflated.

It became very quiet as the roar of the motor died, leaving the quiet thump of the wipers. The skirts deflated and the GEV settled onto the narrow strip of sand. they could now hear rain pelting on the roof. Lights showed a forest edge only a few metres away from the bow.

Linus turned everything off, then hopped out to make sure that the GEV was safely ashore and in no danger of drifting off should a current catch it. He had ideas of either mooring it or tugging it completely out of the water.

"I don't mean to distract the people doing something about our problem, but I can walk a lot further than I can swim."

Neva had to agree with Thomas.  "Let's get what we can off of this and find some shelter or something.  DOn't trust it to stay in one piece and if it floats or whatever, they will be able to figure out which way we went."

Ken let out a sigh of relief as they reached the shore as the engine died.  He grabbed a rope and went outside to tie off the hovercraft so that it didn't drift off.  Returning back inside he wiped himself off and looked at the others.  "Let's get some sleep while it is raining and then see what can be done to the engine tomorrow."

They tied off the GEV as rain continued to fall.

The hovercraft was large enough that it wasn't going to move into the treeline or along the sand except under power. It could be floated and towed in the water from the beach using lines, except it seemed to be slowly sinking by the rear. Possibly a water-tight bulkhead or flotation chamber was damaged, but it would take examination to determine an exact cause.

In reply to GM (msg # 117):

"Best off sleeping in here, if there's room for all of us.  Dry means we don't have to spend time drying out in the morning."
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:09, Wed 06 Mar 2013.

"You folks settle down. I'm just going to take a look at the back end before turning in," said Linus, getting a light and going to see why the GEV was sagging a bit at the back.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 119):

The hovercraft had taken several small-calibre hits in the rear skirts (which were thankfully made of ballistic cloth), the hull and through the engine housing. Linus could hear water leaking into the flotation chambers through the bullet holes and he could smell something burning. The turbine itself was giving off an oily smoke and orange flames licked out of the cowling.

A bearded face peered up from behind the engine cowling. It was followed by a man in cloth armour, both hands raised.

"Hey, don't shoot me... I'm on your side... it's Jaxxon, remember me? The medic that helped you out? I had to get away from there so I hitched a ride. Ah, we better get off this thing, I think the engine's caught fire..."
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:16, Wed 06 Mar 2013.

"Don't be silly, Jaxxon, I'm not going to shoot you." Linus was more interested in the damage to the GEV anyway.

"Doesn't it have integral fire suppression?" asked Linus, rather surprised. He was too used to the Navy, where fire never got a chance to take hold. He looked around for a fire extinguisher, ready to let fly with some foam...

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 121):

It looked like the fire suppression system had taken a hit from a 7.62mm round. (Much larger than the Uzi Jaxxon had slung around his shoulder. Although Linus was able to put out the fire quickly enough, the engine looked like it was in pretty rough shape. The fuel and lubrication lines were perforated, had leaked and caught fire. (He didn't remember the fuel or oil pressure gauges dropping so perhaps there was some damage to those leads.

The medic put his hands down and looked around. "Man, thanks for not killing me. That Pylory dude is a psycho. So, now what? Where are we headed? That big island west of the city ruins is where the landing area for ships is located. It's to help conceal the location of the dig in the city and away from the natives, who are crazy and violent. Supplies are brought over to camp by hovercraft or air/raft." He seemed sincere and eager to help, offering the information freely.

"Best go talk to the others, Jaxxon. I've been too busy driving to pay much attention to the planning, but I think it was mostly of the 'get outta here' variety," said Linus, busy trying to make the best of things back here.

"Oh, okay." He looked dubiously at the engine, then started making his way forward.

"Hey! It's me, Jaxxon. The medic who treated you when that bastard Pylory brought you in? I, ah, kind of hitched a ride outta the Alamo back there. I can help you guys, a little, so please don't shoot me."

Ken started and brought his gun up as Jaxxon called out.  The steady patter of rain on the roof of the passenger compartment had masked the sounds of Linus dealing with the fire as well as talking to the medic.  He moved forward carefully and only lowered the gun when he recognized the man and that he was unarmed.

"Come on in Jaxxon, we remember you.  So you took the opportunity to get out of the camp with us, that's good but we're stranded until we can see what is wrong with the engine in the morning.  We can share what we have in the meantime but what do you think you can specifically do to help us get the hell out of here?"

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 100):

While they were beached and the others were looking at the engine, Walker looked at the weapons.

"Anybody object to my taking the 7mm rifle?" He asked as he picked it up and opened the mechanism, looking for rust, corrosion or any other imperfections in the weapon.

"I'll go through the rest to make sure they're serviceable, too."

Jaxxon surrendered his Uzi readily enough, but was at a little bit of a loss in trying to help. He scratched his beard, thinking.

"I don't think we can make it overland to Val Preszar. Boniface and the AP goons will be all over you!

"That island to the northwest, that's the LZ for the ship. Kalamenaru is due in next week. The ship usually keeps radio silence until after it lands to keep secret. We made rafts a lot to transport supplies from the island and along the coast, I could help you make one?"

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 126):

It was fortunate that Walker checked the weapons, as they were in poor repair. An even greater sin in a warm, moist environment. They would need cleaning to get rid of corrosion, even some rust.

Ken nodded to Thomas; "Definitely arm yourself with what works for you Thomas and if you can check the rest of the weapons that would be helpful."

He waved Jaxxon to keep his gun.  "Kalamenaru is due to land nearby?  Actually we'd tried to make it to that island before the engine went.  From the maps it appeared to be the highest ground around.  If we can get to the camp and surprise Kalamenaru before he learns about the raid on the camp we might be able to seize the ship and get off planet that way."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 129):

Neva walked over to Thomas and shook her head.  "Some people just don't know how to care for a weapon do they.  While the others build the raft if you want help in cleaning these to make them useable I can help."

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 130):

"Please."  Between the two of them he spread out the weapons, the ammo and the limited cleaning supplies.

"This is not going to be good."  He pronounced, while they cleaned the weapons.  "I want my Betsy back.  Bad enough to be stuck out in the ass-end of nowhere with no tea, and those bastards kept my Betsy." He looked down the barrel of the 7mm rifle, checking it, as he cleaned it.  "I've just added someone to my 'he needed killing your honor.' list, I just don't know who it is yet."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 131):

Neva sat down and started to help Thomas lay out and clean the weapons.  She nodded at Thomas when he said the "they needed to die to the judge" comment and then grinned.  "I can certainly understand that feeling.  Hopefully you won't have to stand before the judge and try to convince them...or if you do, he understands the feeling."

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 132):

"When you're a half mile away, it's hard to prove it was you."  He scrubbed at something on the receiver.  "You just need to make sure you leave no tracks."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 133):

Neva shook her head.  "Yes it makes a difference if you have the head start but you will always leave tracks.  Maybe not "tracks" per se but sooner or later they will find a way to track.  You just need to make sure you have a big enough head start."

Ken nodded to Thomas.  "We utilized snipers; they are a damn potent weapon in the right circumstances."  He looks to the others.  "I guess we'll want to rig rafts in the morning and get over to this island.  Jaxxon can help.  We can ambush Kalamenaru and try to seize the ship."

In the rear of the hover, it was clear the engine was shot. Probably seized up, from the looks at it. Fuel and oil had collected in the engine compartment and while he was able to put the fire out, acrid black smoke still billowed out into the rainy night sky.

To boot, water was leaking into the flotation compartments, and the craft was definitely sinking lower at the stern.

Bah! Oh, well, see to hauling it up a bit, even if the dratted GEV isn't going anywhere it can serve as shelter until we are ready to move on. Mutter, mutter.

Ken poked his head out into the rain.  "What's up with the engine Linus?"

"Kaput, I reckon. Shot up, lost lubricant, seized up," Linus called back.

"And there is damage to the floatation modules to the rear. Trying to stablise enough so that it won't sink under us if we use it for shelter for the night, but I don't think it's going anywhere soon."

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 139):

Right now, the beached GEV was about half on the sandy lakeshore. If it was left where it was, it would sink at the rear due to the underwater drop-off of about 2-3m, possibly flooding a little of the rear of the passenger compartment. They would either have to find a way to pull it further up onto the lakeshore (perhaps using ropes and the trees that almost came to the water's edge) or shove it into deeper water to hide it.

Linus's intention is to haul it ashore, using ropes around trees as necessary, to serve as a shelter for the time being. Once the decision is made to move out, it can be sunk if necessary.

Ken nods in agreement to Linus' plan.  He leans into the passenger compartment and calls to the others.  "The engine is shot for sure and the rear of the vehicle is sinking.  Let's all at least haul the thing up onto the beach for now so we have shelter.  Later we'll want to push it off into the water to cover our tracks."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 142):

Neva looked up as Ken poked his head in.  "Just give us time to finish assembling the weapon we're on so we don't lose parts.  It didn't take too long to assemble.  She could have done it almost in her sleep.  She'd have to clean it better once they were more secure but that was ok.  It was helping and it was something she could do.

Tying a rope off to the GEV, Linus took a light and headed off to find a strong tree to wrap it around pulley-style to haul the vessel further ashore.

Ken smiled and nodded at Neva.  "Grab a rain cloak as well and boots for the mud when you come Neva."  He looks over at Lorain.  "How are you handling things Lorain?  Are you ok with us trying to jump Kalamaru's landing site?"

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 143):

Walker finished about the same time that Neva did.  This wasn't his best firearm, but it was the one he had.

"Yeah, I'll come help"

He hopped out of the vehicle, his hat and clothes getting a bit wet in the rain.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 146):

Neva had finished securing the weapons that she had to work on and went to grab a slicker and Boots.  After getting them on she followed Thomas out to see how she could help.

Ken works with the others to pull the vehicle up out of the deeper water.

The weapons were cleaned and reassembled. With some effort and organisation, they began to haul the hovercraft up onto the narrow lakeshore.

As a moment passed with no reply, Ken realised that Lorain wasn't there. Suddenly, from about 5-10m inside the forest, came the crack of a revolver being fired rapidly! Everyone around and inside the GEV dove for their weapons. The dark forest seemed alive with naked 4-armed figures, either rushing at them waving war clubs and spears or throwing spears!

OOC: All the weapons are readied. You can decide where you are. Thomas has the 7mm rifle (a version of the ancient FN FAL). No one else specified what they were armed with, so you must take a turn to grab a weapon (first come first serve) and ammunition from inside the hovercraft.

Range is Short (1-5m), darkness is not a factor at that range. There are at least a dozen attackers.

I'm armed with a rope that I'm in the middle of wrapping around a tree! At the sound of shots - how near to my tree? - I look around. If I can see Lorain or figure out the direction she's in I drop my rope and head on over there...

In reply to GM (msg # 149):

Neva heard the commotion and grabbed the 7mm auto rifle and 2 mags for it.  She could be heard mumbling something about never getting time to finish up a project but she kept it low so hopefully nobody else heard as she prepared to fire.

Ken curses as he hears Lorain cry out along with the gunfire.  He racks his shotgun and fires at the nearest attacker.  As he shoots he he yells out.  "Fall back on the hover craft!  Thomas you take them on the left!"
This message was last edited by the player at 04:08, Tue 19 Mar 2013.

In the darkness, Linus would have to charge off into the woods to find Lorain. And he wasn't even sure where she'd gone!

Pulling the trigger, Neva fired long ripping bursts from the "RPK" autorifle into the charging attackers. Ken fired his shotgun, while Blake joined in with an "AR-18" carbine and Thomas with his "FN" rifle. The half-dozen charging attackers were stopped in their tracks by the wall of lead. Neva's burst raked back and forth and several fell, Ken's shot tore a gaping hole in the torso of the tribal who was trying to split his skull with a cudgel. Old memories of combat washed over him as his attacker tumbled at his feet. Each of the ones targeted by Blake and Thomas toppled over under their fire, dropping their wicked Assegi-style throwing/stabbing spears. All the chargers were down.

Even though the wave of attackers was stopped cold at the forest's edge, thrown spears flashed out of the darkness. One thumped off the hull below where Neva was firing out the GEV's roof hatch, another whizzed by Ken. Linus wasn't as lucky, he caught a spear in his thigh. The tough ballistic fibre of his cloth armour was excellent protection vs. bullets but it wasn't enough to stop a spear point.

OOC: Linus takes 7 Damage to his STR. Neva fired 4 rounds, Ken, Blake and Thomas all fired one. You can also "panic fire" to increase the chance of hitting and damage, at the cost of emptying your magazine. Also, I'm not using group hits for shotguns as they don't work that way.

Ken glanced over at Linus as he was injured.  He saw that with the initial rush of the attackers down they had a chance to defeat the assault if they could act quickly.  "Keep firing, keep firing, get the ones in the trees!"  He moved forward and fired his shotgun again.

OOC: Can we see the attackers in the trees?

"Lorain's out there!" screamed Linus and staggered off in the direction that he thought she was, more concerned about her wellbeing than his own.

Neva didn't bother to answer Ken for she was concentrating on taking down as much of the enemy as she could.  She also made sure that her clips were handy so that loading time would be at a minimum if she needed to do that.  Neva did allow herself a small smile when she saw that she had taken some out but it quickly disappeared when Linus got hurt.

Ken advanced toward the trees to clear his shot at the natives throwing spears.  He had no desire to kill Lorain or Liisha.

They fired into the dark jungle, branches and leaves pattered down. The natives seemed to be withdrawing in the night, disappearing into the underbrush. As such, it was difficult to tell if there were any hits.


GM's Note: Neva -4 more rounds, Ken -1 round.

Calling Lorain's name loudly, Linus blundered through the undergrowth after the retreating natives... he's thinking they might have gone off with her, and That Will Not Do!

Ken hears Linus calling for Loraine as he heads off into the brush.  He calls out.  "They're retreating and have Loraine and Liisha.  Talia get out and help Linus; he took a spear in the leg!"  Ken fishes for a flashlight and blade.  "Thomas, Neva, we need to pursue as best we can in the dark."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 160):

Neva swore at Linus as he took off.  "Frak.  Doesn't he idiot know that more than just sentients will be after him if they smell that blood he's leaking from the spear?"

Neva would have to admit that Linus moved pretty good for a man with a spear in his leg if anybody asked and she hoped they wouldn't.  She picked up her weapon and a spare and made sure she was reloaded and extra clips and nodded to Ken as she picked up a light to use.  "I'm ready."

She thought to herself that she hoped it wouldn't become a habit to always turn this into a rescue mission.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:12, Wed 27 Mar 2013.

Ken nodded to Neva.  "I thought the marines were the crazy ones.  The navy are better known for hanging out in bars." Holding his flashlight to the side to make him less of a target but keeping it off for now, he advances forward after Linus and Loraine.

It became obvious that Lorain and Liisha were missing. Rifle in hand, Thomas investigated where they'd been and decided they'd been interrupted during a latrine break, so to speak.

"There are two dead Mirayns here. Just bad luck, even with Liisha for protection there must have been too many."

Noticing that Linus was injured, Thomas performed first aid on him as Blake covered them.

Ken cursed in frustration.  "We need to rescue them damn it.  What do you recommend we do Thomas?  I can plan an assault but you've got the hunting experience.  I'm not excited about tracing them in the dark but I hate to leave them to the mercies of the locals."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 164):

Pointing his flashlight at the jungle floor, Thomas looked around carefully.

"I can track them, no sweat. The rain won't help, but I can track by flashlight if they have prisoners."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 165):

The Mirayn came up behind them, brandishing a revolver in one hand, a machete in the other, and a flashlight in the third. "Most of attackers are still alive, but will bleed out. Will end their misery, yes?"

Ken glanced at Thomas.  "If you can track by flashlight then we should pursue right away." As Stanley approached Ken shook his head.  "Can you interrogate them Stanley and find out why they raided us and where they may be taking our comrades?  Otherwise we have no capability to handle prisoners."

"Yes," said Linus, struggling to his feet. "We must be after them at once. Poor Lorain!"

Thomas finished up with Linus. At this point, he was treating some minor facial lacerations and contusions gained while charging through the jungle. "Huh. Ol' "Hawkeye" here seemed to be able to follow them easy enough, I believe he would have caught up to them if I hadn't hauled him back!"

He picked up his rifle and started checking for the natives' trail. "I think I got it."

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 169):

Looking down at the bodies of the felled natives, Stanley looked back to Ken.

"They are all unconscious. Some will bleed to death, maybe one or two will revive. As a warning, I have little medical knowledge.

"They attacked because the tribes this deep in the Outback are primitive, violent. I heard stories these feral tribes practice sacrifice. To whom, I cannot say."

He tried for a few minutes to revive the dying natives. Two of them groaned, and they needed to be held down as they struggled. "Is no bloody use. I am sure they understand, but will not talk to me." Stanley readied his machete but still, they refused to answer.

Ken shook his head at the necessity of it.  "Finish them off then Stanley, they will only try to kill us if we survive." As the native ally explains the situation in the outback Ken frowned.  "Sacrifice huh?  Most likely that is why they took prisoners.  Damn!  We need to catch them before they do something crazy."  He looks about.  "Pack food, supplies and ammo.  We may end up a ways from the hovercraft."

While Linus is tended to, Ken grabs a rifle, pistol and ammo as well as a pack with food, water and survival gear.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 171):

Walker shrugs.  He says nothing and picks up a survival pack and all the ammo for his rifle.

When he's ready, he stands ready to leave.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 172):

Not wanting to waste time and distasteful of slaughtering the tribals with a machete, Stanley drew his revolver.

There were six loud cracks as he shot the wounded Mirays where they lay.  He ejected the spent shells and reloaded it with fresh cartridges.

"It's done. Yes, let's go."

When the group is ready, Ken heads out with Thomas to track the kidnappers.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 174):

Neva had been waiting for the guys to finish and get started and she too followed Thomas, her weapons at the ready.

As she was caring for Juan and Ross, it took Talia a few minutes to show up. She looked at the bodies of the dead natives without comment.

"Excuse me for saying, we have wounded that can't move on their own right now. Do you want us to wait here at the hovercraft? Or try and carry them along with us? Build some rafts and meet you further up the lakeshore towards the island? And who's going?"

In reply to Dr. Talia McKenzie (msg # 176):

"Speaking for myself, I would just slow down the rescue party. I'll stay here and help build rafts. Our new friend, Jaxxon, seems to have some skill with that."

In reply to Professor Jothan Messandi (msg # 177):

Jaxxon nodded. "Yeah, I'll be happy to do that. Or else come with you to help rescue Liisha and Lorain."

Ken considers; "Talia, stay with the wounded and let's get rafts built.  Jaxxon, can you stay and help with the rafts and guarding against attack?"

"Come on, come on... they're getting away!" said Linus, impatient to be off after Lorain.

In reply to Linus Spruance (msg # 180):

Walker nodded, and took the lead, following the trail left by the others.

Ken shrugged and followed Thomas as he let the hunter lead the party along the trail.  Using his skill in small unit tactics he remained alert as best he could in the dark and rain.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 182):

Neva allowed herself a small smile as the two guys started out.  They were different and yet the same and it was interesting to watch them.  She took up her position as followed, keeping an eye out for any attackers.

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 183):

"Hey, wait for me!" Blake reloaded his carbine as he forged into the jungle after his companions.

In reply to Blake Renfield (msg # 184):

As they were leaving, Stanley caught up to them. "I should accompany you, yes?" The group moved through the jungle. Thomas in the lead, following the fairly clear trail, then Linus, Ken, Neva, Blake and Stanley. The rain continued to fall, then tapered off.

After 2 hours of tracking through the jungle, it was obvious that the native war party had travelled in a relatively straight line to the SW. They were apparently heading towards some forest-covered hills that rose out of the jungle floor. Their destination was marked by the glow of several bonfires, filtering through the trees and vines. They were about 200m from the site of the fires, which appeared to be on a slight plateau jutting from the near side of a small but steep-sided mountain.

Ken waved at Blake to catch up and then nodded to Stanely.  "Absolutely come with us Stanley."  As they neared the camp fires Ken looked about.  "Perhaps we could approach from the mountain side to give us better cover and a better view of things."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 186):

"Look from above? Good idea. I do not know the route, so I will be content to follow Thomas."

In reply to Stanley (msg # 187):

Walker nodded, then mouthed "Talk too much.  Sentries."

Ken nods and points toward the overlooking heights.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 188):

Neva nodded to Thomas as she looked to were the sentries probably were.

Silently, the group circled around to the south, to start climbing the side of the mountain to the west for a better vantage point.

They were about halfway there when a hue and cry was raised from the site of the sacrifice.

In reply to GM (msg # 191):

Stanley stopped and listened at the hubbub. It seemed to be drawing closer

"They are excited about something... the prisoners have escaped! They are heading this way!"

They were about 100m away from what sounded like many of the natives, who were indeed closing on their position. The group was on a slight rise overlooking a clearing. There were tree trunks around and other cover around them.

Ken looks about and examines the tactical situation.  "Take cover and we'll ambush the pursuers."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 193):

This was a relatively good spot for an ambush. One side of the clearing at the foot of the rise was bounded by a creek, and it became apparent a trail led alongside the stream.

The rise itself seemed to be the some kind of mostly-buried ruin, possibly from the Raynirjik era. There was a little cover in the form of fallen trees and tumbled stone blocks. From there they could form an "ambush line" and hit anyone coming along the trail from the side at about 15m range.

In reply to GM (msg # 194):

Neva found her position and soon was ready lay down fire to aid the escapees.

In reply to GM (msg # 194):

Walker said nothing, but found a stable place to shoot from.  He sorted out his priorities.

First choice target was anyone too close to the escapees.
Second choice target was anyone ready to fire a ranged weapon at the escapees.
Third choice target was anyone with a ranged weapon.

Ken arranged the others to set up a line ambush parallel to the trail.  He put the automatic or semi automatic weapons near the center to sweep up and down the trail while the single shot weapons were on the flanks.

OOC: Do we have the refugee from the camp who showed up to join us?  He had an SMG IIRC.

They set up a "hasty ambush" line parallel to the trail: Thomas, Ken, Neva in the middle, Linus and then Stanley. Jaxxon was left back at the wrecked GEV, helping with the wounded and to construct a raft.

Within a minute, a woman came out of the jungle, running down the path. Due to the lack of light all they could tell was it was a human, not a native. There was only one person. They could also hear several pursuers in hot pursuit, but not yet in view.

Linus took a chance, and hissed "Lorain?"

Ken flicked a flashlight on and off quickly to provide the woman with some guidance on where to run but not shine down the path.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 200):

Instantly, without replying Lorrain changed course and sprinted up the hill towards the light, or at least tried to. It was clear she was at the ragged edge of her endurance. The rise was covered in tall grass and low bushes, so she struggled up, starting to flag halfway. It was very uncertain she'd make it all the way up without some help.

Neva prepared to lay down fire to cover Lorraine's escape.

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 202):

It was clear if they opened up before she made it up the rise, Lorain would be directly in the line of fire.

Ken sprinted forward quickly to assist Lorain to cover.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 204):

Neva kept her eyes on her targets and patiently waited for Lorraine and Ken to get out of her line of fire.  She concentrated on her breathing so as not to get over excited and it affect her shot.

Ken moved forward quickly down the slope despite the darkness and uneven terrain.  He reached Lorain and grasped her around the waist, half carrying her as he headed up the slope with her.  "Come on Lorain, we've got you.  Are you ok?  Where are the others?"

Perhaps it was the combination of carrying the exhausted woman or the darkness but he stumbled and staggered getting her up to cover, the delay perhaps proving fatal as the natives came in sight.

Close to collapse, Lorain gasped, "it was... just Liisha... and I. She's... I don't know. Back. There."

"We're not gonna make it..."

She looked back, clutching Ken as he helped her along. It was clear that they wouldn't make the cover at the top of the rise. The angry tribals were going to come into view at any moment.


GM Note: As Ken and Lorrain are in the line of fire, you are best firing single aimed shots (regular fire). Range is 50m, the targets have no armour.

You can also use "panic fire", basically a rapid fire "mad minute" per Mercenary. This would empty your weapon's entire magazine. Single shot weapons would make 3 attacks, the autorifle would make 5 attacks. All attacks are at a DM of -2. If those on the firing line use rapid fire there is a chance of hitting Ken/Lorrain in the crossfire.

If Ken wants to fire, then he'll have to draw his weapon at an additional DM.

Linus rushed out to help Lorain and Ken.

Ken pulled Lorain down to the ground as they natives came into view.  "Get down Lorain!  They are about to fire over our heads!"  As Linus came to help them he waved him back.  "Stay in cover and fire at the natives Linus.  Keep them off us while we crawl to cover!"

Hitting the ground next to Lorain, Ken pushed her forward at a crawl to move as quickly as could be up the slope.

[Edited]
This message was last edited by the player at 00:18, Thu 25 Apr 2013.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 209):

Neva let her gun speak for her answer to Ken's statement.  She was careful not to do a burst because if she had to reload in the middle of an onslaught it...well it just wouldn't be good.

She chose for her first target one of them that was closer to Ken and Lorraine.  She had been siting him up for a bit since Ken, in his wisdom of rushing out to help, went into her line of sight but now she had a better shot and she took it.

A dozen tribals carrying clubs and spears charged into the clearing.

Spotting the two, then three figures on the hill to their left, they turned and started charging up the hill.

In reply to GM (msg # 211):

"Goddamn! Get the fuck down!"

It was too late, he had to take his shot. As there were friendlies in the line of fire, he couldn't just blast away but instead had to take a carefully aimed single shot to avoid hitting Linus, Ken and Lorain.

His target went down, but there were just too many of them!

03:06, Tue 23 Apr 2013: GM, on behalf of Thomas Walker, rolled 12 using 2d6+4 ((5,3)).

03:07, Tue 23 Apr 2013: GM, on behalf of Thomas Walker, rolled 9 using 3d6 ((2,3,4)).

This message was last edited by the GM at 21:18, Wed 24 Apr 2013.

Stanely fired his shotgun, again, trying to avoid hitting friendlies...

The tribal he shot flopped backwards as he ran into the buckshot charge.

First, Thomas and Stanley fired, dropping their targets of the dozen or so attackers. With Ken and Lorain ducked down out of the line of fire, Neva unleashed a stream of bullets at the group charging them. The lead scythed into them, leaving only 1 standing. The rest went down in a spray of blood and carnage, some thrashing around, others lying still.

The last tribal screeched to a halt, comprehending that the blinding flashes and deafening thunder somehow was responsible for the carnage around him. He threw away his spear, turned tail and sprinted back down the hill.

In reply to GM (msg # 214):

Walker shoulders his weapon and tracks, but refrains from firing on the remaining tribal.

"Don't need him bringing back his friends, but I killed enough for today," he said, frowning.

Ken rises to his feet and pulls Loraine up as well.  He looks her over quickly.  "Are you alright Loraine?  How about Liisha?  We're not leaving her behind but with the natives stirred up it's going to be tough."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 216):

Letting Ken help her up, Lorain sobbed, "my God... she was so brave... she made her move when they were tying us on the altar... then we started to run... spears were landing all around us... I think one got her in the leg. She told me to get going, leave her... and God help me, I did. I think she gave her life to free me, to let me escape."

Most of the attackers weren't dead, some were still conscious.

Drawing his machete, Stanley hissed, "these savages deserve to die. They attack from the shadows and sacrifice their victims, the ones that they catch. My people have no love for them." He started to kill those who were still moving, using swift strokes from the heavy-bladed weapon. Mirayn blood sprayed into the night, spattering the long grasses of the rise as he dispatched them.

In reply to Stanley (msg # 218):

Walker frowns on hearing that the indigs practices ritual sacrifice of sentient beings.

"Maybe we still have a shot at saving her."

Ken supported Lorain as she stood and gave a sobbing rendition of her story.  His arm remained around her in a supportive and protective fashion.  He glanced back toward the camp.  "We were lucky to get this batch by surprise and in ambush.  We'll not be so fortunate again."  He shook his head.  "Still, I'd not leave a comrade behind to be tortured and slaughtered.  We need to move to a place where we can at least see what is going on in the camp.  If Liisha is still alive then we need to help her."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 220):

"Let's find something closer."

"Right. Yes. Nobody left behind..." Linus started to move.

Ken handed a pistol to Lorain.  "Here, this will give you something with which to defend yourself.  Can you follow us  We're going to check on Liisha."  Looking about he will lead the team toward a vantage point closer to the camp.  Ideally they will head away from the site of the ambush.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 223):

Finished his grisly work, Stanley cleaned and holstered his machete. He pushed another shell into the loading port on his shotgun to reload it, then pumped it.

"Yes.... Liisha should be near altar site at the foot of the mountain. We are not going there straight, but circling around. Maybe go up on mountain first to have look?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:58, Sun 28 Apr 2013.

Ken nodded. "That is exactly my thought Stanley."  He heads toward the foot of the mountain.

Lorain accepted the revolver. "Thanks. But if we take the long way, then if Liisha is still alive, we may be too late!"

Ken considered the options.  It wouldn't do to have them all killed but his marine training made him loath to leave a comrade behind.  It took only a moment.  "Head in a more direct route Stanley.  We need to get to her in time.  Still, we'll circle around on the high ground."

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 227):

As Ken and the others talked, Neva just made sure that her weapon was fully loaded and she still had her extra clips for it with her.

In reply to Neva Alexovna Morozova (msg # 228):

Walker led, with Stanley.

In reply to Thomas Walker (msg # 229):

As they moved through the swamp, Stanley nodded at Thomas.

"I am glad you are with me, friend Thomas. I see you are skilled in the way of the forest. Let us see if we can help your friend, if she is alive."

In reply to Stanley (msg # 230):

"We'll make sure we get your friends, too."

Walker slid into the woods, silently.

Ken followed alert and ready.  He lingered near Lorain to make sure she was handling things ok.

In reply to Ken Jenkins (msg # 232):

Having reloaded, Neva followed, keeping back far enough from Stanley and Thomas so as not to give them away.  She figured if she'd stay between them and Ken she'd be in a good position and hopefully would have as good as luck with this group as the last time she used the gun.