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Guerrillas in the Mist (Ch. 6 Interlude)

Posted by Cap'n RaeFor group archive 0
Cap'n Rae
GM, 419 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Sun 25 Nov 2007
at 20:25
  • msg #1

Guerrillas in the Mist


Thursday, October 5th, 2000
0745hrs.
Woods, approx. 20km East-Northeast of Szczucin, Poland
40 F
Scattered Clouds; low ground fog


Somewhere in your crude but well camoflaged bivuoac, looking like something Robinson Carusoe may have once inhabited, your long-dormant radio crackles to life. In fact, it's been weeks since you've been contacted by the outside world, and you only switch it on at the appointed hours out of a dogged- and, you've been thinking lately, perhaps misplaced- sense of duty.

The transmission is encrypted, using a new iteration of the same rotating system you've come to expect. The caller checks out, employing all of the proper call-signs and recognition phrases. The caller is unfamiliar but one of last transmissions fortold his call-sign. It is all very unexpected, but appears legitimate. After acknowledging receipt, you decode the following message,


Buddha; Pitchfork

Priority Delta Lima four-four-nine

You are instructed to leave Deer Park; assess Rhubarb

We will be dropping by for Tea and Biscuits; we'll bring the Champagne


Actions?

[Private to Stanislaw Switek: OOC: A bit cheesy, but the best I can muster at the moment. Pitchfork is Clarence's CIA handle. Deer Park is your wooded hideout. Rhubarb is the bridge. Tea and Biscuits is the noon hour; Champagne indicates we'll be travelling via the river.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:34, Sun 25 Nov 2007.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 1 post
Polish
Partisan
Sun 25 Nov 2007
at 21:11
  • msg #2

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

Mariusz winced slightly at the sound of the voice on the radio. he hadn't been expecting it and every time it had given them instrustions recently, more of the tattered band of partisans had died. He let his leader, Stanislaw, deal with the transmission and continued to keep watch.

His AK-74 was cradled in his arms as he searched for potential danger. Nothing appeared to be out there, that was good. He smoothed the plastic housing of the rifle, he loved his rifle, he'd taken it from one of the warlord's guards when Stanislaw's band had freed him, he'd been bound for a training camp to swell the bands of marauders in the area, but now he was free and fighting foe Poland, not some huge Communist monster, or for the glory of a petty bandit, but for the mother country herself.

He glanced around to look at Stanislaw in a mixture of awe and worship. The kindly man with a core of steel had changed his life for ever. the rifle made him a fighter, but the monk had stopped him being a victim. He resumed his watch and buried his chin deeper into the thick roll-top of the sweater he wore under his jacket. The jacket and trousers were both a drab khaki colour and over the jacket he wore a kevlar vest and he carried the helmet at his side. On his head he wore a plain West German forage cap with a Polish cockade and the white eagle on a red background on both sides.

The woods were quiet and Mariusz heard the transmission end. He swivelled slightly to see the boss. "So, what do our leaders tell us to do next, Boss?"
Grzegorz 'Bear' Rzasa
NPC, 1 post
Polish
Partisan RPG Gunner
Mon 26 Nov 2007
at 00:08
  • msg #3

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist


Gregorz sits against a tree nearby, sharpening a large and rather nasty looking hunting knife. His vissage is equally nasty looking. Under his trademark Soviet tanker's winter helmet (black leather and fur lined) is set a pair of coal-black eyes in a long, flat face, covered in bushy, brown beard. His clothing is an ad-hoc mixture of civilian and military gear. His only concession to self-preservation is a bulky Russian flak vest festooned with ammo pouches, grenades, and other peripherals of warfare. Alongside his outstretched leg is his "baby"- a much-used RPG-16. His "look" could be described as "demonic St. Nicholas". He is a great bear of a man, much skinnier now than he was in peacetime life, but no less imposing. His nickname, however, is derived not from his appearance, but rather from him life's consuming passion: killing Communists.

He's a proven fighter, brave to the point of stupidity. His body is a patchwork of scar tissue and he still carries at least a few ounces of shrapnel and bullet fragments under his leathery skin. The only reason he survived the bridge attack is that he was knocked unconscious by a grenade blast and dragged to safety before he could get himself killed. Since then, Brother Switek has kept him on a short leash.

"Bear' speaks little English and he doesn't care to learn more. In repsonse to Mariusz' querry, he adds,

"Don't matter to me as long as it means killing Soviets, heh-heh."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:05, Tue 27 Nov 2007.
Jason Kasparov
player, 1 post
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Mon 26 Nov 2007
at 01:23
  • msg #4

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

Jason rubbed the back of his head. Unsure of what the message meant, he was sure of two things. One the Agency was still active, and two, they still spoke English.  He stretched his legs, watching Gregorz sharpening his knife. The man was forever sharpening blades. Must be some sort of relaxation technique.

Walking across the bivouac, he stares out into the October sky. The fog was rolling across the ground, giving the area an almost gothic atmosphere.

"So whats the meaning of the message? I assume they are sending someone, but who?"

He didn't really expect to get an answer. He always felt left out of the loop with Gregorz team. They still considered him a pilot, even if he lacked a vehicle, and an outsider, no matter how many men he killed for their cause.  Whatever the outcome however, one thing was certain. They would be moving out soon. Taking one last look, he walked over to corner of the shelter and prepared to start his packing.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 2 posts
Polish
Partisan
Mon 26 Nov 2007
at 18:04
  • msg #5

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

"With you around, Bear, that's always a possibility," Mariusz chuckled, "just stop catching grenades with your teeth, it's not big, it's not funny and it's not clever."

He moved back from his lookout post and started to gather his gear, what little there was of it. His small backpack went on and then his sleeping bundle was slung to fit over his left hip and a mussette bag hung over his right.

He watched the Boss deciphering the radio message and he looked at the camp. The partisans had never had much but with the swingeing losses they'd suffered yesterday, there was a lot of surplus kit lying around. His load was already pretty heavy but he'd probably have to hump some more.

"Bear," he spoke again to the big man, "you've been keeping inventory, is there anything in the deaders' gear that we need to hump?"

He turned to Kasparov, "More walking, eh? One day you can give me a ride in a helicopter, fly me to somewhere where, all of this is a dream."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:05, Mon 26 Nov 2007.
Jason Kasparov
player, 2 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Mon 26 Nov 2007
at 18:35
  • msg #6

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

Jason nods to Mariusz. "I'm afraid the helicopter has gone the way of the Dodo." Jason said half hearted. He doubted the boy even knew what a Dodo was, so just like him, his comment was outdated.  "What are we doing for breakfast this morning. He should be at that for another twenty minutes."

Jason picks up his pack and hefts it on his shoulder. Winter was coming, it would be nice to be in a town before then. Or a city. Perhaps even a ride home.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 3 posts
Polish
Partisan
Mon 26 Nov 2007
at 19:33
  • msg #7

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

Mariusz bent over the basket of fresh food and raised the cloth. they all had a few days of MREs but those were for emergencies. Thanks to Kasparov's skill and bravery when getting what he referred to as the lawn dart down, these were good Ammerican rations too, not the PACT ones that resembled dog food.

Inside the basket was the remains of the food they had traded for at a local farm a few days ago. He rummaged around for a moment, looked up at Bear and Kasparov and smiled.

"We are in luck, my friends," the young man said, "there's a lot here that needs eating now or it will go off. We have white bread, a little butter and some jam for breakfast. The sausage and black bread will serve as lunch. On top of that there's enough fortified buckwheat porridge for two or three meals each. Bear, may we have heat for some tea? Old Ben had a hexamine stove in his pack, he'd been hoarding it and some tablets for it. If I remember right, he had a little pot of honey too. Mmm, tea and honey, that would be fine."

He picked up the clean mess tins proffered to him and divided the breakfast stuff between them. Carefully, he spread the butter, only a little off but still better than nothing on the chunks of bread. He then smeared some of the thick, sweet berry jam on each one. He set the mess tin at Brother Switek's elbow and returned to do the same to his breakfast. As Bear prepared the tea, the three men sat and waited for the Brother to pause in his work. he looked up absent-mindedly and smiled. Pausing in his endeavours he offered a swift grace.

Mariusz finished his "Amen" and fell to the food. The supplies would have been parsimonious shared amongst the whole unit but now they were a generous breakfast. He chewed hard, enjoying the texture of the bread, the butter's richness and the sweet, gloopy jam. he blinked momentarily as the contentment of good food brought back memories of his parents. He could picture them once more, short, plum and happy. Even in his memories they seemed obscenely fat given the scarcrows that passed for people these days, but he knew that by the standards of the time they were just plump. It was the feast of St. Wenceslas and his mother had cooked a roast goose and there were crisp roast potatoes...

He blinked again, more fiercely, there was no room for the soft, overweight kid he'd been, no room for gentle teachers who tried to make people understand that we were all the same despite politics, now only the wolf prospered and criminals were becoming Barons. Mariusz still believed in caauses, that was why he'd stuck with Brother Switek's band but now his causes were backed by bombs and bullets, not words, smiles and ideals.

He filled his mouth with bread and jam and pushed the memories of happier times from his mind.
Grzegorz 'Bear' Rzasa
NPC, 2 posts
Polish
Partisan RPG Gunner
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 03:57
  • msg #8

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

Mariusz Tokarski:
"With you around, Bear, that's always a possibility," Mariusz chuckled, "just stop catching grenades with your teeth, it's not big, it's not funny and it's not clever."


Bear flashes a gap-toothed grin, the result of Soviet grenade fragments "caught" in nearly such a fashion years ago.

Mariusz Tokarski:
"Bear," he spoke again to the big man, "you've been keeping inventory, is there anything in the deaders' gear that we need to hump?"


"All the ammo's been divied up already and we's eating their food right now. Heh! You make a pretty good cook 'little brother'!"

His gruff laughter brings to mind the odd image of a geriatric bear with a three-pack-a-day habit.

[Private to Mariusz Tokarski: OOC: Just to clarify, the bridge attack was a few months ago. Of course, other of our comrades could have been killed recently in a skirmish with an enemy patrol. No need to change anything.]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:10, Sat 01 Dec 2007.
Jason Kasparov
player, 3 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 06:37
  • msg #9

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

Jason nodded to Mariusz and took some of the bread and jam. "Thanks Mariusz, that sounds great." he said, and sat down at the edge of the bivouac. "Some hot tea would be nice." He reached into his pocket and pulled some sugar packets he had found a few months back.  "I've been holding onto these for a special drink. I have come to realize that as time moves forward, any drink you have time to enjoy is a special drink. So care to indulge?"

Jason chewed the sweet jam and bread, waiting for the tea.  Bear had stopped laughing at his private joke and Stanslaw went back to the message.  Jason would finish his breakfast and, if time permitted, start to clean his weapons.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:16, Tue 27 Nov 2007.
Stanislaw Switek
player, 1 post
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 07:03
  • msg #10

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

Brother Switek grunted and nodded in in appreciation at the mess tin placed before him.  He had already transliterated this morning's encrypted message.  Although distracted with the unexpected arrival of friendly radio traffic, the monk he was never too busy to give proper thanks for even the most meager of bounties. Nor to acknowledge the sacrifices of the many that had fought beside them.

"Heavenly Father, we thank you for this meal, and for your preserving care over us. Bless those that have fallen before us and guide us in our struggle. Continue to grant us the strength and wisdom to accomplish the mission for which you have placed us on this Earth. Let always our cause be just and our aim be true. Amen."

It had become rote by this time, and on some days rang hollow. But it inspired the men and they had grown to expect no less of him.

He bit into a large piece of jam-slathered bread and was instantly reminded of berry-picking season at the monastery in the Tatras.  He nodded again in approval and, licking the tip of his pencil, returned to his handwritten codebook.  As he flipped back and forth, struggling with the block key, he stopped to assess the remaining members of his ragtag band of partisans.  They each had made him proud, but he pondered how his colleagues from divinity school would have interpreted the improbability of this woodland scene and the the motley crew assembled herein.

He then began the tedious process of encoding and keying in his response in English:

AUTHENTICATION:
ALPHA TWO NINER THREE
ACKNOWLEDGE PITCHFORK.
QUITTING DEER PARK.
DESTINATION RHUBARB.
RSVP FOR THREE PLUS
ONE SPECIAL DELIVERY.
TEA TIME PESSIMISTIC.
BUDDHA OUT

After the transmission had been confirmed, Switek stood and tore the transcript from his notebook, setting it afire with a Zippo lighter that he had taught himself through relentless practice in his youth to open and ignite in one swift snapping motion.  He twisted the page in his hand as the flame spread and it burned all the way down to the last corner at his fingertips, before letting go at the last possible second.  He watched the charred ash float to the ground and then stomped it out under his boot and twisted it into the dirt.

Switek stuffed the Zippo back in the front pocket of his trousers and reached for the RPKM propped against his lean-to.  The matte black weapon looked sinister if not somewhat out of place in his grasp.  It was heavy, especially with the bipod and 75-round drum attached.  The extra weight worked in his favor, for the perceived lack of recoil almost made up for his actual lack of marksmanship. He approached his crew as they finished the remains of their breakfast and cycled the cocking lever on his machinegun.  That always got their attention.

"Listen up," he bellowed.  "That was radio from our American friends, code-named PITCHFORK.  I do not know him, but I have been previously told to expect him.  We are to reconnoiter the bridge at Szczucin.  They are arriving by river and want no surprises.  ETA is local noon.  Today.  We must break camp in fifteen minutes in order to make that rendezvous.  We have much terrain to cover, so move like you have a reason. Now go!"

There.  That sounded like real leadership.

Satisfied with his call to rally, Switek motioned to Kasparov, the American helicopter pilot.

"Jason, my son, bring me the map.  It looks like you are going home."

He wondered how many more would die getting him there.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:10, Tue 27 Nov 2007.
Jason Kasparov
player, 4 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 09:25
  • msg #11

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

 Going Home. The words rang in his ears as if whispered from the angels themselves.

Where the hell is home? he thought. He reached into his pack and pulled out the misfolded map, stained with both mud and blood. Handing the map to Stanislaw, Jason smiled briefly. "Home you say? I'm intrigued. Whats the op?"

Cleaning his weapons would wait. If it was possible to get him back to the Agency, he was willing to follow Stanislaw and his crew into the pits of Hell.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 4 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 10:10
  • msg #12

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

Mariusz finished the last of his breakfast and stood cradling his tea mug in his hands. He stood and shook slightly to ensure he had no serious rattles. He looked around the scruffy bivouace, he'd be glad to be on the move.

"I'm ready when you are, Boss," he said, "is there anything else you want me to carry or shall I take point?"

He drained the last of his tea, dried the mug and stored it. He checked there was a round in the chamber of his AK-74 and that the magazine was fitting tightly. He stood and looked expectantly at the Brother.
Stanislaw Switek
player, 2 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 12:12
  • msg #13

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

Brother Switek takes the map from the pilot, unfolds it and with his gloved finger traces a rough course that will bring them down out of the forest and into the rolling hills below.

"We will cross routes 73 and 79 here, and ... here."

He makes reasonably sure to pick locations that circumvent known occupied settlements.

"This should allow us to maximize speed and minimize our chances of any ..."  He stops to eye Bear before continuing, as if to punctuate the next word, "... unnecessary ... delay.  We must traverse twenty kilometers of rugged terrain before noon.  We will approach the north bank of the Wisla to the west of Szczucin and observe the bridge.  There we shall await further instructions from our American friends.  I am afraid I only know this PITCHFORK by his codename.  Details of his mission have not been made available to me other than that he will make a riverine approach and the bridge must be secured."

He nods to Jason, knowing the pilot has risked more with less information many times prior, but still hopeful he has illustrated his point.

"That is the operation."

He pulls a spare 75-round machinegun ammo drum from his pack and hands it to the teenager.

"Mariusz, I am afraid my back is not what it once was.  May I trouble you to stow this among your things?  Of course, I will want you on the point.  Don't wander off too far ahead.  I hope the fog will continue to work in our favor, but I won't have you getting lost out in front.  Bear and Jason will follow and I shall guard the rear.  This is a sound plan, we are in agreement yes?"

After soliciting input and reaching consensus on any suggested modifications to the chosen approach vector, Brother Switek tends to his bedroll and continues the hustle to pack up and break camp.

[Private to Cap'n Rae: All of this assumes I know anything about the surrounding area. :)]
This message was last edited by the player at 12:27, Tue 27 Nov 2007.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 5 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 13:17
  • msg #14

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

Mariusz smiled at his mentor and took the drum, he shook it and it rattled a little. He opened his mussette bag and pulled out a sweater and wrapped it carfully in it. He placed it in the bag and closed the straps.

He moved to the edge of the camp and double checked the directions his Boss had given him. He stood, scanning the distance and waiting for his leader to tell him to advance.
Jason Kasparov
player, 5 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 15:41
  • msg #15

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

"We will approach the north bank of the Wisla to the west of Szczucin and observe the bridge.  There we shall await further instructions from our American friends"
 Jason nodded at Stanislaw's words, a smile crossing his face at the mention of the Americans.  Still, he knew all too well that securing a bridge meant more than just sitting on the riverbank and watching the ducks swim by. Any bridge, no matter how small, served as the lifelines of every last town in exsitance.

"Do they know the size of our unit Stanislaw? They may not be aware of how our numbers have decreased."  Jason didn't like mentioning the obvious, especially when it came to Stanislaws men. He mourned every man he lost as one would their own children.  Jason may have enjoyed the thought of getting closer to being back among his own, but he had come to see these men as his brothers.

Checking his M177, he shouldered the weapon and his pack. He smacked Mariusz on the shoulder. "Don't worry, young one. I'll cover your six. Can't let anything happen to you, especially with those sausages you promised for our lunch."
Stanislaw Switek
player, 3 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 16:50
  • msg #16

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

Brother Switek grimaced and nodded in respose to the airman's inquiry.

"PITCHFORK is advised both of our numbers and itinerary."

He swallowed hard at the though of losing another fighter.  Another brother.

"And he knows to expect you.  It will be a bittersweet rendezvous if it means losing you, Jason.  You have become family.  I understand your need to return to the fight alongside your fellow countrymen, but these last few months you have honored the noblest of our warrior traditions. Poland is proud to consider you her son."

With that, the grizzled monk slung his machinegun and embraced the American pilot in a manly bear hug with two solid thumps placed squarely on his back.

"Well, enough misty-eyed girl talk," he sniffed as he regained his command posture. "We don't have all day - move out!"
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 6 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 17:07
  • msg #17

Re: Guerrillas in the Mist

Mariusz set off like a young hound unleashed from a grizzled pack. he laughed in the early morning light.

"OK, comrades, follow me, don't let your dinner get too far ahead."
He moved of at a ground swallowing lope, not to fast, but quick enough to him about a hundred meters in front of his brothers, close enough for them to support him but far enough away to ensure that if he sprung an ambush, the others had a chance not to get caught. He swivelled his head like a falcon searching for prey and strained every sense he had to it's limit. He was getting better at point duty, and certainly he was about the best they had left, although that didn't say much given the company he kept.
Cap'n Rae
GM, 423 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 20:20
  • msg #18

Leaving the Woods


With Mariusz on point, your small, rag-tag partisan group leaves the familiar, comforting cover of the woods, emerging into rolling pasture land.

The grass is overgrown here. It's wet with condensation and soon your trousers, from the knees down, are soaked through. Large herds of sheep used to roam these fields, keeping them neatly trimmed. Now, only a few bleached bones remain among the wavy sea of green to remind passersby of the area's bucolic history. The mist hangs heavily over the ground, cutting visibilty to about 20 meters. As you've noted, this is a mixed blessing. You're not likely to be seen, but, likewise, your not likely to see danger until you're right on top of it. The poor visibility also forces you to bunch up closer than you'd like in order to maintain visual contact with one another.

You move west-southwest angling towards the southern edge of Szczucin. You want to avoid the town. You've seen firsthand what "Polish Plague" does to a person and you have no interest in discovering the half-life of the bacilli.

About a kilometer out from the woods, Mariusz slows as the burned out hulk of a BMP-2- remnant of a Soviet attempt to clear you out of the woods in the wake of the bridge attack- looms out of the fog ahead. Good. You're still on course.

Bear speaks up from his spot in the patrol line low but loud enough to remind everyone, "Ha! I remember this one. Nice shooting, eh?"

After pausing a few minutes to rest and admire the big man's handiwork, you continue on past the destroyed IFV, keeping the same steady pace as before.

Suddenly, Mariusz is brought up short by the sound of rustling in the mist ahead. Whatever it is, it's close- just on the other side of the thick fog wall that's been keeping pace with you, always about 20 meters ahead.

Actions?

OOC: Brilliant RP/writing so far, all of you. It's a joy to read.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:22, Tue 27 Nov 2007.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 7 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Tue 27 Nov 2007
at 20:42
  • msg #19

Re: Leaving the Woods

A rustling ahead brought Mariusz up short. He crouched silently and hoped that the others behind him saw the white of his jumper, which he had pulled down behind him like a rabbit's scut go still. He strained his ears to identify the sound better and swiftly rested his AK-74 on his thigh as he used his left hand to tuck the scut out of the way.

This done, he grasped his rifle firmly once more and listened behind him to see if his comrades, yes it was the right word he thought, despite the dirty communist overtones, had stopped moving and gone to ground as they would normally do if the point man froze.

[Private to Cap'n Rae: Mariusz has been moving as stealthily as the pace will allow, he thinks he's been like a ghost slipping between the shadows, but he's sixteen and not necessarily the best judgeof these things. He'll stay here trying to determine the sound. If he cannot do this, he'll lie down and try sneaking towards it, again with a stealth that would make an Apache proud. He'll freeze at any other sounds however.]
Jason Kasparov
player, 6 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Wed 28 Nov 2007
at 05:31
  • msg #20

Re: Leaving the Woods

Sloshing through the wet grass, Jason was lost in his thoughts. Could he really be heading back? Did he really want to? For the first time in this war, he felt he served a purpose, and sadly it wasn't helping those of his own homeland. These men had embraced him as a brother and they were perhaps even considering him an equal.

He ripped open a sugar packet with his teeth, and poured it in his mouth. The sweetness reminded him of his youth, the straws of sugar he bought at the Krausers corner market. He let it melt on his tongue, the powder liquifing into a runny paste that slid down his throat.

Mariusz had stopped, and he didn't notice. He may have took another three steps when reality slapped him in the eyes, and his knees buckled on instinct. Dropping to the ground, he raised his weapon to his eye, and scanned the horizon. The fog was still too thick to completely see Mariusz, but he held up his fist as a warning to the others anyway. Of course as far as he knew, they had stopped long before he became aware.

"Bear," he whispered. "Whats the situation? You smell anything?"

Jason Kasprov
Weapon at the ready, down on one knee
Waiting on instructions
This message was last edited by the player at 11:15, Wed 28 Nov 2007.
Grzegorz 'Bear' Rzasa
NPC, 3 posts
Polish
Partisan RPG Gunner
Wed 28 Nov 2007
at 23:49
  • msg #21

Re: Leaving the Woods


At Mariusz' signal, Bear stops, crouches low and sweeps his eyes and weapon across his assigned security arc.

Jason Kasparov:
"Bear," he whispered. "Whats the situation? You smell anything?"


Bear literally sniffs the air before whispering,

"No, nothing. What you got?"

[After Jason's reply]

Feeling an almost paternalistic concern for the young guerilla on point, Bear creeps forward as stealthily as he can, closing the gap between himself and Mariusz to about five meters in order to provide support if needed.

Bear
AKMS (full auto)
Moving a bit closer to Mariusz

Jason Kasparov
player, 7 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Thu 29 Nov 2007
at 03:31
  • msg #22

Re: Leaving the Woods

Jason whispers to Bear as he moves off, "Be careful, I'll wait for Stanislaw." Crouching low, Jason flips the safety off his weapon and moves the selector switch to semi-auto. Dropping to a prone position, he lays the M1777 aside and pulls out the night vision binoculars he recovered from the crash. Powering them up, he scans the fog, hoping they might pierce the fog cover.[Private to GM: Should I perform a recon roll to see if the NV picks anything up?]
Stanislaw Switek
player, 4 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Thu 29 Nov 2007
at 06:21
  • msg #23

Re: Leaving the Woods

Switek is pleased with the general progress and time the crew is making on their march to the river.  That the ground fog has remained so low and dense this far into the morning pleases and comforts him.  The concealment of their movement has thus far proven worth the cost of additional orienteering checks.  The same march on a clear day might have been faster but would have left them much more exposed.  From his position at the back of the group, he occasionally loses sight of the young pointman in the mist ahead, which - while to be expected - is unnerving to his overly paternalistic nature just the same.

The monk stops for a moment to sweep their rear approach and beholds the still and silent calm of the morning, punctuated only by their own heavy breathing and the rustling of their gear as they trudge across the overgrown field.  Satisfied that they are still quite alone, he takes a sip from his canteen and replaces it in the pouch on his belt.

Rejoining the march, Switek steps into a clearing in the fog and observes that the forward teammates have suddenly stopped and dropped.  He immediately lowers himself to one knee and reflexively unslings his pack.  The monk brings the RPKM machinegun, already charged, to the shouldered and ready position and begins to scan the area before him.  He crouches in the tall wet grass, listening intently for any signal of what may be amiss.



[Switek]
Kneeling in the clearing.
RPKM + 75rd Drum 7.62mmS at the ready
Waiting.

Cap'n Rae
GM, 429 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Fri 30 Nov 2007
at 01:29
  • msg #24

The Buck


Striving for stealth, Mariusz edges forward a couple of meters, the thick fog and wet earth combining to muffle his footfalls. The mist abruptly opens up in front of him to reveal a magnificent buck a mere 15 meters ahead, its impressive rack gleaming with condensation. The still air and heavy humidity must be neutralizing your scent and it's looking away from the young point-man, intently watching and listening for something futher on into the mist.

Actions?

OOC Notes: I may be wrong, but I think standard NVGs simply amplify ambient light and do not pick up thermal signatures. Therefore, Jason's NVGs would be pretty much useless under the present environmental conditions. If I'm wrong about this, please let me know. Also, can you tell I'm not a hunter?
; )


[Private to Jason Kasparov: Yes, if you'd like to take the M60 barrel with you, that's fine. I have no idea how much it would weigh but it can't be over 10lbs., right?]
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:39, Fri 30 Nov 2007.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 8 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Fri 30 Nov 2007
at 09:36
  • msg #25

Re: The Buck

Mariusz paused for a moment and enjoyed the magnificent beauty of the deer. He could feel the damp fog enshrouding him and trickles of icy water were already forming and finding their way through the layers of clothes that he was wearing.

Any other day, the buck would be doomed to end its days in the stew pot. Today, it was lucky as the tiny group didn't have the time or carrying capacity to butcher, dress and haul the meat. Mariusz was more interested in what was interesting the buck.

Inch by inch, he crawled forward. Eventually, the buck would either run, or Mariusz would be able to see what the buck was focusing on. If the buck did run, that might flush out any suprises anyway. Mariusz kept his rifle pointing forwards with the selector on fully auto. If he saw any targets, he'd be able to get a controlled, aimed three round burst thanks to the AK-74s advanced muzzle break. After that he could lay down suppressive fire to cover the advance of the rest of his team. Inch by soggy inch, he closed in on the buck.
Stanislaw Switek
player, 5 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Fri 30 Nov 2007
at 19:04
  • msg #26

Re: The Buck

Switek crouches down and crawls slowly forward through the damp, tall grass until he is alongside Kasparov.  He cocks his head to the side and strains to see beyond the young point man.

"What's he got, Jason?" whispers the grizzled monk.



[Switek]
Prone in the clearing.
RPKM + 75rd Drum 7.62mmS at the ready
Waiting, wondering.

Jason Kasparov
player, 8 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Fri 30 Nov 2007
at 19:11
  • msg #27

Re: The Buck

"Unsure at this time. He's crawling along the ground. Something must have him spooked. Bear is moving up to cover his six. I suggest we proceed with caution."

Jason lowers the NV goggles. "These are useless in this fog. Wish I had thermal gear." He spins his head left and right, then rolls over to check his six.

"I think we are clear from behind. Shall we move?"

Jason Kasparov
Prone, weapon at the ready
Awaiting orders from Stanislaw
Cap'n Rae
GM, 435 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Sat 1 Dec 2007
at 00:06
  • msg #28

Re: The Buck


Mariusz creeps through the wet grass to within about 10 meters of the stag. It's the largest he's ever seen. Without warning, the buck starts- presumably at whatever it sensed approaching from the direction in which its attention was focused- pivots in one graceful hop, and lunges directly at Mariusz.

Actions?

OOC: This could be the shortest GM post I've ever written!
Jason Kasparov
player, 9 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Sat 1 Dec 2007
at 07:32
  • msg #29

Re: The Buck

With a start, the huge beast springs to life, leaping into the air  and heading toward Mariusz.  Jason raises his rifle, knowing that firing more than one shot would reveal their location. The boy is in the massive creatures path, and after all they had been through together, he doesn't want to see him trampled by an 800 pound Bambi.

He takes careful aim looking down the sight, only holding back knowing that Bear is closer and probably in a better position to fire.

Jason Kasparov
Aiming at the Buck
Single shot selected
Waiting to see if Bear shoots first
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 9 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Sat 1 Dec 2007
at 09:50
  • msg #30

Re: The Buck

Stupid deer! Mariusz thought as the bloody idiot of an animal launched himself towards him. He swiftly lined up his sights at the juncture of the throat and chest. That would send his bullets ripping and tumbling through the monstrous beast's lungs and heart, dropping it like a sack of venison sausages, if he hit...

[Private to Cap'n Rae: OK, Mariusz was specifically on overwatch waiting for a target so he is trying to claim an aimed shot at 14, you may however feel that the animal's move was too erratic ti have been taken into account which Mariusz will not dispute, in which case the shot id a 7. Given the nature of the AK-74, the triple burst could be treated as one shot, they all hit or they all miss. This can only be done with preparation and on the first careful shot. If you don't want to bother with this level of realism, he fires one single shot. I'll put up a secret roll. Could be your shortestpost? hope it's not my shortest PC! Let the dice roll as they will!!]
Grzegorz 'Bear' Rzasa
NPC, 4 posts
Polish
Partisan RPG Gunner
Sat 1 Dec 2007
at 23:06
  • msg #31

Re: The Buck


Bear starts as he finally catches sight of what Mariuz has been stalking. Grzegorz Rzasa wouldn't flinch at the sight of a platoon of Spetznaz or a T-80 charging at him, but the huge stag lunging towards his young comrade strikes a chord of primal fear in the grizzled fighter. He lifts his AKMS fo unleash a burst at the onrushing beast but the boy is in his line of fire...

'Bear' Rzasa
10 meters behind the point man
AKMS (30/30)
Hesitating


[Private to Mariusz Tokarski: Whoa! You rolled a 20. That's an automatic failure. my friend. From now on, if you want to leave the rolling up to me, I'll understand.
; )
]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:56, Sat 01 Dec 2007.
Cap'n Rae
GM, 437 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Sun 2 Dec 2007
at 00:08
  • msg #32

Re: The Buck [supplemental]


CLICK!

The Kalashnikov rifle legendary for never jamming does just that. The massive buck continues barrelling towards Mariusz, a look of sheer terror in its big, dewey brown eyes.

[Private to Mariusz Tokarski: You have time for one more quick action, be it diving aside, curling up in a ball, attempting to club at the deer with your rifle, saying your prayers etc.]
Stanislaw Switek
player, 6 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Sun 2 Dec 2007
at 03:43
  • msg #33

Re: The Buck [supplemental]

As the stag charges toward the enthusiastic teenager ahead, Switek privately curses himself for not having his silenced weapon prepared for immediate use.  Momentarily stunned by the scene of nature's fury unfolding before him, he makes a hasty decision to favor defending his point man over maintaining stealth.  He rolls to his right and manuevers the RPKM to acquire the magnificent beast in his sights.  The monk prays for an unobstructed line of fire as he squeezes off a burst of machinegun fire.

[Private to Cap'n Rae: Obviously, if there is no clear shot that doesn't endanger his pointman, Switek will hold fire.]


[Switek]
Prone in the clearing.
RPKM + 75rd Drum 7.62mmS at the ready
Perforating the stag (if there is a clear shot).

Jason Kasparov
player, 10 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Sun 2 Dec 2007
at 08:15
  • msg #34

Re: The Buck [supplemental]

"Damn." The creature kept moving forward, and from his vantage point, it didn't seem like Bear was taking it down.  Taking careful aim, Jason lines the sight up slightly with the creatures head and gently squeezes off a single round.


Jason Kasparov
Firing a single shot
Prone, taking aim at the buck's head.

Cap'n Rae
GM, 441 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Tue 4 Dec 2007
at 01:39
  • msg #35

The Buck Stops Here


Mariusz stands petrified, jammed AK still held firmly to his shoulder. Switek looses a burst at the onrushing animal but misses wide, tracers disapearing into the fog like angry green hornets. A second burst is out of the question as the buck is now screened by Mariusz, still frozen in shock and awe.

[OOC: Stan misses! (5-round burst)]

A single shot cracks out and the animal stumbles, its forequarters slamming into the wet earth while its hindquarters continue forward, sending the beast cartwheeling into Mariusz. The young point man is knocked backwards off of his feet and his rifle spins from his hands into the long grass a few meters away. The buck tries to stand, stumbles again, and falls hard to lie twitching on the ground next to the now prostrate Mariusz.

[OOC: Jason scores a hit! (Single shot) Buck is mortally wounded in the chest.]

[OOC: The flying buck hits Mariuz in the head for 8 damage, knocking him out with a serious concussion.]

Actions?

[Private to Mariusz Tokarski: Sorry mate. You didn't post an action in response to my supplemental post so I had to roll the die. I've got to keep it real. I hope you're not already losing interest in the game...]
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:06, Tue 04 Dec 2007.
Jason Kasparov
player, 11 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Tue 4 Dec 2007
at 05:07
  • msg #36

Re: The Buck Stops Here

The sight of the massive beast flying end over end would have almost been comical, had Mariuz not been struck down by the buck. "Shit!" Jason exclaims, dropping his rifle and charging forward, oblivious to the dangers that might be lurking in the fog. His mind had one thought, that he may have brought untold harm upon the young Mariuz, when, had he held his fire, he might have been spared any harm at all.


Crashing between Mariusz and the buck, Jason draws his knife and in one swift motion, slices the bucks throat. "At least that way you won't be getting back up." Driving the blade into the bucks neck, Jason then turns his attention to Mariusz.

"Little one," he mutters, checking the boys vitals, "Can you hear me?"

Jason Kasparov
Checking Mariuz's vitals.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:08, Tue 04 Dec 2007.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 10 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Tue 4 Dec 2007
at 07:57
  • msg #37

Re: The Buck Stops Here

Mariusz is lying on the floor unconcious.

[Private to Cap'n Rae: Re: NPCing character: Not a problem you've got to keep the game moving. I had checked the sight on Sunday and Monday but I had'nt seen a flag on the thread, my mistake or a buggy comp. No, I'm loving the game and as for actions, give the catastrophic failure of his trusty rifle, I would have had him freeze to.]
Stanislaw Switek
player, 8 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Tue 4 Dec 2007
at 19:04
  • msg #38

Re: The Buck Stops Here

Switek watched in horror as his shots went wide, unable to intercept he charging beast before it collided with his young pointman.  As Kasparov moves forward to deal with the fallen stag and tend to Mariusz, and with any notion of maintaining stealth momentarily lost, the monk rallies the hesitating 'Bear' to action.

"Snap out of it," he commands "... and cover the forward approach!"

He scrambles forward to the partial cover offered by the corpse and lays his RPKM across the stag's lifeless body as it bleeds out.  The monk begins to methodically scan the fog bank for any sign of company.



[Switek]
Crouched behind the stag.
RPKM + 70/75rd Drum 7.62mmS at the ready
Looking for hostiles.

This message was last edited by the player at 20:15, Tue 04 Dec 2007.
Jason Kasparov
player, 13 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Tue 4 Dec 2007
at 20:10
  • msg #39

Re: The Buck Stops Here

"He's out cold, but he's breathing." Jason pulls out his first aid kit, and pops some smelling salts under Mariusz's nose.  Pulling off his own jacket, Jason covers the boy and elevates his legs. He shoves his pack under his knees, to keep the blood flowing back to the heart.

Tapping his face lightly, Jason tries to wake Mariusz.

Jason Kasparov
Applying basic first aid
Kneeling between the stag and Mariusz
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 11 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Tue 4 Dec 2007
at 20:31
  • msg #40

Re: The Buck Stops Here


After several minutes of his comrade's gentle ministrations, Mariusz's eye lids fluttered open. The light struck the back of his eyes like a hammer and he wished he was unconcious again. His tounge felt thick and he could barely see the man tending to him.

He lay still, he felt as if anything else would cause to much pain.

A few minutes later he said, "So, stopping the deer with a head butt was a stroke of genius eh? Don't any of you go stealing my kill." he laughed harshly and lapsed back into unconciousness.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:02, Wed 05 Dec 2007.
Jason Kasparov
player, 14 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Tue 4 Dec 2007
at 21:36
  • msg #41

Re: The Buck Stops Here

Jason laughed at the boys joke, then snapped another smelling salt under his nose. "Oh no you don't. You took a Bruce Lee type power kick there kiddo. Don't need you slipping into a coma. You have all the sausages."
Lifting his head, he shook the boys shoulder's slightly. "Bear, I left my rifle back there. Grab it for me, while I attend to the young one?"
Grzegorz 'Bear' Rzasa
NPC, 5 posts
Polish
Partisan RPG Gunner
Wed 5 Dec 2007
at 03:14
  • msg #42

Re: The Buck Stops Here


Bear rises, glowering at the dead animal, trying to mask his uncharacteristic display of fear with indignant anger and bravado. No one, however, is really paying any attention. Nevertheless, he spits towards the animal feeling that, in so doing, he has regained a little bit of his pride.

He walks over and picks up the American's carbine and, as he hands it to Jason, offers some of the little English he knows in a thick, gravelly accent.

"Good shot."

He takes a knee nearby, following Switek's instructions like a good soldier. Bear is no zoologist, but he realizes that something out there in the fog must have spooked the deer...

Bear Rzasa
AKMS 30/30
Covering


[Private to Mariusz Tokarski: You don't have to roll after speaking. Now, if you wanted to do a handstand, that would be a different story... So, based on your fist roll, Mariusz is now conscious. As long as he doesn't do anything too strenuous, he should remain so. Feel free to post. Mariusz will, however, need some help getting up, walking etc. He'll probably want to stay off of his feet as long as possible. Cool?]
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 12 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Wed 5 Dec 2007
at 07:46
  • msg #43

Re: The Buck Stops Here

Mariusz winced at the smelling salts, he refocused and saw Kasparov above him, "Hey, that's not nice , are you tryimg to kill me with that smell?" He paused, serious again.

"Sorry, my gun jammed and I froze. Thanks for saving me back there, I thought the buck was going to be wearing me like a new hat."

[Private to Cap'n Rae: What, no stroke and I get to talk? Bonus, no problem doc, I'll stay off the handstands for a while. maybe forever given the way I roll.]
Jason Kasparov
player, 15 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Wed 5 Dec 2007
at 07:59
  • msg #44

Re: The Buck Stops Here

"Don't sweat it. I just didn't feel like carrying you." Jason tosses the smelling salt aside, and holds up a finger. "Follow this with your eyes." He wasn't really sure why he was asking him to follow his finger, but they did it in all the films. If he did something odd, perhaps he would notice it.

"Something spooked the deer. Did you see what it was?"
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 13 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Wed 5 Dec 2007
at 08:06
  • msg #45

Re: The Buck Stops Here

Mariusz tried to follow the finger but he couldn't really work out which of Kasparov's multiple fingers to follow. He hoped he was doing it right. Slowly Kasparov's question penetrated the pounding waves of pain that swapmed his brain.

"Yes, the buck's attention was elsewhere, I couldn't see what it was but it was looking in a line direct with where it's tail is pointing now. Ow."
He winced as the moving of his jaw caused yet another pain tsunami inside his skull.
Cap'n Rae
GM, 444 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Thu 6 Dec 2007
at 00:51
  • msg #46

The Sound of Fog


It's been several minutes since the buck was brought down. The fog seems to be thinning a bit, but only slightly. Visibility is now closer to 20m. Jason continues to administer what aid he can to the conscious but groggy Mariusz while Switek and Bear continue to provide security.

You notice a rustling sound like wind blowing through the long grass- except there is no wind. It's almost impossible to tell exactly where the sound is coming from- or what's making it- since the fog muffles and distorts sounds. But, whatever it is, it's growing in volume. It seems to surround you. Something out there is moving; moving towards you and doing so swiftly...

Actions?
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:03, Thu 06 Dec 2007.
Jason Kasparov
player, 16 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Thu 6 Dec 2007
at 06:05
  • msg #47

Re: The Sound of Fog

"Bear! Quickly, lets turn this Buck so its a shelter from that direction" Jason exclaims, pointing in the direction of the creatures nose as Mariusz stated the beast was staring before being brought down.

Drawing his knife from the bucks throat, he grabs the young boy by the arms. "You are in no shape for walking, but hows your shooting?" He hands Marisuz back his rifle, and points into the fog. "Either thats locusts, or thats trouble. Cover us." Grabbing the rear legs of the buck, Jason tries to drag the carcass about to provide a shelter.

"Stanislaw, lets have two facing forward, two facing back." He didn't know how far they were from the destination they were seeking, but he didn't want to die here when there was a chance to make it home.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 15 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Thu 6 Dec 2007
at 07:45
  • msg #48

Re: The Sound of Fog

Mariusz rolled slowly onto his stomach and took his proffered rifle. He picked an area where there were no friendlies in front of him to cover. His head ached and he fumbled at the action of the AK-74, trying to remember something important. His vision was still seriously blurred so he switched to fully automatic.

Lying in the damp grass he called softly, "Boss, I may be able to pull a trigger but don't count on me for anything. I can't see to aim and I don't know what the recoil will do. Keep everyone clear of my firelanes."

Mariusz, laying down by the buck
Covering the area the sound is coming from
Concussed, -3 Initiative, rolling against CON to stay concious after every action
AK-74, 29 in the magazine, forgotten jam in the chamber.

Stanislaw Switek
player, 9 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Fri 7 Dec 2007
at 07:10
  • msg #49

Re: The Sound of Fog

Switek assists Kasparov in manhandling the stag into position, then hunkers down and covers their rear quadrant, squinting into the fog as he cringes with anticipation at the approaching contact.

The monk nods to Mariusz.

"Clear your rifle, little one," he adds as an afterthought.



[Switek]
Crouched.
RPKM + 70/75rd Drum 7.62mmS
Waiting.

Mariusz Tokarski
player, 16 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Fri 7 Dec 2007
at 07:49
  • msg #50

Re: The Sound of Fog

The order took a while to filter through the pain in Mariusz's brain and then the order and his nagging worry clicked together, "Yes boss, sorry boss."

He worked the ejection lever on the right side of his rifle and tried to see if it ejected the jammed bullet.

[Private to Cap'n Rae: If the jam doesn't clear this way, he'll try once more and then ask Bear to help him. Poor old Mariusz isn't up to performing more than immediate action I don't think.]
Jason Kasparov
player, 17 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Fri 7 Dec 2007
at 18:18
  • msg #51

Re: The Sound of Fog

"If we need to run,' Jason whispers to Stanislaw, "I'll drop my gear and take the boy. Weapons we can always recover later. I will just need a few minutes for cover."

The bucks body was still warm, and a warm mist rose from the open wound at its throat. Its coarse fur scrapped his arms as he took a position on it, his weapon poking out slightly over the dead animals shoulder.Without looking, he switches the selector from single to three round. Scanning the mist before him, Jason tries to locate the source of the sound.

Jason Kasparov
hiding behind the buck
M177 at the ready 29 rounds in the clip
set at three round burst
scanning the mist

Mariusz Tokarski
player, 18 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Fri 7 Dec 2007
at 18:58
  • msg #52

Re: The Sound of Fog

Mariusz winced at the idea of someone having to carry him, it hurt his pride almost as much as his head hurt. He saw the logic of it however, he didn't want to die here if he could help it. He wriggled a little and undid his webbing belt.

He resumed his fire sector and said, "If we have to run, give me a few seconds to dump my gear, it weighs nearly as much as me. I don't like the idea of you carrying me, but I'll be a monkey's uncle if I'll let you dump your own kit just to carry mine. Besides, your Yankee stuff is better that the PACT crap I carry, it'll be easier to replace that than yours. Hey Bear, just grab the green satchel, it's got lunch in."

Mariusz
AK-74 on overwatch
Webbing arranged for a quick drop-off
Cap'n Rae
GM, 450 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Sat 8 Dec 2007
at 23:28
  • msg #53

Fog Dogs


The partisan team forms a crude cross-like defensive position, oriented roughly towards the points of the compass. Mariusz clears the jammed round but the meager exertion is enough to make his head pound, triggering waves of nausea. Fortunately, he maintains his loose grip on consciousness.

A low form emerges from the fog, followed shortly by another, and another. In all six large wolves- or if not wolves, dogs not far removed from wolves- appear, circling the party just inside the fog margin. Their posture is menacing- raised hair at the scruff of the neck, rigid tails, pert ears. A low growl emanates from the largest of the animals, a dark-haired brute with yellow eyes. They maintain a cautious distance at first, pacing back and forth, and only very slowly edge closer to the group.

The noise of the gunfire directed at the panicked stag had nearly frightened them off, but the still that followed, and the scent of fresh blood drew them back. They don't look like they're about to leave anytime soon...

Actions?
Jason Kasparov
player, 18 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Sun 9 Dec 2007
at 04:35
  • msg #54

Re: Fog Dogs

"Well, on the bright side, there's just dogs out there. If there were other people, they would be reacting to their presence. They just want the buck. I say why waste good meat? Let them have it. After all we stumbled onto their kill. Lets back up slow, give them a wide berth, and kill them if they disagree."

Taking careful aim, Jason selects the lead animal, undoubtably the Alpha male.  Rising to one knee, he touchs Mariusz's shoulder. "You move back first. I'll cover you."

Jason Mariusz
Taking careful aim at lead dog
M1777 three round burst
29 rounds
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 19 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Sun 9 Dec 2007
at 09:40
  • msg #55

Re: Fog Dogs

[Private to Cap'n Rae: Mariusz will try to move again if prompted, but with an effective Initiative of 0, he is not going anywhere, falling unconcious again will probably convince the others of how serious the wound is. Also, I'm assuming that one combat turn has finished now, maybe more and that whilst the other PCs described bringing Mariusz around, nobody rolled for first aid. If you rule that three combat turns are already up, and they could well be, First aid will no longer have any effect and Mariusz will take seven days to get to a slight wound and to the point he will be able to do anything without falling unconcious 75% of the time. This may be reduced to five days if there is medical care on the boat. I'm fine with this, I can still talk so I can post and enjoy the RP interaction, I'm just not sure if some of the other PCs realise how debilitating injuries are in the game (mind you, recovery times are very generous to balance that up), should I play being more injured to start getting them to realise this? The same thing appears to be happening on the boat, crippling wounds are being treated as minor hindrances by PCs, for instance, the arm injury of Anneka means that she won't be a very effective medic, I've done a fair bit of first aid training and even real life first aid, and it's really hard to do with just one arm, she'll be rolling on greater difficulties at least, if not passing out every now and again when she instinctively tries to use her arm. Anyway, what was going to be a brief note has turned into a rant, sorry, it's not aimed at you, combat is supposed to be deadly and you've been kinder than many GMs would be. I just wonder if the PCs realise that given the number of injuries sustained that they are combat ineffective for at least a week. Cheers, Mark.]

Mariusz tried to move to respond to his comrade's command but as soon as he moved his head even slightly from level, waves of nausea struck him and the tiny black spots dancing in front of his eyes congealed into huge pools that obscured his sight.

He stopped moving and waited for the waves to subside. He moved his thick tounge once more, the speech becoming more and more slurred, "I don't think I can get up without falling down again. I think my head is seriously broken."
This message was last edited by the player at 10:12, Sun 09 Dec 2007.
Grzegorz 'Bear' Rzasa
NPC, 5 posts
Polish
Partisan RPG Gunner
Sun 9 Dec 2007
at 17:31
  • msg #56

Re: Fog Dogs


Grzegorz's finger rests heavily on the trigger, his eyes locked on those of a dog on his side of the cross, 10 meters away. He's about to riddle the dog with bullets when he hears Jason speak. Bear doesn't undertand all of the American's words, but the pilot's movements suggest a peaceful resolution to the new man vs. beast confrontation facing them. Bear decides that the others are better qualified to handle the situation and backs away slowly, moving towards Mariusz. He speaks in a low growl, his eyes never leaving those of the dog, who keeps pace, nosing ever closer to the downed buck,

<i>"I think they want the deer. You need some help walking, Mariusz?"

Bear
AKMS (30/30); RPG-16 (0/1)
Backing up and offering to help Mariusz move


[Private to Mariusz Tokarski: Yes, wounds are tough to handle realistically in a game like this. On one hand, the injury rules can be pretty player-friendly sometimes and on the other, they can be a bit harsh. Also, players don't usually want to "sit around" doing nothing while wounds heal. In Mariusz's case, I'd like to play things a little closer to RL. He sustained a serious concussion. He was temporarily knocked unconscious. He's got a massive headache and he should not be alowed to sleep anytime soon. He's dizzy, nauseated, and his vision is blurred. He needs to take it easy for a while and will require assistance with walking. There's not much first aid one can give someone who's just received a concussion. Jason made a reasonable attempt, using the smelling salts to revive M. So, don't worry about rolling and such. Like I said, as long as he doesn't exert himself too much, he should recover failr quickly. You're playing it very well so far. After a few hours, M should be OK to do most things. He may have a little short-term memory loss and he should do his best to protect his noggin but he should be able to walk, fire his weapon, etc.]
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 20 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Sun 9 Dec 2007
at 17:46
  • msg #57

Re: Fog Dogs

At the sound of Bear's voice, mariusz made another effort to stand, using his rifle as a prop. His knees almost buckled, but he remained standing. For a moment he doubled up as he vomited up his breakfast. As he streched back up again, he felt a little better.

"I don't think I can walk alone comrade Bear, but with your strong back to help me, I can go anywhere." He slung his rifle over his left shoulder and held the pistol grip with his left hand, "I'll hold on to your left, that way you can use your right to fire. Is that OK, old friend?"

Mariusz felt better again as Bear's strong arm wraped around him, slowly they started to back away from the dogs leaving the stupid deer to them.

[Private to Cap'n Rae: Excellent, as long as I'm clear what parameters I've got to operate under I won't have to keep asking for clarification. Yes, for PCs, the injury rules can be frustrating and in this type of game we have less of a chance of saying, a week later, everyone is fully healed and the boat sails once more. In my opinion, that actually makes the game more fun. Recovery times on the other hand are a joke. You can go from full reconstructive surgery to fully healed in three weeks, I wish! Still, thanks for the advice, I've had several serious concusions so I should be able to keep RPing it reasonably, cheers, Mark.]
Stanislaw Switek
player, 10 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Sun 9 Dec 2007
at 23:42
  • msg #58

Re: Fog Dogs

"Good idea." the monk nods as he concurs with the pilot's assessment.  "They can have it."

As the dogs approach and begin to circle, Switek is hopeful that the stag will keep their attention and slake their thirst for blood.  He rises slowly and moves back from the corpse, maintaining eye contact with the leader of the encroaching pack.  He grabs his packframe and begins a cautious retreat with the rest of the group as Kasparov provides watchful cover.  The monk laments the loss of such a bountiful food source, but they are now with casualties and the timeline is in jeopardy.



[Switek]
Crouching.
RPKM + 70/75rd Drum 7.62mmS
On the retreat.

Mariusz Tokarski
player, 21 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Mon 10 Dec 2007
at 07:55
  • msg #59

Re: Fog Dogs

With the big partisan's support, Mariusz moved away from the dogs, his eyesight was still blurred and he made sure that his finger was well clear of the trigger of his AK-74. Each footfall brought a fresh jolt of pain to his head but he was moving and still concious and, given the circumstances, that was a big plus thought Mariusz.
Jason Kasparov
player, 20 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Mon 10 Dec 2007
at 08:13
  • msg #60

Re: Fog Dogs

"Stanislaw, do you have a lighter? If they charge, light the bucks fur on fire. At least they won't charge through flame, and it will buy us some time."

Jason keeps his weapon trained on the lead dog, preparing to shoot if need be.

Jason Kasparov
Aiming at lead dog
M1777 29 rounds
Cap'n Rae
GM, 453 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Mon 10 Dec 2007
at 23:00
  • msg #61

Re: Fog Dogs


You pull back slowly, alert but careful not to do anything that could be perceived by the pack as aggressive, and the dogs close in on the dead buck. They tear into its carcass, pausing periodically to bark and snarl in defense of their newly won kill. As you back into the mist, the dogs appear to lose all interest in you and you are free to proceed with your mission.

With Bear supporting Mariusz, your guerilla group resumes its course for the damaged bridge, giving the downed deer and its diners a wide berth.

After a few minutes of trudging through the rapidly thinning mist, Stanilsaw's radio crackles to life.


Buddha, Pitchfork

Contact approx 20 klicks west of Rhubarb.

Three teacups broken, three cracked.

Expect minor delay.

Proceed with mission. REPEAT: Proceed with mission.

Exercise extreme caution; probable Ashcan involvement. SAY AGAIN: Proceed with caution; probable Ashcan involvement.


Actions?

[Private to Stanislaw Switek: Broken Teacups are KIA; cracked ones are WIA. Ashcan refers to Soviet counterintelligence elements.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:59, Thu 13 Dec 2007.
Jason Kasparov
player, 21 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Tue 11 Dec 2007
at 05:55
  • msg #62

Re: Fog Dogs

"Whats the good word, Stanislaw?" Jason inquires. He heard the part about proceed with the mission, but he didn't know they were in fact on a mission. Something was amiss, and from what he could ascertain, their meeting was compromised, with three wounded and three dead. Unless he was misunderstanding the  code of the message. He wasn't privey to any of the codes they were using.

"How about we take ten minutes to eat some lunch. I want to check on the boy as well."
Grzegorz 'Bear' Rzasa
NPC, 6 posts
Polish
Partisan RPG Gunner
Thu 13 Dec 2007
at 00:10
  • msg #63

Re: Fog Dogs


"Boss?

Bear adds, inquiring after the radio message.

As he awaits Switek's reply, Bear looks down and to his left, addressing the injured scout,

"How're you feeling boy?"

[Private to Jason Kasparov: Sorry, man. I don't know why the others aren't posting.]
This message was last edited by the player at 01:15, Thu 13 Dec 2007.
Stanislaw Switek
player, 11 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Thu 13 Dec 2007
at 04:21
  • msg #64

Re: Fog Dogs

Switek nods in agreement with the pilot, satisfied that enough ground had now been put between the party and the dogs.

"Yes, we should eat.  Check on the boy while I brief our friends.  Bear, cover us."

The monk crouches and doffs his pack again.  He digs thru his stachel, searching for his codebook in order to transcribe the message and craft a reply on the fly.  He checks his watch then keys the mic on the handset of the CIA-supplied encrypted radio.

PITCHFORK, BUDDHA.
ETA RHUBARB NOW H+2 HOURS.
ONE TEACUP CRACKED, MINE.
YOURS INTACT.
ACKNOWLEDGE ASHCAN.
PROCEEDING WITH CAUTION.
WILL ADVISE ON APPROACH RHUBARB
BUDDHA OUT.

Switek sighs as he secures the radio's handset in it's cradle and motions for the team to close ranks.  He chews on a hunk of hard bread and a piece of sausage.  He chews with his mouth open as he explains the message to his comrades in arms.

"The Americans are approaching by river, but are delayed.  This is good for us, since the original timeline was too aggressive.  We got sloppy and have now paid the price for our haste."

He pats young Mariusz on the shoulder, in a gesture intended to convey more concern and acceptance of his own responsibilty than admonishment or assignment of blame.

"The PITCHFORK asset advises that his team has suffered casualties - three dead, three wounded.  He also suspects Soviet operatives afoot in the area.  Not regular army.  Perhaps KGB troops or GRU - maybe even SPETSNAZ.  I know not how he has come to believe this.  Perhaps a reflection of the importance of his mission, which only underscores the importance of our own.  We must move quickly and quietly and with utmost caution to evaluate the condition of the bridge at Szczucin."

He again reaches out to shake the young pointman's shoulder again.

"The stakes have been raised, my friends.  Are we up to this task?"



[Switek]
Crouched.
RPKM + 70/75rd Drum 7.62mmS
Explaining the mission.

Jason Kasparov
player, 22 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Thu 13 Dec 2007
at 05:25
  • msg #65

Re: Fog Dogs

"Any word on enemy numbers?" Jason inquires, biting down on his makeshift sandwich. With each bite, he recallshis youth the sausage and pepper sandwichs he enjoyed along the boardwalk as an adolescant. "Is this a potential target we can repay for the losses Pitchfork has suffered?"

Jason watches Mariusz as he eats his meal. The boy seemed slightly better, but would he be ready for combat?

"Could we perhaps make a gurney to carry him for a bit? We need to move but he needs the rest."
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 23 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Thu 13 Dec 2007
at 07:51
  • msg #66

Re: Fog Dogs

"I'd rather walk if it's possible, I'll be able to shoot if you find me a good position, but moving around won't be good for me. It makes more sense for you three to conserve your energy rather than carrying me."
Mariusz looked at the men and slowly the blurred multiple images were begininng to merge into one.

"No thanks," he said to Bear who was offering him some lunch. "I'll save it til when I probably won't throw it straight back up. So, boss, are we moving into a hot contact or something? Who's this Pitchfork?"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:39, Thu 13 Dec 2007.
Cap'n Rae
GM, 462 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Sat 15 Dec 2007
at 19:18
  • msg #67

Sloggin' It


After a short break and a bite to eat, the group moves out towards the bridge. The fog has almost completely cleared now, and visibilty is no longer an issue. The flat, open ground you have to traverse is lacking in much cover and concealment. Anyone with a pair of good binnoculars could easily pick you out. It's a naked sort of feeling, but there's not much that can be done about it at the moment.

Mariusz is feeling a bit better now that he's got some food in his belly. He persuades Bear to allow him to try to walk unsupported for a while and finds that he can, although with some difficulty. He requires frequent short breaks to rest but this works in the team's favor as it forces you to stop, look, and listen periodically as you creep ever closer to your objective.

At about 1100 hours, the team hits the road linking Busko to Szczucin. You can see the disease and combat ravaged town in the distance to the west of you. You're now about 6-7km from the bridge. As you study the town through your field glasses- observing no signs of life of any kind- the radio once again crackles to life.

Buddha, Pitchfork
Please advise of party firepower.
We are holding position 5km west of Rhubarb.
Believe position enemy held and expecting Pitchfork for lunch.
Detaching recon element to approach on DeerPark side.
Buddha, approach objective with extreme caution.
Transmit SALUTE when eyes-on.
OVER.


OOC: I need an approach plan so that I can get you guys into position near the bridge.

Actions?
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:59, Sat 15 Dec 2007.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 24 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Sat 15 Dec 2007
at 23:21
  • msg #68

Re: Sloggin' It

As soon as Mariusz heard the radio crackle, he crouched down and took up a quarter of the clock to scout. The headache was a bit less ahrsh now and the black sopots that had blurred his eyes earlier had shrunken to pin-pricks. He heard the transmission and worked out most of it, the people tehy were to meet had stopped five kilometers from the bridge and had sent out scouts. They wanted Switeck to radio in their strength and check out the bridge for unfriendlies, unfriendlies that were likely to be GRU or Spetsnatz. Great, Mariusz thought, heading into a firefight with superior troops. Let's hope they had surprise on their side.

"Listen boss, I'm feeling better. I can probably fight fine if I have a good position with nice fields of fire. I doubt if I'm up to dashing around though, or running point, I'm worried about us going in blind though so do we ask the friendly scouts to be our eyes before we go on in. Boss, last time we tried to blow the bridge, we made a tactical survey of it first, my memory's hazy now, something to do with the bump I suppose. Can anyone remember the layout and where we placed our sniper/scouts? You could put me there with my gun or swop with the RPK and let me provide covering fire. What can you remember?"

[Private to Cap'n Rae; Grzegorz 'Bear' Rzasa; Jason Kasparov; Stanislaw Switek: OK, My two penn'orth. We should have a basic familiarity with the area and that should allow us to pick some good spots. We'll need to be careful though, if we spotted them last time and we're up against Spetsnaz, they probably already have people located there. The best thing to do might be to find a good OP, locate the bad guys and hope the boat has fire we can call in to take out Mr. Brown. Our troops would then act as security for the FO and not cannon fodder to clear the way for the boat.]

He frowned as he tried to push the headache away and think. "The problem is, is that if we're facing elite troops they've probably nabbed all the best spots. We'll need to be careful not to stomp on any snakes as we come in. Boss, ask them what assets they have. If they've got ARTY we might be able to find a nice spot to see the Reds and then call in fire. I'd rather do that than get killed doing some John Wayne shit to cover for people we don't know and haven't met."
Jason Kasparov
player, 23 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Sun 16 Dec 2007
at 06:40
  • msg #69

Re: Sloggin' It

Jason patted Marisuz on the shoulder. "If you want, I'll take point for a while, though I'm less familiar with the area. If I stumble across the enemy, they are more likely to capture me, being American and all. That would buy you some running time. I can do the shot down pilot story."
Tossing his binoculars to Bear, he motions to Stanislaw. "I'll move off some 300 yards ahead. You guys follow me from a distance. The two of you might be able to spot an ambush knowing the terrain."
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 26 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Sun 16 Dec 2007
at 11:41
  • msg #70

Re: Sloggin' It

"Thank you for offering to take the point, my friend," Mariusz smiled warmly at Kasparov, "we'll need to be very careful though, if we are against top class opposition we can't rely on them making any mistakes. They will have placed a security element ot cover their six and we are likely to encounter it, the problem is, they'll be static and we'll be moving so they have the better chance of spotting us first. I would urge caution and effective liason with our allies before we do anything."

He looked over at the big partisan, "Brother Bear, can you remember where we put our security elements when we hit the bridge last? Rusichez, God rest his soul, would have picked the best spots and they're likely to be in use again if there are enemies at the bridge."
Jason Kasparov
player, 24 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Mon 17 Dec 2007
at 01:35
  • msg #71

Re: Sloggin' It

"What if I just came stumbling in? Is there anyway to see what size of an enemy element were facing? I know its a cliche, but I could be the bait if we are facing a smaller security force over a large infantry unit. You three could use that to your advantage, if they rushed out to catch me. I am not exactly a local, so they will try to take me alive."

The thought of being a carrot on a stick didn't appeal to him, but it could make for faster movement and might force the enemy to reveal their rear guard if they had one.

"Just don't get me killed by friendly fire. Thats all I ask."
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 27 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Mon 17 Dec 2007
at 09:29
  • msg #72

Re: Sloggin' It

"Well, its a possibility, but it sounds risky to me. The people attacking our allies haven't seemed reluctant to kill them yet. I don't like the idea of sticking you out there and hoping that they are curious enough not to shoot you out of hand." Mariusz frowned and rubbed his brow, all this thinking was making his brain hurt, "I'd suggest waiting until we know what our allies are capable of and for Bear and Switeck to remember something of the terrain, I'll try too. It might be sensible to wait until night but then if they're Spetsnaz they'll have thermal imaging and we'll be even more exposed than we are in the day. This is a difficult position, sure enough."
Grzegorz 'Bear' Rzasa
NPC, 7 posts
Polish
Partisan RPG Gunner
Mon 17 Dec 2007
at 23:20
  • msg #73

Re: Sloggin' It

Mariusz Tokarski:
He looked over at the big partisan, "Brother Bear, can you remember where we put our security elements when we hit the bridge last? Rusichez, God rest his soul, would have picked the best spots and they're likely to be in use again if there are enemies at the bridge."


"Er, well... We came at it at night from the south-east. There were a few sandbagged guard posts with MGs, a few burned-out vehicles from years ago. That one MTLB we blew to shit, ha-ha! Old shell holes- we set up guys behind all of that. If all that crap's still up there, there's lots of places for ambushers to hide. Same story on the far side. If we hadn't had that mortar, we never could have taken it. Brother Switek, if the Russians your friends seem to think are expecting them are staked out at the bridge, chances are they'll be looking upstream. If we sneek around behind 'em from the south... Hey, it's just an idea."

OOC: I'll post an update moving the story along tomorrow if Switek has posted his two cents by then.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:21, Mon 17 Dec 2007.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 28 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Tue 18 Dec 2007
at 08:08
  • msg #74

Re: Sloggin' It

Mariusz smiled, "Thanks, Brother Bear, my head's not what it used to be. The south sounds good, we must be careful though, they're bound to have rear security. I still think we should contact the allies to but getting closer to the bridge wouldn't hurt us any."
Stanislaw Switek
player, 13 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Tue 18 Dec 2007
at 09:06
  • msg #75

Re: Sloggin' It

Brother Switek grunts and nods in agreement with Bear as he drops his pack.  He pulls the map from his satchel and unfolds it yet again.

"Jason, I appreciate your intent," he chides the pilot in a somewhat paternalistic tone, "But I can't have you exposed out front that far.  I want to keep us together as long as possible.  I agree with Bear.  I think we need to approach downriver - from the southeast.  It seems our best chance of avoiding contact and discovery as long as possible - especially if we wait until sundown."

The monk indicates with his finger on the map a wide arc that would take the partisans to the river's northern edge a kilometer downstream of the bridge.  He is not entirely sure of the plan.  It seems rushed and they are ill-equipped and undermanned for a stand-up fight with any force, let alone elite Soviet operators. Plus, his team had been over this terrain before and had payed a hefty toll.

He strokes his whiskers thoughtfully and surveys the rolling landscape. Glancing around the group he looks each man in the eye, seeking not so much consensus as a sanity check.  He was their nominal commander and that was not in dispute, but leadership, especially of guerrilla fighters, is often fleeting and always at the mutual consent of the led.  He had asked much of this group and they had sacrificed much on his watch.  Perhaps too much.

A bridge too far?

He dismissed the irony.

"And, young Mariusz, you are of course correct in your assertion that we need a rendezvous before we go all John Wayne," muses Brother Switek.  "Now, to sell this plan to our friends."

He keys the secure radio and attempts to raise PITCHFORK.  He speaks in the cumbersome and sideways manner dictated by the codebook as he round-aboutly advises that they are but four men with a variety of small arms, grenades and a rocket launcher.  He impresses the tactical advantage of an approach from the southeast and his intent to begin their reconnoiter after dark.  He closes by requesting an inland rendezvous with PITCHFORK's recon element to consolidate forces prior to embarkation.

[Private to Cap'n Rae: What I'm getting at is that it makes tactical sense to meet up with the boat's recon team and wait for cover of darkness before approaching the bridge.  Switek is wary to order his men into the area during daylight.  I wasn't feeling original enough to come up with code words for expressing all of that.  Let me know if that monkeywrenches your plans.  Sorry for the delay.]

[Switek]
Crouched.
RPKM + 70/75rd Drum 7.62mmS
Planning.

This message was last edited by the player at 09:14, Tue 18 Dec 2007.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 29 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Tue 18 Dec 2007
at 09:11
  • msg #76

Re: Sloggin' It

Mariusz nodded his agreement with his commander and remembered an English Language film he had watched with his parents. It had been full of American and British stars and had been about an Airborne operation to capture some bridges that had gone wrong. He smiled wryly, the Poles had paid a price there too.

He checked his rifle and took out the magazine to slip an extra bullet into it. He checked his load and rehoused the mag. He sat still, cradling his rifle and waiting for the final plan.
Jason Kasparov
player, 25 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Tue 18 Dec 2007
at 14:52
  • msg #77

Re: Sloggin' It

"Very well Stanislaw. I'll still take point for my turn. The boy is still damaged, so to speak."  He punched Marisuz in the shoulder. "Besides, there might be a fox or a wild boar roaming these woods looking to finish what the buck started."

"If our recovery team already came down the river and encountered the enemy, would we not be safer walking the riverbank? The water will hide the sound of our approach, if they have any dogs, the scent will be thrown off, and we will at least have the protection on one side?"
Grzegorz 'Bear' Rzasa
NPC, 8 posts
Polish
Partisan RPG Gunner
Tue 18 Dec 2007
at 23:25
  • msg #78

Re: Sloggin' It


Bear grunts his approval as Switek lays out his plan.

"Sounds good boss. Maybe we should link up with the Ammies at the road, out of sight of the bridge, then hike back around to come at it from the back side. Ask 'em if they've got any more night vision, though. We only got the two and if it's really Spetznaz up there, they probably have a few themselves..."
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 30 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Wed 19 Dec 2007
at 08:28
  • msg #79

Re: Sloggin' It

Mariusz stood more steadily on his feet and looked at his comrades, he said, "I'm ready to go when you are."
Cap'n Rae
GM, 468 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Thu 20 Dec 2007
at 00:30
  • msg #80

Re: Sloggin' It


Buddha; Pitchfork
Acknowledged.
Instruct link-up 2k meters east of Rhubarb on black-line.
Will coordinate dance from there.
Visual recognition signal is rifle held away from body and perpendicular to ground on left side.
Audible is "Potato" and "Pancake".
OVER.


OOC: This sounds totally silly to me, but it's the best I can come up with. Sorry. If this is not as clear as I intended, basically, the American team wishes to meet you on the road from the town to the bridge, approximately 2km from the objective. Due to the distance and terrain between this meeting point and the bridge, this should allow you to meet out of sight from whomever is presumably guarding it.

Actions?
Stanislaw Switek
player, 14 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Thu 20 Dec 2007
at 04:29
  • msg #81

Re: Sloggin' It

Switek identifies the meeting point on the map and shows the pilot their intended destination.  He keys the mic to respond:

ACKNOWLEDGE PITCHFORK.
ENROUTE TO RENDEZVOUS.
ADVISE BRING CANDLES.
WILL BREAK OUR CURFEW.
BUDDHA OUT.

He replaces the handset and stows the map.

This gun's for hire, even if we're just dancin' in the dark . . .

The Springsteen lyric has been running thru Switek's head all day.  The line between freedom fighter and terrorist was often blurry and dependent on the perspective of the observer.  The difference, he tells himself, is ideology.  He knows his cause is righteous.  This, he rationalizes, justifies his occasional bouts as a trigger man in the service of a foreign intelligence agency.

Traitor or patriot?

He shakes his head.

"Jason, take the point." commands the monk. "The little one will hang back with me.  You and Bear run out there and find us a nice spot to hunker in until sunset."

He shoulders his pack and prepares to move out.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 31 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Thu 20 Dec 2007
at 07:38
  • msg #82

Re: Sloggin' It

It took Mariusz a while to discern all that was going on. he was usually quicker on the uptake and his slowness served as a reminder to him that he could not rely on his reflexes in the situation they were going in to. He moved next to Switek and instinctively stood on the monk's right hand side. He stood ready to go when the team moved out.
Jason Kasparov
player, 26 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Thu 20 Dec 2007
at 20:16
  • msg #83

Re: Sloggin' It

"Very well. Cover my back." Jason grabs his pack and checks his weapon.    "Bear, I'll need those binoculars back."

Taking a final bite of his meal, Jason salutes his brothers. "If it hits the fan, don't risk yourself on my account. I'll manage."Flipping his safety off, and the selector switch to full auto, Jason strides off across the high grass, the damp reeds slapping against his boots. He crouches slightly, steps light and scans the terrain ahaead, looking for some telltale sign of trouble.

Jason Kasparov
Low crouch, walking on point
Weapon at the ready, scanning the terrain
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 32 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Thu 20 Dec 2007
at 20:25
  • msg #84

Re: Sloggin' It

Mariusz smiled at the American's speech. They were indeed a band of brothers and just as Kasparov hadn't hesitated to plunge into the unknown to save him, Mariusz had no intention of leaving Kasparov to fight trouble alone. As Kasparov loped off, he checked his load once more and made sure he was on semi-auto, he held his rifle ready and looked expectantly at Switek, he smiled and said, "Once more unto the breech, eh Brother Switek?"

Mariusz ready to move out with Switek.
Cap'n Rae
GM, 471 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Fri 21 Dec 2007
at 01:45
  • msg #85

Re: Sloggin' It


Off to your left (south), the sound of light machine gun fire echoes low and ominous in the distance. A few moments later, your American contact's voice barks from the radio,


Buddha, Pitchfork.
Recon element in contact with enemy force 400 mikes north of Rhubarb.
There may be a change in plan. Wait one.

Stanislaw Switek
player, 15 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Fri 21 Dec 2007
at 01:58
  • msg #86

Re: Sloggin' It

At the sound of distant gunfire, Switek freezes in place and drops to a crouch.  He motions tersely for Mariusz to get the attention of the rest of the team as he grabs the handset.

ACKNOWLEDGE PITCHFORK.
HEAR YOUR TROUBLE.
STANDING BY. OVER.

His heart begins to race as he curses the deafening silence emanating from the radio.  The monk's knuckles turn white as he clutches the handset awaiting a response.

[Private to Cap'n Rae: If you give me the distance from our current loc I will provide an ETA and an approach vector.]

[Switek]
Crouched
RPKM + 70/75 rd. drum 7.62mmS
Waiting for response

Mariusz Tokarski
player, 33 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Fri 21 Dec 2007
at 07:45
  • msg #87

Re: Sloggin' It

Quickly and quietly, Mariusz moved forward and got Bear and Kasparov's attention. He signalled for them to stay put and trotted back to Switek. He crouched down himself and started scanning thier back trail.
Jason Kasparov
player, 27 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Fri 21 Dec 2007
at 19:21
  • msg #88

Re: Sloggin' It

"Son of a bitch." Jason mutters as he spots Mariusz's signal to hold tight. Dropping down into the field, he pulls out his binoculars and scans the area. Perhaps they spotted something he missed?

Scanning the trees, he waits for further orders from the rear.

Jason Kasparov
Prone, weapon at the ready
Scanning the forward position with binoculars.
Cap'n Rae
GM, 475 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Fri 21 Dec 2007
at 22:17
  • msg #89

Re: Sloggin' It



Buddha; Pitchfork-
Move to rendezvouz point on blackline ASAP but be careful.
At least one enemy zipper at near side of Rhubarb.
Will advise of next move.
Pitchfork out.

Mariusz Tokarski
player, 34 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Sat 22 Dec 2007
at 09:13
  • msg #90

Re: Sloggin' It

Mariusz heard the radio message and was relieved. Their unknown allies were doing their bit. They had already made contact with the hostiles and were engaging them. This suggested that they wouldn't just use his comrades as cannon fodder. He nodded to Switek and moved forwards to Bear and Kasparov.

"Our allies have made hostile contact, at least one zipper they said, I'm assumimg they mean a machine gun. They advise us ti continue on to meet with their scout."
Stanislaw Switek
player, 18 posts
Polish
Cistercian Monk/Partisan
Wed 26 Dec 2007
at 17:32
  • msg #91

Moving To Contact

NPCed

"Alright men. We've got our instructions. We're moving to the rendezvous, two klicks north of the bridge. Mr. Kasparov, I would like you to take point. Visual recognition signal is left arm outstretched with rifle held perpendicular to the ground. Verbal call is "potato" and response is "pancake". Watch for enemy pickets. I'll take the second slot; Mariusz my boy, you're behind me."

"Bear, you're the tail-gunner. Keep an eye on the boy too."

"Alright everyone, let's move out."


OOC: Italicized text is Polish. Regular text is English.

[Private to Stanislaw Switek: Not sure what your situation is. NPCed Stan just to get this thread going again. Hopefully you can resume posting soon. Take care.]
Jason Kasparov
player, 28 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Wed 26 Dec 2007
at 18:26
  • msg #92

Re: Moving To Contact

"Enemy pickets? Do we have any idea on numbers? If they have pickets and are under fire, their squad must be full strength, if not larger."

Picking up his gear, taking his safety off wis weapon, Jason took the point, eyes scanning for a bird out of place, a leaf blowing the wrong way, anything that might be a Spetsnaz rear guard waiting to pick him off.

Jason Kasparov
Point
Weapon on full auto and ready
scanning the area before him.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 36 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Wed 26 Dec 2007
at 20:42
  • msg #93

Re: Moving To Contact

Mariusz checked his rifle once more and fell in behind Switek. Once more into the breech he thought. As Switek moved off checking the right of the trail, Mariusz followed, his attention on the right.
Cap'n Rae
GM, 481 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Fri 28 Dec 2007
at 18:54
  • msg #94

The Rendezvous


As the team nears the road to Szczucin, a low echoing boom reaches them from the east. Apparently, there's quite a battle brewing at the bridge.

The group settles into a defensive configuration just off of the cracked and potholed blacktop. It's a relatively straight shot of about 2000m to the west of the bridge.

OOC: I'm just waiting on a decision from the ranking PC in the other group and then ya'll will receive a "call" on the radio with further instructions. Feel free to either post in the interim or wait for the update. I'll get it up as soon as I hear from the player in question. Thanks for your patience.
Jason Kasparov
player, 29 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Sat 29 Dec 2007
at 04:17
  • msg #95

Re: The Rendezvous

Scanning the battle with his binoculars, Jason waves the others forward.

"Hopefully, we can contact them. We could at least direct some mortar fire and save them some shells."
Cap'n Rae
GM, 483 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Sat 29 Dec 2007
at 20:24
  • msg #96

Attack!


Once again, the radio crackles to life. This time, the call offers a definitive direction. As the message sinks in, you feel a familiar nausea-inducing mixture of excitement and dread, mellowed a bit by the resolve of the seasoned warrior.

Buddha, Pitchfork
Assault Rhubarb. Sya again, assault Rhubard.
Advance along north side of black-line; we will provide covering fire.
Be advised, at least four Tangos on that axis.
Pitchfork will assault on southern axis.
Over.

Grzegorz 'Bear' Rzasa
NPC, 9 posts
Polish
Partisan RPG Gunner
Sat 29 Dec 2007
at 20:37
  • msg #97

Re: Attack!


Bear can't understand the fuzzed out radio message but something in the speaker's tone makes its meaning clear.

The big man unslings his RPG-7 and inserts one of his special "hedgehog" anti-personel rockets (a standard HEAT round with ten-penny nails taped around the warhead). Reslinging it, he looks to Switek like an expectant retriever looks to its stick-wielding master.

The man loves to fight.
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 37 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Sat 29 Dec 2007
at 20:45
  • msg #98

Re: Attack!

Knowing that Bear was a bit slow on these things, Mariusz crept next to him. "We're going in to fight, there are at least four enemy, if the machinegun is still working, it'll probably be crew served, that'll make a good target for the hedgehog."

He whispered this as he stripped down to his combat load and put his helmet on. Once he was ready he checked his Kalashnikov and grenades. As soon as he was ready he looked over at Switek and Kasparov, "Skirmish line?"

Mariusz
AK-74 =30rounds, 5 extra mags
4frag, 2 smoke
Awaiting Switek's orders

Jason Kasparov
player, 30 posts
Warrant Officer 1
U.S. Army Blackhawk Pilot
Sun 30 Dec 2007
at 03:41
  • msg #99

Re: Attack!

"If there's four, we should be able to spot their muzzle flash from here. It will give us some advantage. Lets do a little recon, try to locate our targets, work our way into a good position, and then unleash your RPG."

Jason looks at Mariusz. "How are feeling my friend? Still fuzzy in the head, as you say?"
Mariusz Tokarski
player, 38 posts
Polish
Teenaged Partisan
Sun 30 Dec 2007
at 11:51
  • msg #100

Re: Attack!

Mariusz looked at the American, "Still fuzzy, comrade, I'll be able to shoot but if we have to do anything radical, I'll be in trouble."
Cap'n Rae
GM, 487 posts
Long-time T2K Fan
First-time GM
Sun 30 Dec 2007
at 22:07
  • msg #101

End of Ch. 6 Interlude


OOC: You may now post in the Ch. 7 thread. Welcome to the battle!
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