Bayer replies when the two men are finished, "I believe McCoy's suggestion will be the most productive at this point. Especially how we are not all in attendance. Each man or woman who wishes to put forth a plan, or COA as its been said... has an hour. The endstate must accomplish our primary goal of reaching Warsaw with the provisions aboard. OK? 2 hours... in the galley."

If there is no disagreements, he nods for Tucker to follow him outside and out of earshot. "Robert, at this point I want an armed man with the Soviet at all times, on a rotating basis. No escort is to engage in any talk which can jeopardize our security." Bayer then adds, "He also needs to be disarmed... at least for the time being." Bayer then nods to the bridge where Robert had Jan, McCoy, and Milk available to assist if it became a problem. "Can do?"

Leaving him, Bayer returns again to the other vessel, pulling the members of the team aside for privacy he informs them of the situation. Looking at his watch he also offers them the option of presenting a COA in an hour.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:59, Sun 14 Sept 2008.

"Yes sir.

Clarence turns to face their esteemed guest, waiting patiently while Minh "interviews" the Soviet special forces soldier. He studies the man's responses, both verbal and non-verbal, trying to get a feel for the man. The guy wasn't exactly an open book.

"Ondar is it? I'm WO2 Clarence Milk, but you probably already knew that now, didn't you. How about you share those Soviet coms frequencies..."

There was no use in trying to hide his identity. It was obvious that nearly everything about his mission had been compromised already.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:51, Sun 14 Sept 2008.

As per Sam's suggestion, the crowd aboard the Krolowa's bridge disperses and each team member retreats to do his or her own thing.

An hour passes. During this time, several day's worth of food is loaded aboard the refugee's old, battered, harmless-looking motor barge. Sanjay has succeeded in tuning up the barge's past-their-prime engines. Anneka is able to treat a few of the sick and injured refugees, but most of them leave the tent disappointed.


The entire team assembles on the quarterdeck to begin planning how to circumvent the sizeable welcoming party assembled at the Pulawy bridge crossing.

Actions?

OOC: Feel free to post what your PC was doing in the interval as well as any plan/s or idea/s he or she has come up with. Both would be best, but either is fine. Please do try and post some input, though.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:45, Sun 14 Sept 2008.

Dawid looked up at that and rolled his eyes in mock exasperation.

"Oh no! You must not let those filthy subhuman "Polacks" get their grimy hands on the Yanks' last best hope: RESET! Never mind we Poles built the fucking thing in the first place. It belongs in the hands our betters. We know our place."

He grinned in humour, or was it sarcasm?

"Ondar, I have a feeling you're going to be right at home in that "Montana" place, you'll fit right in.

"As for me, I signed on to help Adam get to Warszawa. That's it, unless someone makes me a better offer. Therefore, I am staying on the tug with the Vasilek if that's where Adam wants me to be.

"We will make it, do or die.

"If the rest of you want to attack the garrison and steal the trucks, then by all means that sounds like a diversion we could make use of."


This message was last edited by the player at 00:01, Mon 15 Sept 2008.

Sitting in the galley, Bayer listens to Griet's and Mariusz's suggestions on how the group was to overcome their situation. He took notes and periodically checked the map as they spoke. "Ok. Who else." he asks.

"One: the enemy is reacting to our movements. We should be thinking about how to use that against them. They think we're coming by river, let's raid the trucks and give them the idea that we're going by land instead, forcing them to make a choice on splitting their forces."

"Two: the barge limits our mobility, as noted. Let's talk to Ondar and see if there is another barge in Warszawa we can use, so we can leave the one we have. Maybe even use it as a weapon, like set it on fire and let it drift into the current.

"Three: bear in mind that you were hired by Adam to get him to the city, not to help the Yanks with their mission."

Tucker catches Konrad's nod to follow him outside away from the others.  "What's up boss?" he asks him when they're alone.  Robert shakes his head in agreeance with Konrad and says, "If I may?  If you're going to keep Minh with the Russian, I'll just hang out with her while she picks his brain.  I'll see to it that he's searches and I'll confiscate what I find on him.  One last thing Konrad.  I don't know where this is going to go from here but, I wanted to let you know that I signed on with Adam and you to get the tug to Warsaw.  I plan on staying true to that.  I could give two shits about this RESET stuff right now but, if offered the option, I'd prefer to stay on with you and the tug sir."  (WFR before going to see Ondar)

Tucker shoulder slings his M-16 before moving up to where Ondar (and probably Minh are still talking?) is and approaches him calmly.  "OK, Mr. Ondar.  I have orders from my C.O. to confiscate your weapons for the time being while you're on our ship.  It's nothing personal, just soldiers following orders.  Is there a problem with that?" he asks him in a very non-threatening tone.

Tucker
Slung Rifle
Talking to Konrad first, then moving on to Ondar, the Swarthy Stranger

Dawid made it clear to Adam that he was staying with the tug. He might participate in a diversionary effort of some kind, but he'd given his word that in the end he would see Warszawa from the deck of the Wisla Krolowa, or die trying.

"You have my word I will not abandon you, my friend."

When convenient, he asked Ondar and the tug Captain if there is a similar barge moored somewhere around Warszawa. There was no particular reason Adam needed to return with the same barge they started with, and in the probable coming engagement he felt the speed and agility gained would far outweigh the loss of the bunker, especially if some of the crew were going to part ways.

Also, he asked Ondar and the people on the barge if they could confirm the status of his sister. After all, all he had was the barge Captain's word, and unless he'd seen it himself such terrible news should be corroborated in some way!

While on the barge, he asked to see the weapons the refugees brought with them and oversaw any needed cleaning. Although any servicing was beyond him abilities for small arms, he could at least pass on the information if anyone was a skilled armourer.

He addressed the refugees.

"If anyone wants more food and a warm bunk, we may be looking for more people to help out on the tug. See the Doctor, Anneka, if you're interested. One thing... we're going to Warszawa."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:38, Mon 15 Sept 2008.

Previously



"Sounds good. She is suitable. As both an MP and intel trained, she is good for the job. If it wasn't for her arm she'd have more to do with him." he answers.



"Hmm. Glad to hear... seriously. I can understand any loyalties you may have to your fellow countrymen and their intentions. That I can understand. But I am glad I can count on you." he says quietly. "I do hope I made things clear to everyone when I said the endstate of the COA was to ensure Adam and his cargo reach Warsaw one way or another. That objective does not include RESET. As before... I intend to help Milk, but only as long as the original mission is accomplished. He knows this."

Currently

Sitting, Bayer flips through his shorthand notes of the suggested avenues of dealing with their current predicament. Looking up from the battered field notebook on the galley table, Bayer says, "McCoy? I believe you are final addition. Everyone else who has a proposal has weighed in... I think." With that he looks around for a confirmation from those on the team who have kept quiet. "What COA do you have in mind?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:05, Mon 15 Sept 2008.

Quyen ignores most of his trivial comments and questions, sticking to concentrating on placing the right questions. She also doesn't want to get distracted from watching him. He's much more of a challenge than the ones she dealt with before, but she doesn't give up.



"Vietnam." she says without emotion. It is the only question she is willing to answer. Without missing a beat she continues her questioning and observation...

When Tuck returns she is wrapping up. Nodding her time is up, she stands aside for him to address Ondar.



Quyen contemplates resting her hand on her pistol but decides against it. In the close confines of the bridge, Ondar could much more easily be subdued by the three or four people standing around. Safer too probably. That is to say if he decides on creating a problem.

Later when she in in the galley, she listens closely to everyone's ideas, but declines to add anything. She says "No sir." when the Hauptmann asks for last minute COA proposals.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:50, Mon 15 Sept 2008.

Ondar nods in agreement.

"Yes. Agree confiscation of weapon is for best."

With that, he slowly removes the handgun from his waistband using his left thumb and forefinger and places the weapon on the table.  Without making it safe, he spins it so the barrel is facing him and then slides it across the table toward Minh.

"I take back when you decide can trust."

He shrugs and redirects his attention toward the American Warrant Officer.

"Now I talk radio frequency and protocol with Green Beret."

At the COA meeting...

Clarence listens respectfully as plans are exchanged.

"Sir, we can't wait here for a ground team to hoof it 20 klicks to this town and jack a few trucks as a diversion. The bad guys at Pulawy are waitin' for us and if we don't show soon, they're going to send patrols upriver to look for us. That'll completely shoot our ruse to shit. And, there's no guarantee that they'll fall for the bait. It worked once at Annopol and if they've learned anythin', they're not likely to fall for it a second time.

"Now, I've been thinkin'. What about the refugee barge? The enemy have seen it already and cleared it. What if we trade vessels with the 'fugees? I know it's a trade down- that thing's seen way better days- but we might be able to slip past the bridge among the refugees. Maybe some of them will be willin' to come along as cover. We've got the food and the guns to protect them.

"If the bridge force stops us, we could say that we ran into pirates and decided to head back to Warsaw. Tell them a heavily armed river tug shot at us or somethin'. I don't know. It's a long shot but we need somethin' simple. Splittin' up and tryin' for a diversion that may or may not work is just too risky.

"If you don't like the Trojan Horse approach, I say we all head overland to Zwolen, steal the trucks, and push north.

And everyone, my offer to leave the team still stands. I know that I'm not doin' anybody any favors stickin' around."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:30, Mon 15 Sept 2008.

After Mariusz delivered his plan, he sat near Dawid, making some more cigarettes from the left over butts. He chatted quietly to the older man in soft, low Polish.

Griet busied herself making sure that everything was stowed away properly as she waited for the decisons to be made.

Unable to come up with what he feels is a feasible plan of his own, Jason decides to listen to the others' plans and support which one he thinks is best.  While waiting for McCoy to present his plan, he notices Mariusz recycling butts.  Smacking his own forehead with the heel of his hand, he hurries to his bedroll and takes two packs of the Polish cigarettes from the ammo can.  He returns to the tug and, handing the cigarettes over, tells Mariusz, "Here, młodszy brat, I've been meaning to give you these.  I discovered Hicks' stash.  I figured you would be more accustomed to this brand, but I also have some German ones and some American Marlboros if you'd rather try them."

Mariusz's eyes lit up as he saw the familiar red packets of Mieske, "Those will be fine, Jason, and they're a handsome present, I thank you for them." he looked at the American who had stood with his band for so long, "And what do you think we should do? Not necessarily a plan, but a gut instinct?"

Jason thinks a bit, and replies, "My gut says to stay with the Krolowa, but my head can't think of a way to do so with the Russkies expecting her.  Your plan doesn't sound bad, but I don't think we would have time to armor the motor barge.  I like the idea of hitting Zwolen as well.  We might even get an opportunity to get Brother Switek buried there.  Actually, I think a combination of your idea and Milk's might do the trick."

"Here are my COA's Herr Hauptmann..."

"I only have one and its a ringer. First off, we are driving in a marked car right now. Mission success is the the number one thing right? Well, we trade the tug to the 'fugees here and take everything of value to the barge. Now the bad guys don't know who we are. Second we hire a few people here to come with us to play off that we are refugees. This also helps in our deception plan. Next you need a diversion. The commies know that we were hurt in the last battle and would not expect us too come within 24 to 48 hours due to repairs. So it buys us some time. Also they are massing forces so they won't be so daft to come and fight because they are worrying about the ambush.

"So, my plan is we change boats and hire some refugees. Second, me and someone else take the motocycle and hit this town with the supplies and vehicles and military goods. We go tonight quiet and cut some throats then burn the military gear down to the ground. Then I run on the cycle to draw them off leaving tracks for the first 20 miles or so to give you more time. With their rear area in turmoil and us not there yet then they have to divide their forces to quell this. So I buy you time and space. The tug trade buys you an unmarked car and also the government forces back at the bridge see it going back towards Krakow and this confirms that you are now going another way. Your weapons and humanitairian gear gets to Warsaw, the group stays toghether, and all is well. All you lose is me and a motocycle.

"I have a place in the mountains to go to and I will be safe. I'm a big boy and I have a few secret stashes around here complete with German porn. But you need my help and I'm here to give it. Also Ann, I don't believe your bullshit story about being a doc! In the last few days you have acted and made too many good choices. You're  Mossad if I ever saw one. No worries, I support you in your efforts. You're here for the RESET papers- cool with me. I think Milk needs to make copies tonight and give them to the 4 powers here to really stick it to the commies. With Germany, Israel, and Poland all with copies then the Russians get fucked four ways. Also, it will bring the crew together with an equal goal for their homelands. Right David? So that's my assement and plan."

This message was last edited by the GM at 23:40, Tue 16 Sept 2008.

With the benefit of the enemy frequencies provided by Ondar, Milk is able to listen in on transmissions to and from the reinforced garrison at Pulawy. There's not a whole lot of traffic, but there are some indications that patrols are already out, pushing upriver, probably on foot.

Clarence shares this information with those on board the bridge. Time, it appears, is of the essence.

OOC: Please continue to develop a working plan. I will check in tomorrow afternoon and write up a GM turn if ya'll are ready then.

In reply to Sam McCoy (msg #203):

He nodded towards his fellow Poles.

"I agree with making copies of RESET, as do my countrymen, I would assume. it would certainly give us more incentive to assist you, perhaps even give up our lives. Also, whichever way we go, it's more likely one copy will get through."

"That said, I don't think trying to slip by in disguise will work.

"They know we're coming, and all they have to do is search all passing river traffic with a fine toothed comb. It's not like there's a lot of other traffic on the water right now! I'm sure all Americans would be captured, starting with Clarence.

"My recommendation: get rid of the fucking unpowered barge, because it's mostly a chain around our neck.

"It's mainly for transporting people on the trip back to Krakow. We all agree that we barely made it down the river, any return trip is going to have to wait a fair while until things settle down. At least long enough to find, repair or make a new barge."

His voice grew forceful.

"We should return to the wreck of the other tug. Re-float the hull. Attach the barge to it and use the Queen to bring them both down to the strongpoint. Set a smokescreen in front of the bridge to limit their vision. Let the current carry the decoys through the smoke to the bridge to draw fire. Maybe blow them up when they get there, who knows?"
This message was last edited by the player at 06:00, Wed 17 Sept 2008.

Bayer looks around to ensure there are no last minute entries. He makes conversation with some - clarifying points and expanding on their solutions. "Ok. I try to navigate ourselves with as much equal input from all ranks. I hope that has come across to everyone already. At the other end of the spectrum, when you get ten different plans from your team, you have to abandon nine of them. I hope this won't discourage further suggestions."

Placing his notebook on the table he continues, "Time is the biggest factor for me. One which interferes with a number of your excellent COA proposals. McCoy's plan balances a few your proposals. it averages their endstates... We keep out riverine transportation, keep our cargo, send the enemy on a diversion, and secure us with an unspoiled identification... and allows us enough time for it to work."

"As much as Adam is intent on keeping his boat, he is more intent on reaching Warsaw. He will have to understand." he adds.

"I expect some objection for some of you. But no solution will be without at least some from somebody. So lets make this work and move on."

After a pause Bayer finishes, "We've little time and much to do. The humanitarian cargo needs to be transfered, our gear packed, weapons remounted, civilian crew hired, and anything else you can think of." At this last point he looks around for further input.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:08, Wed 17 Sept 2008.

In reply to Konrad Bayer (msg #206):

Dawid banged his fist down hard on the table.

"This plan is fatally flawed.

"What if they search the barge? It's what I'd do. You can't pass for refugees. Well-fed fit men and a few women of differing races. No children.

"Please address this critical point of failure. It is important it is not further ignored, even if we are grasping at straws."

He lowered his voice and crossed his arms. Looking over at McCoy he said,"I mean no disrespect."

"That said, giving up the Queen, we give up our firepower and mobility."

"If we're short on time, then let's make some. If they are pushing out patrols, let's push back. Ambush them and so reduce his strength piecemeal. That's what we'd do in my army."

"If the other tug can't be salvaged then at least we could try a run at the bridge under a smoke screen. With firepower and mobility we'd have a chance."

"I shall even propose a backup: if we do not succeed in our attack we can always withdraw and try for the trucks. After all, they don't know we know about them, do they?"

He shook his head, smiling.

"You try and pass as refugees... have fun in a GULAG, if the communists don't simply shoot you first."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:04, Wed 17 Sept 2008.

"What if we hide RESET in plain sight?  Put that RESET shit inside the old tug and leave it there until things calm down some?" Tucker says as he listens in to everyone splitting up and attacking patrols.

Dawid answered quickly in Polish. He knew that most of the foreigners had picked up some Polish and would probably get the gist of it, but wanted to prove his point.

"Most of you still can't possibly pass for Poles, unless they don't talk to anyone and don't notice the races and character of the "refugees".

"Once they are that close, it will be far too late.

"Plus, say we do exchange the motor barge for the tug. Someone should tell the real refugees that the Communists and the warlords along the river will shoot at it on sight and not ask questions first."

"If no one tells them, then I sure as Hell will. They deserve to know this ship carries a death sentence for all aboard her if it falls into our enemy's hands."

"To use the words of a friend, so far the plan as it is has a hole in it so wide you could sail the Krolowa through, straight up the middle. Plus a cargo barge for good measure."

"Adam, I am advising you this plan has no chance of success unless this flaw is addressed."

He lit another cigarette.

"We don't need to pass off as refugees, Dawid. Those are not all that are on the river. Refugees are not the only people with a boat." he answers. "Merchants and travelers of all sorts have such security. That pimp had a boat and armed men. Adam's men are fit too."

"There is no way we can fight back. We are fixed in place. We cannot go back or ahead if. We are in range of indirect fire, and we won't be up against damn deserters or militia like T'berg and the locks. Too many, too strong, too prepared. They won't allow themselves to be whittled down to nothing."

"Using smoke as the primary advantage in a battle is relying too much on too little." he continues. "The firepower of two motor rifle companies will negate any perceived protection of smoke... which will also blind what little firepower we have here. Smoke doesn't stop tank rounds."

Holding up a finger he illustrates his most important point, "Do you think they are going to sit tight as this tug lumbers by? Even if the smoke works 100% they are mechanized. They will just follow us at a leisurely speed until the smoke is gone. You are envisioning them as a static army intent on holding ground. They want to make contact and hold it. You say with firepower and mobility we can do it? Well, we have neither... they are superior in both."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:04, Wed 17 Sept 2008.