The two helicopters fly over Las Vegas; fires on the ground emit smoke into the air, making it hard to get a good look at some areas. But several large crowds of crazies can be seen and the door gunners fire their machineguns into them. The helicopters stop twice at the top of buildings to pick up two small groups of people.

As the helicopters approach an airfield several other jets and helicopters can be can be seen flying in the air.

The helicopters land a few hundred feet from a row of hungers. Nearby is a pair of large white tents with people being led through them. The USAF aircrew point to several other USAF personnel (also in chem bio gear) on the ground near the end of the line leading into the tents.

Once everybody is off the helicopters and safely away from them they take off. One of the USAF personnel on the ground greets everyone with a bullhorn. There are ten others who are armed with assault rifles, and about six others who look like medical personnel.

“Welcome to Nellis Air Force Base, as a precaution everybody is going to have to go through decontamination. We have several stations set up. The first is a weapons drop off area.” The man on the bullhorn points to several barrels. “If you have any firearms, or any type of weapon they need to be placed in these barrels. If you wish you can write your name on a tag and attach it to the weapon and you may at some point get it back.”

What the hell was happening man TAB just had spent the whole ride in the chopper trying to get a grasp of the images that were flashing through his mind of the better half of his day.  From waking up getting the call that he got the job for the choreography on the up coming t.v. show.  To fueling up his motor bike at a gas station and watching someone get wrecked by some totally loonie person who bite into the dudes neck.
  TAB had spent the better part of the day running his ass off ducking and dodging these crazy ass psycho's.  Freak he had fought a couple and they just would not stay down.  Gripping his hat tight the words of the guy barely reach his ears, not till a uniformed individual gives him a nudge pointing the direction of the line up that TAB even kinda comes to.
  Walking over to station, TAB grabs a piece a paper and elastic band if available, writes his name/phone number on the paper and then secures his knife and leather man together with the elastic band with the note wrapped around them both.  Dropping it in the barrel he moves on thinking that he most likely won't get those back and proceeds to the next station that the soldiers are directing them to.

J.P. watched as they came into land at the air-force base. He could not help but breath a sigh of relief when he saw all those people and the military machine in action. J.P was starting to think that they were on their own and everything had gone to hell in a hand basket and somehow it was going to be up to them to get out of the city. When that looked to be impossible he thought all was lost, especially when he got hurt.

He got off the helicopter like everyone else and made his way into the reception centre. Taking out his handgun he wrote his name on the piece of paper and placed the gun it in the barrel. He moved off then remembered the steak knife from his hotel room and he put them in the barrel as well. When the chance arose he would inform someone of his ribs and hopefully get them looked at.

Annabelle got off the helicopter once it landed and help the others out if they needed it. She stood and listened to the announcement from the solider with the bullhorn and she was not to happy with the content. Her handgun had cost a lot for a bicycle courier wage and it was he biggest asset apart from the bike she had just left behind. She looked over to Laney and then back to the soldier as they started to move forward to be processed.

As she watched the others from her group she realised it was probably enviable that she would have to give up her hand gun so she removed the magazine and cartridge from the chamber and took the laser/light combo from under the barrel, placing them in her butt bag. Once at the barrel she filled out the tag like everyone else and placed her weapon in the barrel.

James takes his handgun as he nears the barrel and places the weapon in it after reading his name on the tag

A sense of relief flooded Laney. She had managed to shepherd the group to safety, all the way from almost at Caesar's Palace. Her partner, Maria Delores was alive, as well as Ace (Jonathan), a guest at the hotel. The helo pilot and photojournalist, James, plus the courier, Annabelle, had joined them a little later but they wouldn't have made it without them. Juan, Jose and their family were safe as well, although a few others hadn't survived.

Still, she'd done the best she could and sometimes luck or fate had gone against them. But as a Paramedic losing someone under her care due to circumstances beyond control was just another day at the office.

Laney made sure that Jose was getting medical attention. He'd been attacked and almost killed, she wanted to make certain he was going to pull through. She informed the medical personnel what his injuries and prognosis was. "Juan, take care of your son, you hear? You're gonna be all right now."

"Ace, Maria Delores, James, Annabelle... let's try to keep sticking together in here. I know most of us are strangers, but a lot of shit has happened and in a way we're all each other's got. We know we can rely on each other, and even if we're not fighting for our lives anymore there's gonna be a lot of other stuff to work through and it helps to have someone you can trust by your side."

It was understandable that they would be disarmed; military bases had a policy of no civilian weapons. Giving up the Glock hurt; it belonged to her late husband, Greg, and not only had it saved her life and others it therefore had sentimental value. But she didn't feel she should try to get around the rules or otherwise try to sneak the pistol in so she pulled it from her Paramedic bag, tagged it, and let it go.

She indicated the bag to one of the medical personnel, "I'm a registered Paramedic with the city, I work... worked for MedicWest. May I keep the bag? There are some sharps inside for medical purposes, but I am a professional medical worker."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:22, Wed 17 Feb 2016.

From the direction of one of the entrances of the base, a very travel-worn woman sat on the passenger seat of a jeep heading for the weapon dropoff point. Once there, she got off the jeep, dragging her feet a little and more than a little sunburnt in the Vegas sun, but nevertheless making her way to the dropoff point on the strength of her own two feet.

[Private to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael; Maria Delores Hernandez: Looking more than a little dehydrated.]

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 7):

While awaiting an answer, Laney noted the woman stumbling from the Humvee transport. She looked like she was suffering at least mild sunstroke and dehydration. Digging a  1L water bottle from her bag, she opened it and offered it to the woman. "Here you go. Don't drink too fast!

"Maria Delores, would you mind checking her out for heat stroke? Might be a while before we get to triage."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:30, Wed 17 Feb 2016.

TAB watched the process as the passengers from a helicopter that landed shortly after his turned in their weapons and made their way to the next staging area.  A bald African american women caught his attention.  Not so much for her looks, she was attractive but it was more that she had gave someone water.  Realizing he had not had any all day and he was not sure when he would be getting any water soon.  Well now was not the time to be shy, moving to Lakeisha he taps her on the shoulder.

"Excuse me miss, my name is TAB.  This probably seems a might on the bold side but I was wondering if you might have another bottle of water.  Hell if it was empty that would be fine, I was running all morning from those things.  And I mean like actually running and well what you see is what yeah get.  Sorry miss here I go running my mouth again, I do not really have anything in exchange other then if you don't have a phone on you I could lend you mine."

TAB had a bit of an issue articulating what he wanted to say, but he figured it was mostly stress related.  He was not going to be surprised if she said no, the way things were going not a lot of people were going to be very trusting.  I mean hell people were eating people.

In reply to Tiberus Asimov Blackiron (msg # 9):

The striking black woman was dressed as a local paramedic (khaki shirt, black pants, reflective vest, paramedic bag slung over her shoulder). She turned and smiled at him, caring but obviously tired. "Sure thing, honey. Uh... all I got's this. Hope it's all right?"

Instead of a plastic water bottle, she held up a knapsack. A drinking tube for the camelbak hydration system inside protruded from the top. Uncapping it, she offered it to him. "I'm Laney, my partner's Maria Delores. Pleased to meetch'a. Sorry I don't have any more, we're in the same boat as everyone else here. Evacuated from the city."

As people surrender their weapons those that obviously need or are seeking medical attention are attended to. These USAF medics are not in full MOPP gear and are only wearing surgical masks. Behind them stand four military personnel of a different type who are also in full MOPP gear. Unlike the USAF personnel these guys are wearing traditional gas masks with only a pair of eye holes to look out of. Their rifles are also longer than the M-4’s that the USAF personnel are carrying. What gives them away as U.S. Marines are the desert MARPAT covers on their helmets

Juan’s son, Jose is placed on a gurney where his vital signs are checked. The USAF medic reads off the boy’s vitals, while another announces “He’s not bitten, just has multiple bruises and probably a concussion.” The USAF medic then looks to Juan and his wife, Martha. “Your son is going to be ok. Our people are going to take him through decontamination and then to the base hospital where he can be treated. One of you can stay with him.” Martha elects to stay with her son. The two are led further ahead in the line.

Another USAF medic checks out Jonathan’s ribs after asking him to take off his shirt. “Yeah you’ve got some heavy bruising and at least two broken ribs. Once you get through decontamination we’ll get them wrapped up. OK?”



The medic shakes his head. “No ma’am you can’t keep the bag. We can make use of whatever’s left inside here.”

---

Everyone else is asked a single question before moving on: “Were you bitten by an infected person?”

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 11):

Raising an eyebrow, Laney looked hard at him.

"I'm sorry? You need these things? I still need these things. I'm still a paramedic, that hasn't changed, and I work for the people of Las Vegas and not the US Air Force. You may have signed up, I haven't. And the Air Force doesn't have the right to take my or anyone's private property without permission. Some of this belongs to the city, some of it's my personal possessions.

"Some officer just isn't thinking straight here. If this whole thing is a short term problem we're going through now then the law still applies. If it's not, then you all need to think harder about how you're going to handle American citizens and their property. We're still citizens, you know, we're not prisoners.

"Look, all of us civvies are tired, thirsty, beat up and heavily traumatised. Taking our stuff because you want it isn't going to do anyone any favours. So please, let's talk with your superior.

"Or better yet, a Civil Affairs Officer? Ya'all better have one, you're gonna be dealing with a lot of civilians, and I can tell you you don't want to get off on the wrong foot."

She knew this order couldn't be lawful. There was no grounds for the military seizing the private property of American citizens, even if there was some kind of perceived need. Giving up weapons was a safety issue, she understood that, but it was ludicrous to think one lousy paramedic bag was going to make a difference with all the supplies they'd already have stockpiled.

No, this was just some REMF (a "Rear Echelon Mother Fucker" as her daddy would say) panicking and making shit up as they went along. Such spur of-the-moment decision could therefore be reversed, if she could convince whoever made it this would be in their best interests.


02:12, Today: Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael rolled 17 using 1d100 with rolls of 17.  Charm/Impress.

This message was last edited by the player at 21:47, Wed 17 Feb 2016.

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 10):

Taking a quick drink, not wanting to deplete Laney's water resources TAB hands the drinking straw back with a quick wipe of the end.

"Thanks I really appreciate it, if there is anything I can do to help you in return later let me know.  I am sure we wont be going anywhere soon until they tell us what the hell is going on."

Giving Laney and Maria a polite nod he moves onto one of the people doing the inspections of the arrivals and submits himself for inspection answering the question that no he had not been bitten and that his injuries were superficial.

"You guys don't have any water kicking around do you, I mean I can grab and hand it out, some of these people look pretty thirsty."

Again TAB was just flapping his gums the situation even though safer then the streets was pretty tense.  Looking over to where Laney was look like things could get a little heated.  Everyone needed to chill the hell out and come up with a game plan.

Arani drank from the bottle as well, moderate sips as instructed, and after she had drank about a quarter of it this way she handed it back to her.

- "Appreciate it. I'm from NYC, it usually doesn't get this hot over there."

She moved to grab her own gun to add to the pile for tagging, though when Laney stated her objections she paused, frowning at the medic. She really didn't ant to start distrusting medics, but she wanted to see this settled before she'd go around handing over her guns.

Maria was helping the others as best she could, which in this case meant ensure everyone was in line to hand their weapons in. She didn't have any weapons herself so in her case the process was relatively quick, though her pale skin got some odd looks from both troops and survivors that hadn't been a part of their group.

- "Bitten? Not sure, i was in an accident and i have amnesia. I'm an ambulance driver though, partnered to that woman over there... Hey Laney, what was that accident i was in again? Still can't remember much of it."

She waited for Laney to reply, wanting to hear what happened. Maybe she had been told before as well, but she found that if she had, more pressing concerns had caused her to not pay as much attention to it as she should have.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:34, Thu 18 Feb 2016.

In reply to Maria Delores Hernandez (msg # 15):

Laney looked over, and swmiled. She was calm, cool and collaected, and hoped the medic she was talking to kept his calm as well.

"We're both city paramedics employed by MedicWest. I can confirm we had an RA (Roll Ambulance) call at Caesar's Palace this morning. Acute respiratory and cardiac failure. En route to the hospital on PT (Patient Transport) we were involved in a motor vehicle accident on Sammy Davis, I think. Some contusions, lacerations, shock. I rigged an IV and 40ccs of fluid and she's fine. There was temporary LOC (Loss of Consciousness) and both retrograde and anterograde amnesia. She's doing fine now.

"But no bites, on her or me. What would happen if you did?"

She suspected that those with bites might be isolated at best, and eliminated at worst as a precaution against spreading infection. Suddenly, she was glad that Juan hadn't been bitten.

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 16):

Maria gave Laney a thankful nod before adding her own thoughts on the matter.

- "My guess? They'd be quarantined. The suits and masks on the soldiers back in the helicopter pretty much tells me they're treating this as some kind of rabies strand, am i right?"

She turned to the soldier as well, her voice equally calm and collected. She wanted to give him the impression the both of them knew what they were talking about, and that Laney was a real medic as opposed to someone with a crash course in First Aid that stumbled across a paramedic's bag. She wasn't opposed to lending a hand here on the base, hell, it'd be a lot better than what she had been doing for most of the day so far. Running people over looked bad on one's resume.

"Ma'am, everybody has to go through decontamination, if your a medical worker you should know what your about to go through." The medic waits to see if Laney is going to hand over the bag or press the issue.



The Medic finishes assessing Jonathan and directs him to get in the line headed towards the tents before replying to Maria "Yeah, anyone bitten is going to be quarantined." He then looks at Maria and begins to approach her. "If you were in a car accident we should look you over, just to make sure you don't have any serious injuries."

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 18):

Laney would have laughed long and hard at anyone who didn't think she was a real paramedic. She walked the walk, knew the lingo, wore the uniform and had Id. Anyone who questioned that wasn't worth her time. Still, that wasn't at issue here.

"I understand the need for decontamination. I didn't just find this uniform and gear, I didn't make this ID at FedEx OFfice/Kinkos. That isn't my concern."

She showed her Paramedic ID, just to underline she was a professional.

"I'm concerned that you said are going to take my bag, decontaminate it and then hold onto it for your own use.

"Not only is that not necessary, it prevents me from doing my job. Without my tools and supplies, I can't function as a paramedic. And I know you need trained medical personnel, the people of Las Vegas still need medical assistance. Otherwise, I'm just another evacuee in a barracks, another mouth to feed in a refugee camp. And that's not gonna happen. As soon as I can I'm going right back out there.

"If you're not gonna get someone from Civil Affairs, if you are going to stick with your guns about confiscating my gear, then I'll take my chances with the crazies sooner rather than later. Unless I'm being detained or am under arrest?"

OOC: As requested, I made a skill roll to convince him to let me speak to an officer, preferably the Civil Affairs Officer.

02:12, Today: Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael rolled 17 using 1d100 with rolls of 17.  Charm/Impress.

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 19):

The medic shrugs his shoulders. One of the nearby USAF personnel armed with a rifle makes a short comment "Fine take her into custody."

Several rifles are then raised and pointed at Laney. One of the Marines gives her a single order. Even though he's in full MOPP gear the order is quite clear, probably because he's shouting though his gas mask.

"Down on the ground now!"

[Private to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael: So your next choice is going to determine if your character gets her head blown off or manhandled through decontamination then a trip to the base brig/stockade (or whatever the heck they call it in the USAF).

Anyhow it's too bad you decided not to play along. Now the USAF is going to take all your shit away. Plus they now are not going to trust you to assist their medical personnel on the other side of decontamination. I had originally planned for everyone to have little job based on their skill set.]

OOC: If anyone else wants to join Laney in the base brig/stockade feel free to act the same way.

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 20):

Shaking her head in disappointment Laney shrugged back at him and dropped the bag.

Then slowly and carefully she got down, following instructions. "Yeah, yeah, whatever. You know, my daddy was a real marine in 'Nam, beside him ya'all are not fit to wear the uniform and probably never were."

Down on the ground now, she turned her head to the medic but raised her voice for others to hear. "As for you, the junkies and whores I scraped of the street have more dignity and honour than you do.

"Go on now, "big man". We're just civilians, you have power over everyone here. But that don't mean you're right. You don't respect the law and you don't respect us as people. There are still more of us than there are you, and men with guns that steal are still nothing but looters, even if they wear a uniform."

Looking cool and relaxed on the pavement, she stretched and looked over at Jonathan and winked. "Welcome to America, Ace. Hey, I'm an unarmed black person and they didn't shoot me! Things are looking up already around here. We shoulda put the military in control a long time ago."

OOC: On the plus side, RP with Laney in gaol is probably going to be a lot more fun and rewarding than essentially living in a refugee camp. Party!

[Private to GM: Hey, we both did what we needed to do. No hard feelings.]

James answers the medic "No I wasn't bitten. I like to add if you are in need of trained chopper pilots i have my license"


When Laney starts her speech "Stop yelling Laney they are just doing their job like everyone else. I for one I'm happy to be here and safe" James continues on

At the sight of rifles being raised, and orders being shouted at Laney, Arani calmly placed her hands on top of her head and took a few paces to the side and away from the woman in question. She wasn't the one being shouted at, but then again she was still in line to drop her weapon off and accidents were known to happen when people are as stressed out as she thought the soldiers to be.

- "Used to work with law enforcement and i'm a pretty good shot, you need volunteers i'm there right after checkup."

She took a deep breath, and waited. Not much else to do but wait for Laney to get herself detained at this point, after which it would just be business as usual again. Well, not entirely as usual, but protocols would be in place again.

[Private to GM: Sorry, i know we agreed that i'd have handed the gun over, but there have been too many posts after mine and having the gun gives me a reason to even be present at the scene and not be led to decontamination.

I'm fine with having handed over all the ammo for it though, she'd want the gun tagged as hers regardless so that fixes both her concerns as well as keep her reason intact for being there. And the gun itself will be handed over the instant Laney's arrest is concluded of course.]

Rifles raised, Laney on the ground over a first aid kit and her flapping her gums.  Kinda reminded him of home and the crap that his mom would get them into by not knowing when to shut the hell up.

This reminded him of something TAB's dad taught him, there was a time and a place for everything and this was not the time or the place.  Trained killers, picking up citizen's who are fleeing and breaking every law known to man just to get away from people who are eating people.  TAB's dad would be pissed at the breach of civilian rights but pretty sure he would let it slide to get away a later date.

What actually concerned TAB more was that he kept seeing more helicopters coming and going to the base, kinda like a big arrow pointing to where everyone was going.

Walking over very slowly, hands raised at shoulder height, TAB approaches the scene that had quickly unfolded.  Ironically ignoring his fathers lessons.  There were exceptions to the rule.

"Excuse me Sir" Looking to the soldier yelling the orders, lets see if he could pull some of his dad's magic and talk Laney outta the situation.  "Sir, Laney here just got off a chopper about five minutes ago and in that time I saw her help up to I think it is about 5 people including myself.  The group she came in with, she was no doubt key in their safety until you fine gentlemen risked your lives to come get us all and bring us here.  I am not saying do not take her bag, I am saying maybe just take her bag we all are under enough stress.  Freeing someone up to bring her to the jail would be a poor use of you guys who are needed here."

TAB was pretty sure he was outta the pot into the fire now, but Laney's group had made it here which was a party of people he would not mind being with.  He had made it here and knew what it took to do it.

10:08, Today: Tiberus Asimov Blackiron rolled 95 using 1d100 with rolls of 95.  Rolling under MA for Trust.

Maria raised her voice in turn when the discussion between Laney and the soldier took a turn for the worst.

- "WHOA there! Just... Everyone, just calm the fuck down, okay?"

She turned to the medic that had assessed Johnathan a moment ago, and nodded.

- "Yeah, be with you in a minute. Just need to make sure she'll be okay."

It took J.P a bit to register what was going on as he was much further along the queue then the others. When things started to kick off he only caught short bursts of the conversation and it took him a bit to piece it together.

Once he sort of knew what was going on there was little he could do. Others seemed to be questioning the decision so he stayed quiet and just watched it unfold.

Annabelle was caught off guard at the soldiers response and moved out of the way when they took Laney away. It more more done on autopilot then anything else. Once they had made it to a semi safe location all the trails of the day seemed to finally hit her and she was dog tired so it took her awhile to finally click what was going on.

There was no point arguing as the decision had been made and it was unlikely that would chance. Annabelle was sure they would let her out after a couple of hours.

As Laney is flexi cuffed the Marines don’t respond to her goading and insults. They are quite professional and don’t rough her up as she is brought back up to her feet. One of the female Airforce MP’s pats Laney down for any additional weapons. As Laney is led towards the large tent, bypassing a line of women and girls lining up to go through it, the female airman gives Laney some instructions. “You can either go through decon on your own free will, or we’ll drag you through. What’s your choice ma’am?”

TAB tries to reason with the Airforce Officer or NCO running things (he’s not wearing any rank on his MOPP suit, so it’s hard to tell), but gets a shaking head in reply. “Sorry Sir, but if she had complied with instructions we wouldn’t have had to do what we did. Right now our whole focus is to get you civilians into a safe zone on this base where there is no infected. Once there you’ll be clothed, fed, have a bed, and informed of the overall situation.”

---

The medic wanting to asses Maria patiently waits, hoping that she will allow him to asses here and not cause a second incident.

---

James, TAB, and Jonathan are led to a line of men and boys on the right. Every 15-20 minutes a group of about twenty adults and their children are led into the tent.

---

Arani (once she drops off any weapons she has), and Annabelle are led to a line of women and girls on the left. Every 15-20 minutes a group of about twenty adults and their children are led into the tent.

OOC: I'll have a separate thread up for the decon procedures.

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 28):

All compliant and cheerful she grinned and drawled, "Lawdy no, Lady Baas. I don't have no problem with decontamination. Whatever you want, it's all "my" "choice", Lady Baas, I see that now."

She of course had no problem with decontamination; she just had a problem with thieves. Even if they wore uniforms, especially if they wore uniforms. NOPD in the past, USAF and USMC now. And whatever they did to you, people like that tried to frame it as only your "choice", as if they made no choices of their own and you were the one with power over them and not the other way around.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:49, Sat 20 Feb 2016.

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 29):

"Good." The airman got the attention of another airman standing outside the decontamination tent. Laney is allowed to enter well before anybody else she knows.

The situation resolved, Maria turned to the medic and signaled for him to lead the way to wherever he wanted to assess her general state of health. She wasn't going to get a clean bill with this mess going on, but at the very least it would be reassuring to know they had some proper equipment to do it with.

After Laney had been led away, Arani walked over to the table, taking out her Taurus and placing it on the table.

- "I know, you're just following regs, armed civvies in an army base and all that. The guy that gave me a ride from the gate has my ammo, two full cylinders. Look, just... make sure it doesn't get stolen, 'kay?"

She gave the guy an apologetic smile, before showing her ID so that the gun could be properly tagged with its owner's details.

In reply to Maria Delores Hernandez (msg # 31):

The USAF medic explain what he is going to do before touching Mara. "All I'm going to do is check for a concussion, and a quick check for any internal injuries." Curious he removed the bloody bandage around Maria's neck, expecting to find some sort of injury he finds nothing. He asks a few questions as he checks her pupils for dilatation. "You feel light headed?" He then checks her stomach for any internal injuries. "I'm checking for internal injuries now. Whoa! your skin is really cold to the touch. I'm gonna check your temperature now ok?" The medic pulls out a electronic thermometer and runs it across Maria's forehead. He looks at the result. "69.8 degress? That's not right." He looks over at another medic. "Hey my thermometers broken, let me borrow yours." The other medic hands over a similar thermometer and Maria temperature is taken again. "Ok Ma'am, as a precaution we're gonna have you go through the middle line. Anyone going through that line has been bit, or is in need of serious medical attention or requires a more in depth medical evaluation. You fall in to the last group ok?" Before Maria can reply the medic gets the attention of one of the USAF MP's "I got one for the center line. Not bitten, she needs further medical evaluation due to low surface temperature. We need to get her core temperature ASAP." The USAF MP nods and begins to escort Maria tot he center line. This line is much shorter the the female line on the left and male line on the right.

22:00, Today: Darkside Trooper rolled 41 using 1d100 with rolls of 41.  1st aid on Maria (check vitals) %.
PASS

Maria held her breath for a moment when the bandage on her neck was removed, but blinked in surprise when the medic mentioned there wasn't a wound there of any kind. Then again... she didn't remember being bit either, but why would Laney bandage her there if she hadn't been bleeding? She couldn't ask either, not with Laney having been detained.

But that was nothing compared to her temperature. At first, she laughed with the medic when he mentioned the temperature, but started getting worried when her temperature really was impossibly low.

- "Well that's odd, i'm feeling fine. Felt light headed waking up, but had to run from a horde of those crazies so that got my circulation going alright. Haven't had a problem since, in fact i drove one of the cars for our group."

She gave the MP a nod, and followed him to the central tent. There were some skittish looks from nearby survivors who assumed she had been bitten -- going by her skin color and the fact that she didn't need help walking she supposed -- but she simply did as instructed and waited for her turn.

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 28):

A look of disappointment is on TAB's face, mostly frustrated that his plea did not work.  But it seemed at least they were gonna be reasonable with Laney, she would go through the same process and meet up later with her crew TAB was sure.  Couple hours of maybe getting questioned or something like that and back to trying to figure out what the hell is going on looked like her future.  With his poor attempt at heroics over TAB headed over to the decontamination tent to get the run down.

Everyone meets up outside decontamination. Another line leads towards a huge aircraft hangar. The main doors are shut and people are entering tough a man size door in the side.

As everyone enters the hanger they are handed a pillow, a green GI issue blanket and an MRE. They are then told to find a cot that has not yet been taken. The interior of the hanger is just rows and rows of cots. Along one side of the hanger is a row of port-a-johns. About half of the cots have already been taken, but an area is found where everyone is next to each other. A few USAF MP's roam around, none are armed other then possessing a sidearm, and a radio. They chat with anyone wanting to talk to them. When questioned about the situation, or what is going to happen next the Airman shake their heads and state that once the hanger is full everyone will receive a briefing on the situation.

There is no sign of either Laney, or Maria. The hanger is still filling up with civilians and it looks like it'll be awhile before every cot is taken.

[Private to Jonathan Pembersley:
MRE: Spicy Penne Pasta]

[Private to Annabelle Wright:
MRE: Southwest beef and black beans]

[Private to Arani Vasingis:
MRE: Cheese Tortellini]

[Private to James Herson:
MRE: Maple Sausage]

[Private to Tiberus Asimov Blackiron:
MRE: Lemon Pepper Tuna]

OOC: Yes you can trade MRE's with the other PC's

Half way through his second cigarette from the two packets he managed to remember were in his pants J.P waved to the others when they all finally got together "Has anyone seen Maria or Laney ? Could be they need their skills and all being medics." J.P still thought it was strange they had not turned up and then there was the weird way Maria seemed to come right in the casino.

J.P put the MRE in his pocket then tried out his cot before suggesting "Should we go for a look around. I have people I should look for ?"
This message was last edited by the player at 06:31, Tue 23 Feb 2016.

Annabelle recognised the English guys voice before his face which she only got a fleeting glimpse of out in the wilds. She joined him outside the decontamination area as the other filtered out as well. Annabelle followed the line to the hanger eating the MRE as they went, she had not had anything since breakfast. Once they found a cot she sat on the edge until she finished the food and then looked around the hanger.

It was nice to have a shower even if it was cold one and the water stunk a bit.  But the smell was no worse then home and honestly the temperature was pretty normal, his older sister burnt through the hot water all the time back home so cold showers were common place.

TAB had kinda just tagged along with James and Jonathan following them naturally like he had been part of their adventures already, even though he really had not met any of them.

"I have not seen her since I tried my pathetic plea there just before the decontamination building.  I can tag along with you to look for some of your friends there and we can inquire about Laney. Probably best to save her a cot with the rest of us so when she does show up were grouped. By the way I introduced myself to Laney but I guess not to the rest of you guys, my name is TAB."

TAB offers his hand to Jonathan for a handshake.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:48, Wed 24 Feb 2016.

In reply to Tiberus Asimov Blackiron (msg # 39):

J.P shakes TAB's hand. "They can certainty look after themselves, I am sure they will be along. Is anyone up for a look around ? I wonder how we notify the Govt about people we are looking for. Do you think they will be laying on planes for us tourists to get home ?"

"For sure I would not mind going for a walk, keep things limber.  This morning was pretty intense walking around would be a good idea."

Jon and TAB look around and quickly realize that while they can freely roam the hanger there are guards at the exits and no one is being allowed out.

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 42):

"Ah well that is that. He asks one of the guards "How do we go about trying to find people we have lost is there some sort of register ? He was mainly concerned with his friends that had gone to the hospital earlier.

In reply to Jonathan Pembersley (msg # 43):

Despite being younger then Jonathon the Airman still addresses him as 'sir'
"I'm not really sure sir. I do know that the names of people being housed in the other hangers will be posted here once we get everyone's names."

James eats his MRE "I'll wait here in case they come by"

In reply to USAF Airman (msg # 44):

"Ah... OK..." There seemed little point in asking about flights then so J.P decided to take the long way back to the cots. He would pass all the entrances and exits and get a good idea about the hanger and its lay out.

TAB just casually followed behind Jonathan, listening to the responses that the soldiers were giving.  Seems like everyone was in the dark about what was happening even listening in on the conversations of the other people everyone was just in shock.  TAB though did have one small mission.  Get rid of his Lemon pepper Tuna MRE, good god who thought that was a viable MRE.  Following Jonathan the whole time as he scouted TAB just was not able to get rid of it.  Turned down at every offer.

As Jonathan and TAB make their way back to their cots, a few Airforce personnel enter and through a bullhorn begin asking people to go to their cots so they can pass on some information. It takes several minutes but eventually everyone is seated and mostly quite.

“My name is Lt. Harris. The U.S. Government has classified today’s events as a Zombie Outbreak. First we are asking everyone to remain within designated areas. Some areas of the base have not yet been sanitized of infected persons. Other areas, such as the flight line can be dangerous for you. Now we will be expanding the civilian areas to more than just this hanger, but it may take a day or two.”

“Second we want to conduct a census of everyone here, and distribute that list to the other hangers where other civilians are being housed. This way you can reunite with any friends or family who may have also made it here. Airman will be setting up stations to get your information after I am done speaking. If you have specific questions please rely them to the Airman at that time. Your questions will not be answered at the time, but since many people will be asking the same questions we can provide the answers to everyone at the same time.”

“Third I want you to all know that our primary focus here at Nellis Air Force Base is to fortify the base so as to keep the Zombies out. The next step will be to evacuate all civilians to a designated safe zone. But because many of the base personnel have been infected we are going to need your help. If you are a member of law enforcement, emergency services or have prior military experience you can help us out the most.”

“Helping us out is purely a voluntary decision on your part. It will not grant you any special privileges, food or amenities. The only thing you will get in return is the knowledge that you helped your fellow American citizens in a time of crisis. If you do not want to help or are unable to help due to age, or medical condition you will not be treated any different.”

“For those who wish to help please let us know what skills you have when you provide your name for the census. Based on your skills we’ll give you a list of jobs you can perform here on base. There are also many menial jobs that require no skill at all. For example we will need a crew to laundry all the clothing taken from you prior to decontamination and return the clothing to their owners.”

Lt. Harris then leaves and several lines begin to form as Airman begin to set up five folding tables, and set up two work stations at each one. Each work station is manned by a single airman with a laptop computer.

OOC: You guys can provide what every information you wish to provide. Ask what questions you have and so forth.

Once the lines began to form at the table J.P got up and made his way over "Better do it now or we will be standing there for hours." He stands in line with the others and once at the table provides his name passport number and address in the U.K. He wants to know where Laney and Maria are and if they will be putting on flights back to the U.K. Has the outbreak spread there yet ?

In reply to Jonathan Pembersley (msg # 49):

The Airman informs Jonathan that the outbreak is world wide. The Airman then asks for some specifics regarding Laney and Maria, such as full names, and why they were taken.

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 50):

J.P struggles for a second and then adds the circumstances for Laney and Marias detainment but not their last names as he can't remember them. Feeling a bit like a dick for his lapse in memory he offers himself up for some form of duty as well, though there is probably not going to much call for a semi trained geologist.

Still waiting for her clothes, Arani stood in line in her coveralls, and when it was her turn she handed over her driver's license.

- "Bounty hunter, i know my way around guns. Permission to carry, no criminal record, the works. If you got a range up i could probably shoot better than some of your guys."

She said the last with a grin, half-joking, though she was eager to just hit a target range again. It had been a while, and with this news of a Zombie outbreak -- seriously, what were they smoking! -- she could use the distraction. Not to mention her gun back.

Annabelle stood in line until her turn and gave over the relevant details such as address, job etc... She volunteer for something though having heard J.P explaining what he does for a living she was probably in the same boat. Once she was finished with the process she went back to her cot and with little else to do went to sleep.

TAB takes his place in line, not as quick as everyone else so it takes a little longer to get to the front but thank fully he is not last.  While he waits he tries to unload his MRE on someone but no one seems willing to take it.  After about twenty minutes he gets to the table in his line.

"My name is Tiberus Asimov Blackiron but just call me TAB, I would love to help out however I can.  I am a melee weapons specialist, a munitions expert and I can help out with basic mechanics if you need.  Hell I can do laundry, just thankful for all your help earlier."

Turning to go he remembers some thing and turns back.

"Uhmmm there was an african american at the gate she got hauled away for not turning over her medics bag.  Her name was Laney, never caught her last name.  You guys gonna release her soon?"


OCC Gonna go with Goldenrod for font color

James asks if there has been any contact with Canada "I'm a trained Helo and fixed wing  pilot but i can drive almost anything, I have first aid training, some skill at  aircraft mechanics. Whatever you guys need I'm willing to help"

It takes a few hours for everyone to go through the line and provide their information. Around 10 PM (according with still working watches, or cell phones still possessing a charge) the lights int he hanger are dimmed.

That night sleep does not come easy. The hanger is right next to the flight line. The sounds of helicopters and jets taking off are heard throughout the night. Gunfire of all types and explosions are heard s as well. Some close, some far away.

---

The next morning breakfast is provided by the Air Force courtesy of a field kitchen serving scrambled eggs, hash browns, and a sausage gravy.

---

Around noon several lists are put up that have the names of the other refugees being housed in the other nearby hangers.

[Private to Jonathan Pembersley: You do not find the names of your friends]

---

Around 2 PM an USAF begins to call names out with a bull horn. These individuals are being formed into three groups. There is then a call for volunteers to help in laundering clothing, and setting up HESCO barriers.

[Private to Arani Vasingis: Your name was called for one of the groups ]

[Private to James Herson: Your name was called for one of the groups ]

J.P spends the morning looking for other English tourists in the hanger or anyone who went to the hospital. He will give them a description of his friends and see if they saw some English tourists while they were there.
A bit demoralized he does not volunteer for clothes washing duty just saying "I guess my geology skills are not in demand." He lies on his cot and tries to get some sleep having had a pretty restless night.

James moves towards his group, seeing where the others are going

Annabelle looks at J.P but does not say anything, it was going to be a bit of a long shot that anyone they knew was going to be here given that they only just made it. When the call for volunteers was made she got up and went and put her hand up to go putting out the barriers. It would be good to get outside and see what was going on ?
This message was last edited by the player at 02:52, Sun 06 Mar 2016.

Hearing her name be called, Arani made her way over to where her group was. She spotted one or two people that had been in line with her earlier back when that woman got herself arrested, but didn't feel chatty enough to start a conversation.

TAB had slept all right through the night, every once and awhile trying to call home on his cell.  He would just get the answering machine all the time,  He had left a couple messages but in the end would just hang up when it picked up.  He was pretty worried about his family but until he could get home only cool heads would prevail.  He woke up around 6 am and chose to stay up from that point.  Finding a spot that was out of the way a bit he did his morning exercises and melee training as best he could.

Breakfast was all right and he stuck around to help clean up bringing peoples plates to where they need to be and tidying up tables and such.  Idle hands created an idle mind and that was no good for a mind that clearly needed to be sharp.

When the USAF called out names TAB and was grouping people up he volunteered for the HESCO barriers.  Not really knowing what they were he figured it involved some physical labor and would be a better opportunity to get a feel for what was going on.

Jonathan finds about a half dozen people, also tourists who are also from England. When inquiring about the hospital he is informed that because of the number of dead flu victims the local hospitals were quickly overran by the dead who had risen.

Annabelle and Tiberus quickly find out that Hesco barriers are big collapsible wire mesh containers with a heavy duty fabric liner. They’re simple to erect, and put in place after which they are filled with sand, thus creating a strong wall. The two spend several hours setting the barriers up around the northwest side of the hangers in which all the civilians are being housed in. It appears that the area is being turned into a defensive area.

James’ group is greeted by a USAF Officer, a U.S. Army Officer and a U.S. Marine Officer. They quickly divide everyone up by prior branch of service, and individuals who served in a military, but not specifically the U.S. Military. Everyone is then divided up by what their MOS’s or military jobs were. James finds himself among a small group of 4 individuals who all used to be helicopter pilots. He is then asked if he is interested in serving as a co-pilot on one of the USAF Blackhawks.

Arani finds herself among a group of individuals who are either currently active law enforcement personnel (of which there is scant few) or former/retired law enforcement officers. There are also several lawyers, paralegals, and even a judge. It is explained that the base commander wants civilians, not military personnel to maintain/enforce order and within the civilian refugee area. This will also include carrying out punishment for those who break the law. Arani and the other former police officers were then asked if they would be interested in being deputized as sheriff and essentially carry out law enforcement duties within the civilian area.

J.P had though as much about the hospital once he had been out in the wilds of downtown Vegas for several hours. Still he exchanged information with the other tourists just in case someone made it home and could inform his family as to what had happened. Of course that relied on there actually being someone left at home.

He spent the rest of the day lying on his bunk and then he went looking for something to read to pass the hours.

"I'm wiling to do what I can to help" James after he talk to the others to get more of idea of how bad it out there

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 62):

The work was strenuous a lot like the ranch back home, but when his thoughts turned to that TAB would shake his head keep on helping Annabelle.  TAB would often look to the city to see if he could see anything, but other then helo's and a lot of random fires there was not much to see.  Bottom line it felt good to be doing some work with other people.

The work was not really what Annabelle was expecting It was hot, sweaty and dusty. She was dog tired in a matter of hours, it was not that she was unfit just that she was tuned to riding a bike. She took the opportunity to take in their surroundings though that they were building a defensive wall was not a good sign in her mind as to how things were going.

What were the long term goals of these guys, that they would defend ever decreasing circles until they were manning the wall around the civilians. If she got an opportunity to study a base map or get some geo information from the military guys all the better.

She had a rough idea if they made it to the northern base fence there was little between them an the wilds should they have to make a run for it.

Arani's response was casual when she was asked to be a deputy. It wasn't very different from what she had been doing, in a way, and truth be told it was the closest she'd likely get to her job in a good long while if what she had seen so far was any indication. Once she and the others of her group had finished introducing themselves and their (former) trades to one another, she decided to address the elephant in the room.

- "Right, as for laws, we can't throw the entire penal code at these people anymore. I propose we make a simple list of laws that fit one sheet of paper that we can hand out so every tent has a copy or two."

She thought for a moment, looking at the judge and lawyers.

- "Lessee... We could use something i call the BASTARD system. Bribery, Assault, Sedition, Theft, Arson, Rape and Drugs. The laws we keep would fall under one of those categories and to most of the people here it's the easiest way to remember. How's that sound like?"

The ‘work’ for the day ends around 7PM. For those who volunteered for something 9AM is set to start the work again the next day. For those working with the military, law enforcement or medics/doctors the time is 6AM.

That night dinner consists of another round of MRE's. For those who know her, Laney shows back up along with two men. One guy is very big, and the other guy is pretty small.

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 68):

Laney is wearing a blue junpsuit, but doesn't look too much worse for wear. She is actually looking a lot better now she's had a good night's rest.

"Hey ya'll!" She goes in to give Annabelle and Jonathan hugs, looking around. "Great to see you again! The big handsome guy is "Joint", this fella's Luke.

"Where's Maria Delores?"

Luke gave a nod to the people as he was introduced, his eyes darting from person to person, and the scenery around them. He didn't speak yet.

At spotting Laney, Arani got up from what she was doing, in this case finishing her MRE before it had the chance to finish her. But it was hot and it frilled her stomach and she had made due with a lot worse to complain about it now. Putting the empty tray aside, she walked up to Laney and the two men with her.

- "Right, i'm going to keep this brief. They deputized me so i'm one of the people supposed to keep the peace around here. You don't make trouble, i don't need to fix it and we all stay real friendly like. We cool?"

She looked at Laney, pausing a few seconds to let her words sink in and give her time to react to what she had said. Regardless of what Laney would say or do however, her follow-up would remain the same.

- "So who's this Maria?"

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 71):

J.P returned Laneys hug and was genuinely glad to see her when Arani tried to get up in their business he could not help but reply.

"Well they made me the head of laundry so keep your clothes clean. Seriously if you are going to be a dick about some tin badge go find somewhere else to sleep." J.P looked at the woman, he had his fill of those who though the same rules applied as before.

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 71):

Putting a hand on Jonathan's arm Laney replied with a smile and creditable sincerity, "no ma'am, I won't cause no trouble. I'm usually cool as a cucumber but yesterday was just a real bad day at the office.

"I'm Laney Carmichael. I see my reputation precedes me!

"Maria Delores Hernandez is my partner. We're city paramedics with WedicWest. We were on duty on an "RA" for a "PT" [Private to Arani Vasingis: (Roll Ambulance/Patient Transport)] call to Caesar's Palace yesterday when all hell broke loose. That's where we met Jonathan, there. Anyways, some clown T-boned the "car" in traffic on Sinatra and Maria had a concussion. I assume Maria Delores is under observation for head trauma.

"If you don't mind me saying, you sure look like a cop. Which department you with? Las Vegas Metro? Clark County Sheriff's Office? State Patrol?"
This message was last edited by the player at 05:30, Sun 20 Mar 2016.

Lying on her cot Annabelle kept her eyes closed. She was dead tired after a day of dust, sweet and labour and having had something to eat was done for the day. She greeted the others when they turned up and introduced herself.

Perhaps she will volunteer for something else tomorrow.

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 69):

For whatever reason Joint was sent to the same air hanger with Luke and Laney, the Major must be laughing his ass off right now.  What a prick that dude was, it was clear this situation was way beyond everybody.  But whatever man he was outta that cell and that is what mattered.
Joint caught Laney's introduction to what he assumed were the group of people she got out with, but in a short time things went tense.  The Princess really had a way with peeps that was for sure.  Joint makes a point to shake everyone's hand that Laney had introduced themselves to.

"Fuck me from one fire right into another with the Law Dogs, but your to the point girl and that is something that is easy to deal with.  I already served my forty eight hours no grief from me.  Just give me a cot I gonna get some of this shit hot chow in mah belly."

Luke nodded, he agreed, clearly. No one wanted any bullshit to go down, but he was feisty, "I assume you want us to stay in line and in return you won't go abusing your authority, right?" he said to Arani.

James sits on his sot eating "Hey laney"

James will shake luke and joint's hands if offered

- "Let me put it simply: I can be a dick, but only when i need to be. This is me making sure i won't need to be."

After replying to Johnathan, Arani chuckled in response to Laney.

- "Heh, neither... Used to be a bounty hunter before all this went down. Strictly government legal, mind you, tracking down and bringing in bail jumpers. But it was close enough to get deputized apparently, and i helped set up the BASTARD system you've probably seen the first leaflet or two around of."

She gave Joint a nod in response to show her agreement with his assessment of her, and grinned at Luke.

- "Nah. Like Laney here said, anyone can have a bad day, just want to keep it from affecting other people 's all."

She then turned back to Laney again.

- "I'm Arani Vasingis... I'll ask around about your partner, see what i can find out. Seems innocent enough for a first task anyway."

She gave a small wave before heading out of the air hanger and heading in the direction of the medical area to ask around about this partner of Laney's.

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 78):

Smiling, Laney nodded her thanks to Arani. "Thank you, ma'am. Bounty hunter, huh? I'll keep an eye out for them pamphlets." She spoke with a faint but noticeable Louisianan accent.

"Hey, James. We never really got a chance to formally meet yesterday, but I'm glad you made it.

"Ace!" she said to Jonathan, "good to hear you got some gainful employment. They need medical personnel so I offered to help."

Laney looked around at the civilian enclosure made from tan Hesco barriers. "Man, those things really do look like big ol' Lego blocks. Barbed wire on top. Restricted access. I guess it's safer inside here in case the crazies get into the base. Still, makes me think maybe it's also a little of them wanting to keep us penned in.

"Hey, everyone. I'm thinking that sure, this place is safe enough, but I don't want to live in a refugee camp or minimum-security prison longer than I got to. Let's get some folks together and look a safe place to live off the base. The military shouldn't have a problem with this; it gets us out of their hair and sooner or later they're gonna get overcrowded here. Or else start settling folks out in the desert, which ain't gonna be too pleasant.

"I even got some idea what we could do."

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 79):

I guess there is no harm in asking but I really don't think they will let us do that, not with the amount of work they seem to be doing to accommodate us all. Rubbing the back of his neck he adds "I do get the feeling that this is a sort of prison in many ways with no real plan as to what to do with us."

In reply to Jonathan Pembersley (msg # 80):

"I have a feeling they'll want to let people go sooner rather than later. But we can put that aside for now."

Laney hesitated. "Any word on what's going on, how long this gonna last? Is it just Las Vegas, or state-wide? Or even bigger than that? Where's Governor Sandoval, did he declare Martial Law? President Obama? Do they know what's makin' the crazies, well, so crazy?"

"Bet they don't know shit, or at least not shit they'll tell us." Luke adds.

Jaw dropping listening to them talk like they are outta some bad tv realizing that he was about to do the same Joint interjected.  Speaking so hopefully only those in this group can hear so that others don't get the same idea about what he is going to say.

"What the fuck did you and the Major talk about, you and Luke here just play with his balls.  They are collecting us, waiting for some mystery message from some other higher up fucking chain of command or whatever.  And then they say they are gonna fly us out when they get that call to some secret location, if you believe that shit well I don't have time for you.  Yeah they want to let people go sooner rather than later, Major Tom was gonna let me bounce outta here with whatever I came in with. Tells me without even looking around that they are flying one way and don't have enough comfy seats for us.  What is that word oh yeah ESSENTIAL PERSONAL that is who is gonna be on those helo's and planes before any regulars.  We are on own right now and not only that we are behind these real nice bean bags. I am not trying to stir shit I am no social justice warrior I am saying you all better be ready to bounce on a drop.  Use your jobs or what have you to scout gather quick info as to where essential resources are and play sheep until it is time to leave.  And as for if it is nation wide, when chillin with the Major he said the military is consolidating it's forces.  You could call it speculation if you want but again I would call you a chump after what we have all seen.  Hell no disrespect to the watch dog that just left but they already have a separate force watching over us, they do that in pen man.  Shit man I am willing to help you people but we gotta keep it small."

Joint was aware he was saying a lot and it was mostly for his own ease of mind and how he processed all the info coming in.

"On a side note I talk, Laney and Lukey poo can tell yeah that."

In reply to Joint (msg # 83):

Laney looked impressed. "You bet, handsome, you can talk. That's a good thing, sometimes. You did a lot better pumping that Major for information. I was mainly just "yassuh", and "nossuh", "let me outta here and I won't cause no trouble, suh!".

"So it sounds like the Air Force and military is pulling outta here. Destination unknown. I'm not sure I'd even want to go with 'em. Hey, better dealing with the crazies than livin' in some damn refugee camp in my own country! "Home" would just be another camp, more barbed wire, observation towers.

"We do like Joint says. Save some of your food, bottles of water. People talk, listen. We need to know where it's safe, where there might be bad guys, where we can look for supplies. We might be on the road lookin' for a safe place for a while, even if we don't go far from the city. I don't think many people will want to try to make it out there if they got the chance to leave with the military folks so I wouldn't worry too much about too many people coming along."

TAB had been listening in while eating his MRE had to keep is caloric intake up if he was gonna keep in fit form.  The HESCO barriers had provided a pretty decent work out and it was obvious that the big dude lifted.  The skinny kid looked like a little weasel but hell who was TAB to judge.  Moving over from his spot to get into the conversation a little better TAB injects his couple bits of info.

"Listening to what you guys are saying is a well a little damn jolting, but shit is definitely messy.  Personally today was a little eye opening, setting up these barriers, but I am willing to contribute as much as I can.  If we need a place to head my family owns a ranch north of Fairfield in Idaho, I am sure you guys might think it is a shit hole but I mean way fewer people then here.  They even have a small airfield if we could snag a plane.  I have not even called home."

TAB stopped for a moment remembering that he had not even called home yet or checked his phone for messages or texts.

"I mean it would be pretty secure but I don't really know, so not sure how much that helps?"

In reply to Tiberus Asimov Blackiron (msg # 85):

Laney considered it.

"Idaho? It's a long ways, but I can drive a truck. With practice, a nice big rig, maybe. I bet James can fly a plane, a nice twin-engine would do the trick.

"It gets real cold. Not too many people. And we'd pretty much be stuck with 'tater farming for a long time, until this whole thing is over. If it ever is. Not all are necessarily bad things, you understand, and if this place has something like a generator and well, it's probably safe enough.

"I was thinking that folks stayin' behind still gonna need basics. Medical care, a garage, transportation, fuel. Guns. Ammo. Not just salvage but stuff we can make ourselves. I know we got some of these skills."

Luke shrugged again, "Don't know shit about farming, but I can learn I guess. Idaho don't sound so bad. Especially if it's away from this shit."

"I am sure we don't need to drive inter state to find somewhere with a few less people. I had a brochure for a park with a lake not to far from here. It had cabins and everything. I think it was like a government thing and I don't know what they call them here. If I get my stuff back I will show you."

In reply to Jonathan Pembersley (msg # 88):

Laney thought for a moment.

"Probably a state park? Or National Park Service? Something like that. Anyways, sounds brilliant. Let's also look for something with a garage. Like a truck stop?"

"That Major mentioned in my interview for my debut as Major of Shitville that when they take flight we are welcome to take what we want.  I mean shit had I know that I would have waited to lease a MRAP. Forgot to mention that part of my discussion with him.  As for where we go you gotta bet there is gonna be some stiff competition for supplies, weapons you name it.  But definitely low density area's, the way they have us now is worse then when I was in the pen.  There I only had to share a cell with one twat not hundreds.  You guys are the exception though."

Joint finished up with a smile

Luke nodded, "Sounds right, hence why I made friends with you big guy. Small efficient group. Makes sense to me. And I think, once the honchos leave, we best not mess around here too long. Get what we want and need, and get gone."

"I have skills at fixing and operating most vehicles plus I have skills at navigation" James offers

In reply to James Herson (msg # 92):

TAB knew they were right about the distance, with the state things are in just in this area who knew what it was like else where.

"Well if we ever get the chance it would be a decent hold up spot for awhile anyways, as far a skills go I can't offer much other then my martial skills, melee weapons and I am pretty decent with a bow weapons and I can load custom rounds of ammo.  I can operate any motorbike, drive cars and ride a horse.  Other then that I am pretty unskilled, if we are looking to arm ourselves I would be best with some kinda shield, a sword and bow."

TAB was showing small signs that he was clearly uncomfortable sharing his skills, not cause he was not proud of them but cause they never fit in this world for the last couple hundred years, other then the most basic of genres skill sets.  Ancient Sparta, Medieval Europe, ancient Middle East and Asia were his things, he had been a real nerd of these subjects.

In reply to Joint (msg # 90):

"IF an MRAP is like a tank, it would be damn safe all right. I'd also like to get an armoured Humvee. Or hey! A Humvee ambulance! But I don't know what spare parts MARPs use, but I think there are civilian Hummer dealerships that might stock Humvee parts? just a guess.

"Safety from crazies and people is a concern. I don't think we'll have a problem with non-crazies too soon; despite what ya'll heard, in New Orleans during and after Katrina, months after, violent crime dropped off to almost zero. That's saying something for the Big Easy. People just got along and helped one another, even before the cops and army arrived, and after they left.

"Truth is there's going to be a lot of stuff just lying around because this just happened all so fast. The crazies aren't using anything, I think, except maybe food? But if nine out of ten people are crazies, then that means for the rest of us there's nine times the stuff per person, if you follow. Looters can only get so much, and they'll be fighting off crazies to get it.

"Eventually, things are gonna run out. If everything don't get back together in some way in a year, a lot of the gasoline is going to go bad. That's why I was thinkin' we figure out some way to make a living like trading or providing services. We get other people to do the dangerous stuff, then they pay us, right? My husband Greg, he was a "prepper" once he got out of the army. (I already survived that shit already, didn't see the point of worrying about it before it happened.) He talked about alcohol for fuel. We could make a still, and cars always gonna need fixin'. Hey, Joint, you could run a Lamborghini dealership! Get a Countach for every day of the week.

"James, those things will come in handy. Plus, you're a pilot. I saw you land that helicopter by the freeway.

"Don't worry, Tiberus, being able to defend yourself or others gonna come in real handy."

She seemed amused at the thought of getting armoured up like a knight, but then, maybe that could come in real handy!

"If they are pulling out do you think they will let us know or just disappear in the middle of the night ? Otherwise it is just going to be a free for all shit fight among everyone in this and the other hangers. Perhaps we should get an idea where everything such as weapons, food and vehicles are likely to be so we can scoop it up and get out of here as soon as possible. I really don't want to be on the back foot if/when it does happen."

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 89):

"yep.. state park had those yogi bear guys on the cover, with the hats and a big old visitor centre as well as the cabins like I said. Name had something to do with the lake I think..."

In reply to Jonathan Pembersley (msg # 96):

"Good thinkin', Ace. Might not be very defensible or have a shop, but you never now. Put up some fencing, drag some traffic barriers, you never know. If it's a major park it might have an HQ or maybe there's an NDOT, Nevada Department of Transportation, depot around there. NDOT really knows their shit, the roads and highways are the best in the nation here. Should last a long time.

"Ace, what was the name of this place? Where is it located?

"As for gear we can get here, sure, let's plan on moving quick when the military pulls out. But unless they are cutting and running, it'll take days or even weeks to shut this base down. It's a major facility. There will be dozens of flights, maybe more, probably lots of armed convoys. I don't think we can miss it.

"As well, I think we can count on a group of volunteers to stay behind and make sure it all doesn't turn into a free for all. They don't want us folks running around with machine guns and bazookas! Plus, they probably can't take everything at once and so they're gonna want to keep things secure here until they can collect it all. I don't think the Air Force will be completely abandon this base for a while."

In reply to Jonathan Pembersley (msg # 96):

"Its called Lake Mead it is a recreational area but comes under the national park so there are rangers and the main camp area has a headquarters with a pretty sweet set up. I remember a few boats and plenty of vehicles. I use to go quite a bit when I was more into the mountain bike side of things they have some great trails."

Luke nodded, "The park sounds good to me, I can fish. At least. That way I'll be more useful than just being really good looking. Oh and for my witty remarks. And as far as the military goes, who the hell knows what they will do. I am on board with finding where stuff is stashed though. Then we can make a plan of action, who gets what, how much and all that."

So strange the direction this conversation had took, fighting for theirs lives just to find a safe place to take a reprieve.  And now they were devising a exit strategy in case the military proved to be insufficient to protect and evacuate everyone.

"It would be nice if we could get access to a mechanics shop on this base, they have a lot of what we will be looking for.  Maybe some of the more mechanically inclined people could volunteer to work on the equipment."

Looking at the kid that just spoke Joint noticed his build, this kid could obviously handle himself and probably did some lifting.

"I already asked kid, might be worth asking again but the Major did not seem super pumped about civilians working on military gear."

"Listen Princess, I love this fantasy world that you keep believing in, but when they bounce they are gonna bounce hard and fast.  If what was going on out there was something we could fight head on they would not be evacuating themselves and supposedly all us citizens of the U S of A.  I have not caught wind of what the hell it is that is going on with these people who are going crazy but it is clearly something they don;t have a handle on or the ability to deal with.  It would be best if our exit strat is fast and hard and we don't go dragging other people with us, stay off the major highways and and even secondary.  When I was moving goods that needed to be missed I would stick to roads by train tracks.  Those fucking things cut right across everything.  And over passes will be good defensible spots and trap points.  We need to be the first to everything and be aggressive about it, if it means hurting some people then that is what it is gonna be.  I am not saying kill them, but I am saying put them down."

"If we get into a mechanic's shop we can fab up some temp weapons, so if any of you know what you want let me know it won't be an issue."

In reply to Joint (msg # 101):

Laney listened to Joint, then shrugged to show she was not convinced.

"I don't know, handsome. They don't look too panicked right now. If things were going to hell here they might scram, but they seem pretty together. For one thing there's thousands of personnel on this base, no way they can airlift 'em all at once.

"But I can't see the future. If the crazies break in here tomorrow all hell will break loose.

"I'm not too worried about getting hand tools, we can get those in any garage. It's things like a hydraulic lift, air compressor, arc welders, heavy gear. If I had a choice about what vehicles to take, aside from an ambulance but a tow truck or wrecker. We did go on rail tracks a fair ways. But there was a train wreck and we tried to keep going on surface streets. They were jammed with abandoned vehicles. We could have gone further with some wag to clear the road."

TAB was into this now, it reminded him of a strategy book he had read one time, but he could not recall really any of it but the hammering out of ideas among everyone was a great way to get a feel for everyone's skills and ability to contribute.

"I have to disagree, if we can get essential small gear now it will be less dangerous when we are out there by ourselves going into buildings that we know nothing about.  At least here if we hurry and contribute we can get a safer lay of the land without the worry of crazy people or other innocent civilians.  If we prepare a couple vehicles if one does get jacked we will have back ups.  And I also have to strongly disagree with you Joint, we can't be injuring people out there just to get what we will need but on the same hand I am with you we need to get a good grip of what we can snag from this base.  That bounty hunter or whatever would be a great asset for scoping some of this base out quickly.  Also maybe we should talk about what we saw with these crazy people and how they acted we could get at least a start on who and what we will be up against.  Anyone hear anything from the soldiers or other civilians?"

In reply to Tiberus Asimov Blackiron (msg # 103):

"It's a matter of priorities, Tiberus, is all I meant. Power tools are not gonna be on the top of my list, here at Nellis. And we gotta be ready to go into dangerous places lookin' for supplies, on account this all's gonna be goin' on for a while.

"Hurt other people? Naw. Not unless we gotta defend ourselves. Around here, I suspect they gonna have some kinda system for letting people get what they want. Something like a lottery. Otherwise there's gonna be a free-for-all. Fights breakin' out, people gettin' hurt."

"Keep in mind you need power for power tools unless they are battery operated then you need somewhere to charge them"

In reply to James Herson (msg # 105):

Laney nodded. "Solar. We're in Nevada, flyboy. Plenty o' sun! I don't know where we would get them, but I'm sure it wouldn't be too difficult."

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 106):

"I have one in my pack, a solar charger that is. Came with a dozen or so different connector for all types of gadgets though I only used it for my phone and the laptop. It is called a Solar roll."

Luke just listened, he wasn't a planner. He was a doer, impulsive, and he really didn't want to die, so these folks were making a lot of sense. "I don't think we need to look for fights, but if I have to bust a head to keep me or one of us safe, that head is getting busted. Either that or I'll let Tiny here handle it." he says indicating Joint with a jerk of his head.

In reply to Jonathan Pembersley (msg # 107):

She nodded in understanding.

"Nice! Of course, we would want solar cells in the kilowatt range. Dunno where we gonna find 'em.

"James, buddy! You a reporter, right? Or just a cameraman?

The next few days are a blur with nothing of significance occurring other than the return of personal items. Surprisingly there is little theft of personal belongings. People now have some more individuality instead of the coveralls provided by the USAF.

---

Leaflets are handed out with the following typed out on them to everyone. They contain a list of basic laws to be followed. No punishments are listed, but with a judge, and several lawyers present the ability to carry out trials is mentione dont he reverse side.
link to a message in this game

---

While cell phones are working, chargers are in very short supply, as are plugs to plug them into. But it doesn’t really matter since usage is limited. Texting and calling is impossible. Most websites are down, but a few social media and video sharing websites are still up. Many people uploading how they have survived, along with their theories as to how this has all come about:

• Altruecure: A recently developed vaccine that is supposedly effective against 97% of all viral infections and some cancers. Roughly 47% of the world’s population had received the vaccine before the super flu hit. Either Altruecure caused the super flu or some form of animal flu that Altruecure couldn’t fight jumped from animal to human (similar to Bird flu, or whatever causes Ebola).
• Some country (many different Nations are listed as the culprits) developed the super flu and either the bug got out of containment, or it was deliberately used. With several nations pointing the finger to each other.
• Religious leaders from several faiths are stating that GOD is punishing man for what he has become.
• A cult claiming to worship the Dark God Brulyx, Lord of the Dead is claiming that they have waited thousands of years for the day when the dead would rise.

---

Several news websites are still up and running, and report the following:

• Try to get out of the cities
• You can kill ‘Zombies’ by shooting or bashing their heads in
• The majority of U.S. Military bases have been overrun by the dead. Nellis Air Force Base is named as one of those that is still operational. Civlians near these bases are encouraged to go there as there is a plan to evacuate everyone to Alaska.
• U.S. navy warships are still active on both the East and West Coasts of the United States, and are taking on people. Several aircraft carriers are being converted into floating refugee cities.
• Australia, Cuba, China, and North Korea have all gone dark.
• India and Pakistan have either had a limited nuclear exchange, or used nuclear weapons on themselves to destroy the recently risen dead.
• In the U.K. people are being evacuated to Scotland southern Ireland.
• Little news has come out of Russia, but it isn’t much different than the U.S. or U.K.

---

Jonathan spends most of his time recovering. Letting his bruised/cracked ribs heal. Upon getting his Solar roll he has quite a few people wanting to use it to charge their mobile devices, and realizes that some people would want to covet it for themselves. He is informed that when the massive airlift to Alaska occurs a USAF transport might to fly from Nellis to Scotland.
[Private to Jonathan Pembersley:
Give yourself the skill H2H Basic]

Although battered and bruised, Laney ends up helping in a hanger set aside as an infirmary. Here she ends up treating U.S. military personnel and civilians who have been bitten by the dead who rose. Luckily being bitten isn’t a death sentence, although the wound needs to be cleaned frequently or infection will set in. She never does get her bag back which caused her to spend a night in the base stockade.
[Private to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael:
You get +5% to skill rolls when treating a Zombie bite. Please note that re-rolling after a failed roll isn’t going to prevent an infection from occurring.]

James ends up as a co-pilot on one of the bases Blackhawk helicopters. Mostly what he does is fly around searching for more survivors and bringing them back to the base.
[Private to James Herson:
You are given a sidearm during these runs
You get the skill: Aircraft: Combat Helicopters (52%+3%), add +10% to the skill]

Annabelle, TAB, Luke and Joint all continue to carry out volunteer work to build defense works. After a second line of defenses are built for the hangers work is done along the fence line. Some Zombie are discovered along the fence line but are easily dispatched by a select few who vollentee to ‘dispatch them’. These ‘dispatchers’ are armed with an M-16 rifle with a bayonet attached (but no ammo), and stab the Zombie in the head.

[Private to Annabelle Wright; Joint; Luke Salem; Tiberus Asimov Blackiron:
You can pick up one of the two belwo skills:
Military Fortifications (30%+5%) skill, only apply IQ bonus.
WP Spear, with a +1 to strike as long as it isn’t thrown.]

Arani is deputized as a Sheriff, and as part of the civilian law enforcement force is allowed to carry her weapon when on duty.

OOC: Any weapons (or anything that could be used as a weapon) you had HAVE NOT been returned to you. If something is crossed off it means it was not returned to you. It was either not logged in, or somebody decided to keep it for yourself. You can still hold onto the coveralls, and list them on your equipment sheet. If you don’t list them I am going to assume you tossed them.

Being the potential venture capitalist J.P. began charging for the use of his solaroll. Not for cash of course, but gold coins, cigarettes pretty much he would take a look at anything. He did not charge those in his group but if someone wanted to help with security he would provide a cut.

After a couple of days (read: post-timeskip) Arani sought out Laney, and motioned for her to come closer when there were no people to overhear them.

- "Laney, you got a minute?"

Luke works on the defenses and happily volunteers to help dispatch the zombies. Otherwise he stays to himself mostly, other than the few people he's decided he can count on.

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 112):

Tired after her shift, Laney nodded.

"Sure thing, Arani. Over there behind those HESCO thingy's looks private enough. What's on your mind?"

she suspected this was regarding her partner, Maria Delores. Getting bitten wasn't a death sentence by any means but something really odd had happened to her. She hadn't run into anyone else with those symptoms that had been through the infirmary. Come to think of it, she hadn't seen Jose either. The young man had been bitten and his vitals had also crashed. Maybe it had something to do with both being bitten and being revived after flat-lining?

James will keep a lookout on his runs for the condition of the local towns, roads, etc

Once the two of them were alone -- well, as alone as one could get, anyway -- Arani spoke up.

- "Okay... Your friend, Maria? They put her in quarantine, but you can visit her if you want as long as you put in an official request first with the medics, keeps them from getting swamped by people trying to see sick and injured family members."

She glanced around first before adding something that had been bothering her.

- "Thing is... My guts tell me something's wrong. She looks fine, just looking at her there shouldn't be a reason to put her in quarantine. No wounds, no fever, not even a fricken' cold, she's as healthy as you and me. But we're here, and she isn't. I'm going to keep digging and see what i can find, but it might take a while as i don't have contacts. You've got a medical background so you know what to look out for, so when you drop by for a visit, keep your ear to the ground, yeah?"

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 116):

Laney nodded, mulling it over.

"Well now, ain't that interesting. She looks okay, huh? All right, I'll see if I can find anything out. Plus, that James dude was a reporter, or at least worked for one of the local stations. Action News 4, I think. He was flying one of their choppers when we picked him up. He might be able to find out some more, if he was an actual reporter."

She decided she wasn't going to mention that she was positive that Maria had been bitten, although to tell you the truth what had happened in that elevator at Caesar's Palace seemed like some kind of nightmare. But no, the patient had jumped on her, knocked her down, turn out a large area of skin, making stopping the bleeding next to impossible. Yet, she'd done it, and Maria somehow survived, with the help of another tourist, Ace (Jonathan). The point being such massive trauma should have been severe and noticeable. She'd definitely like to have a look at Maria's neck.

"Changing topics a little, how you feel about evacuating to Alaska? I mean, don't get me wrong, I think they've done a wonderful job here keepin' folks safe and all. But that's a ways away."

- "Alaska?"

Arani raised an eyebrow in response.

- "Only slightly colder than New York where i'm from, only tougher winters as far as i know... But that aside, that's like three thousand miles. Last i heard you guys had trouble just trying to make it outta Vegas... You overhear the soldiers setting up some kind of airbridge or something?"

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 118):

"I think they might do it by air. I don't recall anything specific, but this is an air base. I think tanks could make it on the roads. Probably trains if they cleared the tracks. As long as they stay outta the cities, sure, I think they got a shot of making it.

"Alaska's not a bad choice. It's far away, they got oil for fuel. Don't know about food, but I guess they can fish. The big problem with that is if they leave, they ain't comin' back for a long time. Maybe decades.

"I don't think they can take everything. There's probably going to be vehicles, supplies. Maybe weapons. I'd like to find out how they're gonna divvy it up. Sure, they're leaving, but it's not like they want folks that are stayin' to fight it out over what's left."

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 110):

The conversation from a couple days ago was still on Joints mind, they had not really come to any strong plan or guideline as how they were as group going to get shit together for when this base fell.  Last Word Laney as Joint had started to call her was a pretty apt leader but still could be a bag sometimes but other then that she was a medic and obviously cared for people.  The little shit stain Luke was actually not all that bad, just ran his mouth a lot but the crazies at the fence line provided a little relief and Joint enjoyed having someone else that he felt was just as hard as him.

It was hard, real hard to take someones' life even though by all reports that the group had received the crazies or I guess zombies were no longer alive.  But seeing them as anything other then human was still difficult, it was getting easier.

The TAB kid was a natural at the spear thing and was clearly fit Joint had asked him to work out in the mornings and evenings to help stay in shape.

Building the defenses came naturally to Joint and he was super pumped to learn some new construction skills that clearly were going to be needed.  His long history of construction and physical abilities made the days go fast and he was proud of the defenses their little group had help put up.

Arani shook her head, tsk'ing in response.

- "Nah, a Chinook fits like fifty people and they can fly in a straight line. No crazies in the sky either. Tanks fit far less people, they're gas guzzlers and you need to check perimeters every day. If it were me, i'd get it going by air, much safer definitely."

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 121):

Laney struggled to describe what she meant.

"Uh... not a "tank" tank, but... like, an armoured car? Like, the Hummers and big armoured vehicles like they used in Iraq and Afghanistan?" Like most civilians, Laney conflated all armoured military vehicles into the catch-all description of "tank", regardless if it had tracks, a turret, main gun, or even wheels. She wasn't literally thinking of a Main Battle Tank but various wheeled and tracked carriers used by the military.

"Anyways, you don't need a lot of 'em. There are good roads from here to Alaska. You maybe send a few ahead to clear the way. Put up a chopper to keep an eye above. Then run trucks like semis, buses, tankers. Chinooks use a lot of fuel, too, and I know helicopters need more maintenance than trucks.

"Or better yet, take the train! You'd need to make sure the rails are good, but you wouldn't need to stop until you got to Alaska. Take the train to the Navy base in San Diego, then take a boat the rest of the way there."

She shrugged because it probably didn't matter anyways. once the others were gone, they'd be on their own.

"What's more important is what they're gonna do with what's left over here. Any way you can get a lead on how that's gonna go down?

"I think Ace has a good idea, that Lake Mead campground sounds as good as anything. Out of the city, there's water, buildings. We need to think of alternate destinations. My husband Greg, he used to go hunting in the mountains outside Jean. That's to the southwest. I never was one for camping so I didn't go with him."

Luke went about his business relatively peacefully, only truly fucking with one or two people cause he got bored when the crazies were put down. He didn't cause any real trouble, yet. Luke did make himself watch the people in military uniforms, seeing if he could pick up any type of pattern so he'd notice when it changed. He also made it a point to try and find anything illicit that he shouldn't have, if those people could get small stuff they could help find bigger stuff, but he hadn't had any luck yet.

[Private to Darkside Trooper:

07:57, Today: Luke Salem rolled 55 using 1d100 with rolls of 55.  beat a 45.]

Building the defenses was a good thing, it kept his mind off the fact that he had not got through to his parents or any of his siblings back home and that was bothering him a lot.  He had been using the limited internet that he could but it was eating up battery power so in exchange for using Jonathan's solar charger when he wasn't building up the perimeter with the giant dude, the cute girl and rat looking dude he was kinda just standing guard for lack of a better term.  TAB also if someone asked nicely would let them borrow his phone and make calls.  He wasn't as good as a capitalist as the english guy but he just didn't have it in him to take opportunity of people at this time.  As for killing the Zombies at the fence he was a natural at it his previous combat prowess was easily seen, his spear thrusts were precise, quick and very deadly.  As for his job of helping with the group be ready, when he picked up his bayoneted rifle he was paying attention to who had the keys and or a combination.  Or even where they were coming from or what vehicle they were in.  Hard though on a base where most of the vehicles were the same color and make.

Arani shrugged in response.

- "Still adds a shitton of weight and puts more pressure on the suspension, you'd have to off-road it quite a bit from here to Alaska, and one good rain and those armored cars are going to sink in the mud faster than you can kiss those wheels goodbye. Boats could work but you'd need to stockpile enough supplies for it, when every living thing out there will want to get on board too."

She took a deep breath before continuing.

- "But we're getting off topic. Tell you what, you look into this Maria of yours and what's up with her, and i'll hit the rumor mill and see what i can find out about moving, deal? We can share info when we get it, though it'll be between the two of us."

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 125):

Laney looked doubtful but nodded her head when Ariani brought the conversation back on track. They could discuss how to get around later, and either way that was something they didn't need to worry about right now.

"Yep, that sounds like a plan. Let's meet at the mess tent after dinner, compare notes."

Unless Ariani had anything else to add, she shook hands and then left to try and make an appointment to see Maria Delores.

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 126):

Before heading to the infirmary, Laney detours to find James. When she found him she asked, "James, you got time for a personal question? I seen you taking pictures when we were out there. And you were flying that news helicopter. Are you a reporter? Like a real journalist? Or just a pilot-slash-photographer?"

James smiles "I'm like you said a pilot-slash-photographer technically i make more money" he then adds "Remember a pictures says a thousand words"

In reply to James Herson (msg # 128):

"You know, if you're the only one taking pictures, multiply that by ten!

"Before this whole thing started, people would take photos of the most banal shit imaginable, right? Now, with no reliable cell service or no one to talk to, and no Facebook, not may folks takin' pictures these days. But we need a record, so stories don't get lost.

"I was gonna offer to help set up interviews with the survivors. Hear peoples' stories, tell you about themselves, their families. What they lost. Maybe, in a while, what they hope for the future."

She paused, thinking something over. "Hey, some of us are thinkin' we're not goin' up to Alaska. Different reasons, I guess. Whatever the reason we're gonna stay, try and find some place safe. Until this all is over. Some day, could be years. You're a pretty useful guy. You got any plans to hang around, or are you gonna take off?"

Well she was certainly getting a work out during the day that was for sure. Anabelle was glad to see her cot again and sat on the edge getting up the will to go and have a shower. She watched the people moving through the hanger not really feeling like joining them in the end she just lay down.

Jonathan amasses a small fortune in cigarettes, snuff, and dip, but has little in the way of gold and silver. People just don’t really have gold or silver coins and few are willing to part with their jewelry.  TAB hangs out and provides some sense of security.

[Private to Jonathan Pembersley: You have the equivalent of 80 packs of cigarettes (of various brands), and 30 cans of chewing tobacco. How much of this you give away to your ‘security’ is up to you. Of silver coins you have 5 dollar silver dollars and 12 silver quarters. Of gold you have 2 Krugerrands.

A few shady types have offered you gold fillings, and gold wedding rings. But the nature of these people indicates that they got the gold through an illegal means (pulled from dead bodies, robbed people, looted a pawn shop etc). I leave it up to you if you trade with these types of people.]

As James does his rescue flights he can see from the air that the roads of Las Vegas and its suburbs are a mess. The freeways and highways are one big traffic jam to about 5 miles outside the Las Vegas metropolitan area. The various side roads and dirt roads do have abandoned cars on them, but look to be passable.

TAB, Joint and Luke spend their mornings working out. Not at the base gym, but a makeshift gym some of the military types out together just inside the civilian area. A number of the military types had served overseas and had done the same. Thus TAB and Joint spend their mornings with a number of military types and other civilians who like to work out. The civilians range from the good to the bad and the ugly in terms of their previous social standing. While most of the military personnel who work out are National Guard, and Marine Reservists, there are USAF and Navy personnel. It’s from the Marines and National Guardsman that TAB and Joint find out that quite a few of their buddies are being treated for ‘Zombie’ bites, and that there are some building within the base which have been barricaded to keep ‘Zombies’ inside. Simply put there really are not that many ‘combat effectives’ among the military personnel with combat arms MOS’s.

[Private to Luke Salem: You manage to acquire a M7 bayonet and its sheath, and hide it on your person by tucking the sheath on the inside of your waist band. The sheath can actually be secured to a regular civilian belt. Wearign your shirt untucked hides the bayonet quite well. The M7 bayonet does not have sharp edges, and is a stabbing weapon. You can of course sharpen the edges. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M7_bayonet]

[Private to Tiberus Asimov Blackiron: Yes it is hard to determine where the rifles and bayonets are being stored because they are diven out to you. A very concise count of the weapons is done each and every time they are handed out to and turned back in by the civilians.]

Laney moves from the ‘bite ward’ to the flu recovery ward. Here she helps treat the few people who were on the base that contracted the super flu and survived. The bodies of these individuals are covered in dime to quarter sized pox like sores and blisters. Once healed they leave a scar and their skin has taken a greyish hue and the eyes have permanent bags under them. Laney does get a chance to see Maria, in fact there is no issue in setting the meeting up.

Arani asks around and tries to get some info regarding the evacuation to Alaska.

[Private to Arani Vasingis: Flights are going to begin taking off in a day or so. Families with children under 18 and orphaned children will go first. The sick and infirm will go next followed by those who do not have children. The heavy equipment will go last along with the remaining military personnel and those who either volunteer to be one of the last flights out or simply don’t want to go to Alaska. ]

Luke will chat with anyone who speaks to him, briefly though, and other than the working out stays to himself mostly, other than TAB and Joint and the crew they seemed to be building. Numbers were good, more people watching your back, but more backs to watch too. Luke didn't even blink when zombies were mentioned, "Well shit. That'll make em easier to kill since they arne't people huh?"

Luke shook his head and grinned.

[Private to Darkside Trooper: Sweet! ]

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 129):

"I'm unsure but think in Alaska. at least we would have access to water" James



James points out to the group that the   freeways and highways within 5 miles vegas are one big jam but the side roads look clear so either use them or a get a off road vehicle

In reply to James Herson (msg # 133):

"I heard the water is frozen a lot of the time, right? We're not far from Lake Mead. Plenty of fresh water there. I imagine they might let you off in Canada. Although what you'd find there I don't have a clue!

"If you're thinking of staying we're putting together a small crew. We could use a pilot, especially if the roads around Vegas are jammed up with traffic. If we can't fly, though, a wrecker or tow truck sounds like a smart move.

"Let me know what you want to do. If the Air Force is going to fly outta here, then you might find you don't get a choice. If you do stay they probably won't let you keep one of the choppers here but we could maybe refuel that bird you left in the city if it's still  flyable."

She waited for James response, if any, checking the time to make sure she could get in to see Maria Delores during visiting hours. "Anyways, thanks for hearing me out. Let me know what you decide, huh?"

James nods "I will think on it" James then heads to what he was doing

The next morning Laney heads off (by herself) to meet Maria at the same building where she has been working at.

---

An announcement is made an hour later for all families with children under 18 and unaccompanied minors to assemble near the flight line. Several large USAF cargo planes with jet engines are lined up to start being loaded up.

Luke will wander over near the loading area, and ask in general, "Takin' em to paradise? Or trimming the fat?" Things were starting to happen now, it wouldn't be long til Luke and his crew were ready to move.

In reply to Luke Salem (msg # 137):

The USAF Airman who Luke asked his question to responds. "Yeah all the families are going to Alaska first."

Joint was laughing in his head and a classic shit eating grin on his face.  He just knew that these asshole where gonna bounce soon.  Laney's optimism was pretty fucking annoying and he was actually hoping she was right even though he knew she was gonna be wrong.  Time to start carefully being ready to go on the bounce in a heart beat.  Joint stayed by Luke's side strength in small organized numbers and all that kinda bullocks.

TAB tagged along with the big dude and the little rat guy, both seemed capable in there own ways and working on the HESCO barriers TAB had developed that kinda bond of these were the only people he knew right now and maybe his only chance of getting home to see how his family was.  Laney and Joint had kinda taken the role of leadership, they both talked lots and were a lot like water and oil.  Figuring Joint was more likely the flammable oil and Laney the water, but they seemed to know their shit about stressful situations.  Things were obviously not going to get better if the only option was evacuation to somewhere thousands of miles away.

Getting a short break from her duties to corral the refugees into planes -- the correct refugees that was, whereas most wanted to be anywhere else but there to begin with -- Arani returned to her bunk for a moment. She looked around but, not spotting Laney, shrugged and decided to clean her gun instead. Rec time was rec time after all.

Rob sits on the edge of his cot lacing up his boots trying to look calm while his heart races. He gets dressed mechanically but his eyes dart around trying to see everything all at once

"Chill man, chill. They are getting out the important people first is all. Your no one, nobody, you've kept your head down and your mouth shut. It's not like their gonna start shooting people... Why the fuck wouldn't they dust all you potential fucking zombies. If you weren't such a little pussy you would have already got the fuck out of this...."

Rob shakes his head clearing out the negative thoughts as he stands up looking much more calm and composed then he did moments ago. He walks around observing behavior as much as anything else. He is like a coiled spring ready to flee at a moments notice. Trying to go it alone got his ass stuck here in the first place so he would like to join up with some other survivors. Rob has identified some people he thinks would be useful but he intends to wait until the shit hits the fan and see how things shake out.

"God please dont make me have to kill any of these fucking people."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 16:32, Wed 11 May 2016.

J.P squirreled away more of the cigarettes while passing off the chewing tobacco to anyone who helps him out in his little enterprise. It was a good way to get to know people within the hanger and he was on a first name basis with nearly everyone.

Annabelle had tried to get an idea of the base layout while she worked beyond the "wire". She also wanted to be first in line should the shit hit the fan and they were back relying on their own skills again. A vehicle was going to be important and she was looking for something that could take a pounding and keep going. So she tried to map out in her mind a route to the truck park should it be needed.

James will assit people getting on the planes if needed

By nightfall the majority of the families and all of the critically injured have been evacuated from Nellis Air Force Base to a base in Alaska.

Laney, and the others that knew him get a chance to speak with Juan, whose son is still in critical condition after being nearly beat to death by the ‘zombies’. His family is on one of the first flights out…..

Laney and a few others catch a glimpse of Maria Delores Hernandez being escorted to one of the transports. No one really gets a chance to say good bye to her….

Tab, Annabelle, and Joint take notice that the small fleet of military vehicles they helped assemble near the flight line are being loaded onto a few transports. It’s pretty clear that the newer MRAP’s, and up armored Humvees are being taken to Alaska while the older more beat up Humvee’s and other 1990’s era vehicles are being left behind. The fleet of modern military vehicles is reduced by one-third by the end of the day.

---

The next morning the ‘refugee camp’ consisting of thee very large aircraft hangers is reduced by almost half. The people in one of the other hangers are moved to the other two. USAF personnel then start to try and determine exactly who doesn’t want to go to Alaska, and who does not. Everyone is also informed that the transports will return in three days.

OOC: In your next post make you state where you want to go. If at least one or two characters decide to go to Alaska then there can be some adventures you can do from there with Maria Delores Hernandez.

When asked Annabelle makes it clear she wants to stay in Las Vegas and if possible she would like her handgun back. She will continue to help out with whatever jobs come up around the base as she tries to keep busy and not think about what is going to come next.

J.P decided to stay in Vegas as well. It looked to him that he would be a on the opposite side of the world to home so staying in play and trying to make it to the coast were better options. Besides he had made some friends and they all looked to be sticking together at this point so he was happy to be a part of that.

He did some looking around to makes sure those evacuated had taken all their stuff from the hangers and then continued to wait it out.

Arani was torn on what to do. On one side, she wanted to stay, figuring Vegas could use some people trying to keep order around there. On the other, one had to wonder just how much of Vegas was still human territory, so to speak, and she wanted to be more than just another mouth to feed waiting for all this to blow over.

Whatever. She had until the final set of transports to decide, which would be a few days from now. She'd get it all sorted in her head eventually.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:51, Mon 06 June 2016.

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 146):

Laney intended on staying here in Nevada. Alaska wasn't for her! Besides, she still had family here, or at least in Louisiana.

High on her list of priorities was finding a good vehicle or two for transportation. Still, there was a question of self-defence. Hopefully there was a stay-behind crew of volunteers managing the allocation of resources and keeping an eye on the vast stores of munitions they wouldn't have had time to move in a day or so. If not, then this could be a free-for-all. They'd need protection.

She found Joint and the Kid, Luke.

"Guys, I came in with a Glock. They said I might get it back. At least before I lipped 'em off. Still, they might return it. I think it would be a good idea for you to head down to the motor pool, see if you can get a Humvee ambulance. And one of them armoured trucks? I'll meet you there, if I can get my piece out of lockup."

Her plan was to try to get her gun back first, then meet up with the boys in the motor pool. Joint looked like he could take care of himself without a gun and Luke was obviously tougher than he looked as well.

James decides to go to Alaska as he think it would be slightly easier to survive there

Luke nodded and skipped off, waiting for Joint if he was joining him. "I hope it has pain pills!" he shouted with a grin back at Laney. Luke was sticking with the plan, find somewhere remote here and sort the rest out once they were all safe. A home was a necessary thing, even if it was a cardboard box in an alley behind a dumpster as it had been many nights for him. It was something to call your own, a reason to fight and live.

- "Hate to break this to ya, but.. not quite."

Arani approached Laney, half-shrugging as she explained the flaw in her plan.

- "Got that schedule you wanted. Right now, they're flying out families with small kids and orphaned kids. Next are sick and infirm, which includes that friend of yours. Third flight is a catchall, they're loading all the heavy gear on board along with the military and those volunteers that want to head to Alaska with them. So save yourself the trouble of heading to the motor pool, they likely got them all tagged anyway. The only things staying behind is the people that didn't want to go and the civvie crap that brought 'em here."

She tilted her head for a moment before continuing.

- "So 'bout this Maria, what you got for me?"

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 153):

"Even a beat-to-shit Humvee is better'n walkin'. Or even a Honda Civic.

"What would be real nice is a tow truck! Helpful for them traffic jams.

"Maria Delores? Real weird. They're taking her to run some tests. Hope she's ok. What happened to her is back in Caesar's Palace a crazy got to her, tore her throat with her teeth. Missed all the major blood vessels, thank God! I got to her in time, slapped on a pressure bandage and put her on an IV drip. I got her stabilised and the bleeding stopped. She regained consciousness about fifteen minutes later. Which is not good, brain-trauma-wise, but better than a coma! After, her body temperature remained low. Like, shocky low. Which I was kinda expecting. But she had a low pulse and blood pressure. Low blood-oxygen. I don't know how she was conscious, let alone moving around.

"Other than that, I don't know. Somehow I thought I heard her talk about controlling or talking to the crazies... It's hard to believe. Anyways that's all I know.

"Hey, any chance you can help me get ahold of my Glock?"

OOC: I am not sure if that last part was actually articulated or someting Laney witnessed. If not please let me know OOC and I'll edit that out.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:07, Tue 07 June 2016.

When approached by one of the individuals taking seating reservations for the flight to Alaska Joint just politely told him to shove it up his ass and that he was staying.

Joint was just about to turn and go after listening to the Princesses suggestion of looking for a vehicle when the one called Arani spoke up about it being unlikely.  After they had both said their piece Joint threw in his typical two bits.

"Let me go talk to the dude that I had my job interview with, he was mentioning I could have my pick of the litter once these clowns were ready to bounce.  I bet if I mind my manners they might let me drag one of the less operational vehicles into a garage.  And if I got some help from TAB and Luke here I could have us one if not two vehicles running.  I can even build in a kinda MadMax kill switch so no one jack's our rides.  I mean if that is cool with the law dog."


Joint looked at Arani when making the Law Dog comment, not that it could have been directed at anyone else.


[Private to GM: Basing this off the interrogation interview, never really got a response if that was plausible]

While TAB was waiting to see where the conversation was going to go between Lani, Arani and Joint he was approached by one of the staff taking names of people who were staying and leaving.

"I will be staying here Sir, I would like to see if I can get home and see if my family is okay.  Uhmm who would I speak to see what might be happening in my area?"

TAB had already decided to stay as a group, even if it meant going which ever direction they had to go.  The most important thing right now was not getting caught again like they all had been caught before getting to the base unprepared.

Arani chuckled in response.

- "Gonna be a Civic before they'd let you near anything big, but if it's broke and you've got the skills to fix it you're pretty much gold on any non-military stuff. Unless the army wants to start up a car dealership over in Alaska."

She then turned to TAB, sighing as she heard his choice.

- "Might want to think that over, kid. Not a person here that doesn't want to know about their folks, but assuming you find them, you'd still be stuck in the middle of this death trap. Seventy degrees on average in the middle of a desert's just waiting for the water to run out. Long term thinking's what'll keep you alive out there."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:04, Wed 08 June 2016.

TAB was listening to Arani and it was obvious by his body language that he respected and understood what she said but it was also obvious in his facial expression that a decision had been made.

"I hear yeah Mam, but Blackiron's do not flee and I would like to know that my family is either alive or one of those things walking out there.  And if they are walking out there I want to be the one to give them rest in the ground.  Plus I really don't like this depending on others to protect me, I do not discredit those that have helped me but they might not be around and small groups are easier to hide, move and feed."

Arani listened to TAB's response, and nodded. From the look on her own face she didn't fault him for wanting to stay, if anything she didn't mind either way. He was certain he was making the right call, and that was that as far as she was concerned.

- "Hey, i know what you mean. Part of why i signed up for this was because i hate owing people. That said, i trust my folks can survive this while i focus on doing the same: Might not see them again, but if they're alive after all this is over with, we'll get in touch."

She then noticed something in the distance and sighed, before turning away from him to look at something in the distance.

- "If you find 'em, take my advice. Grab a car, top her off and get the Hell out of Vegas. Nevada's got lots of forests and mountains and there aren't many crazies i've seen that can climb rocks. Get some altitude and find yourself a creek and you can sing it out for a good long while."

Giving a small wave over her shoulder, she began heading off to another couple of refugees who were likely being asked the same question: Stay or leave.

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 159):

TAB listened again with respect, if he didn't and his father found out these so called Zombies would be the least of his worries.  A stalwart but fair disciplinarian TAB's father was a man of his word and made sure his kids followed close.  It was not that they were not allowed to think freely they were encouraged to in fact but they better back up their thoughts with imperial logic.  Feelings were well and good but they were to come second after reason and logic.  No one in TAB's family really knew what there dad did before becoming a rancher but he sure as hell would never talk about it.

Waving to Arani, hoping that she would stay with the group TAB turned to see what other plans they might have.

Rob has thus far managed to avoid talking to the airmen about his intent to stay or go. He  has spent the entirety of his stay at Nellis either in his bunk sleeping or wandering around alone along the perimeter fences. His entire strategy has been avoidance and anonymity. He hasn't spoken with anyone he could outright ignore and those he could not received only the most cursory reply or monosyllabic grunts. He has no I.D. and offered only outright lies during processing. The typical refugees are obviously more concerned with their current predicament then actively studying their fellow detainees. However those more astute in the ways of human behavior will probably have noticed that Rob walks around in a constant state of tension his eyes darting around as if expecting an attack.

Currently he is shuffling around with a push-broom. His eyes are downcast but alert and he is wearing earbuds. He is doing very little actual cleaning. He was near Tab and the others briefly but he pushed his broom in the other direction until Arani departed. Now making a beeline towards Joint he stops in front of the burly man.

Even in baggy coveralls it is obvious Rob is well muscled and very broad across the shoulders and chest. He is not a good looking young man by any stretch. He has a prominent forehead and browline that shelters eyes best described as beady. His nose has obviously been broken on numerous occasions in the past. The left side of his neck and head is heavily scarred and the lower half of his left ear is missing. After a suspicious glance back at Arani and any airmen in the hangar he looks up to meet everyones gaze though its obvious he has trouble looking people in the eye.

His opening statement reveals a thick southern drawl and that his earbuds are obviously just for show.

"Honda Civic my ass. If she ain't a cop I ain't a redneck. Names Robert Jessup and I figure ya'll to be sticking around. I was alone and ended up here. When it's time to get the hell out I figure being in a group is best. I ain't so good with folks but im real good with animals and guns and such. My dad was a crazy ass survivalist and I grew up mostly off the grid in the West Texas desert."

He clips his words off making them sound forced or rehearsed. His grin looks more like a snarl revealing smallish teeth and he sticks out a calloused left hand awkwardly to offer a limp handshake.

In reply to Robert E. Lee Jessup (msg # 161):

The mans abrupt introduction and how he called out Arani was a bit bemusing to Joint.  In the same hand though this guy called Rob was correct.  If they were gonna split this place when things went side ways as if things weren't side ways enough a civic wasn't gonna cut it.  Already they were up to seven or eight people.  Things were already hectic and they were quickly escalating with the military getting their boys and gear off the base.

Taking Robs hand firmly and giving it a firm business like shake Joint looks Rob up and down.

"Well boy welcome aboard our unproven motley crew, we barely have a plan but we are working on some stuff.  I have no doubts that you will be an asset at sometime in the very near future.  I will leave introductions up to the others.  Right now I have to go see if I can go meet the fine gentlemen officer who let me outta my comfy cell and see about a larger vehicle."

With that Joint turns and goes looking for the Major Peterson to see about appropriate transportation, hell even a military bus would be decent.

Luke nodded to Robert, "Names Luke, good to meet ya. I'm bout to get lookin' for anything that might be useful to us when we do split. You got anything useful on ya?" Luke shrugged, "Not tryin' to rob ya, Rob, Just gettin' a loose inventory in my head."

Joint and Arani are for the moment no where to be seen. Off in the distance there is some shouting followed by gunfire. A number of military types (mostly USAF but a few Army and USMC uniforms are present) in full combat gear run across the opening to the hanger (on the side facing the majority of the base) the military types are shouting to each other, apparently calling out a location. "It's barricade 10! go GO GO!"

As soon as the group of military types exit the makeshift gate they are closed and a white bus is pulled in front as an additional barricade. A few soldiers climb on top of the bus, and the hasty made ten foot guard towers are now maned by not one but two men.

A mixed group of two Army soldiers and a single Marine set up a mortar nearby and begin to launch illumination rounds......

Luke looked over to Robert, "Robert, my new found associate, I'd say the fences have been breached." Luke began to see if any other soldier types showed up, what they were wearing and carrying. He will also note where they are coming from, more guards outside mean less inside. That means they can possibly grab supplies.

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 164):

Laney continued to look for someone, anyone, who could give her her weapon back. Or any weapon. She asked anyone in a uniform, "hey, excuse me, we were told we could reclaim our weapons when we leave. Looks like we're leaving!"

She showed the receipt she was issued.

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 166):

J.P had grabbed what was left of his gear and join Laney. He was also carrying a receipt which he handed over. He tried to keep watch as he waited, nervously looking to the exits of the hanger.

As the others began to ask questions of the military personnel Annabelle also walked towards the expanding group of people. She had her receipt as well but she did not get it out, instead she just waited to see if they would be getting their property back.

TAB grabbed his receipt from his pocket, looked at and in that moment decided it was a lost cause and put it back in his pocket.  Quickly taking a knee and making sure that his boots were properly tied and nothing was unnecessarily loose.  Once that was down he moved quickly to Annabelle, Jonathan, Laney, Luke and Robert.

"We should hang back, I don't think it would be wise to be caught in the gathering crowd and separated."

TAB was suggesting caution, it was becoming all to obvious to him that rearming the citizen's was the least of the military's concern.

Rob was stammering awkwardly searching for an answer to Luke's simple question when the yelling started.  From his pocket he fishes out his own receipt for his weaponry and looks at it doubtfully. Waiting to see how the soldiers reply to the others he says quietly."These guys ain't gonna give us shit. If nothing else I noticed the lock on the tool shed isn't all that stout." Rob shifts his weight nervously from one foot to the other. For now he is just doing exactly what Tab suggested and hanging back to see what happens. He looks as if he is ready to make a run for it though.

Luke, noticing Robert's behavior shakes his head, "Calm down buddy, we're good right now. They ain't giving us shit, you're right. I think. We will get what we can and make it work, yeah? Just be cool."

Joint left the Major to deal with whatever larger problems he had to deal with and headed back to hanger where he hoped everyone was still hanging out.  He also was hoping they would not lose their shit over the deal he had struck with the Major.

As Joint was getting back he could hear the heavy thump of the illumination mortars being launched, he goes at a steady pace taping them on the shoulder and signalling them to gather around again so they could discuss what hopefully will be going down.  Picking a place where he can see anyone approaching who may catch wind so as not to cause anymore passengers to tag along.  Joint doesn't miss a beat in getting down to the details, his years as a foreman and running his company kicking in.

"Arani and I talked with the Major, he has agreed to let off this fine resort with a MRAP, rations, water and a couple small fire arms.  He will gather us up under the pretext that we are being dissidents and we can be outta here before dawn."

Joint pauses briefly looking at everyone in the eye.

"There is a catch though, the Major is getting reports I guess of cults.  He sent some of his boys to look into it at Hoover Dam and they have not reported back in.  He wants us to just check it out, if we can find his boys get them out.  And if not at least give the Major some Intel so He knows what the hell is going on. We will have a SAT phone to stay in contact with them so we don't have to come back here and from the looks of it we won't be able to.  Making this deal with us he knows we would not have to keep our word but he is still willing to.  I for one am gonna show a little patriotism and see about the soldiers, shit they could be some of the ones that got a lot of these people to safety."

Joint was interested in what the others had to say.

In reply to Joint (msg # 172):

Laney nodded.

"I'm in. We were thinking of settling down near there at the Lake Mead Recreational Area. It wouldn't be a great idea to have some cultist clowns runnin' around.

"If I can get something like a Paramedic bag to replace the one that they ripped off, I'll let bygones be bygones. Yeah, things could get a little too interesting around here."

Rob hangs back on the edge of the groups huddle looking a mix of nervous and angry. His nostrils flare slightly as he takes deep breaths in an attempt to not have a panic attack. He is sure any minute that Joint or one of the others will scream at him to get the fuck out of their business, the soldiers will just start executing everyone, or the most improbable. That his father will just stroll in to the hangar. Never mind that dear old dad is almost certainly a zombie shuffling around in his maximum security cell in Livingston Texas. Trying to clear his mind of all the noise Rob listens to Joint never meeting the mans gaze directly. Rob's lip curls unconsciously at the mention of going to look for lost soldiers but he keeps his mouth shut and his head down. If these people are getting out of this death trap then he is determined not to fuck up his chance to at least ride out on their coat tails.

In reply to Robert E. Lee Jessup (msg # 174):

Laney looked around, trying to see who was wanting to come along and be part of their little band. She knew the group that had come with her to the base were solid. Arani, Joint and Luke also had their shit wired tight.

Her eyes settled on Robert. Dude looked a little nervous and shy, like he wanted to join in but was a little uncertain how to go about it.

"Yo, I'm Laney. You heard the man, we're gettin' out of here. You look like you want to get outta here too. We got room, 'specially if you're handy with a gun. The catch is we got a job to do and we ain't got time for no bullshit. What do you say, cowboy? You ready to ride or die with us right now?"

Robert noted she spoke in a noticeable Lou-siana drawl.

TAB chuckled at bit this was going from nuts to nutty to insane.

"It is kinda like going from out of the fire into the pot to jumping back in the fire.  At least in in the fire we can determine a little how hot it is."

He knew what he just said made little sense, it was helpful to himself though to go with it.

"I am down to help out, I would like a chance to fabricate some hand to hand weapons."

He could tell looking around that Luke, Jonathan, Annabelle seemed at least to him a little hesitant to say anything.  Well again as it seemed to him.  With the commotion behind them and suddenness of this request and opportunity TAB himself had not jump in to speak up till now.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 18:43, Wed 26 Oct 2016.

"Ah... I don't know about you guys but my firearm skills and general soldiering are probably not up to taking on anyone who knows what they are doing. As for cults that did not take long and I would assume they now have the soldiers weapons. Look I have fired a pistol probably seventeen times and they were during the scramble here and I can't say I made anyone proud with my performance. Can we just take the equipment and get out of here ?"

Looking back towards the group after watching the door Annabelle quickly added. "Lets just get out of here and make up our mind about the "job" later. Doesn't look like we are getting out weapons back either."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:59, Wed 26 Oct 2016.

Joint was semi relieved that his part was done and that others were now voicing their thoughts,  some of them even had some good thoughts.

Jonathan was openly honest about being a bit of a bitch when it came to combat.  It was obvious though that he was more of a gatherer of info and a entrepreneur, well he would be called a black market merchant the way he slinging his charger for cig's and other items.  Joint ribbed Jonathan a couple times about what he was doing and was met that is was venture capitalism, fuck off was Joint's response with a shit eating grin.  Good shit to have around though, probably.

Laney's was an obvious for having along as she wouldn't let people stop hearing or offering her medical services.  She seemed to have a real hard on for helping people, just hope that did not get them in to a bind in the future.  Bleeding heart people usually ended up dead in Joints mind, they always seemed to drain out.

TAB, Annabelle and Luke well they had worked the fence together getting some the defensive perimeter up.  TAB and Anna were solid for sure, Luke though he could pull his weight and had no problem taking out the trash.  It seemed though to easy though for Luke, that kid had definitely seen some hard times.

Lastly the new guy, wanna talk about a guy on edge so hard he might as well be coming down off a month long coke bender.  Well that was non other then Robert Jessup, fucking hill billy name of Joint had ever heard one.  The thing is though Robert played his cards right off the hop and played em right.  Having someone with some survival knowledge well that was worth more then all the cigs that Jonathan might have stowed away.

"Well shit this is turning out to be a real shin dig, well lets hang tight till the Major sends our welcoming party or we have to bounce out ourselves.  It seems rather lively over there."

Robert seems a little off guard when Laney asks him if he is ready to "Ride or Die." His eyes shift quickly glancing around at the others before he stammers. "Er..um... I mean yes ma'am."  Listening to the others he nods in the affirmative as Annabelle speaks but when his eyes meets those of the pretty young woman his gaze is immediately downcast. Remaining quiet until there is a lull Rob says, "Thank y'all for including me. I ain't so good with folks really but I can work on a team. If this is the kinda thing where we get a vote or whatever I just wanna say I had about $15,000 worth of tactical gear and supplies that these... soldiers took outta my truck. My AR alone was a $6,000 competition rifle. That was my whole life savings. I'm all about hittin the road but I honestly ain't too hot about going on rescue missions. Rob shrugs, his cheeks and neck slightly flushed. He fishes around in a pocket for a can of Copenhagen and regretfully places his last pinch of snuff between his lower lip and gums before putting the empty can back in his pocket.

Arani arrived a little after the discussion had begun, but fortunately Joint and Laney were easy enough to recognize for her to assume the others were part of the group they had gathered as well. She glanced over them. Half would probably not make it past winter, but somewhere there was a balance between team strength and food requirements, and she was determined to be a part of that final group.

- "Well, far's i figure Maria's on a plane to Alaska right now, and in a few more days the last bird'll fly this chicken coop, so let's try and get some more troops to survive this. The world's a shitty enough place without doomsday cults thrown in."

In reply to Jonathan Pembersley (msg # 177):

Laney replied to Jonathan, "Ace, you right. You did pop a cap in that crazies' head but that jes' mighta' been luck and you need to learn all about your 2nd Amendment rights and freedoms. Time 'nuff for that later."

She nodded warmly at Robert. "Good to hear you wanna come along, cher.  I hear you, that's really shitty what they done to you and it ain't right. I didn't lose as much as you  but I shot my damn mouth off about it and landed my ass in jail! But enough of that, can't cry over spilt milk."

Laney introduced everyone there to Robert. She called Jonathan "Ace". "Sorry, didn't catch your name, sugar."

She turned to Arani and Joint.

"Arani, Joint, I think everyone's on board as far as it goes and the Major's got himself a deal. If we check out the Lake Meade park we gotta go by Hoover Dam. Even if that's a bust I don't like the idea them assholes are out there anyhow. Can ya'all go talk to him now? Let's get on this sooner rather than later. 'Fore he changes his mind? And ask about our friend's gear, too."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:00, Sat 29 Oct 2016.

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 182):

Joint looked over everyone again, they were all committed to this as one could be.

"Well from what I can tell from what the Major was saying, was that Little Miss Popo was gonna go give the Major our roll call.  So he would know how many dissidents needed to be brought in, you know for planning to escape."

Joint looked pointedly at Arani when he was wrapping up another of minor tirades.  But he knew most likely that he wasn't speaking in a language that a majority of them understood.  Much like the political world, the criminal one had it's own set of linguistics.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:25, Wed 09 Nov 2016.

Arani shrugged in response. she didn't understand part of what he had said, but from him looking at her she knew he was talking about her, and judging by the tone she could piece together the rest on her own.

- "Inventory. He wants to know who's gone and who isn't for the evac to make sure everyone's accounted for in the end. I volunteered to keep some semblance of order in this place, so until we leave that's what i'll do."

She took a deep breath, and continued.

- "Now, we got permission to requisition a fully gassed up ride and some weapons, so i don't think they'd mind if you'd ask for your own weapons back rather than mil issue Nines."

Luke stepped forward finally, "Sorry guys, zoned out dreaming about killing the infected... it was cool. So let's grab some gear and get moving then... what are we waiting on?" he gave a sheepish grin at his prolonged absence.

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 184):

Laney laughed at Luke's sheepish grin. "Glad you're still with us there, Hon!"

"Arani, now you know who's on board I don't see any reason to delay. If all that needs to happen now is you check in with the Major, then please, let's get on that.

"If we can get permission from the Major or his staff in writing to get our own firearms back, plus a paramedic bag for me (doesn't need to be my personal one but that would be nice), we can get going. Or do we just show up at the armoury and motor pool?"

Joint shook his head in disbelief at Luke, total space ace

"Okay one last time people pay attention I am gonna slow my roll and speak in real simple English.  The Cop Arani is going to go to the Major and tell him how many of us are wanting to leave the base.  To not raise to much suspicion the Major is going to send some people to collect us so it does arouse suspicion as things are tense as fuck around here.  We will be escorted to the MRAP where we will receive some fire arms and supply's.  Maybe once we are there we can ask for some of our gear back, until then we are to stay here and keep our eyes and ears open for trouble cause we may just have to get out on our own.  For now we trust the Major, I get that you guys want your shit back, but he is throwing us a huge bone here letting us get away from here."

Joint was sure everyone was on the same page now, if not they definitely would die out there.

TAB waited a little and then jumped in real quick when there was a moment to, the group was a little on edge he was guessing with the racket that was going on behind them.

"Odd question and maybe it is not necessary, but maybe we could do a quick review of not how we are getting outta here.  But more or less who will be doing what.  Not trying to pigeon hole anyone.  But more or less thinking whoever can drive really well should maybe be the driver.  You know again I might just be repeating myself but I can only really drive a motorcycle and basic cars and trucks.  And I could maybe help Laney with her Paramedic stuff as I have some first aid skills.  But when it comes to melee weapons I am pretty decent.  You know shit like that, just so if things turn south fast we know who we can rely on."

Glad that he had just spoke that out TAB was curious if anyone would take him up on it, hell even if it was just to pass a little time.  He could tell that they were all gonna have to do things out of there comfort zone.  But the smoother the transition the better.

In reply to Tiberus Asimov Blackiron (msg # 188):

She nodded approvingly.

"Not bad thinkin'. If I don't get my "shit", as Joint says, I'm not much of a paramedic.

"When I'm not out savin' lives, I also drive 'em like I stole 'em. My daddy went to 'Nam and was a Sergeant in the NOPD in N'awlins, and before my husband passed he was in the Army. They taught me how to shoot. Good with a pistol, better with a rifle. I smoked maybe eight, nine crazies on the way in."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:04, Wed 09 Nov 2016.

"Think I can get a machine gun?" Luke asks excitedly, "I'm more good at scrounging and surviving on the streets. I'll be as useful as I can be though."

- "Machine guns are overrated, you'd waste far more ammo than you want to spend."

She took a deep breath and pulled out her own weapon, showing it to the others.

- "Taurus point forty-four Magnum. It's a revolver so it's not as useful against large groups, but it's heavy enough to take down a bear."

She put the gun back in its holster before putting her hands on her hips.

- "So, got a shopping list i can run by the Major?"

Luke shrugged, "A kid can dream, right? I'm better up close anyway. Haven't had much chance to use guns so I don't expect I'd be very good with 'em. Bats, knives... yeah."

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 191):

"Ok, let's get this done. Arani, we'll leave it to you to decide what's the priority depending on how generous the Major is feeling, and is able.

"Those of you who were given tags when you surrendered your weapons, I think it's best to give them to her now. These people are fairly organised. They said we might, might get our stuff back. If it's not already in Alaska, who knows?"

Taking out a blue Bic ball-point pen, Laney made some notes on a pad. In her job here (and out in the world) note-taking was important, often life-saving:

---

REQUESTED GEAR AND SUPPLIES

1. Luke: Bats, chains, knives, etc.
   
2. Laney: Paramedic/lifesaver kit. Medical supplies. Medic vest. Personal Glock 22 .40 cal. + ammunition. Spyder utility knife.  Rifle.
   
3. Survivalist/Prepper Dude: Personal rifle, tons of survival gear
   
4. Annabelle -
   
5. Ace (Jonathan) -
   
6. Joint - Things to hit people with.
   
7. TAB -
   
8. Arani -

---

OOC: The list will be updated as we go along.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:08, Mon 14 Nov 2016.

When Laney brought up the list, Arani motioned at where she was writing it on.

- "Already got my stuff on me, it's the whole reason i signed up. My vest and knife are still in the safe back home, got a Remy in the trunk of my car too."

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 193):

"I still have my pack though I am not that fused on the handgun I had, some sort of shotgun might be more my style and skill set."

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 193):

Joint had a slight smirk on his face, Laney was up to being Captain Merica again.  But shit if he cared someone was taking the lead, Joint was a soldier.  He had his ideas here and there, but leave the leading to others.  That way when yeah need to bounce you can bounce.

"I will just grab a pipe or something blunt along the way, or I might make me and TAB and anyone else a short spear.  We had to use them along the perimeter when we were building up the defenses. Not that it needs and explanation, but never really shot guns enough to get any good with them.  Hell didn't really need them, I mean I am me right.  Also I am not to bad of a driver and I can handle myself in a hard hitting street race."

Rob approaches Arani eyes nervously downcast and hands her the claim ticket for his weapons and gear. Taking a step back clears his throat and raises his gaze upwards. Still not looking anyone directly in the eye he dry swallows a couple times before saying, ""Like I told some of ya'll earlier my dad was a survivalist. He was a member of a few different groups as I grew up. All of em' were anti-government among other things. So I had some paramilitary training but my dad said I was for shit as a soldier. I am a good shot though with just about any small arm or a bow. I love to hunt and fish. I ran cattle with my uncle every summer. Big herds ya know, he was a real rancher and a Vet too. A veterinarian that is, well he was a vet like a soldier too but... anyway. For about as far back as I can remember he was training me to be a vet and a rancher so I could take over his business but that didn't work out. I had to leave Texas even though I got a scholarship to A&M. I was pre-med here at UNLV when all this shit went down. Oh Yeah my dad had a deuce and a half and a couple other old military vehicles plus I can drive tractors and combines, little bit of work with excavating equipment. Nothin special though I wouldn't say I'm a real operator. Hell I wrecked the shit out of my truck trying to escape the city and was unconscious when these soldiers found me. Thats how I ended up here. " Robs face is slightly flushed as if his short speech was physically exerting. He scoops the wad of Copenhagen out from between his mouth and gum and flicks it onto the floor. He hasn't been spitting at all so apparently he just swallows the stuff.

Arani leaves to go talk to the Major. In meantime the distant gun fire seems to have subsided and there is no general alarm among any of the few military personnel so the latest push by the Zombies seems to have been beaten back.

About an hour or so later the lights are dimmed in the hanger, indicating that it's 9 PM and people should try to get some sleep. But there has not been any general enforcement of 'bed time' and people are free to stay awake.

For those few who are still awake around midnight (one or two of the PC's) their eyes are assaulted by the bright lights of the hanger as they are turn on to their highest setting. This is followed by large group of military personnel entering the hanger and wearing a full kit of combat gear. Arani is with them and has her aforementioned gear and also additionally is wearing a military flack jacket, and LBV that look like what the soldiers were wearing back in Desert Storm. The flack jacket is in a desert 'chocolate chip' camo pattern and the Load Bearing Harness that is green.

The Major looks over at Arani.


Arani points to Joint and Lany in turn as she answeres the Major.


The Major nods, scanning the group of dissidents


The military personnel descend upon the following characters:
Annabelle Wright
Joint
Jonathan Pembersley
Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael
Luke Salem
Robert E. Lee Jessup
Tiberus Asimov Blackiron

A pair of people who were sleeping nearby are also rounded up by the military personnel, and are mistakenly thought of being members of the dissident group.
Eddie Thomas
Isabel Tsang

OOC: The first two people to post are still awake, the rest of you are woken up by the lights and the military personnel 'taking you into custody'.

You can make a post responding to getting put into custody, but please just make one post.

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 198):

Earlier, Laney finished up her list and gave it to Arani (see above) along with her paperwork for her Spyder utility knife. And her Glock. Not just hers but her dead husband's. It had saved her life, and the lives of several others when the crazies overran the city. She didn't have a problem with guns, not with being from Louisiana, but it was sobering to think she would probably never again travel about in the world without being armed.

She lay there after "lights out", staring at the ceiling. Thinking about her life, about her family. About Greg. Maybe Jonathan was up.

"Hey Ace... Ace, you awake? You got any family? You think you might want to get home to them?"

Suddenly, the lights came on, blinding her. "What the...? Aw hell naw!" exclaimed Laney at the sight of Arani, the Major and the detail of MPs. She sat up, shooting a disgusted look at Arani. "Nice to see you again, Major. To what do we owe the pleasure?"

She'd thought that Joint's earlier comments about them being branded as dissidents was hyperbole or exaggeration. But no, that seemed to be what was going on. Looks like they grabbed another couple guys, too. What the hell? "Look, look, look. Those guys, I never talked to them in my life. Look, it was all me. No one else had anything to do with it. Let everyone else go. Please, I'm askin'."

The soldiers efficiently pulled her up and turned her around. She knew what was coming next. Not wanting to have her arms wrenched back she put them behind her to receive the white plastic flex-cuffs.

If this was real, then she'd just need to ride with it, assuming they didn't just pop a cap in her head. Laney felt a cold settle into her stomach at the possibility, but she mastered it. May as well hope this was some kind of BS subterfuge. But, why would this kind of thing be necessary? Surely the military wasn't shy about using civilian contractors anymore! In a sense such contractors would even be attractive, as they weren't bound by the restrictions of Posse Comitatus. Assuming legalities were even a concern for the military, anymore.

Getting back to the matter at hand, why the secrecy? This implied that the cult had people here, probably among the refugee population or even the military personnel, watching everything and reporting back. That's the only explanation that made sense. And the possibility was seriously kind of freaking her out. What had she gotten herself into here?

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 199):

J.P had tried to be as cool as possible as he collected his belongings and made sure they were all in his pack should the call come to leave. He kept the solar business ticking over, but had scaled it back when the word had come that they maybe on the move.

Now he was sitting in bed reading some novel he had traded for smoking a cigarette as Laney spoke. "Well there is my father and mother who are in Oxfordshire or maybe London, I don't really keep track any more. My brother is in London probably at his house in Chelsea with his family. I would suppose they would make for the estate in Scotland if they could... or to Norfolk where my grandmother lives."

He stops for a minute before adding "I suppose I will head for the Atlantic coast or at least the Gulf of Mexico and go from there..."


Once the soldiers come in and the lights come on J.P. gives a wink to Laney "Lawd above! Alright, alright governa whats da problem. , innit. I ain't done aahhht I do not kna these people, it's no fair cop." As he was manhandled off the cot he grabs his pack before adding "Awright geeezzaa! Brass Bands off Gavvers. Sorted mate." He struggles a bit "Wot 're ya doin' where 're we garn. I wanna clock me lawyer."

-

A very tired TAB is woken rather abruptly by the sound of Jonathan acting out some Brit play and Laney going straight to lippy with the Major.  With sleep still in his eye`s TAB barely see a pair of soldiers come up to him and pull his arms behind his back.  TAB does not put up much of a fight as he was always a rather slow riser, it was something his family always razed him on.  Something he figured he would definitely now have to change as he was not ready at all.  Should anything like this even remotely happen in the future TAB knew he would be dead.

Izzie was in a deep, albeit disturbed sleep, when she was suddenly pulled out of it by the jostling of someone grabbing her.  Lost in her own mind she at first is greeted by the blinding lights of the bay, nearly panicking she starts kicking and flailing thinking that someone is trying to assault her for who-knows-what.  She yells out loudly and forcefully, "No!"  Seeing a face emerging from the blinding light some sort of training kicks in and she strikes out with a backhand at the nose on the blurry face.

OOC:
08:06, Today: Isabel Tsang rolled 11 using 1d20+2 with rolls of 9.  Backhand strike at soldier waking her up.
Oh, weak...

In reply to Isabel Tsang (msg # 202):

As the first to fight back, Isabel is the first to be tazed. The poor woman receives however many volts a taser has and is shocked into submission. As she finishes convulsing on the ground Isabel's eyes roll to the back of her head, her tongue rolls out of her mouth and drool seeps out. To add insult to the ordeal those who look closely can see a small puddle of liquid form near her waist.

OOC: I don't know how many volts of electricity a taser has (the first one to look it up and try to dispute the above will have their character die....painfully).  Or if it will be enough to cause someone to drool, convulse, and piss their pants. Maybe these military guys tweaked the tasers to really mess people up, cause apparently the theme of this game is that the military is a bunch of assholes who do as they please.

Eddie is asleep and is awoken when the light get turned on  and soldiers start grabbing people one of which him so he does what comes naturally when dealing with police he doesn't resist and lets himself get cuffed as he watches as a lady gets tazed he says in a English accent "Where we are going gents?"

Luke rolled over at the lights, and the shouting, "Yo... what the fuck... " He stood, his hands held out wide showing no sign of violence, at the moment. "You fucks like ganging up on sleepin' folks? And ain't no one said shit about killin' no soldiers... But that cop with you, if I get out... Well, we're havin' a chat doll..." Luke then blows Arani a kiss and winks at her.

Annabelle rolled out of bed and put her hands up. She made no effort to resist as she was lead past the woman on the ground. Glancing at the others she did as she was told not really in the mood to make a show of it for thew others still in the warehouse/hanger.

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 198):

"WHAT THE FUCK!!"

  The sudden full burst of the hanger lights rocked Joint out of his sleep.  Swinging his legs off his cot and sitting up with the palm of his hand grinding into his eye sockets rubbing the sleep out.  Joint's expletive was so loud that any of the other guests in the hanger who were not woken up by the lights now definitely were.  Looking up Joint see's the approaching guards hands ready on guns and tasers.

"Well shit Major, I was having this pleasant dream about some sizzling bacon, I guess it was just the smell of that bitch pig beside you.  Now my dream is shit and what did that dumb plonk tell you."

Joint was already moving off his cot fingers locked behind his head, putting his knees to the crete.  He had been tased before and man did it hurt, Joint figured he would rather be stabbed or shot.  Well he really did not want that either, as best as he could tell though being tased was top for pain.

"Man this sucks I just got let out on good behavior, well good to see that the law is still strong and well in the land.  Looks like it is all daisy's and roses up in this crib eh Major I thought we were buds."

Joint let the soldiers zip his hands and be lead off to where ever the Major was taking them.

Rob is sitting in front of the television on the floor. Images of ATF agents being shot up in Waco Texas play across the screen while people cheer from the couch behind him. Rob yawns, his body is begging for sleep but he fights it. "Why am I fighting it? Normally I'm asleep by the time the VCR tape gets to the Oklahoma City bombing."  Rob is startled by his dad and associates yelling boisterously when an ATF agent is riddled with bullets and tumbles off the roof of the Branch Davidian compound. Turning around he sees Joint and Arani setting on the couch and Laney sitting in the recliner smoking a cigar. When she speaks his fathers voice comes out of her mouth.

 "And if they weren't a bunch of kiddie fucking Jesus freaks they coulda killed all those Feds. At least they didn't give up their guns like this little faggot." Laney leans forward and blows a cloud of smoke into Robs suddenly nine year old cherubic face. Pulling the cigar from her mouth she starts slowly extending the fiery red cherry towards him. "Maybe you need another lesson. Give me your arm you Dumb little shit or I'll break it." Arani laughs cruelly from the couch and Joint smiles and says, "Wake up you goddamn retard."

Rob was deep asleep and even with all the commotion he was slow to rouse. His eyes widen in alarm when he sees all the soldiers and what is happening. The adrenaline dump is instant and he bolts from the cot like a startled deer sprinting for the exit. He makes it about fifteen feet before the two barbed taser needles thud into his lower back. Moaning incoherently he writhes in agony for a few seconds and is soon rendered unconscious. When the soldier zip ties Robs hands behind his back anyone close can see a smattering of nickel sized round puckered scars up and down his arms.

Once the nine 'dissidents' are secure, they are led away out of the hanger. A small group of military personnel can be seen bagging up their personal belongings.

The group is led to a three story building that is still within the defensive perimeter that has been set up. Once inside they are led to a room, and their flexi cuff are quickly cut away.

"First of all I want to apologize for any perceived unnecessary roughness." A medic looks over the poor woman who was tazed, and she's all give a set of desert camo BDU's to change into."Second and I know some of you are gonna be pissed but your weapons that were confiscated from you are in an armory in a part of the base that's over run by the dead. so there's no way to get them, sorry."

"But we have a small armory here and can get you guys outfitted."

In reply to The Major (msg # 210):

The "roughness" seemed to have gone beyond perception for a couple people. You wake up deeply traumatised folk, who knows what might happen? But the Major seemed genuine enough, and he certainly didn't need to offer his apologies. Likewise she believed him about the armoury being overrun, he didn't need to lie to them, he completely had the upper hand. If he was making the effort to be gracious, so could she.

"Thank you, sir. We'll take what what you can give us. If I can get a paramedic bag of some kind, if your personnel are injured I can treat them, maybe save their lives.

"I understand the need for a cover story. Especially if there's some kind of security, uh, issue." Perhaps her guess that there were saboteurs among the people on the base, belonging to this cult or another faction, might be close to the mark.

"Pardon me for saying, I've never seen these two," she indicated Isabel and Eddie, "before. Never talked to them. Don't know if they want to come."
This message was last edited by the player at 10:08, Fri 18 Nov 2016.

Luke shook his head, "Cloak and dagger bullshit. Glad I ain't gettin' locked up though... got any machine guns?" he asked hopefully again, "Guess we can cancel that chat Arani... You're ok with me." Luke made a note, to not trust Arani farther than he could throw her.

Eddie looks at Laney after he listens to the major "Hey I'm good with with whatever your doing as long I'm fed and given a weapon so i can defend myself"

Luke blinks a few times, looking over at Eddie, "Blondie... that you? How the hell are you?"

"Ain't nothin Major, I like how you roll boss.  I will say though adding two more mouths to the crew would have been nice to know, ain't my base though so I guess who gives a shit.  I will say this you honored your word and are lettin us bounce outta here.  No doubt that is hard for you to some civi's puttin their dumb asses on the line."

Joint waits for his zip cuffs to be cut, once that happens he swings his hands to the front and claps and rubs his hands together.

"Now just where might these sweet rims be?"

Izzie coming out of her shocked state is obviously pissed.  Glaring at the Major, "Was that really necessary?" obviously embarrassed about her lack of bodily control from being tasered.  She didn't expect an answer and grabbed the desert BDUs with an angry swipe before marching off to find a bathroom to clean up in and change her clothes.  Unfortunately she would have to go commando without undergarments to change into that only pissed her off more.

She came back in as Laney was pointing to her and Eddie and their obvious unfamiliarity.  Izzie was at least calmer by now.  She interjected, "Now that I've soiled myself, I might as well be in.  You're a paramedic, right?"  Extending a hand to Laney, "Isabel Tsang, I'm a M.D."  Glancing down at her own hand and then back to Laney she jests, "Don't worry, I washed it." offering a friendly smile.

In reply to Isabel Tsang (msg # 216):

Laney smiled, shook her hand without fear and replied, "yes ma'am, I was a paramedic with MedicWest in Vegas. I touched a lot of bad, bad things, and at least urine is sterile. Pro tip, Doc, if you don't want to shake hands but want to appear social, a fist bump works fine. 'Least with people on the street." Laney still shook her hand confidently, speaking with a soft Louisiana drawl.

She introduced her around, pointing out folks. "Joint, Luke, Jonathan (I call him "Ace"), Bobby Lee, TAB, Annabelle, Arani.

"Blondie, if you're a friend of Luke's you can ride with us. You got a name or just your street name?"

"Pleased to meet you, Isabel. Lakeisha Carmichael, you can call me Laney. I was watchin' out for you and Bobby Lee if you started to "code", 'cause I think they got them Tasers here dialled up way too high. Were you a specialist? GP? ER medicine?"
This message was last edited by the player at 10:28, Sat 19 Nov 2016.

Eddie looks at Luke and smiles "Small world isn't it. Well to answer question I'm alive which is always good which I cant say for certain about my employers."

Answering Laney "You can call Eddie or Blondie whichever you prefer, whatever you need I'm your man" 

Izzie smiled a little bit more in return and quipped, "Should I add an explosion at the end" closing and opening her hand with fingers spread in the post-fist bump 'hand explosion' gesture.  It was obvious she was joking.

As the others were pointed out and introduced she nodded to each in acknowledgement with the same friendly smile.

When Laney introduced herself, she nodded and repeated, "Pleasure to meet you Laney." adding, "considering the circumstances." When asked about her specialty she replied simply, "Pathology." before adding, "but my E.R. rotation was very interesting too.  I was in New York at Beth Israel, and the paramedics were great." sounding genuinely impressed and not so much patronizing as it might sound without intonation.

Luke grinned and gave Eddie a nudge with his fist in the shoulder, "Blondie here, he's a good egg, sort of... you know, like I am. He's alright, he'll carry his weight, sure enough. You employers can kiss my ass, by the way Blondie."

Rob comes to and grimaces slightly at the pain in his lower back and jaw. Sitting up he shakes off the effects of the taser pretty quickly and actually checks his underwear while he collects himself. He waves off medical attention saying, "Get off me it ain't like this is the first time I been tased." Zipping up his jumpsuit he forgoes the BDU's for now but puts them in his pack. He selects an M-16 and retreats to a corner with it and begins disassembling the firearms he was provided. He listens to the ongoing conversations mostly but when the talk of the MRAP comes up he interjects. "I qualified on the M249 SAW with the Texas State Militia when I was 16. I've also shot a vehicle mounted .50 cal a few times. I wouldn't say I'm proficient but I understand it's operation well enough. So if ya got anything like that I'm game." When Laney introduces Isabelle he says, "Yeah I know her. Kinda, I was giving her a ride outta town when I flipped my goddamn truck. The doctor pulled me clear."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:21, Sat 19 Nov 2016.

The Major let everyone talk to each other for a bit before speaking again. “OK I got some guys getting an MRAP ready for you. It’ll have water and MRE’s. If you got somebody who can prove to me that they can use a fifty caliber machine gun we’ll mount one in the turret for you.”

“For personal equipment I got enough body armor and helmets for everyone. When it comes to weapons I got a whole armory fro you guys to pick stuff from. But just grab weapons you know how to use ok? Be pretty fucked up if you tried to use something you didn’t know who to use and accidently shoot yourself or a buddy.”

“I’ll rustle up a field medic pack for the paramedic and doctor ladies.”

Izzie smiles and nods at Robert's recounting, "I'm glad you're ok." with genuine concern in her voice.

With Laney introducing everyone to Isabel and Eddie, TAB looked up and gave a polite wave when she called his name and then went right back to carefully getting the gear on.  Making sure the whole time that his flexibility and movement were maintainable with the shield and machete.  He had made sure that where he stood he could swing without hitting anyone and run through some fluid movements.  He felt a little silly gearing up and going through combat in his mind while acting it out.  TAB had spent his life learning, watching and practicing ancient military exercises so one day he could coach actors on how to execute beautifully choreographed moves.  Now he was practicing so he could stay alive and hopefully keep others alive.

In reply to The Major (msg # 222):

Not wanting to interrupt the Major Laney simply smiled and winked at Isabel in response, shaking her head in a friendly way at the suggestion of adding a "bomb" to the end of the "dap" (fist bump). Kids did that they gave a dap, but in her experience the simple fist bump was the way it was done.

She appreciating the other woman putting her at ease and on the same level. Sometimes doctors lorded it over everyone with or without knowing it; both paramedics and nursing staff easily resented it and copped an attitude. It wasn't that way all the time, actually most doctors were reasonably chill in her experience.

Laney nodded her thanks at the Major for letting them ramble on a bit. It must be at least a little aggravating to deal with civilians who frequently lost focus and didn't have the same ingrained habits of obedience and deference. That didn't make civilians any less capable or inferior than your typical soldier, if anything, this reminded her of how pre-shift briefings were conducted at MedicWest and they were all still trained professionals. The shift leader would open with what was important, then there would be back and forth, and finally they'd wrap things up.

"Thank you for the additional gear, sir. As you heard, Bobby Lee seems to have some training or be qualified with machineguns, when we're done if your people can check him out, we'd be most obliged."

From the corner of the room Rob pauses field stripping his 9mm long enough to give a thumbs up to Laney and the Major. Somewhere in the back of his mind he can hear a voice screaming that this is some kind of setup and he is too stupid to see it. But then all that voice ever does is scream so he pushes it away and actually grins a little. Just having guns back in his hands feels good and while he considers himself a first rate fuck up in the regular world the regular world is gone. Fact is that he has skills that some of these city folk are gonna need and he has a will to survive. In some regards it's what he has been doing his entire life. Examining one of the shotguns he says, "I'd like to take one of these two if ya don't mind. Maybe saw off this stock and knock this barrel back a bit too. Be perfect for the dead heads and I could still take a turkey with it in a pinch."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:20, Sun 20 Nov 2016.

In reply to Robert E. Lee Jessup (msg # 226):

The Airman running the armory gives Robert some bad news. "Hey I already gave you an M-16, Major told me anybody who wants a long gun only gets one."

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 227):

Laney took an unloaded M16A2, made sure the selector switch was set to SAFE and that the rifle wasn't pointed at anyone. Greg had always insisted when he took her shootin'. Daddy was the same way. She checked the chamber to make sure it was empty. Choosing a full-looking magazine from the pile, she inserted it into the magazine well but didn't charge the weapon. Then she took an unloaded M9 pistol, safetied it and cleared the chamber, let the slide go forward and inserted an appropriate magazine. Then she filled her rig's ammo pouches with another four loaded STANAG AR15 magazines and two loaded M9 magazines.

"Hey everyone, ya'all make sure them firearms are on safe now. Please and thank you." Her pronouncement of "ya'll" was unique to Louisiana, unlike the rest of the South she said it without a drawl, with one syllable.

She holstered the pistol and slung the rifle over her right shoulder. Laney looked over at Robert, then at Isabel, then meaningfully back at Robert. "Doc, Cher, I suggest you maybe take yourself a shotgun? 'Less you reckon you're a riflewoman. That way Bobby can borrow it if he needs it."

"Major, speakin' of gear, any chance of yall kindly getting us some walkie-talkies like my Motorola? I s'pose that Em-Rap got a vehicle radio."

"And Major, sir, if your boys and girls are still alive, I figure they gonna be locked up. I had me a lockpick set I used to get into houses and apartments on calls. Beats kickin' down the door! Quieter 'n shootin' off a lock, too. I can make my own if I can use your tool shop."

Izzie was fitting her gear to her petite frame when Laney addressed her.  She simply nods, "I can handle a rifle or a shotty.  Whatever they can spare is fine by me. I'm not picky."

The major hands over a blocky phone unit about the size of Lany's forearm. "All I can give you for communications is this satellite phone. The MRAP has a set of military radio but they won't be much to you. They don't work like a CB radio and only work with other radios they are calibrated with." When asked about a lock pit set he shakes his head. "We don't have any lock pit sets, and everybody is moving out first thing in the morning."

In reply to The Major (msg # 230):

"Thank you, sir."

Laney took the phone, a little puzzled. She nodded her thanks to the Major but felt stupid but couldn't fathom what good a single Satellite phone would do them. She looked at the phone, thoughtfully. "If you're leaving then this will let us contact you... in... Alaska? Or will it communicate with the vehicle set? Forgive me for askin', sir.

"As for the lockpick set, no bother. I can make my own, usin' your shop. I got plans and everything. Take me about a half-hour with a grinder to make the basics.

"Sir, if yall are leaving tomorrow morning, then yall'll really want us to rescue your folks tonight. How many were there? What are their names so we can identify them? Once we grab 'em we'll call yall here at the base on the vehicle radio or sat-phone for pickup. If it's after tomorrow then we'll use the sat-phone. You want us to grab us any prisoners, sir? I don't really like goin' at night 'cause we can't see nothin' but I guess they can't see us neither so it evens out a bit. 'Less they got night-vision. Sir."

In reply to The Major (msg # 230):

"Would we be able to get some grenades or other explosives ? We were having trouble with the traffic earlier and that would help." J.P makes a "pulling the grenade pin out with my teeth" impression. "Also what about some night vision thingies, we used then for shooting foxes on my families estate ?" He looks on rather eager.

In reply to Jonathan Pembersley (msg # 232):

"Oh, right. Some smoke grenades or flares to mark a landing area once we have your people would be helpful, sir. And tear gas with gas masks? If you can spare them. Sir."

"There's a preset number on that phone, call it and...." he hands Lany a piece of paper "....use one of those words in a sentence. Each word will only work once."

[Private to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael:
Alphabet Soup
Brainiac
Fat Albert
Gorilla Gonads
Mighty Monkey
Runcinated
Pipe Dream
Ubiquitous
Xenophobic]


"There's no time to go to the tool shop. We're loading the rest of the civilians up on the vehicles right now, and getting people out to Groom Lake as we speak."



"Other side of that paper has four names on it. That's who your looking for. Look if the place looks to hard to get into just call in what you see. If you can snatch a guy or two sure, but don't take your chances."

A female airman walks up to the Major. She seems anxious.....and smells of cordite....


The major the looks a Lany. "That's you. Your people need to get ready to go. There's two sets of NVG's in the MRAP, and six smoke grenades for designating a helicopter landing zones. We ran out of explosive grenades yesterday."

Anabelle look over the pistol she had been issued, it really was not a shadow on the one she had given up though it would have to do. She chambers a round and placed the safety on before putting it into its holster. The rifle she inserts a magazine but does not chamber a round instead sling the rifle as she collects the other gear they had been individually assigned.



[Private to GM: If a character had ammunition on them when they entered the base do they still have it ? Thanks.]

-

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 234):

She took the list. There were probably road flares in the vehicle tool kit. They were obviously getting ready to move out and she felt she'd asked all the questions she could get away with.

"I want to thank you, sir, we'll do our best. Take some pictures with my phone. Send 'em over the Sat phone if we can?"

"Arani's the police officer around here, I guess she'd have better idea if there's any more help you can realistically give, if there's time. Arani?"

This being the Air Force it didn't seem out of the ordinary that they might have flown a helicopter over the bad guys, maybe a drone, or maybe it was. Arani was the cop, she might think of something Laney couldn't.

Luke shrugged, "Couple handguns, some sharp things, knivey type things... maybe a bat?" Luke asked, listening carefully to the Major.

"Major I have to apologize for my terrets friend over there, I failed to relay all that you and I talked about to the group and specifically to her.  Her over abundant need to have all the matches in the match box facing the same direction and neatly stacked can be somewhat hair raising."

Joint gave Laney a quick grin as he finish suiting up in the military gear, pretty much a larger version of Dwayne Johnson.

"Well kids looks like the bell toll's for us and the Major.  Lets load up and get the fuck outta here.  I mean it has been a blast, I am gonna miss those comfy cells.  And like the Commandant said thanks for all the help and being an alright dude.  I think I will consider joining the Marines,  Semper Fi and all that shit Major, be cool man."

With that Joint picks up his tank bar and rests it on his shoulder and will head in the direction that MRAP is waiting.

TAB also was ready, the rest had been nice.  Getting to the base and being able to find out what was going on out there with the zombies and such.  It was gonna help to keep them all alive and hopefully some of them would be able to find their families.  And it seemed they had a large but skilled group of people.  Joint and Laney really were quite obnoxious but they got things done and done fast.  That was probably going to be the future for them all, act smart and fast or die.  TAB turns and faces the Major gives him a thankful nod and look and also heads to the MRAP.  Not wanting to be on base when the barricades gave way.

As the group outfitted themselves, Arani shrugged with a smirk on her face.

- "Yeah, sorry 'bout that. Had to play it up for the rest or they'd all get the idea of leaving in their heads and for most of 'em, that would have gone tits up real fast."

In response to Laney calling her a cop, she shrugged.

- "Have to correct you there, i'm not a cop. I'm a bounty hunter. Not like it matters though, out there all bets are gonna be off and there's bound to be people real jealous of our firepower if you catch my drift. Gangs, gun nuts, any desperate nine-to-five clerk with a gun..."

In reply to Joint (msg # 238):

Laney tried suppress a smile and giggle at the big-ol' mutant's mangling of the English language. It came out as a crooked grin and a strangled chortle.

"Well now, handsome here has a point. The Major's got better things to do. We got as much as they can spare, now let's got out there and do our best.

"Major. If I don't see you before yall get on outta here, it's been a pleasure, sir."

Laney saw a number of bayonets laid out on the table. She took one that seemed sharp, sheathed it. She was curious if Luke would get his wish for an extra pistol. Long arms were one thing, she hoped they could spare something for him.

"Arani, I thought you said you used to be a cop? Maybe not. But these folks say you're a cop, that's good enough for me." She lowered her voice so it couldn't be heard by the Major.

"Of course, that ain't legal on account of Posse Comitatus. And in fact how we been treated is illegal under Martial Law according to the Nevada state constitution. But when I last argued the point they busted my ass into last week. So there it is."

Eddie keeps goes into buiness  mode as he goes his weapons and gear, doing saflety checks, once overs, etc then Eddie gears up. He makes use everything is within easy reach

Once everyone was ready to head out to the MRAP he follows saying to the major "Its been a blast sir and thanks for the gear"

Arani nodded.

- "Yeah, used to be. Got shot in the leg during a chase and treated the scumbag to some good old sidewalk surgery. Unfortunately he ended up being some rich kid whose daddy got me fired, so i took up bounty hunting. Felt more appropriate than suing the Force to rehire me, but i don't have my badge anymore."

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 243):

"Well, you seem to have got one now. And that kid is probably infected chow by now. The universe is a funny place." She lowered her voice. "I figure I pushed my luck with the Major enough. Do you think you could ask one of the supply guys for a pair of binoculars? They might come in handy."

Everyone is led out of the building (once outside the sound of gunfire from about a quarter mile away can be heard) and back out into the flight line. The MRAP is a pretty big vehicle, tan in color and about the size of a large armored truck (the type used to deliver and pick up cash). What makes it really imposing is the top mounted turret and the big ass Machine gun sticking out of it.

Everyone is then told to strap their newly acquired military back packs to either side of the vehicle. The driver, passenger and rear door (it lowers like a ramp and is a small set of stairs are all open.


OOC: yeah you all got back packs. Forgot to list them.

Luke nodded and gave the Major a salute, however half assed it may have been. "Ready when you all are."

Izzie squared away her gear, getting it to fit right, and snugly enough to not bounce around and fall off or knock out some teeth.  She loaded a magazine into the pistol and released the slide to slam forward and chamber a round before holstering it in her dropleg as if a rather practiced movement.  She found a couple of rings on her LBE and put the buck and the slug separate.  Pointing the shotgun in a safe direction she visually and physically inspected the chamber and magazine tube to ensure it was clear before she closed the bolt on an empty chamber, put the shotgun on 'fire' and pulled the trigger.  With the forearm forward she loaded four (4) '00' buck into the chambered and left it on 'fire'.

Shouldering her pack she moved out with the rest to the MRAP and found a place to secure it.  She wore her MARPAT top with it bottom tucked in so she could access the belt and pockets, and the extra magazines in a pouch on her belt opposite her pistol side.  She had grabbed a bayonet and attached it to her belt behind the pistol magazines towards her kidney just above but off of the medical blow-out kit strapped to her non-gunside leg.  Izzie was quietly ready to go.

Rob moves along with the others his head down occasionally mumbling something quietly to himself. When they arrive at the MRAP he stows his gear and makes his way up into the turret to check things out. If any of the military personnel are around he will ask them about turret controls and extra ammo. He will load and prime the .50 cal listening to any instruction they have to give. He finds a place where his rifle can be out of the way but still handy. After that he sits in the turret and makes himself comfortable.  Grinning slightly as he stares out into the darkness towards the steady sound of gunfire he cannot help but think that in many ways the apocalypse was well timed for him. No more assault charges to answer for, no more dealing with being expelled from university. No more worrying about his uncles ranch and mountain of debt and most importantly no more dad.

Eddie stows his backpack and looks at the passenger door "We should have whoever has the best eyes taking shotgun"

Eddie will then move in and take a seat in the back

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 245):

Laney took her pack, started to move to the big armoured vehicle.

She turned back to the supply guy.

"Look, I hate to ask, yall have been so generous, but do you have some binoculars I can borrow? I got nothin' to trade. I know it's a lot to ask, but we're goin' after your people and all, Iwe gotta take a look first. while I'm at it, some road flares or a flaregun or something to signal a chopper to come pick your friends up? Please?"

The think is, she wasn't BSing. She really did figure these items might come in handy. If they could spare them, great, if not, they'd just have to make do.

23:35, Today: Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael rolled 28 using 1d100 with rolls of 28.  60% Charm impress.

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 250):

"Sorry lady I ain't got no binos. we put smoke grenades int he MRAP for ya' tho."

OOC: You guys are leaving this place with a lot of loot. the constant 'can we get this' and 'can we get that' is why I pushing this forward. Anything you don't have that you think you need you can probably find on the road.

Oh well, nothing ventured, nothing gained. She nodded smiled, gave her a wink. "Thanks, sugar. Yall been very generous. Have fun up in Alaska. Say "hi" to a moose for me!"

It was clear that they were being chivvied along, and it was time to get with the program. She addressed the group.

"All right, everyone! Let's saddle up.

"Bobby Lee's got that big ol' cannon on top. I'll drive, 'cause that's my job. We'll find a safe place to stop outside the wire, have a pow-wow, Joint and Arani can tell us all they know. We can make more of a plan. I got a feelin' if we don't get our asses out the gate soon them Tasers gonna come out again.

"I'll need a navigator riding shotgun who knows the city. That flyboy dude said Metro Vegas is completely gridlocked. We need a way to get around that and out to Hoover Dam. Volunteers? Annabelle, you a courier, you only know the city or you familiar with the suburbs?"

As Laney talked she secured her pack on the outside of the massive vehicle, then completed a quick walk-around. She didn't know enough about it to determine if there was anything wrong other than in a gross sense but at least she could tell if a tire was riding low, fluid was leaking, or if there was a door secured shut with duck tape and a bungee cord. That done she climbed up into the driver's seat, started checking out the instrument panel and one of the pairs of night-vision goggles.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:22, Sat 26 Nov 2016.

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 252):

J.P leaned over the Laney as she finished speaking to the solider "I have some binoculars in my pack." Then he climbs up into the truck to find a seat and to fish out the binoculars.

-

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 252):

"I will probably be o.k. but we should try and head north east across the base and out the rear gate that will put use out of the worst of it and onto flatish desert if we need to go off road. Here we can try this as well." She takes a GPS unit from her pocket and turns it on.<blue>"Use them for the courier runs that were slightly off grid."<?blue>

Joint was leaning against the MRAP waiting for everyone to load up.  With his seven foot tall, four hundred pound frame he figured it would be better if he was at the back.  As Laney was doing her walk around which amused him slightly he threw in one more comment about who should be driving.

"Might be better to let the cop drive, I am sure she has couple more high speed chases under her belt.  Not doubtin your skills as a driver being a medic and all.  Just saying let a cop do cop work, let a medic do medic work and when it comes to killin let the killers do the killing.  No doubt I have some smart ass comment coming back my way, just sayin you don't need to do it all."

With that Joint hops in the MRAP, tucking his crow bar beside his seat in a secure but accessible location.

TAB had already hopped in before Laney called out the load up and kick ass speech.  He had secured his bag and was just checking his phone to see if his family had called. TAB had decided to try and save battery power and wait for a call as it was in his mind a better option.  Less he had to think about right now.  Overhearing what Joint said to Laney outside as he saw her walk past the steps into the back of the MRAP as she was doing her walk around of the vehicle.  He didn't think Joint was wrong, but Laney was medic as she had made clear at ad nauseam.  And one of the things he had seen in Los Angeles was a ton of EMT's bombing around.  As Joint climbed in and settled down in his seat TAB took the opportunity to jab him a bit.

"You either like her dude or you are just seriously an ass.  She is just trying to help out in a shit storm situation.  You must have run into people like her before, she just needs organization and crap like that.  You know systems, rules and regulations things that have a measured response, if f happens g follows that kinda stuff.  Buuuut I am gonna stick with you like her or some dumb thing like that."

TAB leaned back closed his eye and had a huge grin on his face, his hands lightly grasping his harness.

In reply to Tiberus Asimov Blackiron (msg # 256):

Laney nodded her thanks and understanding to Annabelle and Jonathan.

She laughed as she climbed into the driver's seat and buckled up. "Ha ha! Oh yeah, TAB. Joint likes me all right. Plus he's an ass. These things are not mutually exclusive! He's kind of handsome, too. When you get past the smell, of course."

She started up the beast. The turbocharged diesel spat blue smoke out the exhaust. Laney watched the gauges, nodded in satisfaction. "Hot damn! Here, Annabelle, give Bobby Lee the other pair of night vision goggles. He's our lookout." She handed her the other case with the night vision goggles.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:17, Fri 25 Nov 2016.

Luke gives joint a punch in the shoulder, no doubt having little effect, "Just remember, I got the massage while we was locked up big guy. Not you." Luke will load up his equipment and find a spot to sit and be useful, or at least out of the way.

Eddie waits in the MRAP, while he waits for the group to move out "Hey orange please don't get shot again"

Arani grinned and shrugged.

- "Yeah, that's the difference between cops and bounty hunters. When a cop's in a chase, the bad guy fucked up. When a bounty hunter's in a chase, the bounty hunter fucked up. 'Sides, they don't tear up my tickets so it'd come outta my pay."

She softly cleared her throat for a moment before setting up her pack on the side of the car -- which was strange to her, but she had never been in the army either so she was willing to keep an open mind.

- "Bullet in the leg didn't heal right, so what i got is mad skills on a bike, and the stuff i got from my time as a cop is a good grasp of Law -- as much good as that'd do anymore -- know my way around dangerous neighborhoods and i know how to tail people without being spotted. Then some assorted stuff such as handling surveillance gear and self defense lessons and marksmanship, crap like that. So that's me in a nutshell."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:33, Sat 26 Nov 2016.

In reply to Luke Salem (msg # 258):

Joint feigns pain where Luke gave him a punch grinning ear to ear, as much as this group was a bunch of muppet's they definitely were entertaining and it was good to be around people right now.

"Luke you can keep that douche canoe all to yourself and get massaged all day.  As for my smell, well it is the smell of a man, something I know that she is completely unfamiliar with.  Also explains the reason she took a liking to another little pussy like you.  A real pair of scissoring queens you two make."

Joint turns his head to Laney

"Hey Cabbie, what the hell is the hold up."

In reply to Joint (msg # 261):

Laney laughed. "Right, sugar, I bet it's a man's scent all right, another man's. Which is cool. Look, if I wanna go and have sex with another fine lady it's a) no damn business of yours, b) doesn't make me a lesbian any more than c) all those black dicks you gobbled down in jail made you gay. It's a spectrum, right? And we are gonna celebrate us some God-damn diversity in this brave new world!

"Ok, if we're ready to roll then yall better buckle up back there!"

Annabelle had suggested heading northeast for a rear gate. This vehicle came equipped with GPS, and was without a doubt tracking their position as well. Until the GPS went out, may as well get some use out of it!

She honked the horn, trying to get someone's attention to direct them to a rear gate. Assuming a clear path to one existed! Rolling down the window to ask for directions didn't seem to be an option.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:08, Sun 27 Nov 2016.

As up-armored HUMVEE pulls up in front of the MRAP. The gunner, wearing NVG's points to the MRAP and then to the rear of the HUMVEE with his left arm, then makes a circling motion with his left arm.

For now the HUMVEE just sits there un-moving, probably waiting for word to move out.

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 263):

Not knowing if there was a proper hand signal, Laney merely gave him a thumb's up, put the automatic transmission in Drive and eased the mammoth vehicle in behind the Humvee and stopped, not too close.

"Guess we're going when and where they want."

She examined the NVGs, since she had the chance. Her helmet was on the floor, so to put them on she would need a headband.

Laney sees that the name ont he box for the NVG's is AN/PVS-7 there is a headband that is included int he box, as well as a mount to attach to a helmet. The helmet mount doesn't come with any instructions, so for now rigging up the headband would be the best choice.


OOC: AN/PVS-7 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AN/PVS-7

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 265):

Having used NVGs before, but not every day, Laney fumbled a little as she checked out the controls and switched them on by turning the knob on the side. She started to put on the headband as she was not wearing her helmet (or knowing how to attach the mount). She thought they weren't working, then took off the lens cap from the end of the vision tube.

Ok! Much better! The world shrank to a narrow bright green monochrome circle. There was no depth perception, so this could get pretty disorienting.

Adjusting the headband for a snug fit was simple, as was focusing each separate eyepiece for maximum clarity. Another knob adjusted for focus and field of view. She set those as well. The eyepieces seemed a little far apart so she adjusted those as well so each eye could view the entire display.

In reply to Lakeisha 'Laney' Carmichael (msg # 262):

"Man I thought I was gonna have some word play on my hands but all I get is my favorite anorexic bitch spinnin my material back at me.  Plus a confession that she is really a black dude trying to sling her dick around and get a gooby from someone. I am glad you got those goggles on now, maybe you can find your brain in that dried up snatch of yours and get us the hell outta here.  "

Joint chuckled a bit

"Laney you know I love you right, only a chick who has her shit tied down tight can take a couple jokes and give em' back.  But seriously get us the fuck outta here."

Arani took a deep breath as she watched Laney fiddle with the NVGs.

- "Word of advice, those things enhance light intensity so you might not want to wear those with cars nearby. Can't say i've worn them often, but the best way to take out someone with NVGs was to grab a flashlight and shine in his eyes: It's easy to get blinded and i'd rather not see that happen with you behind the wheel."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:03, Mon 28 Nov 2016.

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 268):

Laney flipped the goggles up, nodded in agreement with Arani.

"Thanks Arani. I'm a gal of many talents. MedicWest had us take a course on using night vision. FLIR as well. aAll tools of the trade. Yeah, my late husband Greg said that one trick they used on exercises was to hit folks using NVGs with a strobe light. Left 'em blind for a few seconds.

"Joint! Ha ha! You can dish it out but you can't take it. I notice you didn't deny anything about bein' with no man. S'all right, this is a safe space. But not if we rear-end that Humvee. They go, we go. They don't go, we don't go."

She pointed at the stopped point vehicle. "We go, they probably light us up, handsome."

Luke can't help it, "Maybe he wants to rear end the HumVee?"

In reply to Luke Salem (msg # 270):

"A little "love tap" hun? Well, if you say so..."

Laney considered making a "bunny hop". The vehicle could lurch forward a few feet by her revving the engine while standing on the brakes, letting off the brakes for an instant and then braking again. They had about ten feet clearance. But somehow she didn't think acting erratically or really any horsing around would be appreciated by these trigger happy folks.

"Naw, just jokin'."

"Please don't piss off the man with the .50 cal, miss  at least till we are farther from the base" Eddie says

In reply to Eddie Thomas (msg # 272):

"Miss? No suh. Technically, I am a Mrs." she corrected him, showing Eddie her wedding ring by holding up her left hand. "Just 'cause my husband ain't alive anymore doesn't make me not married. I dunnmo, maybe it's time I move on. Start dating again." Although her voice held a note of levity there was also some sadness as well.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:09, Thu 01 Dec 2016.

Rob accepts the night vision googles from Laney with a low grunt that might be his version of a thank you. He spends the little bit of idle time waiting to figure out how to attach the apparatus to his helmet. He almost laughs at the exchange between Joint and Laney but hides it behind a cough. He learned early in life that a laugh or a smile at the wrong moment can be considered a personal attack by some. He doesn't know Joint well enough to say but he seems the type. Besides Rob has only ever personally met one person as big as Joint and he was an ex-offensive lineman for the Arizona Cardinals. Once attached to his helmet Rob tests out the goggles.

"I had one of them nightvision scopes for my Remington .308 but it was bullshit compared to these."

Ducking his head as much as he can down into the MRAP Rob looks towards Jonathan.

"Hey Brit you got any dip or chaw left in your bag of goodies?"

Luke shrugged, "Don't get too down Laney, least you had someone to lose. Me, best I got is Blondie here. And Joint. That big bastard loves me. Even if he won't admit it."

Arani nodded in agreement with luke.

- "Yeah, i got a cousin up in New York. Best i can do is survive, and see who's left standing at the end of it. 'Least you know he's dead, 's more than most people get to have these days."

Izzie sat quietly listening to the others as they talked about loved ones, and their unknown fates, she kept quiet as she thought of her own family, but no lover or husband or even a boyfriend.  At least not past a few dates, but Izzie had gotten married to the job as often many in her field do.  All her family had died or disappeared before the outbreak, the fall, the whatever this had become, so she in way didn't really care, but she did, empathizing with the loss the others felt.  It almost made her want to cry...

In reply to Luke Salem (msg # 275):

Keeping her eye on the point vehicle, Laney replied, sincerely, "thanks for the thought, Luke, Arani.

"Hard to say it's a blessing or not because if you don't know a loved one's gone, for sure, you can still hold out some hope. Even if it's likely a false hope. I got family down in N'awlins. Don't know if I'll ever get down there to find out. Maria was the closest family I got here in Vegas, now she's up in 'Laska."

As a string of vehicles pass by (mostly 5 ton, and 8 ton trucks with civilians in the back but there are a few MRAPs and HUMVEEs as well) the up armored HUMVEE in front of the MRAP with everyone in it begins to move out too.

Laney fires up the engine (or if it was idle places the large vehicle in drive) and follows. After about 5 minutes the convoy reaches a gate. After exiting the gate the up armored Humvee pulls off the road, and stops. Laney stops the MRAP behind the Humvee. A soldier gets out from the passenger side and walks over to the driver side of the MRAP. Once Laney opens the door (the windows don’t roll down) the soldier points in a direction. “Major Peterson want us to tell you that Hoover dam is in that direction. They’ll be people at Groom Lake for the next few days if you still want a plane ride to Alaska. Good luck” The soldier then walks back to the Humvee, gets in and the vehicle drives off in roughly the opposite direction he had pointed.

OOC: Game map in the equipment thread had been updated. You guys are a yellow vehicle.

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 279):

Having kept the vehicle idling, Laney followed the Humvee. She stopped when they stopped.

She nodded and gave the soldier a thumb's up. "Thanks. Tell the Major we find your boys and girls there, we'll give yall a call. Good luck yourself."

Climbing back into the MRAP vehicle, she pulled the heavy door shut.

After checking the GPS she turned to the other occupants. "Ok. I aim to keep my promise and do what I can to help those soldiers that are captured. If the people who are holding them are some kind of cult, then it's best we take them out if we want to live anywhere around here.

"Anyone who wants to bounce yall can do so and we'll try and let you out somewhere safe. But I don't suggest you take this thing, it's likely got a couple trackin' devices in it.

"I suggest we head south down, ah, O'Bannon Road. That takes us to this subdivision. If we want to avoid the city we can follow East Lake Mead Road and come through the hills north of the dam. Or try and go through the suburbs south, come out downstream."

Arani spoke up at the mention of a plan.

- "I can recommend avoiding the city. Too many cars, too many people, too much chaos. We'd end up gridlocked in minutes. So, i'm in favor of following Mead Road, shouldn't be a lot of them in the hills because the ones that end up in the water get washed downstream anyway."

She thought for a moment before continuing.

- "There's also a few golf courses down there and it's got water, so it sounds like a good place to hole up later. We should take a look there just in case."

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 281):

"We heard the city was impassable. But what about the suburbs? That's more what I'm wondering about. I like the idea of finding a safe place to hole up. Do we have time?"

She checked her watch, then punched some numbers into the GPS. "It's about four or five hours before dawn. Taking the East Lake Mead road route is thirty miles. Call it an hour if we take it easy and the road isn't blocked completely. That leaves us three hours to find a safe spot like a hideout, do a bit of scouting at the dam, maybe find out where the soldiers are being held, blow or sneak (or both) our way in and then split back to the hideout. If we are quick enough we can call for a helicopter or pickup before Nellis is a ghost town tomorrow morning.

"Or if we want to wait a day or two, until well after they fuck off from Nellis, the cultists might relax, figuring the military's abandoned the prisoners. They got planes goin' in and out of Nellis every minute, once that stops they gonna let down their guard. Maybe. We got a satellite phone, and there's still gonna be people at Groom Lake for a few days."

- "Quite the contrary actually."

Arani sighed, and leaned back in her seat.

- "I think the soldiers are the reason we hadn't heard of the cultists until now. Once they're all off to Alaska, that cult's going to get real active since there's no one left they have to watch out for. So if we do this without turning tail, we're on the clock."

In reply to Arani Vasingis (msg # 283):

Laney clarified, "I agree, the cultists could get super-busy now, for all we know. Once those planes stop flying it'll be easy to tell.

"But with the soldiers at Nellis gone they are less likely to expect an attack or rescue attempt from there, know what I mean?"

Although cramped, the MRAP provided quite a bit if protection while stopped on the side of the road.

OOC: You guys should allow time for the other players to post some ideas too.

Robs legs hanging down into the front row of seats are fidgeting. He clears his throat a couple times and says,  "Ya know I ain't tryin to piss anybody off but I just gotta say I don't really care what happens to the soldiers and I have zero fucks to give for a bunch of cultists. Last I heard the U.S. military is runnin off to Alaska. To me that means it's time to start the business of survival not to try and be a hero. I understand honoring your word and all that. To me that means recon, report and then trying to keep the front wheels on the ground as we run the hell away. These folks captured highly trained soldiers. So why would we mess with them? Am I alone on this?"

In reply to Robert E. Lee Jessup (msg # 286):

"Oh come on my experience of several days shooting over beaters at pheasant or grouse or a couple of highland stalking adventures should more then account for years of military training and war fighting. But yes I have to agree that a few civilians are going to find themselves somewhat out of their depth." He fishes out the binoculars if they are still needed and some maps.


Bushnell Trophy XLT Binoculars 8x32
Caesars Palace Las Vegas downtown street map
Insight Guides USA Southwest Flexi Map
National Geographic Maps - Las Vegas and Surrounds

Izzie chimes in looking at Rob, "If I had that attitude then you might not be here Robert, so we honor our word like Laney said.  It's probably the only thing we have left in this world.  And everyone, even a professional, has a bad day."

Not expecting or caring for a response she addresses the others, "I agree, the cultists are probably going to run rampant knowing there's no one to oppose them.  And the longer we wait the less likely we're going to find these soldiers alive.  The first 48 hours are critical, and after that the chances of survival for someone in captivity drops drastically by the moment.  So, let's find a place to set up a base, and move out to gather intel from there.  Again, though, we'll have to work quickly, but keep it smooth."  She then looks around at the others for a reaction.

Finally they were off the base and headed out.  But fuck him if Laney wasn't being queen bee again.

"Listen you bunch of tard farts, we are going to do what we agreed to do.  I went and asked the Major for this pimp ride that I tried to jack earlier and he was good enough to let me....us have it.  A fucking Major just trusted a group of civilians with military grade equipment and a full tank of gas, well sure as shit it better be full.  On top of that he asked we do a little recon and try and get his boys back.  He didn't even say we had to be successful we just need to get in and get out.  And I swear anyone tries to take this vehicle and I will snap your neck and bash your skull in for good measure.  I grew up on the streets, prison and in construction your word is all you got and I am going to find the Major's boys.  I would go on but I don't think it is necessary, if your not on board for helping get the fuck out and your on your own."

Joint's demeanor could not be missed, he understood that they were talking strategy, but even the mention of going against their word drove him mad.  Maybe it was the abruptness of Joint's tirade or the intensity of the threat but it was quite for a couple minutes.  Giving Joint time to calm down and gather his thoughts as he continued to speak calmly.

"Listen I get that it is dog eat dog out there now Rob, when you see the worlds strongest military in the world getting the hell outta dodge.  It is definitely time to be scared, shit I am scared to be honest, but I know that what we have here is a good group of people.  I am on board with the idea of finding a decent strong point we can prep at and retreat to.  Hell I even think we would be idiots if we drove up on the location in a military vehicle and gear on,  guaranteed we would be treated as hostiles.  We need a back up vehicle or vehicles, fuel, supplies for all kinds of shit. We aren't just fighting to stay alive against these dead things, hell we even need more information on how they work, can they smell us, see us whatever the hell it is they do.  But I gotta stick to what I said and Laney said earlier if your not with us get the hell out we have things to do."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:25, Mon 05 Dec 2016.

Luke nodded, "Figure the big bastard is right. We gotta keep our word. If we can't do that, what good are we to each other any how? In my previous line of business, a contract was a contract. You agree to it, you do it. You get paid. We got paid before it, with freedom and gear. Joint, Laney... I think we're in over our heads, but I'm with you all."

Eddie keeps quiet as he listens to other express their options before replying "I agree we should honor the agreement with the major. We should also be on the outlook for gas and vehicles we could use because they might come in handy. We can find out how many cultist are in the dam because if there are a small number that we can take out then the dam is a fortified location with water and possible power."

In reply to Joint (msg # 289):

Laney smiled and winked at Joint, as if she could read his thoughts. Could she? It shouldn't be possible! But one thing was for sure, her thoughts were usually her own.

She turned to Jonathan, "don't be a dumbass, Ace. You suggested we look for a place in the Lake Mead Recreation area. That makes these assholes our neighbors. Ain't gonna be no cops or "Bobbies" to call when they decide they comin' for us. We gotta take care of business on our own now.

"Robert, you said you were gonna "ride or die". You still get a vote. But this is a "vote with your feet" kinda situation. Just takin' a look and then runnin' fast as we can is not gonna do it. You in, you in all the way.

"Not that anyone's planning on this but I wouldn't suggest "borrowing" this ride. First, Joint here might get upset. Second, the Air Force has got a lot of underemployed drone pilots and a lot of bombs that are useless against the infected but good at blowin' up shit like this truck. You think they wouldn't reach out from Alaska to do something petty and vindictive like that? Clearly you have not been paying attention to our government."

She addressed everyone. "Movin' on. Seems obvious that we need another vehicle. We are all crammed in here. Hard to fit more, like those folks we aim to rescue! Let's find something suitable. And we need a place to hole up, not too close to the dam. Let's not sit here any longer, we can plan on the way."

Putting the MAxxPro in Drive she checked her mirrors, then pulled out, heading west, then south along Perimeter Road as it turned into O'Bannon.

TAB was nodding his head in agreement to Laney, Arani and Joint.  He was not keen on being dolled up as it were in this military garb.  It was incredibly nice of the Major to do what he did, in his mind though it made them a highly visible target in a concrete environment.

"Yeah I am down with getting a little set up, but sounds like we have to do this quick.  And doing things to quick is gonna get someone killed, is the internet still up.  We could look for a low density shopping area, where we could snipe some clothes and other gear and food.  Doubt we are gonna get charged for data.  Personally if my dad finds out I said I would do something and didn't do it he will kick my ass, that is if he is well alive."

"Shopping, yeah... I bet we can find some good deals on gear! Sporting good store might be good to hit... er, visit."

Lany head south on Perimeter Road, finding it devoid of vehicles. With most of the street lights still working there is no need to use the NVG's. There are no vehicles present either. The reason for both question become readily apparent upon reaching the exit/entrance gate on O'Bannon Road.

On the entrance side is a long line of civilian vehicles, blocked from entering the base by a military cargo truck. There appears to have been a line of vehicles trying to enter from the exit lane as well, but these vehicles appear to have been pushed off tot he side of the road to make way for vehicles exiting.


Game map updated: https://www.google.com/maps/d/...24830412283&z=18

Remember the map is also found here in the very first post: link to a message in this game

In reply to Darkside Trooper (msg # 295):

As she drove down the cleared lane, Laney kept the speed slow and steady.

She was looking for an SUV that wasn't too wedged in, preferably with a diesel fuel engine so they wouldn't need to forage for two different kinds of fuel.

"Anyone see anything they like? See if there's a diesel-powered SUV available. Probably gonna need to hotwire it. Also, you want clothing, probably gonna be abandoned suitcases."

The only three people who can really get a good look at the vehicles pushed off the road is Laney (driving), Annabelle (passenger seat) and Robert (turret). Those in the back can peer out the side windows, but its hard to get a good look.

The only way to really check out the vehicles (fuel type, supplies etc) would be to stop and have people physically check out the vehicles.

Annabelle watched the vehicles as they drove by looking for something suitable for them to take. The bigger the better was probably the order of the day, but anything with a heap of spare parts available would probably not be a stupid idea. Jeep of some sort, four door.

Obviously if she saw anything armored such as a army vehicle, SWAT or armored bank truck she would give out a yell.