The team's forays into the Fraser Valley from their base in Burnaby had not been uneventful. First was following up on rumours of some kind of unusual wildlife in the Fort Langley area. They discovered that an old hermit had been looking after two African elephants, Heffalump, a male (healthy) and Woozle, a female (which was injured). It was determined that they had been released from the Vancouver Game Farm in Aldergrove. A visit there revealed a survivor community not far from the game farm, based on the prewar town of Aldergrove, under Mayor Walt Rousseau.

One piece of information they gathered there was that a group of American soldiers had been in to town three days prior. They were on foot and seemed peaceful, trading for some food before leaving. They had also asked about any unusual wildlife. They hadn't said where they were from. But it seemed possible they were related to what seemed like an American army patrol that also visited Aldergrove three months prior, did some trading and visiting a local veterinarian before leaving peacefully.

As well, no one in Aldergrove had heard of the Hells Angels being active in the area but a new motorcycle gang, the Razorbacks, had started to make itself be known throughout the Fraser Valley by extorting travellers along the Trans-Canada highway by Abbotsford and terrorizing local communities. It is unknown if the Razorbacks were affiliated with the HAs but this seemed reasonable as the HAs were notorious about not letting independent clubs invade their turf.

They were then called to make and emergency intervention with an unknown mercenary force (including a T-54 tank) that was attacking another DRI team in Langley. This developed into a tank duel between the T-54 and the AVGP Cougar, with the team's Carl Gustav tipping the balance. The other team, including Provost Belanger from the UBC government enclave and USMC Gunny Parks, was evacuated safely and the wounded taken to hospital. A significant antagonist, an ex-US Army (AKNG) sniper nicknamed "Brownstone", was wounded in a sniper duel with Master Sniper McRae. The mercenaries were just hired guns, mostly deserters from mainly the US Army but a few were Canadian and Soviet ex-soldiers. Brownstone seemed to be more key to who they were and what they were doing but so far he declined to talk as he waited in "cells" (as the lockup was called) at the UBC RCMP detachment. As the other DRI team's mission was classified it was not clear why they were there or what they'd done to attract such attention.

After returning to base in Burnaby they were instructed to perform a recce of the Valley border crossings at dawn. Intelligence from PAs (Police Agents aka Confidential Informants aka CIs) posing as arms dealers indicated a shipment of weapons had recently crossed the border from the US into Canada somewhere in the Fraser Valley. If the mercenaries were involved with the HAs (Hells Angels Motorcycle Club) then it's possible they also had something to do with this shipment. This "recce" revealed that very recently a large cargo vehicle (probably a semi tractor-trailer) escorted by 2 motorcycles had crossed the border going north from US State Route 539 and then continued along Highway 13 in Canada via the Aldergrove Border Crossing, which was otherwise abandoned years before. There were no other tracks but it had rained 2 days before, obliterating any prior tracks. (They also found a fairly intact Environment Canada weather radar tower just to the west of there, and that Abbotsford International Airport had been destroyed by nuclear attack, likely an airburst because residual radiation was normal.) The Sumas Border crossing south of Abbotsford seemed to have been abandoned for a while as well but there was no large vehicle tracks or indeed any tracks since the rain.

Passing by Fort Langley the team decided to drop in as it had been a couple days. They were shocked to find Old WIllie unconscious and the elephants gone! He was still unconscious when transported to Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster and so could not provide an account of events at the Fort, but examination of the scene revealed that a small group mounted on another elephant(!) plus a half-dozen more on foot had led the two elephants there off.

It being late and getting close to sundown (and under orders to return to base ASAP) the team returned to their forward base at Caribou Hill High School to find all your gear packed up in an army 10-ton Percheron HLVW.

Reporting in to HQ at UBC (via radio) you received your orders. You are to turn in the AVGP Courgar (The "Mighty Mighty Cougar") and pick up new personnel and a LAV-25 Coyote that was waiting for you at the armoury of the local Militia unit, the Royal Westminster Regiment (aka "Westies"). Additionally you were to move your base to Fort Langley in the morning. Additional orders were to locate the rogue Americans, as it seemed possible that some kind of violation of Canadian sovereignty had occurred (beyond just some minor cross-border trading). Lastly, they were to support the ongoing undercover operation to identify and interdict arms smuggling from the USA, as well as gather intelligence on the Hells Angels and any other armed criminal groups they may be operating in league with or operating independently in the Fraser Valley. As well, a New American cell (from Alberta) had been encountered by the team a month back so it seemed possible they were hanging around.

Kelsey puts down the radio headset and relays the information to troops present.

"Let's get this gong show on the road so we can get some rack time and maybe a hoar bath before we roll again folks."


OOC:  Was Taras with us last movement?  Who is present.. or shall we skip to picking up the new LAV?

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 2):

At this point Taras was with the main detachment. A night move was quite possible. The Coyote had full IR, image intensifiers and thermal imaging. Other drivers could use NVGs. If nothing else darkness would prevent them being visually observed en route.

She gets folks to grab some hot chow (if available) then loads up the folks and will get one of the good drivers to drive them over in the Big Damn Truck to take a look at the new LAV.

Well, at least they got to take cat naps a bit out in the bush.

"Let's go see what our beneficent government has for us, shall we?"


She takes shotgun, and outside of the driver the rest are free to nap in the back with the gear as they make their way (I am assuming it is a secure area?)

Regardless, Kel does overwatch with night vision on, just in case.

Mac volunteers to rustle up a hot meal before those going to fetch the LAV set out.

Keith will follow the others to get some (hot) food before they have to bug out to their new duty station.  He opts only for his sidearm and everything else left with the rest of his gear.

"I'd be happy with some hot oatmeal right now."

"Oatmeal, Sarge," said Mac.

"I found some minced beef, I was going to make some hamburgers..."

Among the aliens things that a soviet man could find in the (Northern) land of the free were certain items of fashion that, never in the wildest dreams, one could imagine possible to exists, never mind wear, in the Soviet Union. Enter the zubaz pants.

In the 90s the pants were so popular that their distinctive zebra print was worn by everyone from singer Billy Joel to wrestler Jesse Ventura. The Minnesota creation grew into such a worldwide fad that they could be found everywhere from NFL games and NBA arenas to the guts of YMCA gyms in the West Coast. Sold more than 10 million pairs apparently. The madness was still ruminating Taras mind when news over the radio put everybody on alert.

Very well. We need to move out then. Our next destination is the armory in New West. We need to pack everything and take advantage of the night.

Kel, please ready up a convoy at your will. Get an scout vehicle up front. Decide the order of march. I'll be takng Ludmla with all the heavy gear at the back. Ensure that weapons are ready. I'm not expecting surprises at this time but better be on the side of caution.

Taras finished the casual bag of Lay's WOW! chips. Another “healthy” option of the times. Unfortunately, the negative side effects of olestra, which was the fat-free oil substitute Frito-Lay used lead to a wealth of issues like cramping, loose bowels, and gas. Eventually the company went back to the traditional way of making chips after this disaster.

Oooh...pardon me!

The ukrainian escaped the waft while fumbling his pockets trying to find the keys for the big truck. Jesus...lets get out of here, then...

Kelsey beams at Mac, going to pat him on the shoulder.

"Mac, my friend, I have determined that for the sake of morale that your proposed meal has top priority.  But we might want to delay until we hook up with the rest of the unit."

She chuckles.  Mac was an old buddy of hers, going back years.

"Sarge, huh?  That has a weird feel to it."

Her promotion to OR-6 was fairly recent, and she had spent a fair amount of time as an OR-4 or OR-5, the added responsibility felt.. well, weighty.

Caporal OR-4, and Caporal-Chef OR-5 being her more accustomed ranks post war.  Pre war her rank was OR-3 Soldat.

She would ensure the men returning from several days in the field, and combat, had a shot at that fancy hot fresh meal before they went to meet up with the new equipment.. well.. unless.


"You got enough of that beef to be able to share with our new people too, Mac?  If you do, might make for a nice getting to know you party, and as team sniper I can spare you to cook as the rest of us get ready to roll out.  I bet we got Taras in charge of this new party, and he loves a good meal too."

"Sure, there's a couple of meals-worth here. I thought burgers because they're portable if you're in a rush to get going... at least if I can find some buns or bread. I'll get busy then..."

Mac vanished and the scent of frying onions told the tale of a fellow trying to provide as much of the trimmings as he could round up.

She laughs.

"We can make a few friends, then.  Let's get this on the road, cook in the back of the truck"

With that, hopefully, they will hook up with the rest of the new crew and start taking possession of the New LAVing Spoonful.

Upon arrival she looks the new LAV over "Well, that's pretty.. I name you LAVing Spoonful II."

"Mercredi, looks like we will be the new commo section, in case you were hoping for yet more duties.  You and I will be shift on shift off with this fancy stuff until we can get someone else trained up, meanwhile I want you to run a full driver pmcs."

"Sochacki, I want you on guns.. run full pmcs."

She awaits others to show, she moves her gear that needs moving and starts checking out the electronics and commander's seat on the new vehicle.

Mac.  Mac is on cooking.  =)

The team moved out of their base in Caibou Hill High School in Burnaby. It was on (of course) Caribou Hill, facing Burnaby Mountain to the north and overlooking the Trans-Canada freeway in the valley below and between them. Once upon a time there was an advanced post-secondary institution on the top of Burnaby Mountain, Simon Fraser University, overlooking Burrard Inlet to the North. But at the foot of the hill to the east, west and south had also been refineries and petroleum storage tank farms and so the poor hill was bracketed by nuclear strikes. The hill was now barren and scorched while some of the brutalist (and once picturesque) concrete university buildings at the top remained standing, burned out and abandoned. The school had been damaged by the strike across the freeway on the south slope of Burnaby mountain, but was intact enough to provide shelter for the team.

They were also outside New West's defensive perimeter. After a short drive down 6th st. past abandoned buildings they passed through the checkpoint at 10th ave. and continued to the Westie's Armoury at 6th and Queen's Ave, next to city hall. There was some paperwork as the AVGP Cougar was handed back over to the 3/Royal Westminster Regiment. They were introduced to their new ride, a LAV-Cougar that had been salvaged intact from a warehouse at YVR (Vancouver International Airport) on Sea Island. The "LAVin Spoonful II" also had a CFOX "The Fox Rocks!" sticker on the rear hull on the left side.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 11):

After introducing herself the young native woman looked approvingly at the Coyote.

"Yes, Sergeant! This is a nice bit of kit, eh?"

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 11):

"Sir! I mean, yes Sergeant." The slip seemed unintentional, and he got on with doing his gunner checks after stowing his gear.

Earlier that day, outside the Red Cross station at UBC, Father Nick waited his ride. Along with him was his mule. A few blocks away at the UBC's RCMP detachment, one of the NCOs spoke to Eric as he was getting ready to leave.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 15):

It was Rachel, an RCMP sergeant and OC of the detachment's ERT (Emergency Response Team). She was professional and friendly so they were on a first-name basis.

"Hey Eric, I heard from Alain you were heading over to New West? Mind if I catch a ride? I used to be seconded to the DRI team and wouldn't mind saying hi to some friends. I'll catch a ride back later."

She was dressed in "civilian" (if paramilitary) fashion: boots, cargo pants, army-style Kevlar vest over dark t-shirt, armed with 9mm S&W and an MP5. The only thing giving away her profession was an RCMP ball cap.

Father Nicolaus patted the side of Bucephalus;
"There girl. We'll soon be on our way. The Abbot will be taking care of our flock, no need to worry. There are more lost sheep that needs tending to. More souls to be saved and comforted. Lord knows that many have came to His embrace, the last few year. Not enough had the grace of the last anointment..."
He tapers of as his eyes seeks the comfort of the skies and sighs deeply.
"Too many girl, far too many..."

In reply to Alice Mary Mercredi (msg # 13):

"She's a beaut, eh?"  She grins.  They had served together before, though that was before Kel made sergeant.

"Get those drivers checks done, dinner is on the way and it's Mac that is cooking so I have great expectations."

She pats the old rock station sticker, though she was not greatly familiar with that one.  She listened to a lot of C-BON, back in the day, preferring information while driving over music, talk radio.  It had been at 88.1 in Sault Ste. Marie since she was a girl, coming online around when she was 8 years old, she had been enthralled by it and it had started her own love of radio, even if it sometimes worried her parents about her listening to adult oriented content, she was a big sister and felt the need to be more adult regardless.

"That stays."  She says softly, with a smile, then louder she says with a larger smile. "En avant la musique, va être rock'n'roll !" and laughs.  (More or less, kinda.. off we go, let's rock and roll).  For some, nearby, that might be the first time they have heard her speak her native tongue, but it hopefully won't be the last.

With that she climbs up familiar runs and checks out the commanders seat, and then the radios, disappearing within the Coyote.

After the greetings and exchange of bureucratic formalities regarding the materiel Taras couldn't help but enquire about the presence of a large soviet submarine docked at the Fraser River, not too far downhill from the armory.

The Lone Star Runner had started life as standard M1008 truck from the US Army, but after it's purchase by Ravenwood Defense Group, it had gone through several less-standard evolutions, finally arriving at it's present state; lightly armored, the bench seats on the left side of the bed removed for stowage, extra tie-downs for baggage & the most obvious modification, a pedestal mount for crew served weapons, currently mounting an M2.  The bed (and the space behind the seats) was crowded with an assortment of gear; a rolled up camo net, tools, bags, extra weapons and cans of fuel, water and ammo, all properly tied down, ready to roll.

Eric himself was average height & average weight (at least prewar average), brown hair & hazel eyes.  Most recently Rachel had seen him dressed in his undercover persona of Will 'Tex' Green; faded blue jeans, cowboy boots, red & black flannel shirt and buckskin jacket, Stetson hat and an obnoxiously large enamel-painted Texas flag belt buckle.  He had that outfit packed away in his gear on the truck still, but today he was dressed in his war-clothes.  Slightly faded but serviceable flecktarn fatigues, hiking boots, plate carrier, PASGT helmet, flight gloves, chest rig and the other basic accouterments, along with his .45 caliber Glock and a suppressed C8.

"Yeah Rach, I got a spot for ya.  We gotta pick up another stray on the way though; just FYI.  And apparently his livestock too.  Matty should be bringing the rig around shortish."



It was only a few seconds before the rumbling diesel of the truck was heard quietly, even through the walls of the building as the matte OD green monster was parked outside, magnetic RCMP Auxiliary signs in place over the flat black stenciled RDG logos.  Matty seemed a good enough kid; green, just an armored car driver from RaD-G who was, probably, getting in over her head.  But there was a lot of that going nowadays.  She had a lot to learn about nearly everything, but she could drive a truck at least.

"Let's roll Rach." he said with a smirk, pulling up his balaclava to hide his face, at least until they were out of places someone might recognize him.

From there, it wasn't much of a drive to the Red Cross, and the Father was made obvious by his collar and even more obvious by his mule.  Eric vaulted the side of the truck bed jsut as Matty brought it to a halt, and walked over to the clergyman, his hand extended.

"I assume you're Father Schmidt?  Needed a ride out 'West?" he said with a smirk behind his face covering.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:38, Tue 04 Aug 2020.

In reply to Eric C. Wright (msg # 20):

In the passenger seat was one of the Mounties that Father Nick had seen around. They had not been introduced formally but she'd been in the clinic with various officers. She eyed the mule, with an amused expression.

"I'm Rachel. Pleased to meet you. I've heard a lot of good things about you! All aboard for New West."

Corporal Stan Abbot walked out of the school with his rifle, field pack and a large duffel bag and headed straight for the 10 ton, his assigned vehicle. He set his pack and rifle down by the front tire and then tossed the duffel over the side board of the truck on top of the already full load of cargo. Climbing up the side of the bed, he pulled and pushed the duffel into a spot where it would not get launched out of the truck if they hit one of the many large potholes that were found in what passed for roads these days.

Stan jumped down and yelled across the parking lot at MacDonald who was cooking dinner.

"Hey Mac! Did you get all of your gear loaded? I don't think we're coming back for a while."

Thomas waited in the Humvee while  the paperwork was exchanged, "Some things never change even in the apocalypse." he thought as he watched the exchange. He had taken the time to stow his gear in the vehicle he was driving with the short barrelled L1A1  or whatever the Canadians called it, sitting against the door.



-

"Stan, Mac is cooking us a fine feast, you mind policing up our billet and making sure nothing gets missed?  I'll give you an extra set of hands if you want them.  Oui?"

She grins, shrugs slightly.

"Non, sergent.", Stan answers back with a bad French accent, poking fun at the Quebecer a bit.

"I'll take care of it.", he said as he loaded his rifle and pack into the cab of the truck and then went back inside to their billet.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:21, Wed 05 Aug 2020.

'Father Schmidt'... that was a name he hadn't heard for a long time from someone not of the cloth. How surprisingly refreshing in a way, yet strange. He looks to the driver;

"Yes child, I'm Father Schmidt, though you may call me Father Nick. I've been called that for quite some time now by my congregation. He pauses as he looks to the truck. "That is a fine vehicle, and should fit Bucephalus quite nicely for our travels westward."

He then turns to Rachel, was her name, "Peace be upon you child, it is pleasant to meet you. Always nice to hear that my good reputation travels before me." He smiles and then turns to Bucephalus.

"Come along now girl. You need to climb up on to the back of the truck. No need for worry, I'll be with you all the way."

After a little coaxing Bucephalus gets onboard. The logistics of getting a mule, even if docile, up on the bed of a pickup truck is never easy.

"Pack my kit? Nope, but it will only take me a couple of minutes," Mac called back. He was thoroughly enjoying himself cooking up a meal for the team. Hey, if they liked it maybe he could become the team cook. He'd rather cook than do some of the chores that fell the way of the junior guy!

At least he'd learned the lesson of personal admin well. Most of his stuff lived in his bergen or his webbing, only coming out when needed. It would mostly mean collecting his wash kit and whatever socks, underwear and shirts had been being washed, and stuffing them in.

This message was deleted by the player at 21:07, Wed 05 Aug 2020.

In reply to Father Nick (msg # 26):

With the help of a removable metal wheelchair ramp propped up on the Chevy's tailgate they loaded up the mule and Father Nick's bags.

"Ok. It's about 25-30 kilometres to New West, through Burnaby. At normal speed that should take us about a half-hour, 40 minutes.

"The main route people take is along SW Marine, which was a designated Disaster Response Route before the war and is now a Main Supply Route (MSR). It follows the river and once we leave Vancouver and get into Burnaby it's mainly farmland and lowlands with a lot of undeveloped wood lots.

"The alternate route is down Kingsway, which is along a kind of ridge that goes all the way to New West. It has been heavily built up over the decades. I read it was actually the main throughfare into town before the freeway. The city grew up around it so aside from shopping malls and apartments, shops and fast food restaurants you also have some older relics like drive-in motels, car dealerships and car washes that are usually more on the outskirts of a city."

Eric waited patiently as the priest helped his mule up into the crowded bed of the truck, smirking behind his balaclava.  He helped the Padre with his baggage, such as it was, and once the mule was onboard, lying down and as 'secured' as she could be, he walked up to the cab for a moment, and had a quick pow-wow with his driver & TC; making sure everyone was on the same page about route, actions on contact, recovery plan and bail-out/E&E plan.  That completed, he hopped back up into the bed, taking the spot on the single bench seat closest to the cab (and the .50 cal).

"It's supposed to be a pretty quiet drive, but if we catch contact, get as low as you can in the truck bed, keep the mule calm & don't get between me & the crew-serve ammo." he said, pointing at the cans of .50 belts.
"If we gotta bail out, you stick to me.  Rach & Matty go one way, we go another, and we'll meet up later.  Hopefully."

Even seated, he kept his C8 on him.

The Armoury,located at 530 Queens Avenue (at the corner of 6th Street) in New Westminster, British Columbia was the oldest active wooden military structure in Canada. It remained the home of The Royal Westminster Regiment, an infantry reserve regiment. The wooden structure was one of the few buildings to survive the great fire of 1898. Although it was a single structure it is referred to as "The Armouries" by members of The Royal Westminster Regiment. In addition to the parade square the building housed the Regimental Museum, offices, quartermaster store room, Officers' Mess and Warrants' and Sergeants' Mess (the Junior Ranks' Mess is housed in the adjoining building).


Looking for a hot cup of coffee or what could pass for it the man from Odessa end up in a rather small but cozy corner. Shania Twain was filling the air asking:

,Whose bed have your boots been under?
And whose heart did you steal I wonder?
This time did it feel like thunder, baby?
And who did you run to?

Say, last time I hear there was a rather big submarine parked along the Quay in the Fraser, any news about the sub and the crew>

Taras was aware than a class "Oscar II" by the name of "Kursk" had jump sides and deserted to Canada. Like the salmon running up river, the majestic vessel had ended up in New Westminster. He thought bravely of the Captain and crew that decided, as himself, to step towards freedom and never look back.

Eric/Father Nick

Taking the primary route to New West, they started out through the checkpoint in the fenced perimeter closest to the mouth of the river. The technical was waved through immediately by C7-armed guards. Zig-zagging through the exit lane they finally left the crowded but orderly zone around UBC and entered the partially-deserted city. Off to the right several armed technicals were parked guarding the entrances to the Musqueam First Nation reserve. Manning the sandbagged positions were young Native men and women, armed with M16A2s and AKMs, dressed in surplus US Woodland camouflage fatigues, Kevlar vests and LBEs. Before the war this was a neighborhood of rich riverfront homes and even larger homes with horse-rearing paddocks, plus a small shipyard on the river. The presence of these resources meant the members of the Musqueam band were doing very well for themselves now, providing horses and small boats for the government enclave and other customers throughout the city.

The shipyard was back in business after being flooded during the massive meltwater "tidal wave" that had come down in the spring, spreading destruction all along the river from the airport (YVR) on Sea Island at the mouth to as far up as they knew. The water level was now closer to normal but there were still large ares that had flooded and couldn't be effectively drained on their own after.

Driving at a relatively safe 60 km/h the first leg led them down SW Marine Dr., a wide prewar throughfare. Travelling east, the river was off to their right. This close to the river it was mostly warehouses and industrial areas on the south (river) side of SW Marine, and somewhat run-down single-family dwellings (once abandoned, now partially-occupied) on the north side. Near the LaFarge concrete plant they passed buy a merchant convoy of two horse-drawn wagons and a horse-drawn food truck ("Juan Fer's Fajitas!" on the side) escorted by four riders armed with 2 bows, a crossbow and a double-barreled shotgun. The merchants waved a friendly greeting in passing. They couldn't stop as they were heading to the UBC government enclave, hoping to make there and set up it before evening curfew. (Curfew had been relaxed inside the secure zone but the gates were still closed to non-official traffic after dark.)

SW Marine was a smooth ride, having been cleared of any wrecks, with damage from the war and (especially) the many potholes filled from the massive gravel piles around the LaFarge plant. However, about 2/3 of the way there they came across a roadblock manned by four Militia soldiers. It was at the junction of SE Marine Way and SE Marine Dr. just short of Boundary Rd., the dividing line between Vancouver and Burnaby. (Past Burnaby was New West.) At this point SE Marine Way went down a hill to the right, while the older SE Marine Dr. continued straight along the high ground. This was an underdeveloped part of the city and there were woods on either side of the wide 6-lane throughfare.

A fluorescent orange sign from some city works department directed:


      <-------- DETOUR

ROAD CLOSED DUE TO FLOODING


One of the militia (from the Westies) flagged them down."The low ground part past here is all flooded out for about five kilometres past here, almost all the way to the Queensboroough Bridge. It'll take us a week to pump it all out and clear the roadway. Not too deep but you can't see anything in your way and you might get stalled out if you go too fast. You'll want to take SE Marine Drive all the way to Southridge, then that turns into 10th Ave. Checkpoint into New West is at 10th and Canada Way."

Team Main Detachment (Kel, Taras etc.)

In New West the standoff was accomplished smoothly. They were still waiting on their new personnel to arrive from UBC. Part of the route, the lowest part closest to the river, was washed out and flooded to at least a couple feet depth. They were arriving now at the detour, it would take them another 10-15 minutes to complete the trip.

In the mean time they were offered some coffee (black or with cream/sugar).
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:28, Thu 06 Aug 2020.

Kel takes the coffee with both cream and sugar.  She wasn't sure where Taras was at the moment (Apparently he is at a cafe?) but in the meantime she would be glad to accept that coffee, with plenty of cream AND sugar, because you didn't know when your next source of any of the three would become available.  Coffee itself was a treat, the only thing in the list that was sustainable was the cream.  Who knows what their source of caffeine was going to be in the future.

"This new boat not bad is it?  I am sure that Alice and I will put those electronics to good use, Darek should be thumping on the main gun, as always."

Once they cleared the the town, Eric slipped off his balaclava.  Now that they were out of the crowded areas, there was less risk of him compromising his undercover persona.  Being outside the town also meant he got behind the gun, watching his surroundings even through it was allegedly a safe zone.  He waved to the passing merchants, the food cart reminding him of how long it had been since he'd had decent tacos.  They made decent time, up to the pre-mentioned detour.  He raised a hand to wave, and they quickly exchanged a few few shouts about the road conditions up ahead, then carried on their way, Eric keeping his position behind the gun as they carried on.

Mac popped up (must have smelled the coffee).

"When do you want your food?" he asked.

"I take my coffee straight, thank you."

Kelsey will snag a cup of 'joe' for Mac and point to the creamer and sugar.

"Enjoy it while you can."

"Mac, we got some people should be here anytime now.  Can you stall so that we can eat together?  Always nice to meet new folks over chow."

"Sure can, Sarge. Thanks..."

Mac took the cup and drank it with evident relish.

Stan finished policing up the billet, he double checked under every bunk, closet, and drawer to make sure that they did not leave anything behind.  He placed Mac's gear next to the door of their room and went out to report to Kelsey.

"We got everything.  Mac's gear is piled up next to the door.", he said.

"Hey, where did you get that coffee? Smells good."

"The coffee fairies came to bless us with their divine... " She chuckles.

"Nice lady with mess came by with a nice big pot, cups, and adds.  She was sort of like a fairy godmother, though, in all the good ways."

"Pull up something under your third point and enjoy some Stan, imagine that Mac is a lovely woman cooking you dinner at some fancy restaurant."

Stan poured himself a cup with a bit of sugar and drank slowly, savoring the rare treat.

"If I'm going to imagine Mac as a lovely woman, there better be some whisky in this coffee."

Mac had a fit of the giggles.

"I don't know about a pretty woman, but maybe I should look for a chef outfit if this is supposed to be a fancy restaurant!" he said when he'd got his breath back.

Eric/Father Nick:

With the newer SE Marine Way flooded, they detoured to go down the older SE Marine Drive. Marine Drive was a narrow 2-lane road along the hillside. Side roads were infrequent.

This part of Burnaby closest to the river was under-developed, with plenty of wood lots uphill to the left and lowlands (mostly farms and a driving range, now flooded) down on their right hand. There was little to see, mostly trees on the hillside side to the left and flooded farmland in the lowlands on the right. Notable was that many of these farms had vegetable and fruit stands along the road, and some had fruit. People waved as they went by. Again, small arms were rare with bows and crossbows predominating supplemented by a handful of civilian hunting rifles and shotguns. Another notable location was the Iscon Hare Krishna temple, again on the downhill side. There was a large vegetable and fruit stand there as well, meaning in drying times it also was a farm. The saffron-robed darker-skinned people manning the booth were unarmed and waved as they drove past. Rachel said, "too bad we can't go along Marine Way because of the flooding. The temple has a 20-foot statue of I guess Krishna out by the road. Swear to God."

Before reaching Southridge drive at the end of Marine Drive they came across a corner grocery store-turned trading post, again with more fruit and vegetable stands outside. Next door was a small gas station with an unfamiliar name, "Fox Gas". They seemed to be running a still of some kind judging from the heavy smell of fermentation and pall of smoke rising from in behind the building. A 1980's era Plymouth Grand Fury in blue-white RCMP livery was getting fueled up at the pump and the uniformed Mountie in an RCMP/GRC vest nodded to them as they rolled by, as did a guard armed with a pump shotgun. There was a radio antenna on the roof and apparently a generator.

</Blue>
Matty, the driver, said, <Blue>"You know, before the war, looking at the map we would have probably taken the freeway, even if it was less direct. But the Trans-Canada passes by Burnaby Mountain. It got nuked due to the Chevron and other refineries all around its base and the freeway is still badly damaged in that area, blocked by trees, debris, burned out vehicles. Believe it or not this way was faster."

At that point they were on Southridge Dr. climbing up towards the checkpoint on 20th St. and the border with New West. Rachel used the truck radio to verify where the team was located and discovered they'd already finished their business at the Westie's armoury and had returned to base outside the New West perimeter. Consequently they avoided entering New West proper, bypassing the checkpoint, and continued along heading towards the team's current base in a prewar high school, Cariboo Hill Senior Secondary.

Main Team Detachment

Having completed their tasks at the armoury, the team grabbed some coffees and hit the road for the quick trip back to their base. This time after they passed through the checkpoint on 6th st. and 10th ave. they continued straight up the hill. There was a strip with some occupied houses and businesses here (India Bombay Bistro, Arwaz Hookah Lounge, Baba Sweets). There were a couple old Sikh men in turbans taking the evening air, walking along the sidewalk as evening fell.

Making it back to base they relaxed for a while as the sun set. They received word the personnel they were waiting for would be arriving soon.

Everyone:

The school was on the crest of a wooded hill (now partially burned out) overlooking a small valley and large hill (Burnaby Mountain) to the north. After being hit by a nuclear strike to take out the several refineries surrounding its base there wasn't a lot to look at anymore.  Sure enough, a green US military Chevy technical with an M2HB mounted on a post in the bed pulled into the school's uphill parking lot. Loaded in the bed was a gunner and a passenger, and... a mule? Lying down patiently. The driver was unfamiliar, but the person riding shotgun was familiar enough.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 42):

The passenger riding shotgun got out. It was Rachel, an RCMP officer that had been assigned to the team and had since gone on to lead the ERT out of the government enclave at the University. Rachel was very familiar to all the older-serving members of the team. She was dressed in plainclothes: not quit casual, more like mercenary casual (boots, cargo pants, dark top, unmarked police-style Kevlar vest). Her RCMP-issue S&W 9mm was in a drop-holster on her thigh.

"Hi guys! Miss me? Love the new base!"

Kelsey pokes her head out of the new LAV at the sound of the vehicle approaching, then breaks into a big grin.  She quickly slides off the side of the LAV and onto her feet.

"Rachel!  What a surprise, what brings you out here?" 

Kel pays no mind to the tactical, the men in it.. or even the mule, she instead chooses to focus only on the passenger, rapidly approaching her.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 44):

Perking up, Rachel sought her out, Smiled broadly walked over, grabbed Kel in a tight hug and said, "hey, I wanted to see you! Khandola told me to take some time off. I don't need to be back at UBC for a couple days at least. I figured, you know, we could spend some time together. And I wanted to see how everyone's doing." Inspector Kam Khandola was her boss at the UBC detachment, and while he expected the best was also considerate of his personnel's needs.
This message was last updated by the player at 19:49, Sun 09 Aug 2020.

Now that the expected addtitions to the team had arrived, Mac kicked into high gear, grilling the hamburgers and as they were ready, building them with what trimmings he'd managed - onions and a slaw, mostly. He also had some baked potatoes wrapped in foil.

Kelsey hugs Rachel back, lingers for a bit before letting her go.

"That's nice of him, tell him thanks for me too.  Bet Mac can set you up with a hamburger too, if you haven't eaten.  They aren't really giving us any time off before we roll out again, but you are welcome to stay a bit if you want."

She finally looks past.

"So.. who brought you here?  That technical our new rig?  Is that a ... mule?"  (She says 'mule' w/ French pronunciation 'MOOle'

She's not complaining about the technical, That's an M2, which speaks with excellent if rare authority around here.  She focuses on the men.. and the mule, and in the absence of Taras she will turn to greet them, but will tug on Rachel's hand a moment to keep her close.

"Gentlemen, I am sergente Champlain, second in command of this little gong show, our commander is Staff Sergeant Shevchenko, who should be back soon.  Introduce and report on your travel."

Where she had spoken casually till now, there was a snap and air of authority to her now.  She is wearing a standard CF infantry uniform with a beret that has a distinctive beaver crest emblazoned 'je me souviens' of the Royal 22nd Van Doos.  (Her glengary being kept in it's hat box for dress uniform wear)

"You need any help with anything Mac?  Feels like I'm just standing around doing nothing."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 47):

"Going someplace? Aw, I thought you'd be staying put for a couple days." She looked genuinely puzzled, obviously word of the team's relocation was news to her.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 47):

The man who most have not met before climbs off the bed of the pickup, after speaking softly to the mule. He towards Kelsey and extends his hand to shake her hand, speaking with a soft german accent;

Hello Champlain, I am Father Nikolaus, but you can call me Father Nick. I am a volunteer from the Red Cross to aid your team. I am a trained to take care of the body and soul of anyone in need. With my I have my mule, Bucephalus. The travels went well, thanks to the expertise and knowledge of my companions. The floods made us take a detour, but that is all. At least to me as a man of the cloth.

She shrugs slightly and shakes her head, looking apologetic.

"Sorry Rachael, last I heard we were rolling out again pretty quick.  But you are welcome to stay until we go.  Taras will have the full brief, maybe we will get a little time to shake down new equipment and get to know each other first."

She turns to the priest and when he takes one of her hands he finds it kinda... like holding a dead fish for a moment until she pulls it away with a bit of a grimace.

"Right... Father..." she closes, opens, closes her mouth.. seemingly at a loss for words.  "I am sure you will be a great comfort to some."  She manages to pull her expression back together into firmness.  "But I'm not Catholic."

Anyone watching won't have to think hard to see that a Catholic priest's mere presence bothers Champlain.  Her name, appearance.. and especially that Van Doos beret point to her being Quebecan, which means she is almost certainly Catholic.  Anyone that knows her would know her sexual orientation would be a reason she does not do well with the Catholic church.

Admittedly, the Canadian church had been more accepting overall... but many individual diocese do not.

NOTE, Kel's dog tags are tucked in her blouse, but her tattoos are very visible.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:56, Mon 10 Aug 2020.

Eric shoved a spent .50 casing under the butterfly trigger of the M2; an improvised safety, then hopped down from the bed, suppressed C8 still slung across his chest.  His entire uniform; from hiking boots to his unusual flecktarn fatigues, to his plate carrier and scrimmed helmet were well-used but also well-maintained.  His RCMP auxiliary windbreaker and credentials hanging around his neck gave away his origin.  He pulled off his PASGT and tucked it under one arm, walking over to Kelsey and shaking her hand as well once she finished with the clergy; a good strong grip.

"Aux Constable Wright.  I'm transferring in from HQ.  One vic, three pax counting me."

Champlain seems to be glad to shift away from the priest and takes Eric's hand in a surprisingly strong grip, especially for a woman, be even for a man.  Though seeing her closer, the woman was exceptionally well fit.

She speaks with a very Canadian English accent, but no trace of a French accent is noticeable.

"Welcome aboard Constable.  Our CO is also RCMP, a Staff Sergeant.  Always good to have you folks, you tend to be better with civilians than us military."

he chuckled a little to himself, not seeming t be bothered by her grip.

"Well, I'm actually a contractor from Ravenwood, not a real cop, but I've done a little of everything.  I'm lucky enough, I guess, to have seen the shit from the private sector, military & police sides." he said with a slight Texas twang.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:43, Mon 10 Aug 2020.

She smiles, but doesn't try to truly test his grip with hers, keeping it friendly.

"Ravenwood, huh?  Professional, certainly."  She smiles oddly.  "As long as... ah.. 'Avoir du front tout le tour de la tête'.. you are not.. impertinent."


She grins.. the translation is something like "To have a forehead around your head".

"Glad to have you aboard, what skills do you have?  Not a one of us wears but one hat."

He didn't shy away from her grip; keeping his poker face, keeping the fine line of neither shirking nor aggressing.

"There's a fine line between confidence & arrogance; experience helps one tell the difference though, eh?" he said with a slight smirk.
"I have a few talents.  I'm good with a longarm or a pistol, plus heavier weapons and a bit of experience on mortars.  Pretty good with open hand, closed hand and close-combat weapons too. Good at skulking about and okay with security systems.  Picked up some demo know-how doing de-mining & local insurgency. Pretty good mind for tactics.  Not to bad at talking to people either.  Or interrogations.  Have a bit of experience instructing combat skills too.  Picked up a trick or two from some cooking classes.  And uh, moy russkiy tozhe neplokhoy."

---

Roughly translated:
'My Russian isn't bad either.'
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:17, Wed 12 Aug 2020.

She smiles, nods.. and shows no signs of understanding the Russian.

"Ah cooking, good.  Go introduce yourself to Mac, our chef.  He is fixing us all up a get to know you dinner."

She holds up one hand.. and did drop the shake at a reasonable time frame.

"How is your fieldcraft?"

"Decent to good.  Same for streetcraft.  Not much point in lugging around a can if you can't creep." he said, rapping his knuckle on his C8 with suppressor & grenade launcher.

He walked back to his truck, and pulled out a beat-up, closed cardboard box, swapping it out for his helmet.

"I expect y'all aren't gonna rat-fuck my truck while I'm working on a meal, right?" he asked with a smirk.

And with that he walked into the billet, seeking out the cook.

---

"Mac?  I'm one fo the new guys, Wright.  They send me to help you out?"

He found Mac quick enough; the sound & smell of cooking a pretty good indicator.  he slid in next to him in the kitchen.  He set his box down on the counter and unfolded the flaps on the top, revealing an eclectic mix of spices & seasonings, scavenged & bartered for.  He looked over at the hamburgers he was measuring out and looked through his box, pulling out a mason jar of dark liquid.

"Some this mixed in with the meat.  That'll add a little somethin' to it.

"Hello," said Mac.

Then he saw the box.

"Wow, that's quite the collection. I just had to make do with what I found here... what's this?"

He sniffed at the contents of the Mason jar.

“It’s more or less Worcestershire sauce.  Homemade by a guy I used to roll with out in Lilloet, so it’s a little stronger than the old-school stuff.  I got some crushed dried garlic in there too.  And some cayenne if your group is up to it.”

Eric moved his slung rifle to hang behind him instead of in front.

“The sauce & some garlic are pretty standard.  Cayenne isn’t, but a little gives it a nice bit of a kick, especially if you even it out with some veggies.”

"I used chopped onion, crushed garlic, and egg along with the mince," said Mac.

"And a dash of mustard. There wasn't much left. Try one..."

He selected a cooked patty off the grill and offered it to the newcomer.

Looks to the woman named Champlain, sensing that there is more to her than what shows. Especially so after seeing how firm her handshake was with his road companion. But. There is a time and place for all things, this was neither to try and understand the painful burden on her soul. He simply smiled and made his excuses to go and tend to Bucephalus.

He knew that when he volunteered for duty tjat he would need to heal both the corporal bodies and souls of those the team met. He did not quite expect that he would need to heam the souls of his team.

Speaking softly to his mule, possibly overheard by those near or with good ears;
"As you carry my burden, I will need to share the burden of my companions."

Keith shrugs his shoulders at Mac and goes to find a seat.

Stan wandered over to where mac was cooking and introduced himself to the new guy.

"Hey there. Stan Abbot. Corporal. Good to have another troop in the squad."

Eric nodded, taking the proffered meat, taking a bit.

"That's good; the mustard is nice." he said, taking another several bites.
"I think I have a little ground mustard seed in there somewhere.  It's really a mix; whatever I could find or barter.  Some homemade concoctions.  And it does generally trend towards my own palate.  Need any help with anything else for the meal?"

Mac grinned.

"Perhaps you'd like to dish up the baked potatoes... they're in there, in foil."

He pointed, then turned to greet the other newcomer.

"Hello, Corp. I'm Mac, sometimes sniper, sometimes cook."

Eric turned to shake Stan's hand, giving him a warm grin.

"Good to meet ya.  I'm glad to be goin' back to the field.  Y'all look like a pretty squared-away bunch."

He turned back, starting on the baked taters as Mac directed.

"Good.  Precision fire makes a difference.  Myself, I do a little of everything.  Mostly a shooter; good on infantry arms up to & including mortars, close combat, plus some fieldcraft & streetcraft, demo, did some instructor time too."

In reply to Christopher Little Hawk MacDonald (msg # 66):
Keith will do as he is asked and dish up the potatoes, and bring them over to the table for everybody to enjoy.

Mac follows with the hamburgers and slaw.

"I can do some more burgers if needed, but for now, let's eat!"

Kelsey Chats with Rachel about what has been going on locally, whether it is new fruits available or real changes she wants to talk.  While engaged with the Asian woman she still monitors her surroundings, at least enough to know when dinner is served.

"Oh potatoes, lovely!  Let's get seated so Iron Chef Mac can wow us with his creations."

She chuckles, and will take a seat at the table (Makeshift or not) with room for Rachel at it.

"They have been conspiring in the kitchen enough to make me wonder about the old too many cooks adage."

She starts prepping her potato with any provided condiments, regardless of what they are, for the most part.

Mac grinned and watched the gang enjoy what he had cooked. That always was a good feeling, seeing people enjoying food you had prepared for them.

And if they had someone else who liked cooking, all to the good. He might pick up some new tricks.

Father Nick smiled as he joined rest of the group to enjoy the food. Shortly after the food was put on the table he made a soft cougg and in a soft voice he spoke:

"With all gathered, new and old faces and companions, may I suggest we say grace before we share this lovely meal?"

He waited a beat, before bowing down his head and clasping his hands.

"Lord, we thank thee for this food we are about to share. May it give us the needed strength to perform our tasks and carry our burdens. May we be able to help thise in need. To shephard the weak and lost. To bring food to those without. May we help spread the light to combat the night upon our lands. May our work be blessed. Amen. Now, let us eat."

He smiled and moved to help the one next to him to get their food.

Kelsey was waiting on everyone to sit before eating herself, and once Father Nick blessed it, she stands and holds up her cup.

"Mac, men, thank you for the fine meal.  Welcome newcomers, and old friends."  She smiles a moment at Rachel, then looks to the new LAV.

"I believe we have decided the name for the Coyote, with a noted exception of someone that wanted 'Ugly', that she is the LAV'in Spoonful II."

She laughs, then holds the cup higher "À ta santé, salut!"  And then takes a drink.

"Let's eat."

It's not alcohol, in fact right now it is just good clean water, but a toast is a toast.  She sits back down.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:57, Thu 13 Aug 2020.

Eric bowed his head, closed his eyes & folded his hands as the Padre blessed their meal.

"Amen." Eric repeated.

He took a bite of his hamburger and then raised his glass for the toast.

"Salud."

He tucked into his meal; his recent activities not providing him many opportunities for good chow.

Mac hadn't noticed that one of the new arrivals was a priest, but when the Father started to say grace he folded his hands and bowed his head. When the prayer was done he crossed himself and said "Amen.

He racked his brains, but even at tribal ceremonies, all he'd ever heard the elders say was 'cheers!' when they toasted, so he contented himself with that.

Orthodox people cross themselves from right to left placing the thumb and first two fingers together in a point, and the last fingers flat against the palm. The three fingers together represent the Holy Trinity - Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and the two fingers in the palm represent the two natures of Christ.

The act of "Placing the cross on oneself" is a request for a blessing from God. The Orthodox way is made from right to left to mirror the actions of the priest upon the blessing. The priest, looking at the parishioners, blesses from left to right. Therefore, the parishioners, putting on the sign of the cross on themselves, do it from right to left.

On a biblical note, because the Lord separated the sheep from the goats, putting the faithful sheep on His right side, and the goats on the left, the Church always treats the right side as the preferred side. Therefore the right hand is used to bless anything from the table to the Ikonostasis or sacred furniture. In the Roman Catholic Church, the faithful crossed themselves from right to left, just as the Orthodox do, until the 15th or 16th century. For Taras, an orthodox raised man, the catholics should explain why they have changed an ancient and apostolic tradition and their motivations. But that was another story, that of a centuries long conflict in the theological realm.

Amen! Sorry for being late. I was trying to find information about a certain soviet submarine that was moored at the Fraser river down below.

To those of you who don't know me my name is Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko, currently a staff Sergeant with the RCMP. Yes, I was a soviet Lieutenant up North before I decided that the war didn't make any sense.

The focus of the government here is to restore normal life and rule of law. Most of our actions here are based on INTEL recollection and police work on criminal elements. Some of these bandits possess a good deal of firepower due to the current situation but there is no war going on here and we must abide by the rules of engagement. It is kind of a grey area and we need to be careful.

After finishing the banquet we can have a briefing about our activities in the community and what the government is asking us to do next. God bless us all.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 76):

A beat-up CF Iltis bearing a female officer and driver pulled into the school's cracked upper parking lot as evening started to shade into night. Leaving her driver to wait, the woman made her way into the school's gymnasium building, waving at the guard as she passed. The gym annex was where the mess and temporary quarters were established, with some offices in nearby classrooms.

She introduced herself to the new arrivals, and warmly greeted Rachel. "Good to see you, although we do see each all the time." She seemed to know all the previous members of the team. She was dressed in older pattern OD green combats with naval rank insignia and a dark blue beret.

"Hello everyone. For those of you who are new, I'm Lieutenant Commander Clarke-Sullivan. I was going to leave it to Staff Sergeant Shevchenko, Taras, to get you organised but I was in the area and wanted to see how things are.

"This will not be a formal briefing but I'll tell you what I can. Currently we are still concentrating our operations along the Lower Fraser river. We are standing up Militia and RCMP formations but training is taking time. We have consolidated downtown Vancouver, East Van and South Van. Burnaby is a mess but slowly coming under greater control. We are taking control of Surrey but it's a large area and our resources are stretched to the max. We have sent a team each into Richmond and Delta. The Fraser River is still at higher than normal levels but the water level is finally receding. Expect considerable damage to structures and roads closer to river level. Some residual flooding remains where normal drainage is impeded (like SE Marine Way). In general we continue to restore civil order and security throughout the city, and continue the IRON program to register and track survivors everywhere we can. But our influence is strongest within 15 km of UBC, around New West and in a corridor connecting them along SE Marine Drive. We still know little about communities on the north shore like North Vancouver and West Vancouver.

"Local militia is being organised into the 3rd Battalion Royal Westminster Regiment, Headquartered here in New West. RCMP detachments are being organised in Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond Delta and Surrey, our HQ is at UBC. The New West police remain independent and we are under negotiations with them to merge departments. The sub is still moored at New West Quay. Some day soon we'll look into towing it to the north shore to repair the bow and screws.

"We had the Hells on the run and now they've largely disappeared. Possibly hiding out in their clubhouse in the Valley, maybe moved across the border, maybe moved up the Fraser valley or up towards Squamish.

"We have heard of another large, well-organised outlaw motorcycle gang operating somewhere in the Valley. It's not known if they are affiliated with one of the "Big Four" international Outlaw Motorcycle Clubs (OMCs): HAs, Outlaws, Bandidos or Pagans. They could also be independents like the Satan's Choice. Or keeping their loyaties hidden.

"There are still street and other criminal gangs operating all throughout the Lower Mainland but the ones in the areas we control are laying low. These are a collection of prewar gangs and new ones have formed for both local protection and extortion, and low-level robbery. There is rumour that a gang is targeting travellers along the Trans-Canada from Surrey to Abbotsford. Speaking of Abbotsford there is a new militia there that is not government affiliated but that's all we know.

"As for the war, such as it is, Soviet forces are known to be on Vancouver Island and Bella Coola but no conventional units are within a couple hundred kilometres of here. However we suspect GRU and KGB teams have infiltrated the area, gathering intelligence. Occasionally the Soviets jam all radio communications, for unknown reasons. One New America cell was destroyed (by you) over a month ago. It's unknown if they were from Alberta or Utah, all of them were killed or committed suicide.

"That's the situation as it stands. Due to the nature of your unit I won't lay out a formal operational order, more let you know my priorities.

"You have three directives: Move the Coyote and supporting vehicles to Fort Langley Historical Site (this can be now, after dark or this morning). Second, locate what we suspect is a rogue American unit operating on the wrong side of the border. This shouldn't be too difficult as they are on foot, apparently accompanied by some large animal, probably an elephant. Detain only as warranted if violent crimes are committed. Otherwise if these are US Army units loyal to the Junta we more want them to return home with the message they are to respect our national border and sovereignty. And third, confiscate all contraband and banned weapons. Recover all stolen property. We think they stole, or maybe rustled, two African elephants and assaulted the caretaker for the fort, Old Willie.

"So move to the fort, stop the Americans before they cross the border, and get back our elephants."

Calling "Old Willie" a caretaker was a bit of a stretch but to tell the truth he'd taken great care of the fort, maintaining and even improving it. He'd installed solar cells, a greenhouse and repaired the fort's well. He'd also welcomed the team there and said anything they wanted was theirs, he'd served in the army (PPCLI) and wanted to help any way he could. Now he was recovering in hospital so someone would need to keep an eye on the place!
This message was last edited by the player at 09:18, Mon 17 Aug 2020.

Excellent. Thank you, Commander Clarke!

Orders so far are clear. We need to move out to our new location in Fort Langley. Kel, you'll be in charge of preparing march orders for the convoy.

I guess once we settle there we will have to prepare searching patrols for that rogue band with the elephants. Luckily we have proper personnel and equipment for the task.

A sniper team will be needed once we can establish the whereabouts of the bad guys and routes to keep an eye as well as rovide fire support if needed.

I have in mind to try and get in touch with that non affiliated militia in Abbotsford, is pretty much our next Area of Operations and they may have a good deal of intel of the area and what is going on in their turf.

Any questions or ideas?

A wave and a smile to Andrea when she entered, a soft greeting.

"The times of the move all have advantages and disadvantages.  We've been out in it a bit, and life has been rough.  A tiny bit of downtime would be welcome, and if we obviously occupy the fort in daylight it might inspire a bit more confidence with civilians.  Let's sleep in our bunks tonight and hit it early in the morning."

She gestures at in imaginary map in her head.

"My crew has already attempted tracking these pachyderm nappers, and I think broadcasts and witnesses might be a better angle for us to work now.  I think they may be already back on the other side of the border already, but we can't be certain."

She furrows her brow.

"The old fort should provide a decent perimeter, but if we can bring along lots and lots of sandbags, I would like them."

She looks to the Colonel.

"Ma'm, you got some for us?"

"Ma'am, in the 'Valley, are you talkin' 'bout the Razorbacks?  They can be a bit ornery.  As for that group of my countrymen wanderin' around, I don't 'spose you have any idea of their unit?  I threw my lot in with a few of them once upon a time.  Might be helpful to have a known quantity make contact, if that turns out to be the case." he said with a bit of a Texas twang.

He took a large bite of his burger, chewing & swallowing for a pause.

"Daytime move would be my choice as well.  If it was a movement to contact, the element of surprise would outweigh the safety issue, but for an admin move I don't think the risk would be worth it, especially hauling along a heavy cargo truck like that out there.  I did take a moment to check out some topos from the fort.  Woodline is a bit close for my liking, but if we pull some of that down to extend the field of fire we'll have some decent lumber to work with for shoring up the defenses."

He realized that the Colonel had left out a few other details, but figured she must have had a good reason to do so.  He didn't want to let her cat out of the bag.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:21, Tue 18 Aug 2020.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 78):

Clarke-Sullivan looked a little surprised at the suggestion of putting off travel in favour of a day march. "Really? Ok."

"We can get all the sandbags you need back at the Westie's armoury.

"If they elephant-nappers are on foot, and they left today, they must be travelling pretty quick to make the full distance of 25 km in less than a day. My suggestion is don't let them cross the border if you can help it."

She nodded at the mention of the Razorbacks. "That was one name we'd heard but we weren't sure, glad you're confirming it.

"One other thing I should mention is that we are not expecting to see a lot in the way of armed citizenry. Up in "the Bush", places like Lilloet, practically everyone has a long arm for hunting. Also, a lot of the fighting occurred in the Bush so I'd expect a lot of scavenged rifles and so on. But almost no fighting happened here, long arms were rare and handguns very rare before the war. Therefore I expect the heaviest armed groups to be OMCs like the HAs and groups that have incorporated ex-soldiers and deserters. Some of the better-armed street gangs and bandits will have an assortment of firearms, with a few submachineguns and police weapons thrown in. Less successful gangs and criminals, like ordinary citizens, probably will be armed with bows and crossbows, knives and blunt weapons. We expect handguns to be rare. And be on the lookout for exceptions. It might be someone made a lucky trade for an M16 or AK or is an ex-soldier. Or gangs might be looking to take advantage of an open market for weapons."

This was the first time she alluded to the undercover operation that Koldan and Tyler had been engaged with for the last month or so, since before the Great Fraser flood. And although most of the personnel were familiar with how the locals would be armed it was good to have a reminder. Before the war per-capita firearm ownership was even a bit higher than the USA, at least in rural areas due to the prevalence of hunting and defending against wildlife. But it was completely the opposite in urban areas, there were far fewer guns per capita. Either way, almost no hanguns. Perhaps this had changed?

"Hmmmm... time to go Elephant hunting, it seems."

(Retcon Alert!)


"Right, Colonel.. can those sandbags be sent on to us?  Sounds like we need to pack and roll.  Folks, bring it all, sounds like we have a new home for a while.  Bring your racks, fart sacks, and spare clothes and such."

She nods to Rachel.

"Catching a ride back with the Colonel, or do we get an extra mountie along for free?  I got a spare seat in the spoonful, in the rear with the radio gear if you are so inclined.  I am sure we will have a supply run soon enough."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:45, Tue 18 Aug 2020.

Thomas helped with the loading of any cargo for the humvee and if anyone else needed a hand getting things stowed away on the other vehicles. Then he took a moment for a smoke while standing next to the drivers door, looking out over the surrounding area as he did so.


-

Eric quickly finished up the food he had in front of him, then started for the parking lot.

"Is anyone good with elephants?  I mean, I've seen pissed longhorns, and I wouldn't want to deal with one of those, much less something weighing two plus tons.  And I assume they'd need to be ridden or lead back on foot too?  I mean, maybe one of them could fit in the back of the cargo truck there, but probably not both as once."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 82):

"I don't have anything planned for the next few days. If the Colonel can clear it with my boss I can hang out, then come back. I've got my uniform and everything I might need with me. I could pick up a shotgun from the New West Police while I'm here, but other than that I'm good."

Such a large and colorful parade cannot go incognito for long. I'm sure we can find some neighbors familiar with that sight. We'll need to put boots on the ground and gather information from the local sources.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 23:52, Tue 18 Aug 2020.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 82):

"If you want to get going right away I can send the sandbags on later.

"Sundown is in 15 minutes or so at 2100. If you are going at midnight that gives them a few hours to scrounge up a couple hundred for issue at the Westies' armoury if you are leaving at 0000 hours.

"And yes, I can have a talk with Inspector Khandola. Kam owes me one, I can make this happen if he's got nothing planned."

"Rache, go ahead and take care of it, thank you colonel, and we will get the rest ready to go."

She stands.

"Mac, and Eric.. that was a fine meal.  That was a nice change up."  She smiles faintly just a moment.

"Mister Wright, I believe I will enlist the aid of the ones that have already figured it out when we catch them.  It's the least they can do."

Quickly finishing what was on his plate, Keith collects his trash and throws it out before going to get his gear and then help get the team gear packed and stowed.

"Where do you need me?"

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 88):

"Good, I'll head down now to the armoury and arrange for sand bags to be ready. What time are you moving out?"

In reply to Eric C. Wright (msg # 84):


Stan finished the last bite of his meal and gave Mac a smile and a thumbs up.

"I'm ok with horses.  I'm not sure how that would translate to an elephant but I guess we'll see what happens. I went to a circus once and the handler just used a stick.  Maybe we can herd them with vehicles.", Stan added.

I will suggest sun up for departure.

Taras wasn't too worried about the move, while crime was a reality a convoy with the size and muscle of this outfit was going to be a force to reckon with.

Kelsey shakes her head.

"We should roll out as soon as possible.  Finish your meals and relax a bit, then pack and do checks.  If we can be out of here in a few hours I consider it ideal."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 93):

"I'll be the tie-breaker, then.

"It's coming on 2100. Go in a few hours, around midnight. Your base could be ransacked by morning. I'll have the sandbags organised by then. Take the Patullo bridge route. That way if you are seen you could be heading into Surrey and not the Langley area.

"Get an early start. Look for those elephants."

"I know these particular elephants. I'm happy around them," said Mac, busy clearing the table.

"I'm glad you enjoyed the meal. No reason why we cannot have a decent meal when in camp... and I enjoy cooking. Glad to take on that task, and although I've just met him, it seems that Eric is interested in the culinary arts too... Maybe we can take turns, or work together to provide meals."

"Thank you Mac, bring what you need to our new camp, looks like it will be home a while.  We need to get it moving quick, though."

"Your gear is stacked up in the barracks, Mac.", Stan said.  "Need a hand?"

"You packed for me? Thank you, Stan. No, I can manage, I think."

Mac started to think about anything else he might need, and the chances of finding it and, er, liberating it from here before they left.

Kelsey finishes up dinner and with Rachel in tow will grab supplies for both of them, she leaves little behind, then again she had very little to begin with since she was TDY to this area when the balloon went up to begin with.

She loads up and goes back to checks on the Coyote, possibly with Rachel or the rest of the crew to help.  Some surprises are nice, but none are nice on equipment you stake your life on, and she had both mechanical and electrical expertise.

"Well, I'm already packed & loaded, so where can I lend a hand?" he asked as he happily finished up his dinner.

Barring that, he'd go back to his technical & do radio checks & prepare for the trek to their new base of operations.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 99):

Telephone service was being restored to parts of the city. A line now connected New West to UBC, and another connected the base to New West. But such a line could be tapped so anything remotely sensitive still went by encrypted radio.

Using the base's radio set Clarke-Sullivan cleared Rachel for a 3-day secondment to the team, which could be shortened if needed or possibly extended if required. She also arranged for sandbags to be picked up at the Westies' armoury whenever they came by.

"Ok, you are all set. Good luck, anything else I can do for you?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:35, Thu 20 Aug 2020.

We are going a bit into the unknown here. The conquer of the West, in reverse, very much in the same direction as the Russian conquest of Siberia. Lets try to keep a quick reaction force from the RCMP on hand just in case, should we?

The idea of occupying a colonial fort remained taras of the Ostrog, a Russian term for a small fort, typically wooden and often non-permanently manned. Ostrogs were encircled by 4–6 metres high palisade walls made from sharpened trunks. The name derives from the Russian term strogat, "to shave the wood". Ostrogs were smaller and exclusively military forts, compared to larger kremlins that were the cores of Russian cities. Ostrogs were often built in remote areas or within the fortification lines.

Tht reminded him something from the past, nearly two million Ukrainian peasants settled in Siberia between the 1600s and 1917. In the 19th century, the government of Russia encouraged (forced) peasants to move from the western parts of the empire to Siberia. Ukrainian peasants, not as burdened by the traditional Russian communal system of agriculture as the Russian peasants had been, seemed ideal candidates for resettlement, often more willing to go in return for the promise of more land (not being killed).

From the 17th century, after the start of the Russian conquest of Siberia, the word ostrog was used to designate the forts founded in Siberia by Russian explorers. Many of these forts later transformed into large Siberian cities. Not unlike Langley and Fort Langley but definitely without the social engineering of Stalin behind.

When later Siberia became a favourite destination for criminals sent there to serve katorga, Siberian ostrogs became associated with imprisonment, and in the 18th and 19th centuries the word ostrog often meant prison. Hopefully this time the base will be more of liberating factor.

She frowns at Taras, wondering what he is talking about.. as usual.

"It's not unknown, in fact we have gear there and we need to hurry up and secure it before it walks off."

She turns to the men.

"If we are as close to ready as I think I want the cargo to head and pick up the sandbags in ten mikes, and the rest of us will be along in about thirty.  That even gives everyone time to go use the nice toilet if they need to, but the fort has hot water and electricity, so while a bit remote it is nice digs."


She raises her voice.

"MOVE IT!"

She pauses, seeing if that sunk in.

"We had a nice break, now it is time to work again."

"Thirty mikes, check." he said, and looked to his watch, checking what their SP time was.

He double-checked his gear & tie-downs, and made sure that Matty got a burger too.  He ran radio checks with his vehicle radio & tac-radio, making sure they were received on the party's other radios.  He did a bit more work, noting Rachel moving her gear to the coyote, then reported over to Kels.  Taras may be the one in charge theoretically, but she seemed to be the one giving the orders.

"Ma'am, I got one vic, three pax, one fifty-cal; the Padre should fit up front if he wants or could cross-load.  We got positive radio check on your primary freq using Saber & vic radio.  Do y'all have contact & recovery SOPs in place?"

"Roger, I run our net on this team frequency, and I can set your scrambler.  I keep it tight."

She pulls out a rare piece of paper and hands him the current list of call signs she had worked out.

"Don't go leaving that anywhere.  Destroy it once you have it memorized.  You got that.. mule in hand?"

Mac collected his gear and some kitchen basics (making sure not to denude the place of everything, he wasn't a locust, but some pots and knives and other tools would sure come in handy if he was becoming the detachment's cook!)

"Let's get it done then." he said, starting to memorize the freq-list.
"I think perhaps the Padre & his burro should ride with the cargo truck.  If we catch contact, I don't want livestock freakin' out & kickin' about while I'm tryin' to run a .50-cal."

"The Cargo is a much taller truck then... Alright, I am putting you in charge of working it out with the padre."

She pulls out a map and plops it on the table.  It's worn, and out of date.. with pencil on it marking changes to the landscape and notes.

"OK, technical, I want you leading the column by a bit of a lead.  Use regular headlights, you look like a normal pickup at night, we will use that to our advantage.  Next comes the LAV, then big cargo hauler running blackout drive, in the middle like eggs in a basket, and I want the Hummer to lag to the rear, also in blackout drive."

She looks around.

"Who has night vision for gunners and drivers?"


"Also, questions, comments, suggestions?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:46, Fri 21 Aug 2020.

Not bad. Just ensure we have enough clearance for the vehicles. Also, make sure we are not over the weight for any bridge. Remember the Lions Gate bridge? The LAV couldn't make it, too heavy. Only 13 tons.

0100

GM Note: I'm pretty sure everyone (drivers and gunners) has NVGs. The Coyote of course has low light vision for the driver, thermal channel for the gunner and TC.

Canadian units were known to always get off the start line quickly. This time was no exception and they bade their base a farewell in the darkness. The small convoy made its way downhill from Caribou hill towards New West. They stopped at the armoury to pick up the sandbags, then continued down towards the river and the Patullo Bridge. While they were crossing they saw next to the road bridge the Skytrain light transit bridge. Down below that and a little downriver was the Russian sub that was moored off Front st. and the Quay.

Some of the team had seen it, those who hadn't had heard rumours about it. It was black and massive. Cables and lines were rigged between it and shore, apparently its nuclear power plant supplies a good deal of electricity to the city although that might just be a rumour.
At this hour there was no activity although work was apparently being done at both the stern and bow, the latter covered by scaffolding. The flag that flew was not the Soviet naval flag but a design more like the British Union Jack (diagonal lines over a cross). The flag that flew from its bridge was a tricolour with a 2-headed eagle. Soon, it was out of sight on the dark river.

Once they crossed through the checkpoint at the far side of the bridge. Making their way, lights out, they traveled through pitch black streets up King George highway. Eventually they crossed over to the Trans-Canada highway and rolled down the empty freeway, dodging the handful of abandoned and stripped vehicles that remained. Some where pulled off to the side, some still sitting where they stalled. Moving cautiously they traversed the 30km route in about a half hour. There were no surprises and they rolled up on schedule at 0130.

They turned off the highway and made their way towards the river along 88 Ave. They mostly passed by empty farmland, trees and an overgrown golf course. Eric's headlights eventually illuminated the dark houses of the tiny township of Fort Langley and at the far side overlooking the river, the wooden palisade of the fort.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:28, Mon 24 Aug 2020.

This conversation would have taken place probably before we rolled out.  Then affirmed on arrival.

"OK, I need a squad of dismounts to clear the base... piece by piece.  Eric, I will put you and Stan on that, I need you to hit the ground when we stop.  Keith, I need you with that team too."

"Once we have at least a rudimentary clear of the base I want the squishier vehicles in the gates, followed last by the LAV.  Eric if you want that tactical and her Ma Deuce in there to start, go for it.  I can join the foot squad as need.  Once we are in Rachael and I can secure the gate.. .then we go over this place with a fine toothed comb before settling in, I will get the power online and we set up camp."


OOC:  Eric, essentially putting you in charge of clearing the Fort.  If you need more folks or support speak up.

Tara's was taking notes along the way to fill a report regarding the road conditions. A seemingly menial task yet useful from the road engineering aspect of the IRON program.

Concentrating on driving and the somewhat strange sensation of doing it with NVG's on Thomas did not notice most of what they passed. When they saw the small town he had a look to see if he could spot any smoke from fires that would indicate the town was not as deserted as they had been told.

He then waited in the vehicle while the fort was secured and cleared.


-

"Given all that, I'd prefer it if I could get someone to gun on my truck while I ride TC, so I can dismount without losing firepower.  I'd also like to have one or two more peeps to clear a multi-room, multi-story structure, but I suppose we get what we get, huh?" Eric said back at the fort as he prepared his gear for the ride & room-clearing.

"Andrews, you care to tip your toe in the action then?  I will block anyone stealing your vehicle with the LAV."

Stan got his instructions over the radio.  He put the big truck in park and shut it down.

"She's all yours, Mac.", he said as he grabbed his carbine and climbed down from the cab and went forward to the LAV for more info.

"Right you are then..." Andrews exited the vehicle and slung his carbine as he donned his assault vest and zipped it up. A quick check of his gear and he walked over to the rest of the team getting ready to clear the fort.


-

"Okie dokie, Stan. Enjoy your stroll," said Mac, waking up and taking notice. He put his NVGs on and started to scan his surroundings.

Kelsey slipped down into the electronics area, and started firing up any transmission detection.

Eric had his driver, Matty, switch to black-out drive one kilometer out, radioing for the other vehicles to do the same, and then had her fully stop 500m from the target.  He stepped out, grabbing a couple minor items and the thermal scope from under the apssenger's seat.

“Alright gents.  As you know, we’re moving in to secure an abandoned fort for use as a patrol base.  I’ll take point, then Abbot, then Andrews on sweep.  We’ll come through the door as a file, then fan out to a wedge as we move to clear.  Andrews, with that battle rifle, I want you on cover duty, while me & Abbot clear rooms with our carbines; we’ll work clockwise from the gate.  We’re close to a settlement, so there’s a chance of locals onsite, ID your targets before you shoot, but if we take fire, smoke’em up.  This close in if we catch contact we’ll put fire down & assault.  If it’s too heavy, we pop smoke & bound back to the gate, where the vics will meet us with machine guns.  If we take a casualty, we pop smoke & who ever’s closest will snatch them up for evac while the other suppresses..

He patted his pocket, making sure his smoke grenade was still in place.

“And as always, light & noise discipline.  No light if you help it, definitely no white light.  Speaking only when necessary, use hand signals otherwise.  We all got radios too, so that’ll keep us in touch if we have to split up.  If we have to E&E, RP will be here, where we're dismounting.  Anybody got questions?”

He waited for questions, if any were coming.

“Outstanding.  Let’s go.”

Eric flipped down his NODs, put his rifle to his shoulder & started towards the gate.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:09, Wed 26 Aug 2020.

Abbot shook his head.  "Sounds good. Maybe see if they can scan the buildings around us with thermal.  Help figure out if anyone is hiding out before we get to them.", was his reply.

"Good call."

He kept his rifle to his shoulder as he keyed his radio.

+"Any Knight-element this is Bishop-Actual, can you put that cherry-picker up & check the thermal?  Over."+ he asked quietly.

He started them all out towards the objective, got about 100m from the vehicles then stopped for a moment, signalling them all to take a knee.  He spent several moments in silence, letting his ears & other senses adjust to the norm around him, letting him better able to pick out anything unusual.  From there, he used his 4x thermal scope (Mag-1) to scan the fort & some of the surrounding terrain.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:11, Wed 26 Aug 2020.

A soft chuckle on the radio as Kelsey was already in the process of extending the boom.  She 'uncaps' the visual elements as well.

"Bishop, this is Knight Actual.  Give me a Mike, and I will have your eyes."

"You heard the man, let's get frosty."


OOC:  Extending surveillance suite, focusing on intercept on radio and direction finder.. and most certainly after a thermal picture of that compound and the surrounding area.

I rarely roll unless told specifically to roll.

Bigger than I thought. That's a real piece of History right there...

The ukrainian got out of the vehicle with a quick press he released the folding stock of the AKSU and behind the humvee engine compartment kept an eye on the fort and surroundings.

Abbot gave his carbine a quick check to make sure he had a round chambered and put it on safe.  He flipped down his NODS and fell in line with Wright.

Kelsey spares a moment for Taras.

"Most of it is a... re-creation, new.  Makes it useful."

Of course, I remember the old Wild West movies... Indians and cowboys. The final frontier, the gold rush... do you think it will be safe to move in?

"Should be, there was someone living here until yesterday.... caretaker of sorts."

Hmm.. good. This is quite an strategic spot. Near the river and well defended. What was good centuries ago still relevant. I'm sure the fort can make a great home for us.

In reply to Eric C. Wright (msg # 122):

The Cougar was situated where it could see a good deal of the fort, at least from the south side. The mast was extended, FLIR, LLTV and radar active. As well, Eric was watching the south entry using his handheld FLIR viewer. The wooden walls hid anyone inside from direct view. It didn't look like anyone was inside either watch towers by the NW gate.

They could both see the gate was open. Inside a pickup truck was parked, facing inwards. It was off but it was still warm from the heat signature. There were handheld lights on inside the compound.

Around the humvee Sgt. Shevchenko, an avid chess player was ruminating his thoughts aloud:

Castle early, my friends. It brings the king to safety and a rook to the center.

A sound strategy indeed, as leaving the king in the middle of the board by failing to castle is the most common cause of disaster in the opening of a game of chess. In the West, the rook is almost universally represented as a crenellated turret. One possible explanation is that when the game was imported to Italy, the Persian rukh or chariot was confused with the Italian word rocca, meaning fortress. Another possible explanation is that rooks were thought to represent siege towers ("torre", meaning tower, in Italian, Portuguese and Spanish, "tour" in French and "toren" in Dutch). Curiously, the Russian name for the rook ("ladya") means a ship or boat. Which made the close proximity to the Fraser river quite the allegoric image.


After defeating Petrosian in my hometown Odessa, Grandmaster Viktor Korchnoi, in his 1974 Candidates final match with Anatoly Karpov, asked the judge if castling was legal when the castling rook was under attack and he said YES! Korchnoi executed the move, and Karpov resigned shortly after... Korchnoi won that battle but Anatoly Karpov won the war after 24 games and a great victory which led him to the title of World Champion.

Indeed, Karpov took the crown by default when Bobby Fischer refused to defend it in 1975. Korchnoi, in similar fashion to Taras, defected from the USSR shortly after in 1976. That was probably one strong reason that made Taras remember such a particular player and game.

King 1 to Knight 1, please notify when clear to make our first move.

"We might want to fairly warn a few members of the public that we are re-occupying this place.  No Need to hurt anyone unnecessarily."

Agreed, this place doesn't look like the Hell's Angels watering hole. Let's wait and see for our scout.

"It looks like some folks saw it was abandoned and they decided to see what they can pick up.  May not be bad people, but they are not leaving with our stuff.  I think we should advise them to come out with hands up.. isn't that how it works?  Rather then have them getting shot up, and our new base."

Post changed to put the security team in full charge of the operations.


Meanwhile, Kelsey continues to try to pick up any communication or information.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:37, Thu 03 Sept 2020.

Suddenly, Eric, at the front of the formation, held up his hand, flat, and slowly took a knee.  He turned back to the others, pointed to his eyes, then to the fort, using hand signals to show one vehicle and multiple dismounts on the target.

+All Knight, King and Rook elements, this is Bishop One.  One pick-up truck, multiple dismounts, with lights, on target.  Can't tell more at this range.  Moving closer to observe.  Have QRF mounted & ready to roll if we catch shit.  If you get any video data, pass it on; otherwise, Bishop One out.+ he said quietly into his radio mic.

He turned back to the others with him.

"Don't know who's up there.  Could be curious locals, could be scavs, could be the US deserters back to finish the job.  Don't shoot first, but if someone pops off, end it." he whispered.

"Bishop 1, Knight 1 acknowledges, be safe.  out."

"Bishop 1, Rook 2. Maintaining overwatch from vehicle, can move to support if required," said Mac, checking his longarm. It was ready (of course!) but another check never went amiss.

In reply to Eric C. Wright (msg # 135):

Abbot gives Eric quick thumbs up and turns his attention back to watching his sector for threats.

Any weapons on the dismounts?

Kel, having set up surveillance moves to man her co-ax.

She whispers over to Taras.

"We will know when we know, Taras.  Let the man do his job."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 140):

Inside the fort, someone got into the truck, started it up, and drove it further inside out of view. The gate was left open and ungarded.

Kel had the radio monitoring slaved through her headset and she could also monitor the FLIR and LLTV from her station (but not radar). She could see the above as well. There was no radio traffic so they must be communicating directly. To her there also appeared to be no one outside the fort nor in the watch towers closest to the river.

GM Note: With the mast fully deployed the Cougar can only travel slowly, and hope there are no phone lines still up. For the QRF I would imagine the semi-armoured Humvee would be best (7.62mm) while the Cougar (20mm/7.62mm) and technical (.50) provide fire support.

With a vehicle up & moving around inside the compound,t hat did increase the risk level if these people were hostile.  He moved his hand slightly to the extra weight of the M203 clamped under his carbine, loaded with an HEDP round, just in case.

He gestured the group forward, slowly, wanting to keep the element of surprise to be able to surveil the scene before taking action; to find out who & what they were dealing with.

---

Eric is going to push up to the gate (using fieldcraft), with Abbot & Andrews trailing him in a tight wedge.  His intention is to observe & figure out who & what is going on.

Thomas followed the hand signalled orders and stopped when it became apparent they were not alone. He raised his shouldered weapon and covered his assigned sector as it was decided what their course of action would be.

When they headed off again Andrews orientated his weapon forward as he followed the team leader.


-

"OK, I feel good they are not talking on band.  Let's drop the mast and move up to support.  On the bounce."

She wants that done as fast as possible and get into position.

"This is Knight one, lowering the mast to move up.  Wait for me if you can."

OOC:  Time to move from snoop to support.  Guess she wanted to try out the toy.  If it is not fully secure.. that is ok, she just wants a good firing position.

Abbot followed Wright in formation, careful not to make any noise.

In reply to Eric C. Wright (msg # 142):

By the time the dismounts moved up, the mast was retracted and the surveillance gear was unhooked and stowed (loose) in the rear of the Cougar. Any offroad might damage the gear but street movement wouldn't be a problem. Mercredi slowly moved up to the corner, bringing the dismounts and the gate into full view.

Eric and the dismounts moved up to the gate. There was no reaction from inside and he was pretty sure he hadn't been spotted. They could hear voices from inside, not an alarm but people trying to coordinate some kind of activity. As well, they could hear a vehicle engine quietly idling.

GM Note: Dismounting the mast shouldn't take more than a few minutes if you rush it. Practice will make this better! At a cautious pace from the dismounts you should still have time.

Over the in vehicle communication system she broadcasts.

"Mercredi, get us in a good place to cover that whole area, I got the coax.  Sochaki, weapons loose, I trust you to find an appropriate target if needed, but conserve ammo if the coax can handle it.  Do move the turret and aim though, so they understand, yes?"


Over main radio.  Once fully in position to cover.

"Knight is in Position.  Bishop 1, would you like me to shine some light on this.. on your mark.  Knight is weapons loose."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 147):

The Cougar started moving down the street as the crew acknowledged the orders.

Due to the trees lining Hudson's Bay St they were unable to find a hull-down position that also had the fort in sight. Finally, they stopped at the intersection of Francis Ave. and Hudson Bay St. From there they could just see part of the Fort's wooden palisade wall by looking down the street.

"Once Bishop encounters resistance, I want up there pronto.  There is a risk, but... "

She shrugs, not that anyone can see.

"But on my order."


Time for the waiting game.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 149):

Looking through the night-vision blocks Alice out the Cougar into gear. "Moving up. Not finding a good hull-down position that also had any view of the fort, she turned left onto Hudson's Bay St. From there they had the narrowest profile facing the fort although with a somewhat limited view. She crept up about 20m or so from the corner until she could see more. "Stopping".

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 147):

As they moved, Darek slewed the turret to keep it pointed in the direction of teh fort. "Traversing!" Darek swung the Coyote's turret so it was facing front as they stopped. He selected 25mm HEI-T and activated the sight's thermal channel. "25 milimeter Fragmentation up... selecting 7.62 millimeter." He flipped the thumb switch so the trigger would only fire the co-axial MG.

"Contact on thermal. I see three friendlies to the left of the fort entrance. Range 400 metres. No enemies visible." He could see Eric's team to left of the gate as they prepared to enter the fort.

https://www.google.com/maps/d/...95643049791&z=16

“Alright, I’m gonna move up & ID myself.  You two stay on overwatch.  Andrews, if that vehicle comes at us, hit it with .308.” he whispered

He crouched down and pulled his RCMP Aux ID, hanging from a beaded chain with his dog tags, outside his fatigues, then keyed his radio.

+Knight One, Bishop One.  If you can put that light on my back, I would much oblige.  Also suggest you move a blocking element to the west entry to round up any squirters.  Regardless, standby your light for my mark.  And if someone starts popping off, ride to the rescue.+

Slowly he moved as close as he could through the dark gates, moving to some partial cover where he had a decent field of vision to those inside.  He scanned with his NODs again, trying to see what he was up on now that he was inside the fort; how many & how armed.

"Roger that, Bishop 1"

"King element, this is Knight Actual, move to block the side road, I will put the spotlight on Bishop while moving up."

Internal:

"OK, slow and steady forward."

As she does, she moves to bring the spot light up and on Bishop 1.  (I am pretty sure we have one.. if not we go to our vehicle lights.)

King moving to Royal and Mary.

"Ah, Knight 4 this is King 3.

"Please get over here, we need a driver."

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 155):

"Roger, wait for me."

She dismounted the Cougar and ran back to the Humvee, mounting up in the driver's seat and checking he map.

Putting the Humvee in gear she moved out, heading towards the indicated way point.

GM Note: Getting into position will take several minutes at least!
This message was last edited by the player at 22:39, Mon 14 Sept 2020.

In reply to Eric C. Wright (msg # 153):

Moving through the gates, Eric could see there was a Ford F-150 parked just on the far side of the house, with the tailgate sticking out on the right. There was no one in view as they carefully made their way inside.

A man walked around the side of the house and lowered the tailgate. Then by pure chance flicked his flashlight over at the gate and recoiled in surprise as he illuminated Eric, Andrews and Abbot as they were moving inside. "Holy shit! I got three guys comin' in the gate!" He did not appear to be armed and bhe turned to run.

+Mark!+ he radioed.

"RCMP!  Halt and Identify yourself!" Eric shouted, putting his rifle's sights on the runner, just in case.

Obviously scared, the young man stopped and put his hands up. "Uh, shit, I'm Dylan Tillsly. We weren't doing anything, man. Don't shoot!" Behind him they could hear the truck doors slamming and the engine revving as it pulled out, going away from them.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:48, Sat 19 Sept 2020.

Thomas maintained watch on his sector and waited as the situation seemed to kick off. If required Andrews would help with securing the prisoner and/or provide over watch for those that do.

With the truck exiting the fort Andrews would let it go unless it started back towards the group.



-
This message was last edited by the player at 02:35, Mon 21 Sept 2020.

Stan keyed his radio. ["Block the gates, the truck is running."]

He raised his carbine and aimed at the truck.

Eric kept one eye on the man in front of him & watched his surroundings with the other.

“Lay down on your stomach!  Hands on top of your head!  Interlace you’re fingers!  Cross your ankles!”

He heard Abbot radio for the truck to move into a blocking position, so he didn’t need to.

“How many more of you are there?  What are you here for?  What’s on the truck?”

Taras directed his gunner, Tremblay, to keep an eye in the possible runner.

If needed, shoot at the engine block. We have a blocked pawn here after all. It is a well known positional idea to blockade the opponent's passed pawn.

Also over the radio network:

King to elements. Lets try to keep our ROE, we want to keep it civil if possible catching this fish.

A "blocked pawn" is a rather general term that describes a pawn that cannot advance. It can be blockaded by either an opponent's piece or pawn, and in certain rare cases it can be blocked by a fellow pawn as it is known as doubled pawns. But this time a more powerful knight element was bringing superior game to the board. Perhaps the most common example of a blocked pawn is one that is isolated like in this case. The virtual elimination will open the way for effective castling in the Fort.

Mac clambered over into the driving seat of the 10-ton truck, fired it up and moved it to block the "visitor's" truck from leaving the compound. Not being a chess player, he was getting a bit confused by Taras' constant references, but the need was clear.

"King, this is Rook. Moving to block," he said over the radio.

He checked that the headlights were on. He wanted the truck to be obvious!

"I want all headlights on, now!"

She hoped it would cause the pickup to realize he was trapped, and maybe avoid property damage and loss of life.  There was no need for that.

The humvee illuminated the approach from its assigned corner. Taras also flicked the hazard lights for effect.

In reply to Eric C. Wright (msg # 163):

The man complied, lying down face-first.

"Uh, ok! Don't shoot, don't shoot! There's three of us. Nothing's in the truck! We were just checking the place out!"

The Cougar's headlights came on, illuminating Hudson's Bay St. and the southernmost entrance.

At the intersection of Royal ST. and Mary Ave. the Humvee could clearly see the southernmost entrance. But the northwestern entrance was about 200m away, obscured by the overgrown bushes and trees of the once-manicured lawn between what would have been the main tourist entrance and the visitor centre and parking lot. They could see headlights through the trees there It looked like the truck was going to make a run out the northwestern entrance. And they were out of position to block it.

GM Note: Mac has two options for how to get the 10-ton over towards the NW entrance. He can go straight, then turn left onto Hudson's Bay St. That would mean going around the Cougar, which was sitting in the middle of the street. The other way would be to try and find a way back the way they came. This would require a U-turn. Either way, it's going to be tricky driving down narrow suburban streets with overhanging trees.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 167):

Tremblay swore. "Shit, we are not close enough to the northwestern entrance. I'm moving!"

He put the Humvee in gear and floored it, trying to cut off the other truck as it tried to escape from the fort. They did not have direct line of sight from where they were but they probably would from the parking lot. The Humvee roared down the darkened street, trying to cut the other vehicle off.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 168):

Sensing that the target was not coming out the gate in front of them, Darek slewed the turret around a little to the left, trying to get a bead on the other gate.

"Power!" he warned before swiveling the turret.

It was no good, they were still 400m away down the street, the left side of the fort was out of view to them. He tried the night-vision and thermal channel on the gunsight but he could see nothing. "Negative on visual channels."

Muttering a few choice imprecations about narrow streets and incursive trees, Mac wrestled the 10-ton past the Cougar and down Hudson Bay Street. He was sure he hit something, probably a mailbox or a refuse bin, but he didn't have time to look or care. At least, whatever it was didn't scream.

He put his foot down, hearing tree-branches scraping along the roof as he went.

Tremblay, to the parking lot! Let's see if we can catch up.

Andrews follows the rest of the team as they move to the downed suspect, he covers the house while they cuff him. "You might want to call the rest of them out, before we have to go in."



-

In reply to Christopher Little Hawk MacDonald (msg # 171):

Hearing the HLVW coming up behind them, Rachel looked out the rear vision block.

"Kel! Mac's trying to get around us! I'm going to help him out so he doesn't get stuck in the ditch!"

When the large truck started to negotiate its way past the Coyote, Rachel grabbed her MP5 and climbed out one of the rear hatches, shutting it after.

On the ground, the directed the massive truck so that Mac didn't strand it in a ditch or on an overgrown lawn. Seeing it was only the Padre with him, she invited herself into the passenger seat to provide a little more firepower.

"Hi Padre! Hey Mac, where are we going?"

"Fucker!" exclaimed Darek.

"That asshole is blocking our line of fire!"

Indeed, the 10-ton was now pretty much all they could see from the Coyote as the truck began barreling down the road.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:32, Sun 11 Oct 2020.

The HLVW roared down Hudson's Bay St., blocking the line of fire from the Coyote.

At the far side of the fort, the Humvee skidded to a halt in the parking lot by the visitor's centre. An F-150 came into view, bouncing a bit as it roared down the footpath connecting the main gate to the parking lot and visitor's centre. Seeing a Humvee all lit up, waiting for them, the driver pulled a hard right and disappeared into the brush and trees behind the visitor's centre. They then heard a series of loud crashes, but out of sight, and headlights briefly strobed the trees.

The cuffed suspect answered Andrews, "shit, man! I think they both took off in the truck. I don't know who they are, never seen 'em before. I just met 'em in a bar!" If it was just the one truck the man was talking about, then it was no longer in his line of fire, being blocked by the buildings inside the fort. They could hear it accelerating as it navigated its way through the gate.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:59, Sun 27 Sept 2020.

"Well if he is telling the truth that makes it a lot easier." Andrews said over the top of his rifle as he covered the building if front of them.


-

"Thanks, Rachel... we're going to block their truck from rabbiting out of the other gate," said Mac, his eyes still on the road.

Oohoo! Looks like we have a crash! Let's go investigate!

Even she heard and saw that.  Taras was on the ground there, it might be best to let him handle it.

She waited on the sitrep, and looked around carefully in case this was a distraction, ears still keyed in to radio finder, searching for transmissions.

As the commander of the largest asset, they could not go rushing off if not needed.

"Stand by.  Stay frosty." She says over vehicle coms.

“Well our vehicles are gonna get your boys.  And you better not be lyin’ ‘bout how many of ya there are.  If we gonna dig y’all out of these buildings like ticks they’ll liable to end up in a pine box.” he said to him.

“Andrews, keep him on the ground & overwatch us.  Abbot, let’s clear some rooms.” he said, heading off to the nearest building.

Andrews gives a thumbs up and moves himself to put the prisoner on the ground between him and the front door of the building. He takes a knee and covers the rest of the teams advance forward.


-

Looks like the flyer has crashed by the bushes. Rook come over to provide back up. Knight prepare to move into the fort and support dismounts.

"King, this is Rook. Will do." said Mac, heading in the requisite direction.

In reply to Eric C. Wright (msg # 181):

"I'm with ya.  Where do you want to start?", Stan asked.

Shane Collen West drove down 96th Avenue, in his Heavy SUV, a 1998 Chevy Blazer XL he affectionately called "Ronin" with its hitched light cargo trailer.  Shane preferred traveling wide roads and highways easier to keep a good eye on the surroundings that way... and avoid roadblocks but made ambushes somewhat more a possibility.

The SUV had been camo-painted 'sorta' by 'Uncle' Al... in black and white over paint of its base maroon coat... most thought it was ugly.. but Shane liked it 'sorta'.  However, he was under no misconception it provided much concealment.



Turning 'Ronin' up Glover Road he made his way slowly toward the Fort off the Mavis Road inter section up ahead.  Before the fall this area was a commercial food park... now all the remnants of the buildings looked picked clean by bandit scavengers and survivors alike.  The empty shells of a civilization and economy... a thing of yester-year likely never to return.

He was listening to one of his favorite CD's 'Wagner Without Words', Album by Cleveland Orchestra and George Szell, Track #3 currently ~ Die Walküre: Wotan's Farewell and Magic Fire Music. The Irony was not lost on him...

Now in a more restricted road he turned the CD down and scanned the buildings nearby looking for any lights in the growing evening darkness.  They were all just empty ruins, and a dangerous place to be caught in the open with out cover from squatter ambushers and bandits alike.  He gave 'Ronin' a little more gas to pass the abandoned boulevard to make his turn down Mavis quicker than later and eased his Glock 17 from its LBE holder to set it on the seat next to him for ease of access.

Heading down Mavis he left the abandoned commercial park relieved only slightly to be heading for the more tree covered way to the Fort's West Entrance.  He'd just gotten to the River Road intersection... when he was certain he'd seen the flash of headlights down by the Fort.  Immediately he cut the SUV's headlights and slowed to a stop. Then pulled his NVG's and powered them on to see what was up... for all he knew the Fort was supposed to be empty.  Headlight could mean real trouble if a bandit biker gang had moved in.

The green overlay night vision showed indeed there were lights in motion down at the Fort. Shane grimaced at night 'Ronin' with cargo trailer was not his choice of situations.  Best not to get into a position of being overrun.. with no maneuverability.  He pondered the situation for a few sections then turned onto River road.

From his GPS it showed River Road became the Trans Canada Trail highway... a straight line road for miles... plenty of easy run room for the SUV and trailer should leaving rapidly be advisable.

He'd approach the Fort from the rear off the River Rd/Trans C-Trail... on foot.  Best to avoid being spotted ...whatever's going on.

Turing up the the River road he approached the Fort non-access rear pulling toward the Trans C-Trail shoulder.

To his right he could see headlights through the tree cover...

'Was someone trying to drive through the overgrowth to the Trans C-Trail road?'

Coming to a stop on the shoulder of the Trans C-Trail he picked up his glock 17 from the seat, turned off the dome light before opening the door.  Exiting he first grabbed his bow from the gun rack and hung it from the snap hook at the his back waist of his LBE.  Then thought a second and also grabbed his battle rifle an H&K 91 from the same rack and slid it into the gun case/sheath on his MLBE at his right back shoulder.

Then he moved to the hood of 'Ronin' as cover, Glock 17 in hand to look at what was happening at the Fort...

Didn't look like whoever had tried to 'bulldoze' through the trees had been successful.  So moving from the SUV's cover he made his way into the shadowy underbrush at the side of the road's shoulder making his way from cover to cover as best he could to the back-side of the Fort to find out the situation...

"No guts.. no glory..", he muttered under his breath...
This message was last edited by the player at 14:42, Thu 01 Oct 2020.

Tremblay, get the machine gun and cover the area. We will wait for Rook element to come over and do a search.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 187):

Climbing up into the gun position, Trembley said, "ok. They are out of sight now, down the far bank. Are we going to pursue?"

"Ready to move, Kel. Any reason to wait?"

In reply to Shane West (msg # 186):

It looked like the Ford had crashed its way down through some light brush until it got to a wooden fence, smashed through that, tried to make a skidding right turn onto the Trans-Canada Trail, lost the rear end and rolled onto its left side. It was now laying there in the road, stalled, headlights still on. No movement from inside the cab.

In the 10-ton, Mac roared down Hudson's Bay St, turned left onto Mary Ave, then right onto Royal, heading to the Fort's visitor centre parking lot. Shedding low-hanging tree branches and foliage as it went.

The Coyote's line of fire was now clear but they had no targets at their current location, at the end of Hudson's Bay.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 190):

When the 10-ton was clear of overhead obstructions, Rachel climbed up and popped the roof hatch. She grabbed the PKM and charged it.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 190):

Seeing the Ford turned over half on  the Trans C-Trail highway and half on the road shoulder... Shane jogs in double-time down the road hugging the shoulder himself pulling his NVG's back into place he scanned the tree line near the Fort looking for whoever was chasing the vehicle... could be cycle bandits.

As he approached the on its side Ford... he tried to see if there were any passengers trapped inside...

Thumbing the safety off his Glock he looked for hostiles as he approached the vehicle in the tree line or exiting the vehicle, still uncertain what was going on.

He groaned inside, 'Damn it.. big damned hero time...'

There were no lights so he had the advantage of being able to see clearly, so best not to get shot at unnecessarily. Covering the vehicle with his sidearm cupped in both hands he raised his voice and crouched slightly ~ "Attention in the Ford! My name is Shane, I'm not here to hurt anyone! Are you being pursued or is anyone injured?"

He pondered, Was that the sound of another vehicle engine moving in the Fort.. big.. not a cycle...?
This message was last edited by the player at 05:08, Thu 01 Oct 2020.

LOL, ok!


"Nope, get us in there.  We should make anyone hiding reconsider their options."

The Coyote's engine roars as it approaches the fort, Kel kicking the commanders machine gun around and surveying the area.

"Knight Advances"

She gets on the loudhorn.

"Attention, this is the CF.  We mean no harm but this fort is ours.  Surrender peacefully."

She repeats:

"Attention, c'est le CF. Nous ne voulons pas de mal mais ce fort est le nôtre. Abandonnez-vous paisiblement."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:54, Thu 01 Oct 2020.

Knight, please radio UBC to ready an ambulance, just in case.

Tara's will wait to meet the support element from the truck to approach the overturned vehicle.

Shane froze, listening to the rumble of the large vehicle engine and the woman's voice on the blow horn. But he kept his eyes and aim on the vehicle watching for the passenger's reaction...

"CF?!? The military? Oookay..."

Keeping his aim on the Ford Shane pulled his tactical flashlight from his vest, lifted his NVG flipping them off and turning on his his tac-light gripped in hand, wrist over wrist gun police-like to illuminate the Ford yet keep his sidearm on target.

'If the military is involved, they will have LI optics.. I WANT them to see me and know I'm not aiming at them!'

This time Yelling, "ATTENTION IN THE FORD COME OUT NOW! SURRENDER... YOU DON'T WANT TO FIGHT THE CF!"

Shane pivoted position to move more onto the road to the northwest of the vehicle to illuminate the vehicle to any approaching CF soldiers... also illuminating the backside of the vehicle... cutting off any passenger retreat.

Eric motioned to the building directly to their left, Abbot following.  Eric threw open the door and hooked left, clearing the room & scanning, moving to his point of dominance.

Inside the fort, the dismounts cleared the main "company" house, finding no one. Nothing seemed disturbed, apparently they arrived before the looting began. Eric saw it was part historical recreation in most areas like the kitchen, sitting room, HBC office, but with a few modern rooms (storerooms, staff kitchen and washrooms). The bedroom looked lived-in, which would make sense.

The Coyote moved up to the southern gate, then Mercredi took them across the overgrown lawn to the SW-most corner so they could cover both sides of the fort closest to the town.

At the parking lot, the Humvee waited for the 10-ton truck to arrive. The HLVW was probably not the best vehicle for going off-road but it could cover the visitor's centre. Inside the cab of the big cargo vehicle, Taras could see Sgt. Lee, Mac and the new Padre. Looking towards where the F-150 had disappeared, he could see it had gone behind the visitor's centre. There was a small slope or embankment there, overgrown, leading down to the road (if he was reading his topo map correctly).

Shane repositioned his SUV without incident. Even after calling out there didn't seem to be any answer from the wrecked pickup. From up the slope towards the rear of the visitor's centre and the fort he could hear large vehicles moving up, lights in the trees, and the loudspeaker.

Shane listened to the sounds of the heavy vehicle engines and loudspeaker, but saw no approaching lights.

The Ford was not smoking merely on it's side.  Someone could be injured inside, but he did not want the CF thinking he was exiting the vehicle if HE started poking around it when they arrived... or worse took him for a bandit!

'What to do?'

Shifting position again, he moved around the vehicle to see if the vehicle's windows were intact.

If the windows were still intact... he moves closer to the road shoulder toward the fort keeping his eyes on the Ford covering it with his sidearm, but pointing his Tactical light toward the fort and clicking the flashing signal strobe setting to draw their attention.
...
If the windows are broken... he deems it too risky to move up to be shot at and holds position taking a knee still covering vehicle with Tac-light and sidearm to await the CF sweep team arrival.

Glancing at his watch, he'll give them 2 minutes to arrive before he considers acting further.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:48, Thu 01 Oct 2020.

As the Coyote takes it's position Kelsey is contacting UBC via radio.

ON THE MAIN TAC NET for UBC "Uniform Bravo Charlie, this is the Chess Element.  Repeat this is Chess, Knight Actual.  Is an ambulance available to come to our location?  Possible civilian injured."


"Good job Mercredi, stay alert for a bit, you too Sochacki.  Let's sit tight."

She looks down and back.

"How's your first aid Rach?  We may need some hands on those guys in the pickup."

"This is Knight Actual, other Chess elements.. are we going to need a rescue, winch?  I am looking into that ambulance."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:57, Fri 02 Oct 2020.

Thank you, Knight. We'll wait for recovery, first the people inside. We are moving in.

Taras will meet Rook element and investigate. AKSU at the low ready, one up the spout, safety off for single notifications.

Police! You're surrounded by heavy weapons! Can you hear me?!!

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 199):

Rachel replied on the radio, "Knight Actual from Knight 4. I, uh, attached myself to Rook to give 'em some backup. Sorry, thought you heard me when I bailed out."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 04:12, Fri 02 Oct 2020.

Unable to determine from his angle if the over-turned Ford's windows are intact or not, Shane shifts position slightly to move back to a North Westerly position of the overturned Ford so his light illuminates the backside quarter of the vehicle AND keeps his light also aimed in the direction of the fort.

Taking a knee to cover the vehicle with Tac-light and sidearm to await the CF sweep team arrival.

He does continue to keep the tac-light's strobe signaling flash aimed in the direction of the Fort and Vehicle to make his presence obvious to the CF troopers on the way.

"Knight 4, this is Knight 1.  Thank you for the reminder I am still human."


She tries not to worry that she apparently lost track of a person in a firefight.. since it was the player's fault.. not the character's.  =P

Shane moved up to 50m from the overturned truck. The pickup lay on its left side, blocking the right lane. Still no movement. To determine if the windshield was broken he'd need to move up and expose himself to fire from the inside.

Getting behind the wheel of the Humvee, Taras waited for Mac and Rachel to dismount. When they were ready to follow he started to slowly follow the truck's path down the short slow to the road below. It had gone through some brush, then a fence, and then wiped out at the bottom while taking a right hand turn, overturning on the left side. They could see the underside from their vantage, nose pointed right. No one was visible coming from the truck. But there was another vehicle parked about 50m to the left (westwards) with its lights on.

Meanwhile, Shane heard a vehicle approaching from uphill, from the direction of the old fort. A Humvee with headlights on and 4-ways blinking came into view. The gunner swung a top-mounted M240 to cover Shane but held his fire. The occupants of the Humvee could see A man wearing NVGs taking cover behind the engine block of a late model Blazer painted a kind of camouflage colour. At this point he was holding a pistol bracing it on the hood with one hand to cover the wrecked truck, and held a blinking/strobing flashlight in the other. It was obvious he was marking his position for them.

There were a couple other figures following behind in the dark behind the Humvee. He could see in his NVGs they were also naturally armed.

By the fort, the Cougar remained in its position. Maddie drive Eric's technical up so it was near the gate that Eric entered.

Eric and his team continued clearing the buildings, a process that would take several more minutes (although most of the other buildings were single if large rooms).

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 204):

Rachel said to Taras, "stop! Keith, cover the crashed vehicle."

When the Humvee halted she moved up and took cover behind the engine block on the right.

"This is the police! Anyone in the truck, come out with your hands behind your heads right now!

"You, sir, behind the Blazer. Please place your gun on the hood and step forward, hands behind your head," She instructed Shane.

The woman speaking (obviously a cop of some kind) was dressed in a green tactical jumpsuit and SWAT body armour marked "POLICE" with "RCMP/GRC" beneath it, balaclava but no helmet. She covered Shane with an HK MP5 braced on the Humvee's hood.

In reply to Rachel Wenqian Lee (msg # 205):

Keith shifted the M240 to cover the overturned truck.

Without a word of protest, the young black man raised his hands, thumbed on the safety of his glock and slowly set it down on the hood of his blazer along with his tactical light thumbing it off as well.


Then hands still raised stepped around the hood in front for them to see him...



HE was armed to the Teeth!  Clad in Combat steel helmet with NVG raised, a military MLBE with his kevlar vest, arrayed with attached pouches, ammo storage, and sheathed fighting knife.  At his shoulder was a rifle case/cover from which the butt of a Battle Rifle peeked over his shoulder, at his waist behind him hung a compound bow, at his left thigh was another holstered pistol, and in a parade holster in front another holstered pistol flap snapped shut, and finally on his right hip... a katana hung in it's saya at his waist.

He looked like he was dressed for invading Iwo Jima!

His gear was a strange assortment of civilian and serious military gear...

Placing his hands behind his head he finally spoke, "Alright, ma'am.  I'm not with whoever is in the overturned Ford... I came cause I thought they might be hurt or running from bandits. Then I heard your loudspeaker."

This message was last edited by the player at 18:34, Sat 03 Oct 2020.

Mac brought the truck to a halt, grabbed his rifle and jumped out.

"Want I check the overturned vehicle?" he offered.

"The folks inside may be injured..."

Seeing that Rachel is already addressing the newcomer he nods towards Mac.

Yes, Mac, let's go take a look. The impact looks serious.

"Mercredi, let's get ready to get the spoonful inside the compound to support the clearing.  I'd rather not anyone get a good look at her for now, anyway."

She gets on the Tac "Bishop One, this is Knight Actual. Would you like Knight Heavy to back you up?"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:05, Sat 03 Oct 2020.

In reply to Shane West (msg # 207):

The officer looked impressed. As she approached he could also see she had RCMP/GRC flashes on her fatigues.

"You don't say. What's your name, where do you live and why are you out here tonight? Just keep your hands where I can see them for now. You're rolling a bit heavy, even in this neighborhood." She didn't completely disarm him, but was clearly contemplating it.

As Taras and Mac needed to cross his line of fire to check the pickup, Tremblay shifted his aim to cover the woods on either side of the road to the east.

"I got you covered, Sergeant. We could use the thermal on Knight to check the woods around here. When they're done in the compound."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 210):

"Moving!" Driving the Coyote into the compound, she was careful not to damage the gate. Darek stayed quiet, using the thermal to scan the left side buildings.

Building clearing proceeded smoothly and without complication for Eric and the other dismounts. They were about half done at this point.

The message finally came back from UBC they would dispatch immediate medical aid if it was critical, but would prefer to wait until morning otherwise.

The driver, Taras, exited the Humvee. Shane saw he was another Mountie, dressed in tactical gear marked RCMP/GRC with helmet but armed with an AKSU. His partner was a Canadian Forces soldier, wearing an M1 steel helmet with a ton of cloth strips covering it to break up its silhouette, Kevlar vest and armed with an FN FAL, a pretty common weapon around here, Shane noted.

Moving carefully, Mac and Taras cleared the overturned Ford. They found two men inside. Neither was moving.

In the 10-ton, Father Nick waited some kind of instruction on what to do next. Mattie drove Eric's technical up behind him, just so he wasn't left alone to fend for himself.

"Cover me."

Mac set aside his rifle and pulled on a pair of gloves (the medical sort), and began to check the 2 bodies... pulse check, ABC (airway, bleeding, consciousness).
This message was last edited by the player at 15:19, Sun 04 Oct 2020.

The young man looked at each of the RCMP troopers looking at their gear and unit patches, clearly trying to discern if they were legitimate CF forces... but he visibly relaxed.

Noting their tone and professionalism... seemed to convince him.

Turning gaze back to the woman Sergent in charge, "Yes er, Sergent. Uhm.. my.. My name is Shane.  Shane Collen Wests.  Er..live?  I don't really... 'live' anywhere ma'am.  I.. I help where I can, fight where I must, and move on."

"Er.. tonight? Well... this will sound strange, but I'm not drunk nor a crazy ma'am; I'm tracking a pair of stolen Elephants."

His expression seems to belie that he ponders his words.. and the absurdity of the statement.  And ponders she might think he's  lying so he continues to explain...

"Uhm.. I was delivering some scavenged goods to the "New West" Hospital; medical supplies ~ more than I needed, and I do mean scavenged.. I don't steal from those who have ~ or don't have for that matter!! I give excess goods I find to those in need when I can or trade sometimes when I need.  Anyways, I met an elderly man there in need of help, named, "Old Willie".  Old Willie told me soldiers stole his two elephants he cared for an asked me to try to find them, he told me about the fort.  So.. I came here to pick up their trail if I could. I have video proof."

"Too Heavy? Er... I'm alone ma'am. There is no such thing."

He looks uncomfortable, as if this was the most he'd spoken to someone in a long time and the effort is... somewhat emotionally draining.  Maybe he's just a little shy?
This message was last edited by the player at 18:22, Sun 04 Oct 2020.

In reply to Shane West (msg # 215):

"Ah, you met Old Willie over in Royal Columbian and he asked you to look for his elephants, eh? When was this? And there's no place you're staying now that can vouch for you?"

Slinging her MP5 she quickly disarmed Shane by placing his other weapons on the hood of the vehicle, but didn't pat him down or cuff him. She seemed more curious in what he was armed with and not preparing to arrest him.

"Any other weapons? And, let me know where the video is and I'll get it if you stand over there." She indicated a spot about 10 feet away, then pointed at the Humvee gunner  (who looked like a US Marine) to cover him while she searched the vehicle for it. The Humvee was in USMC camouflage and was not marked.

In reply to Rachel Wenqian Lee (msg # 216):

Shane doesn't seem too comfortable being disarmed, but with a man on a machine gun covering him he complies.

The battle rifle in the shoulder weapon case was serious military weapon an H&K 91 with night-vision scope, weapon light-small and a detachable-suppresser.  His Compound bow had a side hanger with 10 hunting arrows attached.  The buttoned belt flapped parade holster carried a pretty .357 Magnum Revolver, the thigh holster held a wonder a very rare .25 Walther PPK, with a currently deteahed silencer.  The Katana... looks more used from many resharpenings and oiling than any of the weapons, though all of the weapons were clean and maintained.

"Yeah, Willie he called himself, about a day or so ago?  He was really worried about his animals... nobody seemed to want to help him... so I did."

Shane is clearly reluctant replies, "..I've.. been helping out at a local Indian Reserve, local chief is Charlie Yates (a former lawyer).  Quiet place to park 'Ronin', in some safety... good people. Don't want no trouble to come down on them."

His expression says he perhaps does not entirely trust the 'alleged' RCMP trooper's intentions... rogue soldiers are not uncommon.

"Other weapons.. some small knives, brass knuckles in my vest here.", he shrugged.

"I have a micro video cam... VHS, its stowed in the metal tool box, passenger-side floor in 'Ronin'. Took some footage of Willie, he gave me a neckscarf he wore. It's in a ziplock, to hold his scent when I found his animals ~ so they'd recognize me as a friend... maybe."

He tenses up slightly as he asks his next question...

"Er ma'am.. I'm not a bandit... just a survivor. Your gear and uniform are clean, you smell clean, you move like a professional ~ so I think your legit... not a rogue outfit, but a man by his self can't be too careful. May I please have your name and rank... ma'am?"

Inside the blazer there was a CD collection of various music.. right now the CD player was on 'Wagner without Words' - Track 6 - "götterdämmerung: siegfried's funeral march" playing softly.  The cabin was neatly arrayed with survival gear and ammo, weapons rack, and various civilian electronics gps.  Though clearly the vehicle was worn and well used the seat cover having worn through in some places and the vehicle had a few bullet patches here and there. In the back were travel chests contents unknown.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:53, Sun 04 Oct 2020.

Tara's covers Mac while he's going through the ABC assessment.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 218):

Taras covered Mac as he checked for life signs. Both were alive and breathing, with detectable pulses. But both were unconscious. They were both young males in the 20's, Caucasians. Clothing was civilian, both were armed with small semi-automatic pistols of some kind and knives in belt sheaths.

In reply to Shane West (msg # 217):

"Sergeant Rachel Lee, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Gendarmerie Royal Canadian. UBC Detachment, E Division."

Smiling, she showed him her badge and ID. She was a Sergeant, and wore 3 chevrons (which looked upside down to him as they were British style).

"OK, hang tight. I'm going for the video. Nothing back there that can hurt me accidentally? No booby traps?" Assuming the answer is "no" she quickly located the video camera, and played the relevant part, where Old Willie vouched for Shane. "What do you know. Better than a letter. Good to see Old Willie's awake, when we left him in hospital a few hours ago it was a little touch-and-go.

"Don't worry, we're here to help Old Willie as well. And we're friends with the folks on the "Rez" over on the island."

She handed him back the camera.

"Hey, Taras, our friend here seems legit. He knows Chief Yates over on the Rez. And he's a friend of Old Willie. His name is Shane, Old Willie asked him to look for his elephants. I'm gonna kinda, uh, overlook his gear and guns for now. As long as he doesn't cross the river into New West. I'm pretty sure that HK is select-fire and has more than ten rounds in the mag. And there's a can on his Walther, which looks about twenty-five calibre. Well, again, as long as he doesn't walk around in New West or UBC I won't make an issue out of it.

"OK Shane, you're good for now. You're welcome to get your stuff back." She stepped back to let him repossess his weapons and get armed up again.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:00, Wed 07 Oct 2020.

Taras nodded at Rachel trusting her judgment.

Mac, I'm going to get the ambulance coming over. I will secure their belongings, more so the weapons.

While Mac is monitoring vitals the Ukrainian will retrieve wallets, etc looking to id the crash victims as well as securing weaponry.

Knight from King, ensure dispatch of ambulance, please. 2 caucasian males mid 20s, unconscious. Any team element with medical experience can come over to help.

"King, this is Knight Actual.  Ambulance would like to wait on daylight if possible.  I have medical training if no one else is good.  I recommend we triage and not push the medical unless the injuries are life threatening."

Very well. Your help over here will be most helpful.

Being said that he started rummaging over the victims belongings. Also checking the vehicle interior, glove compartment, under the seats, etc.

In reply to Rachel Wenqian Lee (msg # 220):

Slowly a smile dawned on his expression at her reassurances, and all doubt vanished from him.

"Thank ya kindly, Ma'am.. Er Sergeant Lee. But, right now people are hurt, I think I can help."

Pointing at the over turned Ford, "I'm no MD or Nurse... but I know a few things about First Aid and medicines, Those young men in that Ford might have a concussion from such a tumble.  I know how to help them if'n... You'd let me?"

Shane takes a few steps toward the over turned vehicle to crouch a little to peer inside... not bothering the reach for any of his weapons.

Given a nod of approval he sets to work immediately, Clearly concerned for their injuries... knelling down to crawl into the the vehicle he pulls a pin light from his vest clenching it in his teeth so his hands can work free.  He checks them for any obvious injuries like broken bones or lopsided posture that might indicate spine damage.  Then he checked them for any head trauma or bleeding.

Shane called out, "I could use another pair of hands here to help move them safely without risking any more spine damage?"

Gently hopefully with help for another he will ease them out of the vehicle to lay them flat on the road.  Retrieving his IFAK from his Vest he began to treat them both for head concussions.  Removing their sidearms and knives he discarded them behind him out of reach.  Shane then used smelling salts to wake them.

"We need to keep them awake until a medic gets here... If they do have concussions we could loose them before they can be properly treated if we let them fall unconsious."

OOC: Attempting Stabilization - Render Aid operational action (or one minute outside combat): Medicine(COG, TN +2)
02:58, Today: Shane West rolled 8 using 1d20 with rolls of 8.  Shane - Novice Medicine 'Render Aid' [COG{6} TN+2]. – 8 - Success!
This message was last edited by the player at 07:01, Wed 07 Oct 2020.

Mac turned his head to the newcomer.

"They are unconscious with steady pulse and no evident life-threatening injury. If you recommend moving them - probably a good idea if the ambulance won't be along until daylight - I can help. I'm Mac, by the way."

Shane nodded and offered his hand in greeting with a firm handshake.

"Nice to meet you 'Mac'. Your unit doesn't have a dedicated Medic?  Yeah, we'll have to move them; sitting out here all night is not prudent.  We'll try to move them back to the fort... try keeping the backs straight. Got a stretcher in any of those vehicles of yours?"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:29, Wed 07 Oct 2020.

As the buildings become more obviously clear Kelsey turns over the Spoonful to Darek and jogs over to the crash site, bringing with her the vehicle medkit, her c-8 slung.  She leaves the vehicle helmet behind with it's built in headset, and instead grabs her CF beret and pulls it on before taking off for the wreck site.

She'd been to the place before and was familiar with the layout, so confident in direction she takes off at a light run to get to the crash site.

She stops close to Rachel, but her eyes are on the victims being pulled from the wreck.

"What is the condition of these men?  Report."

To the newcomer the woman is on the tall side at 5'9" (176cm) and looking fairly lean with shoulder length honey blond hair currently in a ponytail and topped with a dark green beret with some sort of beaver insignia, hard to make out in the light.. but there is a French slogan 'Je me Souviens'.  Her sleeves are rolled up showing muscular forearms and the ends of some black tribal style tattoos.  She is dressed in clean and neat CF fatigues bearing sergeant stripes with an inset oak leaf... also in the 'correct direction' of chevrons pointed down, like Rachel.

With a report given on condition she nods to Shane.  "Sergent Champlain, Canadian Forces.  I'm second hat of this detachment."  She said Sergent and her name with a distinctly French pronunciation, while her English is clear and mostly unaccented.

She doesn't glance at Taras, if he wished to reveal to a newcomer his position he would.  The former Russian soldier was well known for being sly, and it was best to let him do his thing.

"We can probably get some boards for their backs from the buildings once they are fully cleared, I will let Eric know."

She has a handset to her portable radio on her webgear clipped to that as well, she engages the key.

"Bishop one, this is Knight one at the crash site.  When you are done clearing see if you can't find us a pair of something to use as back boards.  Over."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:02, Wed 07 Oct 2020.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 227):

Shane looks up at the newly arrived woman sergeant and briefly looks between her and Sergeant Lee before replying, "..Well Sergent Champlain, ma'am ~ there are two young men here unconscious from the rolled vehicle.  They may have mild concussions.. I don't see any other obvious injuries.  I'm just being careful.  Yes, a pair of back boards would be advisable... get them inside out of the night chill.  Can't look at their eyes easily here to look for any signs of shock but inside would be better."

Shane stands, "I've done all I can do here right now... need to get them to a real medic."

He turns to Sergeant Champlain offering a hand, "Well met Ma'am, I'm Shane Collen Wests, just a civilian... I guess contractor.  I was asked by Old Willie in New West - Royal Columbian Hospital to track down his stolen Elephants, Sergent Lee here says you are familiar with Willie. Guess he didn't mention you cause he was out when you found him. He's doing ok by the way."

Shane is a tall African American 6'3" maybe, lean features, broad shoulders, muscled frame his voice has a very slight accent to it hard to identify. He is wearing combat rig, kevlar vest and MLBE made from equal parts American, Russian and some Canadian gear... clearly all of it salvaged but at least mostly all held together properly, orderly and well maintained.  At least he seems to know how its supposed to be worn and fit together. He is clad in a leather bomber jacket and blue jean pants with well worn combat boots. But all clean and well maintained.

For a moment Shane shifts his gaze between the two attractive sergeants, then lowers his gaze shyly turning away to his Blazer, realizing he was beginning to stare, "Er.. well yes. I was here looking to pick up the elephant's trail, or perhaps the trail of the soldiers that took them. If your planning on reoccupying the Fort, I'm willing to lend a hand for a roof over my head other than old 'Ronin' here an maybe a meal if you can spare it.  Or maybe lend a hand if your here to track those Bandit Soldiers too?"

Thinking perhaps a little more social distance from the women might be more polite and keep his mind on task...

Shane walks back to his Blazer to slowly puts all his weapons away.  He will put his Rifle and Bow back inside on the gun rack as clearly he has no need of them with the CF Troopers here. Picking up the two discarded automatics and knives the young men had on them, he ejects their clips an stores them away in his blazer 'Ronin' unless the Sergent asks for them.

Retaining his katana and pistols.. he looks like some warrior out of a Sci-Fi post-apoc action movie.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:12, Wed 07 Oct 2020.

Kelsey shakes Shane's hand, she does not squeeze but shaking her hand is like gripping a statue's hand, hard and strong (muscle 9), if considerably smaller than the large American's hand.

"I am a sergent, I work for a living.  Call me that, sergeant, Champlain.. and maybe soon by my first name, mister West, which is Kelsey."

She looks to the men and nods "I have medical training, but with them already out and not bleeding, still breathing, then I see no need to do more than a cursory check until the ambulance arrives."

She moves to check the two young men, watching for unusual postures, bruising, trouble breathing and blood.  She does a quick check on both of their abdomens looking for hardness that would mean internal bleeding.

"Someone will need to monitor them."


13:34, Today: Kelsey Sarah Champlain rolled 8 using 2d20, keeping the lowest dice only, unique dice with rolls of 8,17.  Medicine.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 229):

Earlier, Rachel had taken off her balaclava when she started to talk to Shane, so he could see she was an Asian woman in her 20's, probably Chinese. She interjected, "I think that Father Nick guy is our team medic. He's a civilian Red Cross volunteer, he's probably not listening on the radio net. Mac and I were with him and we left him in the 10-ton.

"Let me give him a call. Until he checks them out, let's not move them just yet. Keep them warm 'cause of shock for the moment."

She keyed her mic. "Rook 4 from Knight 4. Do you copy? Rook 4, do you read? Please advise we require medical attention for two casualties at the crash site on... the Trans-Canada Trail. Casualties are alive but non-responsive. Possible C-Spinal injuries. Say again, Rook 4, please RV at my 20, my location.

"Anyone have eyes on Rook 4?"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:02, Wed 07 Oct 2020.

In reply to Rachel Wenqian Lee (msg # 230):

Up in the visitor's centre parking lot, the technical was parked by the 10-ton HLVW. Mattie was on the .50 mounted in the technical's bed.

Monitoring the radio, it occurred to her that Father Nick might not have caught that he was needed. She called over, "Father! Father! Padre! Looks like you're needed over there! There was a crash, two people are hurt. Bring spine boards and your medical kits!

"Want me to unload your mule or are you good?"

In the fort, the building clearing was proceeding apace. The dismounts were covered by the Coyote's 7.62mm co-ax with the 20mm only to be used if necessary.

Working clockwise they quickly cleared the buildings up to the gate, then past. Most of the buildings had storage of some kind, mostly props, although there did appear to be a fully-operational blacksmithy.

At the Coyote Alice kept her head out the driver's hatch, using NVGs to scan for threats. In the gunner position Darek used the FLIR to scan for heat signatures. He reported nothing unusual, and although he couldn't see into the buildings he could easily check the greenhouses using thermal and again saw nothing suspicious.

It would take a few more minutes to completely clear the complex but so far, so good.

At Fort Langley:

+Knight 4, Bishop 1.  Roger.  No backboard, but there is a litter in my truck.  Still clearing the fort.  Bishop 1 out.+

His communique came as a harsh whisper, still maintaining noise discipline as they swept the compound.  It was obvious that the fort had been once set up for displays & living history, similar to the Alamo he'd visited as a child & younger adult.  Something which he had to remind himself no longer existed.  He pushed that all aside though.  None of it was relevant to the task as hand; secure their base of operations and then see to their detainee.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:47, Thu 08 Oct 2020.

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg # 229):

Shane shook the young Sergent's grip in turn also putting no force in his grip but his hands were warm and strong though not quite as firm (muscle 8).

At Kelsey's kind words he smiles warmly and meets her eyes, "I'll keep that in mind m~... Sergent Champlain, you can call me Shane.  My pa is Mr. West."

Nodding to Sergeant Lee's request, Shane retrieves a wool blanket from 'Ronin's' cab and lays it across the two young men tucking it in around them to keep them warm.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:16, Thu 08 Oct 2020.

Taras' and Mac's search of the truck didn't turn up anything more suspicious than some burglary-related tools in the bed.

They found in a bag under the seat a ziploc baggie of weed, about 13 grams worth, and ten baggies of what appeared to be a yellowish-white crystalline powder divided into 10 gram packets.

The two semi-automatic pistols they retrieved from the suspects were marked as .25 calibre but had no other markings or serial numbers, which seemed very unusual. Neither came with a spare magazine. Both were loaded and had a round in the chamber.

Mac pricked his ears up at mention of the elephants.

"Yes, those were great elephants. Heffalump and Woozle... Woozle was injured so I did my best to look after her, but I just have basic field medic training, I'm not a vet. Beautiful gentle creatures."

In reply to Christopher Little Hawk MacDonald (msg # 236):

Shane had returned to his vehicle and was preparing to follow the CF troopers back to the Fort when he noticed the... oddities about the sidearms.

Turning back he heard 'Mac' comment and replied as he made his way over to Sergeant Champlain and Sergent Lee, "..yeah Old Willie gave me their names, and a neck scarf with his scent on it.  Got it in a zip lock bag hopefully it will be enough to keep them calm when we find them long enough to get them back home."

"Got no clue what rogue soldiers would want a old man's pets for... some folks are just cruel I guess!"

Then stepping close to Sergeant Champlain, nodding to Sergent Lee gesturing to get both their attentions, and keeping his voice low, "Sergents, there's something not right about these two sidearms these two kids were toting. Their .25 cal but there are no serial numbers, not filed off.. None. Like they were new manufacture. Don't know what you've encountered but new gunsmithing operation? Why would anyone be doing that and giving it to kids?  They were loaded one magazine only and one chambered... that's kinda dangerous and a trick only mostly pros would do.. and they were both rolling the same way."

He shrugs, "I don't know, but that sets off some sinister red flags to me... these are kids.  What are they doing with these?"

He grimaces slightly, and hands the weapons & magazines to Sergeant Champlain, "..not trying to tell you your business, but I think this deserves more investigation. If you want the knives they had I have them in my cab, but this seemed suspicious!"

His expression and tone reveal his truthful concern on the matter.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:38, Thu 08 Oct 2020.

Kelsey eyes where Shane had come from, then what he is carrying and her brow furrows slightly.

"Mister West."  She says a bit more firmly.

"Why did you have the men's guns, and why were you picking them up from the site of a police investigation?  This is Canada, sir.  Please allow us to do our jobs."

She carefully receives the pistols from Shane in gloved hands, examines them a moment before moving to place them down again near the wreck... likely near where they were to begin with.

"Mister West, I am letting this pass this one time out of respect to mister Willie.  In the future, unless asked, do not interfere with a crime scene.  Do we have an understanding?"

She was probably very pretty when she smiled, though likely older than Shane.  She wasn't smiling right now.

Shane gives her a open palmed placative gesture of acceptance, "Sorry Sergeant, there are usually not policing types around out here. I was just in survivalist mode, I disarmed the kids when I was treating them and when I was done it didn't seem... prudent to just leave unattended firearms in the road so I did what I'd usually do when dealing with disarmed bandits, secure their weapons on plan to see if anyone I met in need could use them.  Not like I need more guns.  Didn't think this was a crime scene. Sorry, My bad."

Then he ponders, "What were you chasing them here for?"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:15, Thu 08 Oct 2020.

After getting the young car crash victims stabilized Tara's summoned the military and Law Enforcement personnel in the team:

very good job everybody! This is our calling, taking back the land, impose law and order and rebuild the community.

These two birds are thieves with underground contacts to provide illegal drugs and weapons. This may be a good indicator about our mission at hand.

But we cannot be sidetracked. We will get an ambulance and police escort for these guys. We will pack the evidence found and I let the UBC RCMP detachment deal with them. They will probably provide interesting Intel for our upcoming mission close to the border.

Lets finish up securing the fort, our next home base. We will recover the upturned vehicle early light. Kel, you'll be in charge of the recovery team.

As per Mr. Shane, you are welcome to stay with us as you seem quite eager to help. I don't want a  loose cannon, please liaise with Kelsey, she'll be your minder of sorts.

Excellent job team! This won't go unnoticed at headquarters. Thank  you!

In reply to Eric C. Wright (msg # 233):

Corporal Abbot followed Wright in formation as the team swept through the compound. He stayed alert for threats as they made their way.

Previous post deleted, here it is modified.

"Ca va pas non!  Very well Commander."  She doesn't seem happy about it, at all.



She flashes a grin to Rachel."Je reviendrai bientôt, Roudoudou."


She looks back to the fort, then nods.

"With our medic coming, I see no need for me to be here.  Mister West, I want you to looks at how to right that vehicle but DO NOT ACT.  We will get it out as a team after the sun is up.  I guarantee my ride has more weight to pull."


And with that she runs back to the fort, to check in.  She radios on the way.

"Knight one, returning to Knight. "
This message was last edited by the player at 00:45, Fri 09 Oct 2020.

Mac stays monitoring the 2 unconscious men, and will assist the Padre when he arrives to take over their care.

Wright and Abbot finished checking the fort as Kel walked through the main entrance. Aside from the one prisoner being held by Andrews near the other gate, there was no one else there.

At the crash site, Rachel looked at the drugs that Taras had taken from the vehicle occupants. "Looks like weed and meth." Before the war there had been a serious meth epidemic sweeping the US. Motorcycle gangs had been the primary suppliers of the drug, with different offshore sources for the precursors. (Some speculated the KGB had a hand in this somewhere.)

Referee Note: It's ok for Shane to post now in response. As well, waiting on Father Nick's response.

The site clear, he begins redirecting the men.  He returns to their detainee, relieving Andrews.

"Alright gents ORP is clear.  Andrews, move back to our entry point to hold the entrance, Abbot move to hold the entry where the truck ran out on us."

He keyed his radio.

+King One, Bishop One.  ORP is secured, holding the entrances.  One detained.  Bishop Two, Bishop One; move up inside the ORP.  King One, what is your status out there, over.+

It was moments before the throaty rumble of the armed & armored pickup grew as it rolled in the main gate.  He had Matty watch his detainee for a few minutes as he sourced some boards for the crash site, tossing them in the bed before Matty hurried on her way towards the wreck, leaving Eric back with the detainee.  He rolled the man over onto his back, and squatted down next to him.

"I assume by now you're getting an inkling of the trouble you're in?  So you get your one chance right now, before they radio me back on this earpiece with whatever they found out about your accomplices.  What do you know about those guys & what were y'all really doing here?"

---

Persuasion Roll:  5, 11, 12; vs. PER of 7.  MoS 3.

"Right" was the reply that Andrews gave as he trotted over to the entrance and with his rifle at his shoulders made sure no one else had come for a looky loo.

He then found somewhere out of the wind to hold up that gave him a good look at the front of the fort. If there was a tower he would use it.



-

Kel turns over watches to Mercredi and Sochaki, and instructions to fully set up the antenna boom and the vehicle in the middle of the compound facing the main entrance.

She heads over to where Eric is questioning the prisoner, holding back out of the man's sight and nods to Eric to continue.  She saw no reason to interject or interfere.

With her 'new' cargo loaded up, Matty headed over to the wreck site.  Truthfully it wasn't hard to find; lots of headlights & running engines.  She helped the free hands unload a pair of 2x8s for use as backboards.

"Anything else I can lend a hand with?" she asked, a bit nervous.

In reply to Eric C. Wright (msg # 246):

<"Copy that.  Moving to the north gate.">, Abbot replied. He ran to the gate and took up a protected position where he could watch to the west.

A followup question from UBC was if medical transport was critical or could it wait for morning?

The team's medic, Father Nick, hitched a ride over with Mattie to the crash site. He took over medical care for the injured. He reported that the vital signs for the driver were dropping, indicating some internal bleeding and possible cerebral-spinal trauma including shock and concussion. The passenger was stable but had a concussion and certainly had a broken right wrist. He was attempting to stabilise the driver for transport when it was available. Both men were well-tatted up.

Eric got what seemed to be a straight answer from Dylan. "Uh, I met these guys earlier tonight in a "booze can" off MacLure Rd. I was at all afternoon. An apartment building. Bikers, they said with the "Jokers MC". Anyways, they heard from some guy they knew that this place, and old fort, had a lot of stuff in it and there was no one around. They were gonna come by around midnight, strip the place. So we got here just after midnight. Yeah, no, I don't know these guys. They said if I was cool I could ride with them, maybe be a prospect, I said sure, why not?"

He had several tats as well, although not as many as the other two.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:05, Wed 14 Oct 2020.

In reply to helbent4 (msg # 251):

Rachel showed Taras the drugs she'd confiscated, especially the baggie of methamphetamine.

"Taras, this meth is good quality. Normal "biker" meth is yellow in kind of bigger pieces and you smoke it. This is a white powder, you can inject or smoke it. This was made in a lab or at least a better facility than usual. It's what we were starting to see on an industrial scale before the war. Either this is old cached stock or they have a new meth lab up and running."

"So, you're admitting to pre-meditated theft; you're gonna eat the rap on that for sure."

He paused for a moment, a calculated gesture.

"Could be felony theft depending on what y'all loaded up in the truck too.  Plus your buddies there are guilty of felony evading & reckless driving, which a friendly judge could easily enough make you a party to.  Any if one of them dies from that crash well, then felony murder law & law of parties kicks in, and you go down for murder.  Anything else you would like to tell me that might mitigate some of your circumstances?"

In reply to Eric C. Wright (msg # 253):

The detainee looked a bit confused and suspicious. "Uh, I think I want a lawyer? Look, man, I told you all I know. I didn't take anything, all you can bust me on is trespassing. I can take you to the booze can. I think I know where the Jokers' club house is. I don't know anything more."

In Eric's opinion his tats looked more professional than the ones you'd see in jail. They didn't seem to have obvious neo-Nazi symbiology.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:19, Thu 15 Oct 2020.

Tara's summoned Rachel to gather Intel on the arrested. As RCMP Officers already had experience dealing with this kind of situations, the Hell's Angels episode came to mind.

Ok Rachel, remember the HA occurrence? We were able to gather Intel through an arrested guy too.

I like the good cop/bad cop routine. You were threatening to use your oriental techniques of persuasion!

I want you to run this questions:

a) Where are the bikers located? Have they any prisoners or hostages with them?

b) What are the shortcomings being experienced by the bikers in their violent campaign?

c) What is the bikers operational and political planning?

d) What are the bikers numbers, organisation, deployments, training, weapons and communications means?

e) How are the relations with the other communities around?

f) What is the magnitude of involvement of the bikers against other communities including plans against the Government?

g) What is the bikers morale like? How are the conditions in their bases?

h) What are the bikers intelligence network details and priorities for operations against other citizens?


From his notes, it was the same list of questions used in the past.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 255):

"I'll see what I can do. I'll try and do it tonight.

"Are we going to call for the cavalry before dawn? One of those guys might not make it if we don't."

They were still at the crash site. She bent down and retrieved a weapon from the overgrown roadside ditch. It was a shotgun with the barrel and stock removed. She opened the chamber and extracted the shells. "Hey, looks like we got a sawed-off shotgun here. Remington, 12 gauge. Must have come out if the bed when she went over. Loaded, double-aught buckshot. Both Barrels." She closed it up with a click.

"Hey Shane, how's it coming there, man? Can we get this thing back on its wheels easily or not?"
This message was last updated by the player at 22:21, Sat 17 Oct 2020.

Yes, bring in the big boys. Police and ambulance.

And another dirty toy! Good job, one less menace for the community.

Let's try to get as much Intel as we can from the detainee.

Command replied that there was no suitable transport at that time. At dawn (0500 local) a convoy would be sent out from New West for patient transport to Royal Columbian, and an RCMP unit would escort the prisoner back to "cells" (the jail) at UBC.

The prisoner is unaware of the larger context. The Jokers (HA affiliates) have a clubhouse in Surrey by the river (the industrial area by the Patullo and Skytrain bridges) but are thinking of moving it out to Langley as Surrey is just starting to become pacified and they are right across the river from New West. The Jokers are already operating a "booze can", illegal bar, on the outskirts of Langley township, a farming community. The HAs seem to be laying low somewhere also in Langley. The only other major outlaw motorcycle club he knows about is the Razorbacks, and they seem to be challenging the HAs for dominance. He thinks they have a clubhouse out in Abbotsford. He's also heard of a militia further up the valley, he heard they were hard core religious fanatics. Maybe skinheads as well. There are a few other minor bike clubs (Rolling Vipers, Border Reapers, The Brotherhood), all affiliated with the HAs and might patch over if asked. He has no idea of relative strengths.

Shane determined the truck can be righted without much effort. But the front axel is bent, the front left wheel is bent and steering gear shot, likely the frame is warped. If this were before the war it would be a write-off for sure.

KING to all call signs... Apparently we may be expecting a biker gang to pay a visit around midnight according to the arrested guy. They believe this place is empty and they wanted to loot it. The guys we caught wanted to be a step ahead...

Consolidate inside the Fort we need to be prepared.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg # 259):

"If transport isn't coming until morning then let's move the injured to the main building in the fort where we can warm them up, or at least the visitor's centre. They're on spine boards and we can use the Humvee to move them."

Kel checks out one of the tourist maps and brings it inside the LAV to look at in light.

"Folks, I want light and noise discipline now.  Those captures, make sure they are secure and silent however we need to make it.  Start looking at defensive positions.  Eric... does that M2 come off the truck, or do we just position the tactical?"

Eric leaves Kel's driver in charge of guard duty for the moment and follows Kel into the vic to get a gander at the map.

"Yeah, the fifty can come down; I got the tripod & T&E in the bed, along with some LAWs & a 60mm mortar, if we wanna really start the party.  Also, if we can get some good intel & figure their line of approach, I got a little C4 on me too that I could rig up."

Kel looks at Eric Appraisingly.

"You may be my new favorite person."  She smiles, then looks back to the map.

She starts pointing "I will need lookouts with night vision and radios at at least all main approaches.  Probably one near where the Trans Canada drops off by the parking lot, one either Hudson and Mary or Hudson and Francis.  Need someone to see if the tower in the corner can see up the trans Canada approach."

She points at the bend where Mavis turns into Royal. "This would be a good spot for that M2 to be overwatch on and then a fallback position at looking at the main gate from the compound?"

"The scouts are our most important part, and we need them out quickly.  Who has the skills?"

The bikers are coming...

Very well, we'll give them a warm reception. We need to know their strength and numbers first.

Mac, get a vehicle and a good radio. Establish yourself at least three or four miles before the Fort on the main approach and report. I'm expecting at least a truck for the looting and the armed escort. But also may have a nasty surprise. That's why we cannot be complacent.

We'll set up an ambush. We don't have to recon a spot along the way. I suggest to do it here. Right at the entrance of the Fort.

Once they stop, park and disembark they will be at its weakest disposition. Grouped tight enough to get them

Kelsey, establish the ambush elements by our current standard of chess piece and assign position, cover and acts of fire. We can make good use of auto fire from machine guns and the auto cannon. You'll be in charge of the ambush as you'll have the best sensors and the bigger stick.

We'll get the prisoners inside the fort in a safe place.

Ladies and gentlemen, let's get the party started!

Mac jumped up.

"On it. Do you want me to watch and report only, rather than engage? Shall I follow up once they've passed me?"

He just wanted to get things clear before he took off.

Kelsey grins at Mac

"Mac, do what you do best buddy.  Your call.  I think a little pressure from behind once they are engaged in front is your forte, eh?"

She offers the sniper a 'fist bump', this is not their first rodeo together, and they have been friends for some time.

"Counting on you Mac."


She motions to Eric.

"Your M2, Eric, and you will be a star in this engagement with it.  Tell me where you want it, and where you feel other things can go to support it.  I made suggestions.  We need to be fluid because bikers don't tend to be very organized, but be wary because sometimes they have war vets among them." 

Mac, just watch and reporting in your regular SALUTE format to start with.

But you're still part of the offensive plan once we engage. You may choose to come back and join. I also suggest that somehow you still cover the approach. There's the possibility that the bikers may call for reinforcements.

Mac returns the fist bump even as he listens to what else Taras has to say.

"Got it. Stay mobile, keep overwatch, engage as opportunity arises once the first element - or more correctly, the main main element, they may have scouts out - has passed."

He ran off to get his ghillie suit. The one thing he did not want was the bikers seeing him lurking!

Most excellent, Mac, most excellent.

Regardless of country, origins, etc an Officer could always rely on the professionality of a superbly trained warrior like the team's sniper.

"Where do you want me?  I can set up on the C9 in one of the towers maybe, stay loose to shift to hot spots or with Mac if thinks he needs backup.  It's up you.", Stan said to Kel.

Once the others had arrived Thomas climbed down from the towers and went over to join them. He waited until he was relived so they still had eyes out.

"Whats this a gangs coming ? Did we not catch all the people in the car and the fort, how do they know we are here ?"



-

Eric stepped out of the armored car to address the two soldiers.

"Alright gents, here's the deal.  Out enterprising criminals here heard the Hell's Angels was coming out here to strip the fort, and figured they'd beat them to the punch, so as far as we know, the gang doesn't know we're here.  Sounds like they're put MacDonald out there as hasty LP/OP to signal their advance.  Us here, we got two towers, but yeah, the C9 in one & my dismounted ma deuce in the other.  The tower look like they got bad LOS to the west, so we'll want good dismounts covering that approach just in case.  The plan is still coming together, but I'd want a force to counterattack them once they're tore up too; maybe the coyote."

He cracked his neck.

"They wanna come at our home, we outta let them what's up.  We answer this weak, they'll definitely be back.  My vote is we close the circle put'em all down, but we'll see what the brass thinks."

"Ah.. are you sure on that because weren't the two in the car gang members ? They wouldn't under cut the gang like that if they were, not if they wanted to stay intact...."


-

"Those two could be hangers-on.  Wannabees waiting for their chance to join up.", Stan offered.

"Doesn't matter now. We have bigger problems."

"Agreed." Eric said with a slight smirk.

"What matters is we got hostiles rollin' up on us & we gotta get ready to smoke'em up.  I think the M2 would do best in the northern-most tower; It can overlook the main road there and provide some fire along the avenues of approach to the west.  We should also split up the AT rockets.  If we need them then we need them, but I also wouldn't say no to getting their truck intact-ish.  Abbot, up to you how to deploy your SAW.  Conventional wisdom would be the other tower, but I'm not sure if that would really provide much more fire compared to the M2.  Alternative option might be dug in at ground level, covering one or more of the other gates, plus to the west & to the south have really good fields of fire.  I got some demo too if we want to lay out some surprises."

He looked over to the coyote, to where Kel was visible through the open door, then shrugged.

"Just suggestions though.  It would really depend on what your NCOs think."

"Good Eric, that is what I wanted to hear.  I want you to recon that tower and make sure that plan is feasible, that you can get the M2 up there, and be able to see.  That is on you, Mister Wright, make it happen."

She stabs a finger at the map.

"I want the Spoonful roughly here, ready to move and apply our big gun if need.. able to support smaller stuff if need."

*She points at a corner of the parking lot*

"But we will need to get there and make sure it is viable."

She examines the map.

"If there is a berm I can put the Spoonful up against and have a field of fire, then that is even better.  That will require a little footwork and scouting.  Speaking of scouting, I still want a few warm bodies in a couple directions in case some of these assholes come in from another direction.  Bikers are random as hell."

Eric grinned & nodded.

"I may need a volunteer to help get the MG up there, but once I have it I can mount it & get everything ready.  I just don't wanna unmount the barrel & have to go through the rigmarole of checking headspace & timing.  I think we can put Matty on prisoner detail, given that the technical is gonna be unarmed.  I'm gonna keep my rifle up there with me, but I got a scattergun that's up for grabs if needed.  Once I get my gun up & ready, I can help with scouting fields of fight & cover."

Eric seemed to be just a little more alive as the prospect of a battle neared, switching from subdued and controlled to being his element.  He reached under his plate carrier and pulled up the balaclava he'd been wearing as a neck gaiter, using it to hide his face lest he be recognized from his UC work.

Where do you need the King element? We're providing 7,62 mm auto fire and RPGs.

Kel taps the map, then looks into the city, frowning.

"You know.. it would be good to have a mobile force in town, waiting on a signal to cut off retreat.  Might be a good place for both Knight and Taras's King.  A little quick Camo.. and we wait to surprise them from the rear.  We have some mobility, we should use it."

A smile and nod to Taras.

"Russian enough a tactic?"

In reply to Eric C. Wright (msg # 277):

"Where do you want to put that fifty? I can help ya move it. Where is the tripod?", Stan offered.

Eric took a few moments to look around the inside of the fort, getting a better idea of the layout now that he had time, doing a quick analysis of what was around them.

"I think, in retrospect, a rifleman & a rocket or two would be better on the North/Northeast tower.  The sight line is shorter and it's a less direct route for a vehicle.  That particular tower will provide some elevation and be able to cover the TC Trail and the nearby gate.  If they plan on bringing in a truck to strip the site proper, they'll either bring it in that gate or the southern gate.  Southern gate is larger, which means it's a good point for the Coyote to sally forth from if we're keeping it inside the walls.  Their primary route of advance would likely be the Highway 1; it's well maintained and will provide a good route for a laden & unladen truck.  It's roughly two klicks; can the electronic crow's nest see out that far?

Demo would go well I think on Mavis between King & Royal, and the corner of Mary & Hudson, which should cover both main approaches.

I think the M2 would be best served in a south window at the main house; the upper floor will give a good field of fire to both west & south, although once I set it I'm not moving it to another window.  Dismounts would do well there too I think, lots of cover & concealment with good elevation.  I think the SAW facing west would do well, and if it comes from the south the C9 can display readily to assist."

He started over to his truck, hopping up on the bed.

"I appreciate it.  Tripod is in the bed, but I can get that; it doesn't weight much.  This bitch though..." he said as he wiggled out the retention pin on the pintle, pausing half-way through to hit the assembly with the heel of his palm before finally disengaging it.

"Did I hear the word Demolition in reference to the infrastructure of Canada, Mr Wright?
 We only do that as a last resort.  I do not think it has come to that."