A metaphorical cloud followed the LAV. The feeling persisted that instead of bringing the light of civilisation to the naked savages, they themselves were the barbarians, awkward and unprepared for civilisation.

In fact, it wasn't as if the scene was that different from the (provisional) Provincial capital back in Duncan, it was just that this really wasn't what they had generally assumed was the case.

The little convoy moved out, signaled by the Militia manning the checkpoint (who also wore reflective vests). For a short while, a barking dog chased the news van, which had joined up at the rear of the procession. The dog slowed to a stop, having made it's point.

After it joined the two lanes of 41st at the boundary of the UEL, SW Marine went from a 2-lane suburban road to a wide 4-lane divided highway through the forest. Pre-war tax dollars at work!

They soon passed a sign in the middle of the overgrown grass divider:



The road was cleared of wind-fallen branches, well-maintained with patches over the few cracks and potholes.  Mostly, this was thanks to a combination of an almost complete lack of the day-to-day punishment of vehicular traffic and Vancouver's mild winters.

On the right was thick BC old-growth forest of the park, ancient coniferous trees towering behind post-rail fencing, towering coniferous trees.

Every so often they could glimpse the water of Georgia Strait through the trees on their left.

Also through the gaps they could see the mountains of Vancouver Island in the distance, clouds gathering over top of them. Perhaps there would be rain after all; even though the morning and noontime was beautiful and warm the weather could change very quickly here.

Squirrels scampered across the wide pavement. They also spotted a skunk on the roadside looking curiously at them as they passed.

Lee didn't want to push the worn-out engine, so they proceeded at a relaxed 50km/h, still trailing a plume of black smoke from the exhaust system mounted along the right side of the hull.

In around 5 minutes or so they passed by a blocked-off turn-off to the right. It was marked by a sign saying,



Ben recalled that "TRIUMF" stood for "TRI University Meson Facility", a high-energy physics research complex housing the world's largest Cyclotron. The complex itself wasn't in sight.

In fact, after seeing not much more than trees and roadbed they were beginning to wonder where the buildings were! So far, there were only trees and water on the left, and thick forest on the right.

Past the blocked-off turnoff for TRIUMF, carefully cultivated fields appeared on the left and right of Marine.

They came to another intersection at W. 16th Avenue and SW Marine, and slowed to slalom through a series of concrete traffic blocks placed to force vehicles to travel single-file. Going under a pedestrial overpass and turning right onto Stadium Rd., they traveled a block, then left on West Mall.

Finally, they began to encounter some buildings. On the left side of West Mall was the buildings of Totem Park Residence, on the right was Thunderbird Residence.

Jagelis' fears seemed to be coming true; lining the street in front of both residence buildings was a friendly-looking crowd of about two dozen on both sides of the street, waiting for them to arrive.

http://tinyurl.com/26y5r2
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:52, Fri 08 Feb 2008.

Seeing the waiting crowd, Kelsey readied her rifle, keeping it at low-ready.

"Uh-oh... I don't know about this... if they get close, do we "Shout, Shove, Show, Shoot?"

"I know what you mean!"

"There could be a suicide bomber in the crowd. Maybe RPGs in the windows!"

Beside McRae in the hatch, Chris tensed up, ready for action with the C6 on a hair-trigger.

"A couple of short bursts should disperse them!"

By the time the LAV is approaching the second fortified checkpoint, Fox is riding inside. He's watching the crowd via his monitors when he overhears the passengers in the back. Looking over his shoulder into the hull, he calls back, obviously very agitated, "Jesus Christ you two... relax and sort yourselves out now. Fuck!"

He looks back at the people on his monitor, then turns around again, not any less pissed, and as if they may not have understood him, he continues "Stand down on those bloody weapons. Look god-damn professional and get a grip." He then mutters under his breath, "There's no suicide bombers for Christ's sake."

Still staring at their legs, (there upper bodies out of view, standing in the roof hatches) he says aloud, "Cpl McRae, get a grip of the dismounts."

As the LAV arrives at the welcoming civilians, Fox ditches his CVC helmet in the cramped interior and digs into his cargo pants pocket. Fixing his beret in place he stands up (he had left the hatch open for a breeze) and observes the crowd. He also takes a quick moment to shoot a pissed glance behind him at the dismounts, and makes sure their weapons weren't pointing at anyone or anything else.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:53, Fri 08 Feb 2008.

Although Andy's not happy about the crowd either, MacDonald's reaction did seem a bit much. Andy didn't know the guy very well but the private actually sounded like he could be serious. It was a bit creepy.

Andy was generally a quiet, unassuming fellow, so when he spoke up, folks tended to listen.

"Take it easy MacDonald. Stay alert but for chrisakes turn it down a notch or two, eh."

Following Fox's lead, Mcrae releases his grip on the C8 just long enough to replace his hard cover with his redcurrent airborne beret. With it set firmly in place, Mcrae took hold of his carbine again but kept it resting on the top deck, out of sight from those on the ground but ready in the unlikely event it was needed.

Kelsey met his gaze without flinching, giving her head a little shake in obvious disappointment.

She safed and decocked her C8, dropping it down into the LAV, then stood up on the deck of the now-crawling vehicle. Holding onto the turret bustle for support she leaned over and spoke into Fox's ear.

"No shit, Sergeant Fox, no fucking shit!"

Finished, she sat back down on the edge of the deck with her legs dangling over the side, waving to the people as they passed.

Just to be on the safe side, she conducted a routine radio check with HQ back on the Island. Kelsey smiled down on Taras, following behind them.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:34, Sat 09 Feb 2008.

Chris snorted in amusement and laughed. Standing down his weapon like Kelsey, he decocked the C6, carefully lowering it down into then LAV.

"Hey Sergeant, those were our orders, remember?"

"I'm chilled. I mean, this is a secured area. What the fuck you think is gonna happen? Anyone around here lookin' like they wanna scrap for no reason, it's us. Not these folks."

"You, you sure got a look in your eye like you want to waste 'em all and let God sort 'em out afterwards. Just to be on the safe side. I think the Yanks call it a "thousand-yard stare"."

Andy knew what he meant. He recognised that look in Chris' eyes. Same as his own.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:53, Sat 09 Feb 2008.

The outriders and SUV in front slowed down for safety's sake.

As well, this was to allow the happy people some time to express joy at seeing some kind of sign that Canada wasn't yet dead, that they could be a part of it.

While it wasn't a big crowd, maybe a couple dozen people (plus dogs), it was an enthusiastic one!

Of course, there were many Canadian flags being waved, some by kids, others by adults who, and some of them were wiping tears from their eyes.

The people were young, old, all races (and unarmed). Obviously overjoyed to see them and not quite picking up on some of the team's ambivalence about them in return.

There was no band, but plenty of bicycles as there didn't seem to be any private cars. The residence buildings behind them were well-maintained, no broken glass. The lawns in front had been planted for vegetables.

A couple of teenage girls up along the LAV and held up bouquets of flowers for the team to take.


This message was last edited by the GM at 10:42, Sat 09 Feb 2008.

Fox turns a little to face Champlain, "Listen to me. I've got a problem hearing two soldiers on this patrol contemplating actually firing... over nothing. From what I just heard, that's more of an issue than what pressing problems you've got right now."

"We'll make any necessary adjustments to the patrol when its time. Until then, keep your threats to yourself. We've been here for just a couple hours, and that doesn't mean we know everything thats going on here. Give a moment for us to adapt. We'll talk later, not during a road move."

Fox then turns around and faces the front again.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:38, Sat 09 Feb 2008.

She spoke into the radio. "Ahhh... wait one."

"No Sergeant, nothing was going to happen, and you obviously missed the point if you think that."

"I will point out we were well within our orders and threat posture to contemplate that kind of thing. After all, you don't just go around cocked and locked unless you expect an imminent attack. Do you see any threat here? Jesus."



"Hey, this is a serious concern that's time-sensitive. You can take it whatever way you want, but please, take it seriously before it's too late."

"Here, this is from an admirer."

She handed him a bouquet of flowers before he turned around.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:27, Sat 09 Feb 2008.

Following the other vehicles lead, Lee slows the LAV down. She's oblivious to the heated discussions occurring on the turret and in the passenger compartment. Sunglasses on, she gives a couple quick waves in return, before putting all of her concentration back to driving... and not running over any of the welcomers who get close enough.

"Dammit, Champlain." Fox says just loud enough over the LAV's engine. "I heard enough to think something could have happened. I heard what was one step from a target indication."

"The leftenant made a decision on a battle estimate he had little information on. Thats why are at a ready posture. Nobody knew enough to decide whether there was a threat or not, it isn't just about what you can see at the moment. Now, your worries have been heard, but like I said, we aren't going to deal with this on the move."

He takes the flowers and lays them on top of the turret. Looking back at the crowd he gives a little wave and smiles as if everything was ok.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:48, Sat 09 Feb 2008.

She smiled back.

"Okay, Sergeant, I understand. Sorry if it came out wrong."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:00, Sat 09 Feb 2008.

These two enlisted both seem a bit schizo, Andy thought. One minute they're looking and sounding like they're about to start wasting civies, then they're chiding the Sgt. and the Lt. for insisting on a high level of alert and readiness.

"We're only joking." Yeah, fuckin' hilarious.

Truth was, no one on board the LAV really had any idea what the true situation was here and, under such circumstances, it was always better to be safe than sorry. Yeah, it looked, sounded, and smelled safe here, so it probably was. But, probably shouldn't cut it in a war zone.

"Quit arguing with the sarge and do your jobs."

What a magnificent welcome!. The guys sure must feel proud!

The younger members of the small crowd appeared to be mesmerized by the presence of the mighty combat vehicle. Some of them they were trailing the motorcade with their bicycles. The cluster of buildings they were heading for were already on sight.

Kelsey finished her radio check before replying.

"Sorry Sarge, just doing my job, as you can see. I was following the proper chain of command by talking with Sergeant Fox. Sorry if you object."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:24, Sun 10 Feb 2008.

The small convoy made it's way past the happy little crowd to a low modern concrete building. A sign proclaimed this the "UBC Services Building". A few people followed on bicycles, or jogging. Everyone sure looked healthy and fit, although not over-fed.

The lead SUV and the forward outriders halted in the street by the glass doors of the main entrance. There was a small "honour" delegation there, four men and two women. Khandola parked at the curb, then exited and made his way over to what was obviously the community leaders.

He spoke into his radio, and the outriders (front and rear) moved off out of sight, waving to the people and to the team. The only other vehicles present were Taras' jeep, the news van, and Khandola's parked SUV.

After the LAV halted, the two now-unarmed Militia (Kelsey and Chris) disembarked. A couple of children (a boy and a girl) came forward and presented them with more flowers.

The flowers were offered to everyone who dismounted.

[Note: if you do not post that your character is accepting them when offered, it's assumed you are ignoring or refusing them.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:28, Sun 10 Feb 2008.

A boy presented Chris with a small bouquet of flowers.

Chris accepted them, smiling, then put them in the left breast pocket of his flak vest.

"Thank you, little guy!"

He tousled the kid's blond hair.

Kelsey laughed and bent down as a little girl put flowers in her hair.

"Why, thank you very much!"

Fox is the last to dismount. He jumps down from the top of the LAV and gives a short nod to the welcoming group. When presented some flowers he gives a brief smile and holds them awkwardly. Then walking over to the adults, he introduces himself, "Morning. Sergeant Fox. Well established place you have... you are lucky. Its quite bad in many places. This is Leftenant Jagelis, mission commander."

Stepping out of the way, he gives a little time for the others to meet before sliding up behind Kelsey. Quietly he says, "No Champlain. Make them gone in a minute." referring to the flowers in her hair.

When the time comes to enter the building (assuming it does) he'll select MacDonald to keep watch on the LAV.

Andy dismounts, slinging his carbine as he exits the vehicle. He reaches out and awkwardly accepts a small bouquet from a "tween" girl and smiles warmly. He sets the flowers on the hull of the LAV where he'd been stationed and stands uncomfortably exchanging niceties with the locals while awaiting instructions.

"Sarge, where do you want me?"

Lee climbs out of the driver's hatch and drops onto the ground. She's armed only with her sidearm and the loaned camera. Removing her sunglasses, she accepts the flowers. Smiling she says a simple - "Thank you." to the child.

After Robert eventually climbs down and meets the six men and women, Lee walks over as well. "Hello and good morning. Rachel Lee. Unlike my friends here, I'm with the RCMP. Amazing welcome we are getting. This is nothing like we expected, but its appreciated nevertheless."

Lee then will offer to shake all of their hands.

Fox turns and gives a quick look around. He says quietly to him, "I think we're ok here. MacDonald will keep watch on our gear... you should come inside with us."

The moment of truth. With the party finally arrived to the building complex Taras was expecting already the next step. After the niceties of the welcoming will come the "serious" first meeting with the Council. Hopefully he will get to know the names and stories of the military crew that arrived to the Mainland in such an ackward manner. The briefing will give them a clear understanding about the situation in the city. Not a battlefield or a nest of insurgency and unrest but certainly lots of work to do. This was a recon mission of great importance. The Faculty was getting acceptance and legitimacy from the new Federal Government. The imposing view of the heavy fighting vehicle will throw some diplomatic weight just by its own presence. A convincing argument in any case. But beyond the weaponry show itself it was the qualification of the team for this job that kept Taras uneasy. A peaceful and harmonious return to a democratic and peaceful society needed lots of careful approach. The previous display at the shipyard wasn't the best presentation card, nor was the young Lieutenant attitude. Stepping down the Jeep, Taras met one of the members of the Council, lit a cigarette and rolled his eyes up.

Lets prepare the meeting ASAP. This people still believe they are in a frontline trench or something. Get the kitchen people to prepare the tables. I'm going to look for dormitories arrangements.


<Red>

Unaware of much of what had been going on behind him, Ben kept a close watch on the obviously dangerous crowd of unarmed civilians crowding both sides of the well kept roadway. This was about as far from what he'd expected as they could possibly have gotten. These people seemed to have barely been affected by the ongoing war - well dressed and fed, electricity and telephones. Nothing seemed out of place for the early '90s besides the few machinegun emplacements and heavily armed security checkpoints.
Ben felt completely out of his element. His own faded clothing had been patched many times. The locals appeared to have just bought theirs from the local department store last week!

A moment after the LAV crunched to a halt Ben climbed up and out of his position, grabbing his C-9 on the way.
"Team, Load weapons," he muttered into his headset radio. Holding up a hand to the girls with the flowers, he indicated with a smile for them to waitr just a moment before he accepted. Grasping the cocking handle, he pulled it fully to the rear before opening the feed cover and removing the belted ammunition from in front of the bolt. Gently squezzing the trigger after reclosing the cover, he allowed the bolt to move forward, locking on an empty chamber. A second or two later and he fed the end of the belt back into the weapon, effectively rendering it into the "load" condition and one step further away from dangerous.

His pistol remained holstered however. The situation still felt too....uncomfortable for him to unready that also.

"Now then ladies, I'll take a few of those lovely flowers you're offering."

"Aww!"

"Yes, Sergeant Fox."

She put the flowers on the LAV, which was looking a little more festive now. Making sure the radio was properly seated, she slung her C8 over her shoulder, waiting for the team to move out to what looked to be a reception of some sort.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:00, Wed 13 Feb 2008.

MacDonald nodded when told to stay and keep the gear and vehicle secure.

"Yes, Sergeant Fox."

He climbed up onto the LAV and into the turret. Once there, he unloaded his sidearm and replaced it in its holster. The C6 and his FN were kept out of sight in the vehicle.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:56, Wed 13 Feb 2008.

Fox unslung his rifle and followed suit, it was now loaded, but not readied. He then holds it in one hand, around the center slip ring, (as if it were a briefcase or something) in an attempt to look unagressive.

The atmosphere was somehow crowded compared to the daily routine at campus. Sgt. Khandola was interchanging opinions with a middle aged asian woman, Angela Kwan and also two other Professors appeared to be following the impressions related. The public was also commenting about the arrival and showing extreme curiosity for the armored vehicle and the equipment carried by its occupants. Even more after the display of weapons handling. Some of the younger couldn't help but dream of belonging to this special elite.

At a signal of Ms. Kwan Sgt. Khandola indicated the crew to get inside the building. A nondescript building with several classrooms. One of them ready to accomodate the guests. A nearby catering tray sporting hot tea, juices, fruit and pastries. Two young ladies with aprons ready to serve the tables.

Angela Kwan murmured something to the Ukrainian and handed out to him 2 paper sheets. She smiled. Taras was surprised but sent an affirmative gesture and moved towards the chalkboard. The rest of the crew were already taking seats.

Dear friends, I've been asked by Ms Angela Kwan to give you a most warm welcome to the UBC and give you a briefing about the situation in the Lower Mainland

Taras was talking in a slow pace. Basically translating in his mind the slavic words into his new adopted English language. It was a wise decission made by Angela herself after hearing from Sgt. Khandola. She knew that she was dealing with the military and certainly an academic tone of presentation coming from any of the Professors will not help to clarify things. Shevchenko was his ace up the sleeve: Military also, an Officer, well educated but with basic English skills and no compromising. Khandola being "too" RCMP and Allain too "Canadian Forces". She wanted a neutral ground and she knew she had it.

There is no war here. The situation is what we call "balanced opposition". Groups hold each other in check through group unity and mutual deterrence. This different groups or communities around the Lower Mainland have responsability for the defense of the members. This is where deterrence lies, in the balance. Individuals do not face groups, and small groups do not face large groups. This way we have a more or less peaceful area but anarchic anyways.

Taras was trying to let the words sink. Not an easy endevour.

Of course there is no Courts, Police other than what you'll see here or Army to maintain control of these groups. Our community is based on a democratic basis but we are aware than some of the other "neighbourhoods" have tended to rule tyrannically. The arrival of the good weather may bring complications and we want to act fast.

Taking one of the papers given by Ms Kwan he continued:

The Faculty has the moral and ethical authority to begin a program to unify the people and give them a form of Government and restore their rights as Canadians citizens. The Council contacted the Federal Government and was granted initial support in the form of...you guys...

Taras paused a bit to look at their faces. Then he looked at the sheet:

Here is the plan that the Faculty is willing to put to work:

Step #1: To establish the legal frame that will legitimate this mission. This will be done by the implementation of the British Columbia Patriotic Act. A document that, as we speak, is been elaborated by the team of Law School Professors, and will reflect the measures to reach the objectives of pacification, normalization and ratification of the integration into a Federal system with the rest of provinces and territories of Canada.

Step #2: Identify the communities of residents, survivors, refugees, etc and identify their leaders.

Step #3: Conduct a census or Vital Statistics record of every person belonging to such communities. In order to guarantee the transparency and accountability of this process the local media of the Faculty will be present. So expect to ride along...

Step #4: Implement an electoral process in order to validate the mandate of these identified leaders and get recognition as civilian authorities. They will guarantee the safe return of refugees and the respect of the civil liberties.

Step #5: Create a referendum between the leadership in order to accept, modify if necessary and extend throughout the province of British Columbia the mentioned BC Patriotic Act. This will include the acceptance of the Council as a legitimate base of democratic process and the acceptance of Ms Kwan as a provisional Lt Governor for the province.

Taras stare briefly towards Angela. She didn't react.

Now. Your mission will be to help to implement this plan. We need your help to recon the different areas where the scarce population is located and provide as much information as possible. This will include contact with their leaders and negotiation. Some paperwork will be provided to help achieve this. We have lists with the amount of services that the University is able to provide and also blank forms for the Vital Stats.

Just a reminder. This is the City of Vancouver. This is Canada. The respect for the life and property of the citizens of this country is the most important thing. Everything that we destroy will have to be reconstructed and we are full accountable for that. We'll go into more detail regarding the different groups that we are aware that live in the Lower Mainland. It will show to you. The Faculty is willing to provide you with food and shelter for free. But a long stay may need of your cooperation in terms of offering security to the premises since the local force still struggling with their tasks.

Taras felt like he needed a cigarette and this point.

Now. If you wish. You can introduce yourselves and ask any question you want. Thank you.

"Robert Fox. Sergeant." he says after standing. "I would like to know the UBCs position of government regarding the martial law that is in effect nation wide. Eventually Federal forces are going to be operating here on a permanently establish position. How is this going to interfere with the city's way of doing things."

While speaking, Fox did his best to maintain a friendly, or at least neutral composure. Deep down however he was very resentful. How could it be that a Soviet soldier was feeling the need to remind him where he was, and to be mindful of causing damage. You are the one who is the outsider, and who's country destroyed mine, he thought.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:50, Wed 13 Feb 2008.

In the ground-floor conference room in the UBC Land and Services building, the young women efficiently served drinks and various finger-foods.

"Tea? With or without milk?"

Doors were open to the patio and manicured garden behind the building. Insects buzzed around the flowers and manicured shrubbery. Early spring sunshine poured in through the modern windows.



As the meeting got underway, the small group of soldiers (and Mountie) took stock of the community leaders (all of whom were unarmed).

The Chairperson of the Council that governed the community at UBC known as the Faculty was Angela Kwan, former Dean of Law. She was conservatively dressed in a skirt and suit.

The head of the Faculty's volunteer militia and the deputy chair was Alain Belanger. He was a short friendly balding man with a neatly trimmed salt-and-pepper beard and intelligent eyes. He allowed that he was once in the army, and had been forced to remember lessons learned decades ago in the 60's and 70's. Before the war he had been Dean of Criminology, although he admitted he also had a degree in history. A walkie-talkie radio peeked out of his suit pocket, black cord running up to an earpiece.

The Sikh, Sgt. Khandola, was of course the senior NCO and detachment commander, responsible for keeping the peace and enforcing the law. After talking to him Rachel was somewhat surprised that he was not a career Mountie but had immigrated to Canada in the early 90's after serving in the Indian army for over a decade.

Judy Salter was a large long-haired middle-aged hippie-looking woman in a tie-dyed long dress. As a former professor of Agriculture, her department was of course key in feeding the community. She was proud of the community's self-sufficiency, use of renewable resoureces and low environmental footprint.

Running the Supplies/Logistics department was Shoji Kasawa, a former professor of economics. Salvage crews, recycling, fuel generation, all was under his careful watch and resource management. Head shaved, he wore sandals, panama shorts and a short-sleeved shirt.

The Maintenance/mechanics department was run by Eldar Oeleksyn, a wiry fellow and Ukrainian who immigrated to Canada before the war. He had been a professor of physics but knew quite a bit about mechanics. His department kept the Faculty's fleet of vehicles and various sources of power running, oversaw waste management, road repairs, and performed the many tasks that kept the Faculty in business.

Lastly was Paul Tremblay, a long-haired and bearded Computer Science graduate student. His small and specialised department was Communications. This included not only the radios used for communications, but UBC's commercial radio and TV transmitters (currently non-functional), telecommunications network and computer network.

There was one VIP not there. Angela explained, "Doctor Chandra had emergency surgery this morning, and couldn't attend."

It was obvious that they were allowing Taras to act as spokesperson. Although his presence was sanctioned by an Act of Parliament that granted amnesty to surrendered soldiers, those were just words put onto paper by an unseen federal government that was little better than ad hoc. Regardless, it was obvious that he had gained their trust enough to represent their interests at a crucial juncture.

Before the negotiations started, the news crew got some nice video for a photo op, then retired so that the talk could progress out of the public eye.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:53, Wed 13 Feb 2008.

"Sounds like a tough job," Ben stated after setting his laight machinegun down on it's bipod. It wasn't exactly burdensome, but it's weight did grow on you over time. Besides, his team were distinctly out of place in worn and patched uniforms, body armour and automatic weapons.
"But we'll do what we can to help."

Help... Yeah, they were really going to assist this thriving community make a better life than they had now. A few hours before, Ben had thought the military were in the best shape to deal with the catastrophic aftermath of the war. Now he realised they were barely hanging on to civilization themselves. Here at the university it was almost as if the war hadn't happened. Even the nuclear strike a dozen miles or so to the east hadn't really had much of an impact it seemed.

Shielded by ridges and forest, the blast and heat waves had obviously been deflected up and over the area. With the prevailing winds blowing inland, only EMP had really had any impact, destroying irreplacable equipment, multimillion dollar computer systems and frying anything else vaguely electronic in nature.

"I think the first order of business is for us to set ourselves up somewhere before inspecting what you've already done. I'm sure the people you've got have done a great job, but it never hurts for another set of eyes to look things over."

He was suprised they hadn't already offered the "tour", especially of the defensive arrangements, but then they had only just arrived.

"I'd like to have your maintenance people look over our vehicle too. The war has been hard on it."

Kwan sipped her tea. Her accent was similar to Lee's (and common to Chinese-Canadians of Hong Kong origin), a precise and neutral Canadian English with a slight British and Cantonese tinge.

"That is an excellent and significant question, with quite a complicated answer."

"Simply put, we don't know how with certainty how all people will react."

"Generally, Canadians are law-abiding, and we think the vast majority will welcome a return to civil order."

"Those who are not personally law-abiding and/or are profiting from the anarchy may not, of course."

"As to how they will react to the presence of "federal forces", by which I take it you mean the RCMP and the army, it largely depends on how they act. Bear in mind, a high proprotion of the city's remaining inhabitants were unable to evacuate due to a lack of resources, or unwilling due to a distrust of authority."

"Thus, many people feel abandoned and are distrustful to begin with."

She paused to allow the implication that trust would have to be earned.

"Now, the presence of "Martial Law" is an important factor."

"In an of itself, Martial Law is a tool intended to allow the military to act in a capacity as an aid to the civil power. The chief effect is to suspend the Charter of Rights. Once civil government is reestablished, then it should be relaxed."

"The federal government should be committed to a return to Constitutional government, the Charter of rights and overall democratic governance. This is because the role of direct military rule, while necessary, is neither legal under the Emergencies or National Defence acts, nor Constitutional. Even under the National Survival provisions now enacted in the case of nuclear war, federal military forces are placed under the control of local provincial government, not the other way around."

"Now that the war in Europe has ended, according to your HQ the federal government has pledged what military forces and resources it can to effect a transition to local civil government."

"Hence, your presence here."
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:08, Thu 14 Feb 2008.

Eldar, the chief of maintenance took this as his cue.

"We will be glad to put you up in whatever quarters you wish, dormitory housing, single-family dwelling, whichever you prefer."

"Any time you would like to have a look at our community, we would be delighted. Maybe after the reception?"

"As for your vehicle, we have extensive machine shops and a selection of spare parts. We would be happy to supply you with whatever transport you require while yours is undergoing maintenance."

"Thank you," Ben replied gratefully.
"Our people are pretty good, but don't have access to hi tech machine shops like I'd imagine you've got here. Most of our maintenance has been in the field, and parts usually scavenged from other vehicles."
There wasn't much of a supply chain behind them anymore, not for about a year or more. First the war in Europe drained peacetime stocks, then the invasion through Alaska, and finally tactical and strategic nukes took care of everything civil disorder, plague, famine and the elements hadn't.

Mobile workshops were fine for short term deployments of a few months, but just weren't up to the job of years at a time. Some parts could be fabricated, but most, well they required precision machinery only found in major cities or the better training facilities.

"Has the UBC or its security arm collected any sort of intelligence regarding factions or gangs in the city? Information on their strengths, mobility, activities, etcetera? Or are we starting from scratch?" Lee asks.

"Second question. Would the UBC be willing to share information regarding their contacts or possibly informants... if any... within any of the factions or communities?"

And still standing, Lee presents another question - "Does the UBC have facilities for holding detainees... such as criminals and combatants? If not, would it be possible for something to be utilized, at least for short term holding?"

"One more, I promise. What can the UBC provide us, if anything to use as either leaverage or rewards, or incentive to cooperate. I'm thinking something like food or doctor visitation. Is this possible?"

Lee finally sits down.

Fox sits with his arms crossed listening to Lee's questions. When she sits, he gives her a light elbow followed by and approving nod... as if to say well done.

The head of security, Alain Belanger, answered her.

"We have some general intelligence on factions and groups in the Lower Mainland. It is somewhat out of date."

"For most of the last year we concentrated on salvaging materials from the local neighborhoods, consolidating the community here and establishing our security perimeter."

"It was an unfortunate trade-off. Concentrating close to home has left us with serious gaps in our knowledge further afield. This is the reason that your HQ has primarily tasked you for reconnaissance."

He paused to let that sink in, then continued.

"As part of a long-term program, we just sent a meteorology team to monitor water levels up-river, but they are instructed not to interact with anyone and keep out of sight. We have contact with many people in neighboring Kits and of course the Musqueam band. That is the extent of our forays and contacts."

"Of course, we will willingly share all the information we have on file."

"Out of a total population of 1000 (about half of whom live here at UBC), we have a part-time volunteer militia of 120, led by the RCMP, armed with hunting weapons and pistols. For heavy weapons, we only have the one RPG and a GPMG that Taras has donated for community defence."

The Japanese professor, Kasawa picked up from there.

"Resource-wise we have all that you ask, and we will willingly share what we have."

"During the early part of the war much government matériel was stockpiled here, as this was to be a major nexus for recovery in case of natural disaster or nuclear attack. Although most of the military supplies were moved when the city was evacuated, we retained much in the way of communications equipment and other supplies.

"At this time our only real shortages are in weapons, ammunition, and warm bodies."

"We are not cloistered academics, cowering from the cruel world. We are willing to risk much to help restore order in the Lower Mainland, because there is a narrow optimal window for national recovery and once it closes, it will remain closed for a decade or more."

"Specifically as to what we can offer to other communities, we possess a knowledge base for instruction in many fields. Some medical supplies and advanced equipment (including a PET scanner courtesy of the physicists at TRIUMF), and of course the university teaching hospital. We are self-sufficient in terms of food, but do not have a large surplus."

"We have been quite successful in salvaging electronics like radios and computer equipment. Much that people assumed was damaged by EMP was in fact not, although it was of course without power. At this time establishing a telecommunications system is seen as an important first step in introducing social and political cohesion."

"There are several thousand litres of wood-grain alcohol available in storage. As well as a type of fuel known as "bio-diesel", which should be as good as the real thing."

"Some of the engineers have been working on an alcohol-powered light aircraft engine and a smaller one for a remote control drone, but so far no airframes on which to mount them or even complete the tests. They will probably end up making those from scratch. We do have a fair number of small watercraft, some made at the Celtic shipyard, as it happens."

Lee's colleague Sgt. Khandola offered, "I can show you around the campus detachment. There are naturally some holding facilities there. Before the war detainees would have been transferred to Richmond or Vancouver, of course, so we had to build some cells for our own use."

The conversation continued.

In broad terms, the community laid out what it wanted to accomplish, how they intended to do it and what resources it was willing to devote to those ends.

So far, what they required from the government was mostly symbolic. The passage of legislation, the position of LT Governor General. The former could easily be delivered by the Provisional Premier back on the Island, the latter by the Governor General and Prime Minister's office.

"Lieutenant, I guess we should discuss what we need from you, specifically."

"Your unit is desperately needed for reconnaissance purposes."

"As Taras previously mentioned, the different communities here are in a state of equilibrium. We see a definite value in bringing in an outside party to assist us in representing the government's interests here."

"Additionally, not that we see a combat as a major component of your role here, you can act in an advisory role to the local militia and be, as Taras also put it, a "fire brigade" if armed conflict arises."

"I guess one caveat is that your unit be placed under local command, answerable to the community. Your HQ was amenable to this stipulation but it's clear to us that this has to be agreeable to you, personally."
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:10, Fri 15 Feb 2008.

Andy sat quietly, soaking it all in.

He didn't relish being shot at, but he almost preferred it to what amounted to peacekeeping duty. He'd had his share of that as well, although his expertise with a long rifle usually ensured that he'd spent most of his time employed as a countersniper, holed up in a sandbagged tower at an airfield or FOB somewhere. The former Yugoslavia was a sniper's paradise and none of them- regardless of ethnicity- seemed to know or care that a cease-fire had been signed. Anyway, that was a long time ago, and in the interim- not so long ago- Andy had been immersed in what soldiers often referred to as "the shit". Transitioning back to "the world" and garrison duty had been difficult enough. This, well, this wasn't going to be any easier.

Perhaps they need some farm help. That, I can do...

He leaned over and whispered to Fox,

"Sarge, I'm gonna go check on MacDonald- make sure he's not butt-stroking the locals or pawning our gear or anything."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:11, Sat 16 Feb 2008.

Also, Kelsey hadn't had much to say, standing off to the side. Her headgear of choice was a glengarry, not a beret.

The radio sat beside her, as the chances of calling in an air strike seemed remote. Her C8 lay propped against it.

She finished her cup of tea, then moved over to Jagelis' side.

"Sir, would you like me to get HQ on the line, double-check to see if they're okay with this?"
This message was last edited by the player at 11:34, Sat 16 Feb 2008.

Fox shakes his head in agreement, and whispers "Sure. We'll be done here soon anyways I think."

Fox looks at the other members of the team in silence, he raises his eyebrows in a questioning look as if to say, anymore questions? He's happy to get a start with what they've been told. They could always ask more later. Besides, they others were probably just as interested to see where they'd be calling home as he was.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:25, Sat 16 Feb 2008.

After the couple of hours in the meeting, McRae took his leave and exited out the conference room into the glassed-in foyer. Sunlight streamed through the extensive windows and skylights.

Outside, he could see the LAV parallel-parked at the kerb, police SUV in front, jeep in behind. MacDonald sat on the turret, smoking a cigarette.

Most of the people were gone. The news van was parked down the block, and a few children (young boys) were gathered at the LAV.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:39, Sat 16 Feb 2008.

Chris saw McRae exit and smiled, his usual easy-going self.

"Howdy, Sergeant. What's the good word?"

He chided one of the kids who was trying to climb on one of the LAV's Michelin tires.

"Hey there little guy, you better stop that now. You could get hurt!"

Lee gives a polite nod after all of her questions are acknowledged.

A follow up to one of her questions comes next - "Regarding detainees. I assume you have some form of justice organization to handle serious breaches of the law yes? We could expect you to effectively handle criminals and combatants." Before an answer is given she thinks about how some places she knew about in BC had dealt with justice... swift and extreme. Both military units and civil militias had both taken drastic steps after the nuclear attacks to handle those guilty of participating in the anarchy that followed.

Lee then looks at Fox and nods in agreement.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:43, Sat 16 Feb 2008.

"Yeah, probably a good idea."
He'd gotten used to being out of long range communication the past year ot more. It seemed odd to suddenly have that capacity once more after so long without it.
"You'll need to put the long range antenna up though, right?" he queried, not really knowing a lot about her speciality.
"If so, we might want to wait until we've been assigned somewhere to camp."
Ben didn't relish deploying their equipment just to have to pull it down again. No, first he wanted to know where their vehicle was to be parked, where their billets were, and most importantly, where the mess and bar was located.

The meeting was coming to an end. Everybody was tired by now. Too much excitement and expectations. Taras casually picked up a book from a shelf, "the Republic" a classic from Plato. While browsing the pages a note fell from between the pages. Probably left forgotten by a Philosophy student from better times:

"The Republic" is astonishingly prescient. Plato well understood that democracy by itself is not a recipe for harmony in the state. He understood the false allure of military heroics: One of his objections to the artists of his time is the glamorization of violence they inspire. He understood the corruptions of wealth and the characteristics vices of tyranny..."

While folding the paper and putting it into his left breast pocket he moved towards the young Lieutenant:

Lieutenant Jagelis, as a Commander of your crew you may have to make a decision. The people here at the University are very capable to fix the engine of your vehicle. But it may take some time and it will compromise the mission. If you decide to move ahead with the vehicles that the Faculty can offer there should be no problem to start as soon as possible but without the armor and firepower. You may have to decide what to do and propose it to the Council.

The Ukrainian pointed towards one of the windows:

Over there is a buiding with bedrooms and kitchen service. The vehicle can be station in the shop or if you want, it can be left parked where it is as is not far from your new quarters. Or maybe you have some other idea in your mind...Lieutenant the night is approaching...

"Shouldn't be a problem; the LAV's radio can act as a relay."

"When I did my radio check on the way in, I was able to get through to the Signals relay unit on the high ground between Duncan and Ladysmith on the Island. It's about fifty klicks, across the water. Not too big a deal, may take a few minutes, though."

As Jagelis had said it was a good idea, Kelsey proceeded to place the radio on a table and began the process of finding and accessing the long-range channel.

She whispered to him, "if you really want me to wait, then just say so and I just won't be able to get them, if you know what I mean."

When Shevchenko speaks to Ben regarding the LAV, Robert leans over and says casually, "Maybe we should wait until we've done at least one or two patrols. I think it'd be best for our first taste of the city to be with all the assets we've got. Until we've seen the place with our own eyes anyways. It'd also be good to advertise our firepower to anyone who doesn't want us here before we drive around in soft skins."

Standing up he walks to the window and looks in the direction indicated by the Ukrainian.  Then looking at the UBC's leadership he says, "Ok, thank you."

Speaking to first Ben and then Lee, Fox slings his rifle and begins to walk out, "I'll be outside. Lee? Ready? Let's go start the LAV."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:17, Sun 17 Feb 2008.

Angela answered,

"I wouldn't be a good Dean of Law if I didn't practice what I preached!"

"We now conduct trial-by-jury here, as per the legal and Criminal Code of Canada."

"After civil order collapsed here, we eventually decided it was worth it to reinstate a conventional justice system."

"We do have some individuals incarcerated for felony crimes like murder and sexual assault."

She listened to Tara's suggestion about the LAV.

"We could give you a tour of the community right now, if you like. It's not that large, and this time of year sunset is around 6:30-7:00 anyways."

"If you want us to work on your vehicle, there is a community on the North Shore that it's better to reach by boat, anyways. Your time will not be idle."

With the meeting winding up, Ben made what was probably the first really big decision of the mission.
"Listen up team," he called, making sure his radio was transmitting to the LAV.
"We're going to go unload our stores and set ourselves up in the dormitory.
I want the LAV weaponry unloaded and the vehicle delivered to the mechanics asap. Lets see if they can't at least assess the beast before dinner.
Wire and sandbags to be donated to the militia as will our perishable food stocks."
As they were apparently being billeted clost to the kitchen he had no intention of having his own people needless cook for such a small group. The non-perishables though would form their rations while outside the wire on missions.
"Still to remain on the trailer but production of fuel to commence as soon as possible. I know the university has supplies and stills, but every little bit helps." There was no need to say he didn't want the still ever not producing. Every one of them already knew that an unproductive still could mean death out there in the Canadian wilds of 2000.
"Starting tommorrow I want to instruct a cadre from the militia in the operation, placment and care of our claymores, machineguns, 84 and the '19. They don't need to be experts, just able to take over these weapon systems in case of emergency."
"Mr Belanger, you'll need to forward suitable candidates in the morning please. Hopefully we'll only need them a few hours."
Anyone that couldn't understand the basics by then probably weren't who they were after anyway.
"I know the university has communication towers and so on, but I'd rather not rely on them if we can avoid it. We'll erect our antenna and amplifier as soon as Champlain finds a good location for it."
What he hadn't covered, he had faith his team would take care of....

Belanger nodded.

"I'll send over an 8-person section at 0800. Let me know if you want more."

"As for the still," Kasawa added, "You can park it with our larger ones, and my staff will be glad to use it for ethanol production."

Kwan finished up.

"Before any kind of permanent arrangement can be arrived at, we will no doubt both need some mutual guarantees regarding acceptable behaviour."

"Some time tonight or perhaps tomorrow we will need an answer about cooperation between the government and UBC. Either from your HQ, or from you on behalf of your HQ. If you need time to make a report then by all means do what you need to."

Lee shakes her head - "Yeah, ready."

Giving a polite wave to the UBC's leaders she excuses her self and follows Robert outside. Climbing up onto the LAV she enters through the driver's hatch. Settled inside, she starts up the engine and waits for everyone to make there way in.

"Yeah, I should get going as well."

Kelsey packed up the radio and C8, then headed out to the LAV.

As his men left for the outside, Kwan asked Jagelis to stay a moment with the Council.

"Leftenant? A moment, if you please."

"A couple of things we'd like to make clear before you go."

"There have been some complaints about what happened today today. Apparently, you broke into a building and scared the heck out of Chief Don Allamby's son and his grandchildren, and the Chief was rather upset."

"We can smooth things over with the Musqueam and overlook what happened at the Checkpoint. However, in the future your actions will be a reflection on the government, and us."

"We understand that you probably aren't used to dealing with these kinds of non-combat situations as of recently."

"So, someone from the local RCMP detachment will act as a local guide and liaison for you, to help you get your feet and navigate local society."

The tone wasn't confrontational, but matter-of-fact, like these were issue of concern that needed to be worked out.

Belanger interjected, "as well, we're going to set up some ROEs and RTEs (Rights to Engage) guidelines."

"Get yourself set up, then we'll give you the tour. Tomorrow morning we'll finalise your arrangements for operating here."

"In the mean time, Taras here will show you to your quarters, and then conduct a tour of the campus after."
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:04, Mon 18 Feb 2008.

Ok Lieutenant. Lets go this way. That buiding over there.

Taras pointed out towards one of the housing units for students in UBC.

There are plenty of rooms. One for each of you. And also bathrooms, showers and kitchen. We have also a kitchen hall for the Council members and families but for now I recommend you to go to your rooms. I can see that you have a lot to unload! I'll go get some copies of the UBC map.

Fox exits with Lee. Spotting Andy and MacDonald he says, "Mount up. We're going in a minute." Climbing up on the LAV's deck right after Lee, Fox enters the gunner's hatch and sits.

Aloud, but mostly to himself he mutters, "I wonder who actually realizes the close proximity we share with a few thousand Soviet troops."

Keysey climbed in.

"Soviet troops? Close proximity?"

"What are you talking about?"

"There's some up in Kamloops, but those are on our side."

"There are some loyal communists up in Campbell River, but that's over on the Island. The closest ones on land are, fuck, up in Bella Coola, last I heard. Probably a hundred, hundred twenty klicks across the freakin' mountains."

"After that, there's some up in the Yukon, I think."

"Maybe we'll luck out and they'll attack here, eh?"

This message was last edited by the player at 12:26, Mon 18 Feb 2008.

Seeing that McRae was ignoring him, Chris returned the favour as the others came out.

He exited the turret to allow Fox to enter.

Hearing the conversation, he added, "there ain't no Soviet troops here, Sergeant. Acting like there is just makes us look like, I dunno, psychos, you know?"

"'Scuze me for saying that, if that's somethin' you don't wanna hear, Sergeant.

"Not here, not right now. But you can't expect them all to be sitting on their asses in one big cantonment, at least not forever. Shevchenko is here, so can anyone else. BC was a war zone. It unrealistic to think the only ones that are "here" are all friendly, while the rest freeze and starve in the mountains or out on the islands."

He pauses and adds, "There is a difference between being vigilant and ignoring the possibilities. Don't confuse that with being a psycho or breaking the law... at least while you are part of this patrol."

"Sure, Sergeant." He didn't sound entirely convinced of that logic.

"But hey, if you're not worried about what other people think of us, I'm not."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:52, Mon 18 Feb 2008.

"Last I heard the Reds were either surrendering or heading home. But you never know."

This indeed was the common opinion about the Soviets, that the ones around didn't have any fight left in them.

"Well, whatever you say, Sergeant."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:54, Mon 18 Feb 2008.

Lee sat in the LAV, listening to the conversation over the idling engine. She wanted to speak up, but kept quiet for the time being. She felt, among many of Fox's responsibilities was unit security, and keeping the team readied and on guard gave her the confidence she expected in such a unit. But he didn't need help making that point known so she remained quiet.

Jagelis reassured the UBC leadership that their terms were acceptable in principle, which certainly went over well.

The billet was nearby "Ritsumeikan House", a modern L-shaped 2-story brick apartment building with a flat roof. It was currently empty, its 50 units formerly used to house Japanese exchange students from Ritsumeikan University in Japan paired with Canadian students. They were given 2 4-bedroom units (2 bathrooms per unit) on the ground floor (LAV parked outside). The decor and architecture had a distinctly Japanese flavour. There was hot running water.

[OOC: This is not all that remarkable; back at DRI HQ in Duncan housing was essentially the same (at least for the officers) although the decor here is much nicer and there is no tent city full of refugees next door.]

http://tinyurl.com/33qsq5

As soon as they were shown their quarters by Taras, Jagelis placed a call to HQ. As previously mentioned, using the LAV's radio as a repeater there was no need to put up the long-range antenna, but the LAV might not always be available.

Gaining access to the roof through a nearby stairwell, McRae and Champlain set up the antenna on the NW corner of the roof, where it would provide excellent reception to DRI HQ on the Island.

McRae noted the excellent lines of sight from the NW corner, at least in the local area.

It was as he suspected. HQ's opinion was that what was being offered (at very little cost to the government) was worth considerable compromise.

"All those conditions are acceptable, although the LT-Governorship can only be confirmed by the Governor-General's office, so we'll have to run it by them. We are relying on you to gain not only these peoples' trust, but the other peoples in the areas' trust as well. We have faith you can do this, Jagelis."

"Our current intelligence estimate has not changed in that Vancouver is not a combat zone, and that UBC is in effect a secure rear area. To our knowledge there are no hostile forces, including Soviets, within a hundred kilometres. Acting otherwise is not going to help your mission. Trust us, if we hear of any major threats heading your way, you will be the first to know."

"In a nutshell, whatever they want you to do, whatever they ask, we're relying on you to handle it. It's their turf and they know the rules, and if we can get them to do the heavy lifting for us like they say they will, then there it is. If we keep hearing good things about your performance, there's a distinct chance before too long you could be placed in a combat command, this time with a company instead of a platoon, although I can't say any more for security reasons."

"Out."

After dropping off their equipment at the billet, Taras gave the team a quick tour of the campus.

Rachel was interested to see the 15-member RCMP detachment. The Mounties there were like the ones in the detachment she left back on the Island, and their camaraderie helped remind her that she was a policewoman first, soldier distant second. Mounties were famous for negotiation and diplomacy, and even the ERTs placed a high value on human life. The Detachment was also the armoury, and she noted that the shelves seemed pretty bare of spare weapons and ammunition.

Even here the Mounties had a paramilitary role; they served as the NCOs and leaders of the part-time militia. The full compliment of just over 120 had been called out for the occasion (explaining the lack of weapons in the armoury). Normally, there were less than 40 Militia on duty: 4 teams of 4 (3 Militia + 1 Mountie) on duty at the various checkpoints, another 2 teams of 4 (again 3 + 1, but with dogs) patrolling the wire, and the rest manning the surveillance system and communications station at the detachment or forming the Fast Reaction Team.

They were given a quick tour of the industrial-size stills, a solar panel farm and windmills for generating electricity and ranks of batteries for storing it, the bio-diesel, ethanol and methanol storage tanks, machine shops and garages. There was a wide fleet of campus vehicles from SUVs to ATVs and motorcycles, not to mention various trucks and even several boats on trailers. In one large shed was stored engineering and construction vehicles, and 2 tow trucks. There was a school (closed, it being Sunday), Fire Hall (VFD #1) and the University Pavilions Hospital, with Ambulance parked by the front doors.

Most people they passed smiled and waved. The team reacted according to their natures, with Chris and Kelsey being relatively laid-back and friendly.

The sun was setting at around 1845 when they finished the tour, just in time for dinner. It was served by volunteers (a half-dozen men and women of all ages) in the Tatami Room, a traditional Japanese dining room with tatami mats, low wooden tables and sliding paper walls.

Of course, there was plenty of rice, Sushi (of varying kinds but featuring BC rolls made from salmon) and seafood Sashimi (raw fish). There was Udon (noodles), Miso soup, Gyoza (fried dumplings), Tempura (seafood, vegetables and mushrooms fried in tempura batter) and Yakitori (skewers of barbequeued chicken). All was prepared by a friendly heavy-set Japanese chef called Mike.

Joining them were what seemed to be the heads of the guiding Council of the Faculty: Angela Kwan, Alain Belanger and Sgt. Khandola. Taras joined them as well.

Rachel had no problems at all with her chopsticks, and neither did Kelsey. Chris did okay, but was less skilled. However, the 3 Easterners (sorry, in BC everyone to the east of the Rockies is an Easterner, even Albertans) struggled to cope.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:01, Tue 19 Feb 2008.

After they had eaten Fox sides up beside Chris, out of the way of any of the civilians, "It wouldn't have hurt to give an apology afterwards. Perhaps it should have happened. But putting aside hindsight, doing what else we did is how its done. Security and protecting the lives of the team is the most important factor in everything we will do here."

"Speaking for myself, its a changed world, and its gotten alot more dangerous. If the leftenant didn't call for the perimeter to be cleared, I would have recommended it myself."

He scratches his head, thinking for a moment, "Perhaps if brigade wanted just surveys done and handshakes made... in a place where threats do not exist... they shouldn't have sent a team led by airborne, backed up with support weapons and an armed fighting vehicle."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:58, Wed 20 Feb 2008.

Chris sipped some tea.

"An apology is never too late, Sergeant. 'Specially to the Red Man, whitey!" He smiled, half-joking.

"They're keepin' us on a short leash here now, so you tell me if playing it makin' security our #1 priority was really the best way to go, eh?"

This was a rhetorical question, although it was hard to deny that the instincts that had worked so well in the past were maybe being counter-productive in this situation.

"You know, back at HQ there was a lot of talk that maybe sending "Papa Smurfs" for this job was a real bad move. Guess it's up to you to prove things have changed."

He didn't mention Somalia, but the name hung between them.

Mostly of the food was already gone. Japanese food was a far departure from the homemade goulash, borscht, pyrohy... and the rice tea will not take the place of a beloved Slavutich . Memories of Georgia and the scrumptious shashlyk came also to his mind. But certainly he will choose Japanese food over the Red Army diet of Salo and canned dog food that even the dogs refused to eat in the back alleys of Nalchik.

So, are you guys mechanized infantry? I see that one of you is a snajper but the lady is a Police woman!

"I'll let the fellas speak for themselves, but... I am just as much a combat operative as needed. I have experience in surveillance, FIBUA, and mounted ops. My police background is suitable for providing some expertise the infantry fellas might be able to make use of."

Realizing she might be sounding robotic, she added casually, "Really, I just thought the DRI would be very interesting. I always had a better time on small unit operations anyways... like when I was a real cop, and not in an infantry company."

Turning her attention to Ben she asked, "No warning order yet for us? Any idea when we might be heading into town?"

"I'm more light infantry."

"I studied political science and business in school, so I guess they thought that might be handy for this kind of operation."

"That and I'm a mechanic and radio operator."

Taras knew from briefings that the commonwealth light infantry was something like rifle troops but also a little like redoviki ("raiders").

Andy sits next to Chris at the Sushi bar. He's never had Sushi before- the thought of eating raw fish had never really appealed to him before- but he tried it anyway, as a gesture of good will to their hosts, and found that he absolutely loved it. Eyes watering from a chunk of Wasabe that failed to break up in his little trough of soy sauce, Andy speaks to Chris,

"Don't worry about it. I was in business mode when we came through the wire and your little joke about wasting civies didn't tickle my funny bone. But hey, you manned up and I respect that. We're good?"

Andy reached out to shake Chris' hand.

"Man, I can't get enough of this stuff. I'm kicking myself for never trying it before. Raw fish- who would'a thought, eh?"

Andy looks around the room, surveying the relaxed, smiling faces, the rainbow of civilian dress styles.

"I really wonder who recommended me for this mission. But I guess I shouldn't complain too much. If this is working, right?"

Andy assumed the folks here at the UBC must have a pretty well-stocked library. He looked forward to maybe picking up a novel and getting some quiet reading done over the next few days' innactivity.

What the hell where they thinking? Putting Ben in charge of a Company was like standing them all in front of a machinegun and hoping none of them were hit!
He was the first person to admit he wasn't up to the job. He'd only managed to "lead" the units he'd been assigned in the past by relying heavily on his NCOs for ideas, refering to his notes and history books, and just plain luck. Even his exams during officer training wouldn't have been passed if he'd not managed to sneak notes into the room. Somehow he'd gotten decent marks too while other, more capable and certainly more intelligent were required to re-sit a number of subjects.

All these points were what really made a good officer although Ben couldn't see it. His reliance on NCOs showed a respect for experience, an admition that he didn't know everything and a willingness to listen. Refering to notes also showed he knew his limitations - nobody could be expected to remember everything, even grizzled 25 year veterans still carried "aide memoires" in their shirt pocket or webbing pouch. And sneaking notes into the exams? Well what else was that but initiative? A vital commodity for any soldier!

It had been a long, trying day watching part time amateurs pretend to be soldiers, imitating rifle drill (poorly) and thinking they were doing well. Still, he smiled and kept the cringing (when one nearly dropped his rifle on anothers head!) to a minimum.

Finally dinner rolled around. Looking forward to a decent meal of tender beef cooked to perfection with a side of potatoes, roasted onion and glazed carrots, he was very disappointed when uncooked  fish wrapped in seaweed and rice was served up to him. So disappointed that he almost sent it back for another few minutes on the grill! Fortunately though he was saved embarrassment by a quick whisper in his ear from MacDonald.

"It ain't right," he said quietly shaking his head. "Food's s'posed to be cooked!"
"All Infantry is mechanised at some point," Ben stated in reply to the question.
"Each company rotates through, spending a year or so as Airborne, another as light infantry and then mechanised for a while."
"Of course that's in the normal battalions - we're something special," he said, including Fox and McRae with a wave of his hand and leaving exactly how they were different unsaid.

"Not a thing, Lee."

For a mission that was supposed to be very important to everyone involved, especially what passed for a government these days, they hadn't given much away about their plans yet.

"But I'm not suprised," he continued before lowering his voice so that only those in his immediate vicinity could hear.
"What else could you expect with a bunch of civilians running things?"

Anyone with any military experience of note knew the value of warning orders. Usually just a few words in length which gave a vague indication of the job to come and some idea of when it would happen. The actual orders usually weren't even written up when the warning order was given.

"Corporal McRae, what were you doing before this assignment?" Ben asked conversationally. He himself had been rassigned after his plattoon had nearly been wiped off the face of the planet by an idiot American artillery spotter. The fool had mistaken their captured BMP for the enemy after they'd had it just three days and called in a barrage of 155mm. If only he'd taken a longer look through his telescope across the interveneing mile or so, he'd have noticed the Canadian maple leaf crudely painted on the side as well as the fact it was firing at the attacking soviets another few hundred metres further on.

Even though Ben had been wounded by shrapnel, he'd still managed to find the man responsible and beat the crap out of him.....

"Ah... I thought you volunteered? You sure don't look like someone who'd enjoy this kind of thing, so it was a surprise to me, too."

He manipulated a BC roll into his mount.

"We couldn't get Sushi in Lillooet. Had to drive down to Whistler. Too many freakin' Aussies there, they think they're God's gift, or something, just 'cause they bus tables or work on the mountain."


"Well LT, you could always stick to the  cooked stuff, like the BBQed chicken skewers. Or the Tempura, you cook that yourself!"

He pointed with his chopsticks at a few different dishes.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:35, Thu 21 Feb 2008.

"Say, didn't we get a warning order in the briefing?"

"Yeah, I definitely remember that. Given by Major Anderson, CO of the DRI. Not a civvie running the show at that point."

"You guys not paying attention or something? Sleepin'?"

"I got notes if you need a refresher, but basically nothing's changed: no organised threats here. Possible criminal activity."

[OOC: feel free to refer to the warning order given in the beginning of the Briefing section, no mention was made of Soviets in Vancouver.]

"I think Lee meant a warning order for a specific objective... one for each patrol we'll be going on. Not the main ah... overall mission objective." Fox elaborated.

Pausing for a minute how to phrase his point he adds, "And it isn't "you guys" who you are talking back to. Nor do I want to hear you questioning the leftenant on whether he's been sleeping or not."

Tonguing a piece of food between his teeth, Fox waits for everyone to finish before he can shut down for the evening. He's lost his mood for socializing and looks forward to making himself productive, in a practical sense.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:45, Thu 21 Feb 2008.

"Oh, okay. Taras over there did say that they believe the potential threats here were criminal in nature, not military. That's basically what we were told before."

Full, she sighed and sat back, sipping her tea.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:04, Thu 21 Feb 2008.

Angela smiled and raised an eyebrow, questioningly.

"Please Leftenant, Sergeant, give us a little time! You literally just arrived."

"We'd hoped that we made our overall plans clear earlier today, although by all means it is an excellent advice to be quite specific in the future about what we want and need."

"For now, please enjoy yourselves, get settled in a little!"

"There will be plenty to occupy yourselves with."

Andy's reply was short and to the point.

"I volunteered for a recon mission."

Andy was trying. Hard. It was too late to opt out now- and besides, that wasn't the type of soldier he was. Here he was trying to mend fences with Little Hawk and the guy was busting his balls. Again. In fact, it seemed that both of the enlisted had been sent along on this mission to chide and second guess the military leadership of the operation.



"I was sneaking around in the woods shooting up near where you must have been. Real cat and mouse stuff. We were hunting a Soviet sniper folks called "The Owl". Worked mostly at night; went after the white mice. He got me before I could get him. Luckily my spotter was a better shot than me and got the bastard. I ended up back in the hospital with a fractured collarbone and punctured lung."

Andy unconsciously reached up and rubbed at the scar tissue on the upper left side of his neck.

<Blue>"Well, I'm going to get situated in my quarters. Goodnight everyone. Thanks for the food."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:28, Thu 21 Feb 2008.

"Recon? We're Canadians, we do recces, right?"

He grinned at the American term.

"The DRI's way of doing intelligence-gathering through diplomacy and HUMNIT thing is cool and different, and I like it."

"Well, thanks for listening to me."

Andy was reminded of the briefings where they'd been told how missions for the Department of Reconnaissance and Investigation were of a different character than the usual military SOP of stealthy observation and grab-a-guy-for-interrogation method of intelligence-gathering.

Perhaps this "disconnect" between the two points of view was the main source of the friction between the enlisted and the NCOs that he felt.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:40, Thu 21 Feb 2008.

Sounding slightly agitated, Lee stands a second behind McRae - "Same." Then giving a smiling nod she acknowledges the civilians and follows him out the door.

It was around 1930 hours (7:30pm) on a warm Sunday spring evening. The sun had set, leaving a glow on the western horizon.

Some precious hoarded coffee (with a choice of milk, cream, sugar or honey) was served around. Some coffee beans were grown in the conservatory, but it was still very much a luxury item, highly prized.

The somewhat abrupt departure of several of the team's members provoked a few curious glances among the community leaders gathered there.

Angela, the Council's chief handled the situation with aplomb. Her voice was warm and accepting, tinged with a slight note of tiredness.

"Well, we've got things to do early in the morning. It's Monday tomorrow, after all."

"Please excuse us as well."

"It has been a pleasure and an honour to meet all of you! We are very hopeful that together we can work miracles in returning a better future to the people here."

"We hope you feel welcome here, and do have a pleasant evening."
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:28, Thu 21 Feb 2008.

Andy pauses for a few seconds outside the door, waiting for Rachel to catch up. When she arrives, he walks with her to the quarters they've been assigned.

"Sorry for being so antisocial- I'm not trying to make your job any harder; I'm just not very good at all this PR stuff and I'm genuinely tired. It's been a weird day if ya know what I mean."

OOC: I wondered if should have used "recce" instead of "recon" in my last post. Playing a Canadian is harder than I thought! ; )

Chris broke away from a discussion he'd been having with Taras to respond.

"Thank you all very much for your hospitality."

"Dinner was amazing."

"Especially, thanks for the coffee!"

"Thanks again, and good night."
This message was last edited by the player at 11:58, Fri 22 Feb 2008.

"Yeah, me too!"

"I would like you to know that I'm excited to be here, this is a real honour."

"Good night, and thanks."

Ben hung about for another hour or two exchanging small talk and pleasantries with the locals, all the while wishing he could be back with his "men". Although it was a bit part of being an officer, it wasn't something he took great pleasure in most of the time. He'd much rather be out on the range, or even participating in a "tute" than smiling and chatting with people he barely knew.
Knowing that every last person in the room with him was at least twice as smart, and probably held at least one degree in something well over his head didn't help....
Finally he judged it was time with withdraw, citing the work that still needed to be done to set up their equipment and prepare ofr their coming missions. Shaking each persons hand before he went, he said his goodnights and moved on.....