Thursday 12 May 2094
1230 Hours
Partly Cloudy

Entering Boise, Idaho

"Simon's Rock" was a small colony that used to be called "Near Boise". It was located not too far outside the Ghost Storm over Boise's downtown area.

Simon's Rock was the last stop for traders and caravans who didn't want to go further into the Ghost Storm itself. It was also a waypoint a steady stream of pilgrims, petitioners, Companions, Knights and Squires passing through the storm wall.

Their instructions, however, were to pass through the wall and into Boise itself. There, they could drop off the three Templar swords at the Hall of Heroes: Arthur's, Chance's Crusader sword, and the remains of Michaela's broken katana (although she had been a Squire and not a full-fledged Templar).

Since the Templars moved in and rebuilt the Temple (an old Freemason's hall in the downtown) the storm had weakened but not dissipated. No one had seen such a storm go away and people agreed if it was going to happen it would happen here, but not yet. Like all other storm walls, greenish-black storm wall was still shot through with whitish streaks that some said were the souls of the damned. The storm wall was obviously weaker but it still hurt to pass through.

In reply to The Marshall (msg #1):

The truck goes through the wall, knocking Roadkill about. He falls back into his seat with the feeling of having a heart attack.
"You... *weeze* drive.... fridge"

Saying that it hurt going through the storm wall was unlike anything Jane had felt before.  It was similar to when she crashed but during the crash she had a few seconds to tell herself that she was going to crash.  This was...this was...the same yet different.  Jane felt that somebody had reached in and turned her inside out.  That somebody wanted to use her guts for a violin string and was just playing her like that fiddle.  That was all she felt in an instant for the next instant she was crying out Peter's name as fell backwards in the truck and passed out.

In reply to Roadkill (msg #2):

Ian sees Roadkill in distress and he knows that the rig has an auto pilot so is not so concerned that they will crash.

Ian calls over the radio, "Something just happened to Roadkill.  Rowan, we might need your help over here."

Off the radio he says:
"Gilles find a place to stop and inform me."

Ian does a quick physical assignment of Roadkill to see if there is anything that he can do until Rowan can get here.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:36, Thu 03 May 2012.

As Jane keels over Rowan turns to help her, kneeling and starting treatment
hearing the call she replies
"Be with you as soon as I have treated Jane, she took it bad coming through the wall"

Huddled on his perch, Smoker just hopes everyone else is OK.

Airen remembers seeing the Ghost Storm form over Dodge City. That wasn't a memory that he enjoyed in any way. Now he was passing through one. Airen braced himself for the worst and it was even worse then he ever imagined.

Jane found herself floating in space and, surprisingly enough, devoid of pain.  She hoped that the pain would return but also knew that if it did it would return with a vengeance.  She still wasn't entirely sure what had happened but hoped she'd be around enough to find out.

As she looked around she noticed a dim buildings in the background and gasped.  At least she thought she gasped.  No sound came out but she felt like she gasped.  She thought she saw the homestead that had taken her in.  She was sure of it and when she saw people moving around she was possitive.  Wait a minute.  They were carrying a body.  Somehow Jane knew that it was her body even though she couldn't see any faces.

She hoped that she would now be able to find out what had really happened to them and she felt herself float towards them.  She was just getting to where the outlines and shapes were taking better form when she felt a jerk.  Her body seemed to pull back from there and she screamed in frustration.  Her silent scream didn't do any good as she felt herself start to settle back down this time with pain.

There is was.  Positive proof that she wasn't dead...for now.  The pain was like a sharp knife going through her but she it meant that her nerve endings were fired up and working.  She still couldn't move but she was alive.  She just hoped this time the end results were better and her current traveling companions would live so she could thank the

*cough*
"Knock me out or give me a shot of something!" *pain hits him again*
"Smoke! Cigar! Drink!!!!"

He grabs Ian

"how can i make this smokers fault"

Blaming smoker for everything has always been a pass time of Roadkills and makes everything seem... somewhat better. A smile comes over his face. *cough*

"Everything OK down there? Roadkill?"

Smoker was getting worried. He wasn't quite sure just what was going on, but the rig on autopilot just didn't feel the same as when 'Kill was driving it himself. And he wouldn't be using the auto here. Not close to a township and with all this swirling.. stuff. Devil-wind. Demons. Whatever.

Airen noticed Giles take over. Not alarmed at first, but after Smoker started to yell down to Roadkill. Airen contacts Peter to let him know that we may have a problem. After that Airen carefully climbs down to the cab and sticks his head in the gunnery port. "Giles hey do you mind slowly pulling over so we can deal with Roadkill's issues when it is safe of course and we can get more or less out of the way and get going fairly easily. Thanks and I will do a couple of checks on your hard ware I that is okay. Just to make sure the mountings are still stable. Been on my mind since we rammed the Black Hat SUV back aways. Thanks a bunch."

Ian is not sure why Roadkill wants to blame Smoker for this but he helps Roadkill over to his seat and he jumps in to the drivers seat and finds a quick place to stop the rig so that Rowan can get over to help.

He calls up to Smoker, "Looks like the storm really hit Roadkill hard.  I think we might need to do a check on everyone else to see who else got the hit by this storm"

Ian does a quick check over Gilles to see what the AI has found for a parking spot.

"I had better check the rig out... these demons may have affected more than people..."

Smoker scrambles down and starts his usual routine maintenance checks.

"D'accord, Sergeant."

Control of the rig passed to the autopilot. They were on a rubble-strewn boulevard on the outskirts of Boise that had a lane cleared for transit. They made it another block before there was room for Gilles to pull all the vehicles over.

In reply to Roadkill (msg #9):

Noting the panic behind him, Trejo slowed down. When the vehicles pulled over he pulled a U-turn, then parked by the Rig's driver door. He yanked open the door, saw Roadkill slumped over the wheel.

"You look like shit, amigo."


Understanding it was the souls trapped in the ghost wall that had ripped at Roadkill's soul, he lay his hands on his chest and mumbled a prayer in Latin.

As Rowan started medical treatment on Jane, she realised that her vital signs were crashing. She was having a massive cardiac arrest. Rowan pulled open Jane's Police vest so she could attach electrodes from her paramedic's bag to Jane's chest. While the portable defibrillator charged, she started chest compressions.

The defibrillator gave a BEEEEEP! to warn it was shocking, then Jane's chest jumped. The readout recorded a steady heartbeat afterwards. As she worked, an off-road motorcycle roared up carrying someone she didn't recognise, a young black woman in a Templar's white tabard with red cross.

"Holy mackarel! When we got word from Simon's Rocl a Templar was coming through, they sent me to meet you here. Let me see what I can do to help!"

She dismounted, then climbed into the back of the technical. Laying on of hands took a moment, then thanks to Rowan's trauma care and the Templar's help she regained consciousness after a few minutes. Both her and Roadkill would be ready to travel within the half hour and be right as rain. Marshall's Note: neither has any Wound levels.

Smoker had a look at the Rig's engine but it seemed to be fine (and even didn't have any damage from ramming the Black Hat SUV). The storm wall only damaged the flesh, not inanimate objects. As a scavenger he concentrated on suburbs, battlefields, outlying towns and left the ghost storms to the crazy and desperate scavvies, most of whom never came back. What he'd seen inside Wichita's ghost storm hadn't made him doubt the wisdom of this strategy, although Boise seemed a little less.. unnatural. Probably some benign influence of the Templar order.

The local Templar, Tasmin, talked with Trejo a little, then addressed the group.

"I've never seen the storm hit people so hard here, as bad as anywhere. We take it for granted it's weaker and hurts less, but it can still kill. And your people should be dead... I've never seen our laying on of hands work so well, either, so fast. Really, something freakin' unusual is going on!"

"If you could, let's get going. Trejo, Simon wants to meet you at the Temple as soon as possible. He's got something he really needs your help with, your friends, too. People's lives are at stake."
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:01, Fri 04 May 2012.

Muttings, Smoker climbs back into his perch.

"Best to stick to stuff I can fix with a screwdriver... nasty spooky stuff, want no more of clouds of demons or whatever..."

In reply to The Marshall (msg #16):

Jane felt her body rise up and thought for a moment that she was headed to whatever lay beyond the great beyond.  Then she felt is crash again.  With a moan she felt almost as normal as she should feel, considering the circumstances and felt her eyes open.  She stared vacantly for a bit and blinked until her brain decided it was back from vacation and could connect up with her mouth so that she could speak.

"_{Let's not do that again anytime soon huh?}"  Jane tried to smile but it was an effort.  As she tried to sit up she noticed there were some new people there and that her vest had been undone.  "Ummm.  What happened?  Thanks Rowan.  You can sit by me anytime.  Who's your friend there."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:08, Fri 04 May 2012.

Rowan frowns not sure what to make of this Templar. Some how to clean and untouched compaired to the ones that Rowan has known. Still she was clearly blessed with the healing gift and willing to use it, that negates many other things in Rowans eyes.
She smiles gently at Jane, "rest a little friend, your heart beat decided to take a leave of absence and I had to shock you to get it going again".
The Templar met us on this side of the barrier her name is Tamsin I think

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg #19):

After Trejo started the prayer, Ian moves out of the way so that he does not interfere.

After the prayer is finished Ian thanks Trejo for his help and asks Roadkill, "How are you feeling now?  You think that you are up to driving for the next bit or did you want me and Gilles to take over so you can rest up until we get to Bosie?"

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg #19):

Jane looked into Rowan's eyes with a serious expression.  "You pulled me back.  Thank you.  Umm.  I didn't say anything embarrassing while I was out or when I first came too did I?"

As an after thought, Jane gingerly turned her head to the Tasmin.  "Forgive my manners. Thank you also for whatever you managed to do."

Jane turned her head to look to see if the others were ok and then back to Rowan.  "Everybody else ok?  Can I get put back together now?  Baby all right?"

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg #19):

After getting over his little 'moment' and taking a moment to get it together outside the truck, he looks back towards what they just came through.

"I really wish the dead would just be dead and not bother the living so much, then again, coming back as a wall of pain to annoy people does have its appeal."

He looks up into the sky..

"hmmm, maybe I could be some sort of ghost rider in the sky"

Roadkill heads over to peter and his pickup to just have a quick check.

"You guys good? we should follow Trejo to his boss and then get some rest after that"

Roadkill goes back to the truck and makes sure all is ok with the crew. Grabs a smoke and breaths that smoky goodness into his lungs...

"Ian, Gillies, i can take it from here."

He would say thanks to Ian but he never did get that drink he wanted.

In reply to Roadkill (msg #22):

Jane gives a chuckle, and immediately regrets it, when Roadkill walks over and asks if everybody is all right.  She still has her vest undone and probably not all the equipment was put away yet.  "Unfair that you're walking so easily Roadkill.  What?  I was the only one who got zapped so hard?"

"Afraid so Jane. Must be something you ate. I stick with what I know that damned cactus was plain old weird looking." Airen chuckles to let Jane know he was kidding.

In reply to Tech. Sgt. Airen Crichton (msg #24):

Jane chuckled at Airen's comment and then winced as her body was still sore.  She then glared at Airen which brought another chuckle and wince and just gave up.

Rowan "easy friend, you beat the crap out of the men later".
Rowan turns bows to the Templar.
"I am Rowan, I bring the sad news and fall of three of your order and the swords of two of them so they may be honoured in your hall and their memories kept for what they achived, in their lives"

Peter gave a loud grunt as the pain hit him, like a sucker punch to the stomach, only with more force behind it. Like a spiritual gutshot. The technical swerved just a bit as the pain hit him, but he didn't lose control so that was good.

But things were not good.

Jane cried out and dropped. Peter resisted the urge to immediately slam on the brakes and leap out to check on her. He gritted his teeth, knowing that either Rowan or the Templars could help her best but he slowed down when the rig did, and hoped Rowan could help her in the meantime. He wanted to curse and yell at them for idiotically stopping instead of pressing on but he bit his tongue...literally, but just a little...to hold his silence.

He parked and ran to the back to watch over Jane without getting in the way. He gave her shoulder a pat when she regained consciousness. He turned and glared at Trejo for the man keeping silent about what he was and not trying to lay on hands on anyone. He didn't know the whole story, but he didn't care right then.

He checked on Roadkill who looked to be okay. He folded his arms across his chest and watched silently as things began to be spoken of. He was too angry and hurt to speak, and still shaken from both the nightmare the night before and Jane and Roadkill almost dying.

In reply to Peter Firecrow (msg #27):

Jane felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Peter.  That, more than anything, did her heart good to see him up and around even if he was scowling.  She turned her head off to one side so her cheek briefly touched him.

"Ok guys.  Help me sit up.  Did anybody check baby yet? Did you take any damage Peter?  If you didn't I'm sure it's because I took enough for everybody in our truck.  What a team player huh?"  Jane looked at Raven and tried to get her to understand that she hated all this attention now that she was better so perhaps they could get going?  Of course she couldn't say that out loud but she hoped that after all this time out in the wilds her woman to woman body language still was in tact and it was, somehow, conveyed.  "_{Guess I will have a lot to write in my journal this next time. Hope I have enough pages left in it.}"

Rowan takes a long look at Jane, "you will do" helps her to her feet and says with a smile "all yours Pete".
"Okay gang other things to do around here" then packs her equipment away

Trejo mounted his bike, kicking it to life. It rumbled beneath him as he gripped the handlbars. Looking over his shoulder at Tasmin, his fellow Templar, he said,

"It's like Rowan says. It was bad. We lost two in Wichita. Chance was sacrificed by the Anti-Bishop. Then Arthur Dayne was killed by Selene and her Coven. We got their swords. I'd a been next if Roadkill and his crew hadn't come along."

For some reason Trejo neglected to mention the book of Witchcraft that Rowan had rescued from the desecrated altar of blood inside the Cathedral of Doom. The one that was beside him as the Anti-Bishop prepared to sacrifice Trejo as part of the blood ritual that would seal his dark, evil pact.

His black eyes did flick towards Rowan for a second, then back to Tasmin.

"After, on the way here, Arthur's Squire Michaela caught a bullet in the back just outside Cheyenne. Black Hats. Dayne shoulda taught her to duck better. Wasn't his style, I guess."

"If we're done talking, I got a Squire to meet up with. Simon can wait."

Without waiting further, he revved the bike's engine and slipped the clutch, taking off like a shot into the remains of downtown Boise.

In reply to Trejo (msg #30):

Tasmin watched as he roared away.

"I'm sorry to hear about your friends. I guess you folks better mount up and follow me."

In reply to Tasmin the Templar (msg #31):

Roadkill, who had the truck running for some five or so minutes, gives a blast on the horns and takes off after Trejo.
He looks to Ian and says

"You know these templars are cold hearted bastards, my sort of people, except for all that hocus pocus magic shit."
He thinks for a bit
"Hmmm, a bit like Rowan but with more of a death wish and a big sword. oh and pass that bottle would you, it goes great with this smoke... not the water one but the one with the really hard spirits in it that may or may not make me pass out"

Why did this guy not even pass him a drink when he almost died he thought.
This message was last updated by the GM at 11:04, Sat 05 May 2012.

The ruins outside the Boise maelstrom looked like those around most other cities.

Buildings lay rubbled and blasted, scores of scorched cars filled the streets, and here and there old signs of the aftermath—battles fought between mutie bands over the last scraps of food—were evident.

Then you passed through that raging, violent maelstrom. It hurt—like it always
does—but seemed a knot or two slower than elsewhere. Maybe the Templars have something to do with it. Maybe you just got lucky.

Either way, you’re through it now.

Where you expected either more rubble, or perhaps a gleaming city of gold, there is neither. Instead, there are a few stone buildings and countless tents, lean-tos, and shacks made of scavenged debris. In this sea of temporary homes are several hundred people. Most mill about hastily built kiosks, bargaining for food with bags of salvage. Others sit despondently, waiting to petition the Grand Master for aid.

A much smaller number of young men and women look as if they hope to be squires. They duel with each other, most armed with little more than sticks or iron pipes. Compared to the semipermanent population of aid-seekers, your band must look like veteran warriors.

And you, the Templar, might just be the one who takes them away from
their misery and gives new meaning to their lives.

- From the memoirs of Jo, a Templar.

---

The posse arrived into the occupied part of Boise. Unlike the part of Wichita they'd seen when they were inside the Ghost Storm, Boise seemed to lack the subtle and somehow sinister warping of shapes and the strange leaching out of all natural colour. Instead, they passed by what looked a lot like normal ruins, save for the whirling storm wall all around.

There were several intact or rebuilt-looking buildings in the occupied part of downtown.

They pulled up in front of the Temple. Tasmin told them to wait. Getting off this bike, Trejo ignored her and strode off into a nearby tent city, looking for someone. In front of the tent city a handful of male and female prospective Squires practiced their martial arts, hand to hand and especially melee skills. They looked hopefully at Trejo and practiced just a little harder, showing off. Was he a Templar, would he take them as his Squire? But when he ignored them they just looked a little down, but soon were back at it again.

---

The Temple: neither a fortified citadel nor a palace, the Grand Temple was an old Freemason's hall was based on Idaho Lodge No. 1, an early 20th century 2-story gray brick office building modeled in Renaissance Revival style. The extensive damage repaired and new additions (and fortifications) made in stone and red brick.

The Hall of Heroes: An old church and graveyard on a nearby hill. The cremated remains of Templars are interred inside, the bodies of Squires and Companions were buried outside. This was where Michaela would be put to rest. They didn't have either Chance or Arthur's bodies, but there would be plaques honouring them placed inside.

The Hospice: A repaired 8-story apartment building next to the temple. Petitioners stay here, including those who seek armed intervention by the Templars, and those seeking healing for themselves or others. It's said the Templars can cure the sick and heal the wounded, and lacking a health care system many people believe they are their only prayer. Sometimes their prayers are answered.

The Barracks: an old hotel nearby. Templar housing.

Downtown: About fifty or so "Downtowners" live more or less permanently in the a shanty town beside the Town Square. Companions and Squires live in a tent city next door, as well as would-be Squires waiting for a Knight to take them on.

The Town Square: An intersection between the Hall of Heroes and the Temple. It's become a festive marketplace, serving the needs of the dozens of petitioners who come to Boise on a monthly basis. As well as the Downtowners who serve the Templars in ways (cleaning, cooking, weapons smiths, maintenance, mechanics).

Various tables, tents and carts have been set up to sell various goods like food, clothing, weapons, and religious icons and trinkets.

The Water Tower: Self-Explanatory. People gotta drink. On the hillside above the church. Water pumps are powered by solar power cells on the temple, barracks and Hospice roof.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:44, Sat 05 May 2012.

When the rig came to a halt, Smoker scrambled down from his perch and stretched. Then he walked round to the cab and looked up.

"You all right, Roadkill? Had me kinda worried back there..."

OOC little time travel

"What *Ahrrrg* Nothing. Still the man. Take that . .... * hurmmm * dead spirit babies"

Trejo comes to the rescue

"See, not a problem smokers. Give me one of your smokes"

"You never seem to have any of your own," grumbled Smoker, passing one up to Roadkill.

<quote Smoker Nix>
The posse arrived into the occupied part of Boise. Unlike the part of Wichita they'd seen when they were inside the Ghost Storm, Boise seemed to lack the subtle and somehow sinister warping of shapes and the strange leaching out of all natural colour. Instead, they passed by what looked a lot like normal ruins, save for the whirling storm wall all around.

There were several intact or rebuilt-looking buildings in the occupied part of downtown.

They pulled up in front of the Temple. Tasmin told them to wait.
Rowan Streches walks over to the colonel, "not what I expected love" she says.
"Some how I expected the Templars and the people they protect to have rebuilt more of the inner area".
"And look where they would give Michaela rest, she deserves more than that"
Rowan looks around the area her eyes sad.
Behind them some thing else stirs, some thing has her anoued.

Schaeffer looked around with a jaundiced eye.

"Is not some fairy-tale Bavarian castle, no. Nor a grand cathedral."

"It seems, though, that people have some purpose here. They have built what they need, and little more. It is a functional place. Not the home of soldiers, perhaps, but fitting for warrior-monks. Believe me, I shall build you that fairy-tale castle one day! Complete with dragon. You deserve it, my love.

"I think Michaela will be honoured here. Remembered. And this is a far better burial place than so many have gotten in the wastes."

Jane struggled to get up.  She felt like Roadkill had run her over but she was moving and not leaking any vital parts so she it was better than she thought it would be.  When she got up she gave Baby a good looking over to make sure that she was undamaged and gave her a "good girl" comment when she saw that she was ok  As Jane stepped out of the vehicle, steadied herself for a bit before walking over to Peter's window and patting his arm and smiling at him.  She didn't say anything just looked at him for a bit and then turned and leaned against the truck but away from the door so he could get out if he wanted to.

"So is there another way out of this town besides having to go through that wall again?  Just curious."

   ""   ""

      "
"          "
 "        "
  "      "
    """"

Roadkill just smiles.

"Still, what are mates for? Want to take a look around or what?"

Smoker lights his pipe, and as an afterthought offers the flame to Roadkill.

rowan Sighs I suppose so love".
"It seems pointless sometimes, if we do not rebuild then how will the generations after us remember us though."
"There has to be more than just surviving the waste lands."
"A castle nice thought, but a fortified keep witha town to build up and protect would be nicer, or one we could join and put our skills and lives to good use in"
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:23, Sat 05 May 2012.

In reply to Roadkill (msg #40):

Driving past all the, all he can think is 'Noobs' swinging their bits of sticks or pipes, roadkill can only think how ridiculous they all are.

"wow, i guess this is what people do if they don't have a convey? practice with sticks to become something."

An uneasy thought comes to Roadkill

"ha"

Remembering that Ian is somewhat of a law dog

"Maybe better than killing and raping to join a road gang... yeah"

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg #42):

Overhearing Rowan's comment about how do people remember you, Jane felt compelled to answer.  "We are remembered by our actions Rowan.  Good and bad.  That's why I have a journal.  Hopefully it will still be around after I am gone and perhaps even expanded upon.  Our stories are our legacies.  All buildings start the same.  Ideas and the ground.  Perhaps they just need people to show them that muscle can be built from swinging swords or digging ground or that if they want ramparts to fight on help build them.  Give them something of theirs to fight for.  People fight harder if their blood and sweat went into the making.  It's part of them."

Feeling foolish for having blurted out her feelings on the subject she turned and started to straighten up and secure the items in the back of the deuce even thought hey didn't need it.

"You can be remembered for something greater than brawling, though. Build something, fix something, do something, to actually benefit folks rather than just fight with them or for them. What does fighting ever prove? Except who's the biggest bully, the most capable brawler."

Smoker drew on his pipe. He supposed everyone thinks in terms of what they do best. He fixed things, got them to work, cannabilised stuff to make other stuff go. That made him happy. Maybe if you are good at brawling, you see some meaning to it, over and above just chasing off whatever thug you'd been brawling with so you could get on with something else....

In reply to Smoker Nix (msg #45):

Jane smiled to herself.  That was what she had said.  Perhaps not in so few words but she believed in building things and keeping what you built.  For both of those things you needed to put effort and muscle into it.

Ian looks at the squires practicing, he see so many young faces. He knows that many of them will follow with a Templar and get themselves killed like Micheala.  He just hopes that they are able to to some good in the world.

At Roadkill's statement, Ian replies with "Ya, they are trying to do something to make the world a better place."

Laughing, Schaeffer lit his own cigarette while they had a pause. He was sorting his gear like he did on occasion when he had a chance.

"Smoker, my friend, if that's all a warrior is to you, then you had better Goddamned believe me when I say that, Templars aside, I'm the biggest fucking bully and brawler around! You do not understand real soldiers like me, nor real warriors like the Templars, if you think all we do is destroy.

"Like them, I risk my life to protect those weaker than I. (This includes you.) For that is the highest calling of a soldier and a warrior, to defend others so they can build and not have it taken away. We all have our places. This is theirs."

He pitched his smoke and, laying down his carbine next to his Mauser, retrieved the long waterproof cloth-covered object that he always carried lashed to his pack. Schaeffer then took off his boonie hat and put on his red airborne beret instead, suddenly looking every inch the offizier. (It helped that he shaved that morning.)

"Go on, have the last word, my friends, tell me how violence solves nothing or you can't hug someone with nuclear arms. I see I have work to do."

Schaeffer seemed amused, not angry. It wasn't the first time he'd been lectured!

Striding away from the vehicles towards the kids as they practiced he unwrapped the object. The cloth revealed a plain curved black sheath containing a sword with an iron basket hilt. Attaching the scabbard to his waist he positioned himself where they could all see him. Some would-be squires paused but others continued sparring.


Schaeffer came erect, as if reviewing the troops back on the parade ground. He drew the antique sword and came to attention (holding it in front of and close to his face) revealing the immaculate Söllingen steel blade of a Prussian cavalry sabre, gleaming silver in the sun.

Swinging the sword down to point along his right leg (at parade rest) he barked out in a voice well-accustomed to command:

"ACHTUNG! ALLE KOMMEN SIE HIER! SCHNELL! SCHNELL! All of you come here, quickly now, and line up in front of me!

"My name is Oberst Schaeffer. You may call me Colonel."

"Let me be clear: I am not a Templar. Yet I understand that within each of you is the heart of a noble warrior. Or you would not come all this way and cross the wall of death to be here, to offer your lives for something higher. I shall teach you what I can to help you survive, in the short time I have. Pay attention now. Let us begin."

In a heartbeat they were lined up With a few economical movements of his own sword he had the gaggle of youngsters practice a basic weapon drill.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:50, Sun 06 May 2012.

In reply to COL Kurt L. Schaeffer (msg #48):

"God I hate the War some days. Kept good people dying on both sides daily. Glad a few of us made it through. Damned silly Kraut. Hey Kurt we should teach them basic shooting skills to a decent shot kills em just as dead as a sword and generally keeps the kids safe." Airen starts walking towards the assembled group carrying his rifle case. He slowly unpacks it and puts it together. It honestly looks just like an old Sharps Big .50 Buffalo Rifle except the bore is almost twice the size it should be.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:20, Sat 05 May 2012.

In reply to Tech. Sgt. Airen Crichton (msg #49):

Grinning at Airen, Schaeffer paused in his instruction but had his "students" continue practicing.

"A very impressive weapon indeed, Sergeant!"

"Ya, I agree that a gun is much more effective than a sword. But they haff no guns! And skill with a sword may help them become Templars."

"They can take a few shot each with this one if we can find some metal lying about. And finding a gun well the first road gang that they help defeat should have one or two." Airen finds a smallish piece of rebar broken off of some rubble and opens a hatch on the side and loads the rebar in.

In reply to Tech. Sgt. Airen Crichton (msg #51):

It had been about a half hour since they arrived at the Temple. There was no sign of Tasmin after she asked them to wait and then went inside.

No sign of Trejo, either.

Ammo hadn't been a problem for Crichten, some of the "sparring weapons" were rusted lengths of rebar but there were a few metal scraps that had been hacked off and not collected as salvage, yet.

Evidently, some Templars did use guns and practiced with them because there was a shooting range off to the side of the practice field.

Schaeffer and the students gathered around Crichton as he sighted in on a wooden target backed by sandbags.

Peter accepted the touch from Jane and tried not to smile since he was irate at her having been injured in the first place and almost dying. But he was glad that wasn't dead, and that she was okay. The touch was nice and it cracked the frown a bit. He helped her up and shook his head so as to not worry her. "I'm fine, Jane. Glad you are too." He nodded to Rowan. "Thank you, Rowan."

After Trejo pulled out, he quietly muttered a "Dick."

He got back in the truck and followed after the Templar Tasmin. He looked around at the place and gave a small shrug as they waited as told. He refrained from snorting or rolling his eyes at the Colonel offering fairy tales to his witch.

"They have their own ways and beliefs. Even if we don't agree with them, we should respect them. Michaela was one of them, or at least was training to be one." He was proud that his voice stayed steady as he spoke. He still didn't like to think about how the squire was dead. He had liked the spunky Michaela.

He easily ignored Roadkill and the others as they talked about violence and the war. He shook his head, though. Some of them were young and some were old. Some had no idea what they were talking about. Peter hadn't fought in the war. He'd been too busy making a buck. And he'd paid for it. But that was the past.

He glanced at Jane when she patted his arm and stood nearby. He thought for a moment about pulling her inside for a good kissing but she was already light on her feet. He opened the door once more and stepped out. He leaned in close, "You sure you're alright, Janey?"

He looked at Rowan and Smoker and thought about replying but the Colonel beat him to it so he let it go. He lit up a cigarette and puffed at it. "Not that I ain't a patient man, but how long we supposed to wait around?"

"I have no idea Peter, wish I did"
Rowan considers.
"I am feeling like a wall flower at a party and I find my self not liking the situation"
Rowan turns as she hears trickster behind her yip from the back of the technical.
" yes you wished to add some thing she asks politly"

Rowan turns as she hears trickster behind her yip from the back of the technical.
" yes you wished to add some thing she asks politly"
</quote>
I find my self stiring from where my lady covered me to keep the rain off me, nice to be dry and warm and fed.
Still I wish she would not take me some of the strange places she seems to have to go to. why do I hear such strange things in those places any sane being would avoid.
Looking out we are some where I do not know better let her know I am awake I guess

Smoker listened to Schaeffer's speech quietly.

"Each to his own, Kurt. If that's where your heart lies, what you are good at... best to do it as well as you can, and in support of the right causes."

He sat quietly watching the sword drills, then helped scavenge metal scraps for Crichton's monster weapon.

In reply to Smoker Nix (msg #56):

Ian asks around for the contact that he was given so he can deliver the package.

Airen climbs a small "hill" of rubble and aims down at the target. Airen spends a few moments sighting then unleashes a single shot from his "rifle". The shot drills the center of the target leaving a good sized hole bored cleanly through. "I need a length of rope that is weighted to see how far the round went. After I figure the depth I will let you kids shoot a round or two if the energy packs can handle it."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:17, Sun 06 May 2012.

While they were waiting, Jane took out her journal and started to write in it again.  She noticed that she was getting close to the end of this one and would soon need to start another.  Was it a coincidence that just as she was finishing up one aspect of her life that she was also finishing up one of her journals?

Jane sat down by the wheels of their truck and started to write while the light was still good.

In reply to Jane Guin (msg #59):

All this action makes Roadkill smile. He sees the Colonial arguing about 'the war" once again this time with smoker, Airen completely geeking out with his creations, Peter looking tired, he probably had nightmares again too. Jane scribbling away, Trejo rushing off on his own again and Rowan talking to a dog.

"How different can they be"

Roadkill locks up the truck, starts to roll a cigarette and heads in the direction of Ian. Probably a good idea to stick with the package he thinks.

Scrounging around, Smoker found a couple pieces of metal that looked like they would fit into Crichton's wonder-weapon.

---

Using the name he'd been given, "Cpl. Boniface", Sullivan asked around. One of the Downtowners directed him to the Hostel, where Boniface was staying as a guest of the Templars.

Within minutes he was talking to Boniface, a middle-aged woman with short grey hair and a soft Caribbean accent. What was surprising was the the Corporal was in RCMP duty uniform (peaked hat with yellow band, khaki-grey shirt, tactical patrol vest, yellow-striped pants, boots). Boniface took the package Sullivan had couriered from the Law Dogs in St. Louis to the Templars in Boise with thanks, then continued with his new orders.

"Sergeant, the good news is that Depot has been rebuilt. Dere's a colony now, and it's our HQ and training centre again. Canada has no federal government or even provincial governments, yet, but we're working on it. For all intents and purposes the Mounties are in business again as a separate entity but we're are still allied with the Law Dogs.

"The bad-ish news is you're being assigned as RCMP liaison with the Law Dogs under Cole Ballad, down in Junktown. I'll be remainin' 'ere as liaison with the Templars. The word from Depot is to cooperate with the Templars and Law Dogs as much as we can.

"Something big is happening, and if we can keep Depot abreast while giving the Teplars a hand, all the better."

Marshall's Note: "Depot" is the name of the RCMP Academy and former national HQ in Regina. It was once a supply depot and command post for operations in the west before the coming of the railroad.

"Colony" is a loose term for survivor communities that are established after the war, typically ones that have been established after the war. Communities with "Near" and "New" in their names are usually colonies.

---

Over in the marketplace, Trejo's Squire Jason was killing time, waiting for his return. Simon had sent Trejo to Wichita to track down a fellow Templar, Chance, who was investigating rumours of a Coven of undead Witches led by the Catholic Anti-Bishop. He had no idea when Trejo would be back but somehow knew it would be sooner than he thought...

He heard a commotion as Henderson the food merchant's table was overturned. Iguana-on-a-stick and bottles of foul-tasting home-made "miracle" soda went flying everywhere.

Trejo had appeared seemingly from nowhere and had grabbed the food-seller with one hand while punching the shit out of him with the other. Drawing his machete in a lightning move, he held it at the bloody and dazed merchant's throat and growled, "that's a real Templar bone, not some fake. I can feel it. Tell me where the rest of the body is, where you found it, who it is, and who you're working for and I'll let you'll live."

The food merchant shook his head to clear it enough to speak. "Guhhh... guhhh.... the rest of the bones are over there in the duffel bag! With my stuff! I don't know who it was! I found the body in Potosi, Missouri! He was already dead, so, uh..."

Spotting Jason, Trejo smiled grimly. "Oh, there you are, finally. On Texan time, I see. Search this pendejo's shit. Then we're bringin' him to Simon. ¡Ándele! ¡Ándele!!"

The market grew very quiet as everyone held their breaths, and then were let out when it seemed Trejo wasn't going to gank the man on the spot. In the moment of quiet, a clear "Snap-BAM!" was heard from over at the firing range a couple blocks away.

Searching Henderson's belongings indeed revealrf a dufflebag with skeletal remains inside. As Jason took the bag, Trejo then started dragging Henderson, the merchant, towards the temple by the scruff of his neck. Henderson promised Trejo considerable riches that were hidden elsewhere in the ruins if he would set him free. Trejo ignored him and kept dragging him on towards his fate.

---

Over on the firing range, Crichton's railgun round punched cleanly through the wood, the sandbag backing, and the low cinderblock wall a dozen feet behind that. And kept going.

"Mien Gott..." said Schaeffer. "A true Wunderwaffen indeed!"

Seeing the Templar exit from the temple and head over to the parked vehicles, Schaeffer and Crichton wrapped it up with the students and headed over themselves.

---

Finally, Tasmin came out of the Temple. Looking around, she asked, "say, weren't there more of you? Where's Trejo? And the Law Dog you were bringing, Sullivan?"

The missing posse members (Schaeffer, Crichton, Trejo (who had his big-ass machete out and was dragging along someone bloodied and bruised), his as-yet unknown Squire Jason, and finally Sullivan) were making their way over now.

"Good, there they are now!"

"Okay everyone, sorry for the wait, Simon would like to see you immediately, please."

Marshall's Note: for the sake of getting things moving, I assume Sullivan is on his way back, along with Trejo/Jason and Schaeffer/Crichton.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:59, Mon 07 May 2012.

Rowan nods turns and walks to the Technical and picks up michaela's sword and hangs it on her belt.
Then picks up the other two swords, gives Trickster a call to come with her she walks back to the group and steps along side the colonel.
Smiling she says, "enjoy your self love?"
"One day I would like you to teach me the basics of sword use"
Rowan willthen follow the Templar into the Temple
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:50, Mon 07 May 2012.

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg #62):

Reaching the vehicles, Schaeffer decided against stowing his sword and kept it belted to his sheath as well. He had little fear of theft here, he could see from what Trejo was doing to that poor soul the Templars handed disputes very directly.

"Ach, I should like when things are rebuilt to turn mine into the proverbial plowshare. Until then, I shall teach you how to defend yourself with that Wakizashi. A noble weapon, I think Michaela would like you to have it. Make sure the Templars approve, first."

As they followed Tasmin inside, the man Trejo was dragging along looked pretty well-to-do. He whined, "please... I can make you wealthy... let me go... I won't bother you again...."

Trejo scoffed, "what do I care about being rich? I wouldn't touch your filthy money if it was a million dollars. Now be a man and shut up."

He said to Jason, "Sinclair, get Arthur and Michaela's sword (her Katana) from Rowan. She can carry Chance's sword, she has earned the right to present it to Simon."

In reply to COL Kurt L. Schaeffer (msg #63):

"Ach, I should like when things are rebuilt to turn mine into the proverbial plowshare. Until then, I shall teach you how to defend yourself with that Wakizashi. A noble weapon, I think Michaela would like you to have it. Make sure the Templars approve, first."

Rowan nods aproving of her loves thinking
"The broken shards of the Katana, I shall hand to them love, I will request the keeping of the Wakizashi as it is the right thing to do."
"But I will carry it in there on side as it is right under my beliefs to do"
This message was last edited by the player at 09:21, Mon 07 May 2012.

Smoker tags along with everyone else.

"Sure thing Boss and which... Never mind I see her now." Jason walks over the first thing that any of you notice is that he is what would have been middle aged before the War. That and when he talks he has a thick Texan accent. "Ma'am if you would give me Templar Dent's sword and Squire Fukashima's katana I would be much obliged." If Rowan hands them over he takes them reverently and follows Trejo into the Cathedral.

In reply to Jason Sinclair (msg #67):

Ian is returning back to the posse after talking with Cpl. Boniface, he seems to be happier then he was before.  As well people might notice that where before on the shoulders of his jacket was Velcro now have RCMP patches.

OOC: to keep the story moving Ian returns right away after a very quick chat with his fellow Mountie.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:35, Mon 07 May 2012.

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg #65):

Jane probably should have followed but something was keeping her from it.  She didn't want to appear ungrateful but...

Jane nods to the group as they leave and mutters something about staying to watch outside.

Perhaps it would make more sense to her later.

In reply to Jason Sinclair (msg #67):

Rowan looks at the young man as he aproaches and listens to his request, not knowing the man.
She asks politely "by what right do you ask, Micheala was my friend and battle companion".
"I carry both the remains of her katana, and I carry her Wakazhi at my side in memmory."
"The Sword of Templar Dayne you may take to your Lord Templar, with out discusion or argument.
"But I seek to know and understand by what right you deny me the right to return her katana to The temple and ask for the keeping of the wakashi in memmory of her."
Rowans voice is calm respectful and with out force in it.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:05, Mon 07 May 2012.

"Hey Trejo! What do a Ranger, a Federalia, and an RCMP trooper have in common?" Sinclair laughs as he tells the beginning of his joke. "Only that they all were national level cops. However the Ranger was a Templar before the War. The Federalia was a Templar after the War. The Mountie wishes to be a Templar. Get it!"

In reply to Jason Sinclair (msg #71):

Trejo's dour expression didn't change, although his eyes twinkled at Sinclair's joke.

"Huh. No Mountie ever did me wrong. Not like them Rangers."

He frowned at Rowan, not amused at what seemed to be stalling.

"Rowan, my friend, show a little respect for my Squire."

"Just do as he asks, let's not argue about it. Simon's waiting on us."

"Hey some of us hated you guys. I knew a few good guys on your side. They helped with some border issues that we had on your side. As for the sword ma'am I was asking as a friendly gesture. I would rather not have to ask in a mean way. Again ma'am if you would hand over the katana and Arthur's sword." Jason gives Trejo a easy smile when he mentions the border. When he turns to Rowan his eyes are still friendly looking but his smile doesn't touch his eyes.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:17, Tue 08 May 2012.

"I carry the blades that I have sworn to myself hand over to the temple or die trying."

"So be it as you ask so shall you recieve."

"Here is the sword of Arthur and the remains of Michaela's Katana."
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:12, Tue 08 May 2012.

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg #74):

It was hard to be mad at Rowan. Instead of blowing up Trejo sounded amused if exasperated.

"Jason, Rowan, Rowan, Jason."

"Now stop yakkin' and just give the damn swords to my Squire! My hands are full. See?"

He shook the douchbag he was dragging along. The douche just whimpered.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:11, Tue 08 May 2012.

Roadkill shakes his head and is clearly pissed off with what he sees as some idiotic bluster.

"God dammit children! Someone just take the stupid swords. They are just swords!"

With the bickering continuing

"Screw it. I don't have time for whatever any of this is about and it will no doubt continue"

Roadkill walks off back to his truck and calls back

"you can fill me in later if you manage to work anything out"

"Just calm down folks," said Smoker, likewise a bit fed up.

"We've come quite a ways to deliver these swords in an appropriate manner. If you're too busy brawling with some local trader to receive them with the respect they deserve, maybe we need to find another Templar who is ready to do the job properly... perhaps your Squire would be good enough to scamper off and find someone."

Smoker fixes Trejo with his best glare.

In reply to Smoker Nix (msg #77):

Trejo looked at Smoker, then started to laugh.

And laugh. And laugh. He caught his breath, then said, sides still heaving with mirth.

"Shit... Smoker, that was the funniest thing anyone said all day. You are one funny dude. You must have hit your head real good."

"Just hilarious."

Now laughing at Smoker too, Tasmin took the merchant from Trejo.

"Trejo, interesting friends you have there. They sure got an... interesting perspective on things."

Smoker goes a bit pink, but holds his ground.

"Look here, either these swords have significance to you Templar types or they don't. If they do, act properly and quit messing around; if they don't - why in all the hells did anyone bother to haul them all this way?"

Time was short, so the Templars didn't waste any more by arguing or debating. Smiling, Jason took the swords from Rowan, who surrendered them without complaint.

Mood much improved after the levity, the Templars (and whoever wished to follow) entered the Temple, still chuckling over the absurdity of the situation.

Trejo explained to Tasmin that it wasn't some minor offence or random "brawl", the merchant had dug up a Templar's remains in Potosi, and was selling the pieces and bone fragments for $1000 a pop. This was serious stuff. Simon would likely exile him if he was feeling merciful, maybe put him to death if not. The remaining bones would be cremated go in the Hall of Heroes.

As they were led in, they saw the reason Simon's audience was delayed. A young woman in rags was coming out, carrying an infant girl. The baby seemed happy and healthy. She smiled at the Posse and said over her shoulder, "God bless you, Simon! I thought she was going to die before the day was out! It's a miracle!" Tasmin explained, "this was the reason for the delay. Simon had to save that child's life."

There was a second young woman in road leathers standing just inside the door.

The Temple is little more than a long meeting hall with several other rooms
leading off the rear. The stone floor and walls emanate cold. You imagine that
electric heaters once warmed this place in winter, but the gray stone looks as if it would never truly be comfortable. Much like the Templars relationship with the
world itself. Necessary in personality.

Tolerable in method. But cold.

Such thoughts are shaken from your skull when you see Grand Master Simon
Mercer sitting upon a raised podium at the back of the room. Beside him is a man in a simple brown robe, like a robe of old. This is Librarian Fred Biletnikoff.

The swords and remains of the fallen Templar are received with much solemnity. Trejo explained what had gone on with typical economy of words. Simon spoke to the posse.

Simon nods, and begins.

"Welcome, friends. Brother Templar. I’m sorry, but you have little time to spend here.

"First, thank you for returning the sacred swords of the fallen. They shall be awarded to Squires who are ready to fully join the ranks of the order. Rowan Dawson, you may keep your friend's Wakizashi sword in her memory, and for your defence. The remains of her Katana will be buried with her."

"Now, we have a most dire emergency that must be dealt with immediately.

"Yesterday, a caravan heading for these parts was ambushed by a large gang. Leading this gang was a villain we call the Destroyer. He is an anti-Templar named Brad Modeen. We need to bring this murderer and thief to justice immediately.

"The Destroyer has taken the remaining caravaners hostage, and will kill one at nightfall each day until we ‘respond’ to this." Simon points to a table nearby. On it sits a gruesome severed head on a wet, bloody bag.

Simon points to a young girl standing near the Templar entrance. "That is Daphne Dumar," Simon continues. "The Destroyer allowed her to live so that she could deliver his 'message'. She can guide you back to the site of the ambush. I need you to accompany her at once and bring this fiend to justice.

"I cannot offer you any help. I believe the Destroyer wishes to take the Temple, and I must organize a defense and gather any other Templars I can before he arrives. The people here are untrained and mostly unarmed so I’ll need every last one of them here to hold the place.

"I can risk only you," Simon says to Trejo, "and your friends, if they are willing to help. Your small group may be able to do what an army can’t: kill Modeen. If you can strike down the Destroyer before he moves on Boise, we will save many lives. Look around, we have no riches to offer, nothing but our gratitude."

Simon looks to those of you who do not wear the tabard of the Templars. "If you succeed in this quest and honor our order, I will make you Companions. This is a great gift, for it allows the sacred Martyrs to smile upon you in times of
need."

"Go now, my friends. And please do not fail. Many lives are at stake."

In reply to The Marshall (msg #81):

"I should like to be of whatever help I can. There is obviously something at stake here that is of grave importance."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:56, Tue 08 May 2012.

"Guys I think I will be staying behind. I can help with the defense and build a few extra of my rifles if Simon might have gotten any ghost rock out of that storm. All that you would need is a few hours for each gun." Airen seems in his element here.

She Bows to Simon..
"I appologise, for words spoken in haste and iritation out side".
"I lost two very good friends when Arthur and Michaela died". "Both were the first to realise what I am and what I belive in and gave me the stength to carry on."
"That is why I wanted to hand the swords over to a templar, that and nothing more.
"I have no claim to the swords, save only a request on my own behalf nothing more than that."
She bows in aceptance and honouring Simons words and gift

"They both wanted thier swords returned to here, so my gratitude for reciving them.
"Now how may this Witch be of service to the greater whole "

Rowan waits to see what Simon has to say,
Listens to the tale and the task and says
"I will stand with the Templars on this matter and aid them how say the rest of you"?
This message was last edited by the player at 13:56, Tue 08 May 2012.

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg #84):

Simon nodded his approval.

"Your wish to honour the fallen does them great credit. Templars do not serve me, they serve the people of the wastes. Manners among the warriors of my order is sometimes hard to come by, and is something I vow to improve. Some day. If we still exist!"

"I welcome your help. And you too," he indicated Crichton. "That will be of immeasurable assistance. Some of my knights have been wanting to improve defences now but there was always something else to do. Now I fear Boise shall pay for my failure to fully prepare."

"As for Ghost Rock, we do not favour it's use here because of the spiritual pollution it causes. Because we don't use it or like to trade it we have amassed about a pound, 16 ounces. I think we can waive our objections considering the dire circumstances, as long as we don't become dependent on it. I will have Librarian Biletnikoff show you to our stockpile.

"I am happy to help wherever folks think I can be of use... cannot have people holding folks hostage and hacking their heads off with no good reason," said Smoker, then he looked around and noticed that Roadkill was missing.

"Um, excuse me, better go ask Roadkill if he'll help..."

In reply to Smoker Nix (msg #86):

Ian hears of the situation and says "I am willing to help out."

"Umm I guess we got volunteered not that I wouldn't go because it is the right thing to do. Sirs I am sure that my help will be rather minimal. I will bring home as many as I can." Jason is no longer smiling. He seems to change from fun and games to full blown hard cop. "I need to gather my gear. I thought would have a slightly longer break. At your leave sir."

He sighed when the Templar came back out but grimaced as Trejo and some other lippy Templar wannabe started shit with Rowan. He put a hand on his pistol calmly and waited. But finally things worked themselves out, for which he was glad. Fighting Templars was bad business, since they were good guys even if they were giant assholes other than Arthur and Michaela.

He glanced around as they entered. The Hall was impressive, he supposed, but it didn't sit quite right with him. He didn't feel...comfortable, and not just because it was a bit cold. He listened quietly as Simon spoke. He blinked several times. "What the fuck? He wants us to go in and kill one of his enemies so we can get a gold star while he shores up his defenses?"

He shook his head and turned to leave. "I already have a job so it'll depend on whether Roadkill's in or not. I don't mind helpin' people but goin' after...whatever an Anti-Templar is...sounds like a job for Templars. But I guess you have your own problems." He tried to keep any sarcasm or condescension out of his tone but he wasn't sure if he was totally successful. He was probably wrong but it sure sounded cowardly to hide behind things like "have to organize defenses" and "can't give you any help but you go kill him for us".

Peter looked over at Jason as he started to leave, and smiled since the boy wasn't smiling anymore. "Hey, that's great! You get to come, too? It's like a dream come true since you've been such a nice guy so far to us! You an' Trejo both are just absolute peaches!" He kept smiling but just like Jason did with Rowan, the smile was fake and didn't reach his eyes as he spoke and walked past him to get outside. "Hope you have your own ride. You ain't welcome in my truck, Squire Boy."

Nodding to Simon, Trejo said to Jason, "Good man, rook. Hope you can ride. Michaela's bike's fixed up."

"Rowan, How can anyone be mad at you, darlin'? I'll ride with you any time."

His face creased even more than usual in what she realised was a smile. It seemed all the more genuine for being so rare.

He smiled at Peter in a tired way. "Pardon me, my friend. It's been very difficult to get a good night's sleep lately. You look like you understand, yes?"

"A great man once said, The destiny of mankind is not decided by material computation. When great causes are on the move in the world, stirring all men's souls, drawing them from their firesides, casting aside comfort, wealth and the pursuit of happiness in response to impulses at once awe-striking and irresistible, we learn that we are spirits, not animals, and that something is going on in space and time, and beyond space and time, which, whether we like it or not, spells duty."

He thanked everyone as they left.

"Some have the mistaken belief that the Templars are a religious organisation. We are not. A given Templar may be a Buddhist, an Atheist, an Agnostic or yes, even Christian like myself. But what we do have in common is faith. Somtimes it's all we have. Have faith in yourselves, and faith in others, and you will work miracles."
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:41, Wed 09 May 2012.

The young blonde woman fell in beside the posse as they made their way out.

"Do you say Roadkill? Ian Colby? I'm Daphne Dumar."

"He knew my father, "Fast Eddie" Dumar. He owed him his life. He better help or I'll kick his sorry ass!"

When the Posse returned, Roadkill was in for a shock. It took a second to recognise the good-looking young woman walking with them. A strawberry blonde with green eyes, she was wearing bikers leathers, a padded jacket and chaps over denim, boots and tank top.

The last time he saw Daphne Dumar, it was even before his mentor and adoptive father, "Fast Eddie", died in Junktown. She'd gone to live with Eddie's sister in Spokane, and filled out since then. A lot.

Although she wore a scowl on her pretty face, she was obviously glad to see Roadkill and started smiling.

"Long time, cowboy! Shitty, huh?"

"We're going down 84 to Twin Falls. It's 1340 miles of bad road, as you probably know. I made it in about five hours on my bike. It'll take about ten in that garbage scow that my father left you."

On their way in they'd detoured north and then finally looped west not only to throw any pursuing Black Hats off the scent, but to avoid that treacherous stretch of highway due to war damage and many bridge outages. Now it seemed they would have to go that way after all.

"Anyone mind my Squire using Michaela's bike?" asked Trejo.

In reply to The Marshall (msg #93):

Schaeffer thought for a moment about the news on how poor the route was.

"We haff three choices. It is Thirteen Thirty hours now. Bikes will take five hours. The trucks, ten."

"Choice One: we use the bikes. We have the capacity to accomplish this and take a fair amount of firepower. (My rifle, no Fifty-Cal but Jane's Hellfire SAW). Arrive at Seventeen Hundred hours. Time for scouting, then move in morning."

"Choice Two: we take all vehicles. Maximum firepower. Must start tomorrow morning at dawn, oh-Five Thirty Hours. Arrive at midday, Thirteen Thirty Hours. Not much time for reconnaisance before go-time."

Smoker explains to Roadkill what the Templars have requested.

Sitting on top of the truck (Hoping it is fine enough, if not he is in the truck), smoking as usual, Roadkill hears a strange but somewhat familiar voice. He looked on as the perky wee girl talked. He couldn't exactly say what her face looked like but after she finished talking he could definitely describe every curve of the girl. Looking back up at her face he smiles and climbs on down.

"Are you f$%k*^g kidding me!"

He gets to her and hugs her, lifting her off the ground and puts her back down

"Now you know Fast Eddie wanted me to have the rig and he would hate it if anything was to happen to her"

He looks at her, using every bit of will power he has to keep his eyes up

"Ah hell, what have you gone and put me into? Surely you don't need an escort, then again" Roadkill winks "It would be my pleasure"

Jane watched everybody come and then a couple of new people join in.  She went over to Peter and Rowan with a puzzled look on her face.

"So what happens now?  Where do we go from here?  What happened?  Yeah, perhaps I should have gone in to hear first hand but...well I didn't so what did happen?"

"Ah.. Are we mental? Did your brians fall out of your head and into your.... um... Daphne? You realise this is a one way journey?"

He has to think about it for a while

"Ok i can take you there but there is no way we take on a freaken Destroyer that can destroy Boise! Sort something out, find a weakness, anything but there is no way..."Roadkill becomes visibly worried for a second, which is definitely out of character for him "...i am standing on a beach with it asking me to join"

then straightens back up

"I got a bad feeling about this. I really don't want the mark"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:38, Wed 09 May 2012.

"Probably... but been asked to help. Cannot rightly walk away. Sorry," said Smoker, who was none too certain himself of the wisdom of getting involved, however right it might feel.

In reply to COL Kurt L. Schaeffer (msg #94):

"Or option 3 we have the people on bikes scout the area while the larger vehicles make their way to the site. The trucks leave and the bikes follow later. The bikes time I so that we meet up with the trucks two hours before they arrive."

In reply to Jane Guin (msg #97):

Rowan.
"Well the swords are all back with their rightful people, I was given this to keep in memmory of my friend."
"And we have been asked to deal or try to deal witha rouge Templar that is heading this way". Rowan Shrugs, "some how it seems the right thing to do, My feeling is that if we can weaken the group with him and run, the templars can do the rest."
She turns to Trejo, "okay can we hear what we are facing please"

In reply to Roadkill (msg #96):

Daphne hugged Roadkill back.

"Hey, Ian!" She pulled back and Roadkill could see how worries she was.

"I know it doesn't sound good... but it's Auntie Angie. Modeen says he's going to kill her first. What else can I do, who can I ask for help? I don't want to say it's not your fight, but we both know what the answer is."

"If you have something, I'd like a weapon. Maybe some armour?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:42, Wed 09 May 2012.

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg #101):

Trejo talked to Daphne a bit.

He then explained the job to Jane.

"The head he delivered is that of Tim Brown, a fellow Templar."

"Modeen is a badass. Has many of the same Rewards, that is, powers, of the Templars. But not the favour of the Saints."

"Anti-Templars form "warbands". Waster scum, usually. Modeen's got a group of 20 regular bikers, plus thirteen of his personal guard in chainmail and carrying hand weapons. I'm not sure how tough they are."

"Our task is to take out Modeen and rescue the hostages. One seems like it would follow the other. Simplest would be to distract his men. Then I can try and take him. Or the Colonel can use that rifle of his to put a bullet in him. Doesn't have to me, we don't have to kill every one of them."
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:53, Wed 09 May 2012.

"Ya, I was thinking of that. Makes use of speed.

"But it splits the group into two elements which cannot mutually support one another. Our radios won't work more than 20-30 miles apart so there cannot be any warning.

"If we are leery about losing the firepower of the M2HB (Ma-Deuce) then it can be dismounted and I can take it in my sidecar."

"Daphne: we have some weapons and a vest from a fallen friend of ours. Perhaps you will get some better use of them?

Rowans eye brows go upwards.
"34 people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
"Simon believes in our skills a real lot, okay how many of us are going out to deal with him"?

"Only 34 heck we would have sent in myself and Ranger Norris and we would have taken them down alone. As for the force that we now face. Modeen and his personal guard are what we need to worry about. Trejo if we challenge Modeen he should fight us as you are a Templar and well I can say I am if the Grandmaster says that I am allowed. It would get us close to Modeen. As for the rifle when we go to fight him if you would drop his second. That should give us enough confusion that Modeen stands less of a chance. As far as the vehicles go I was just throwing it out there." Jason starts to go further, but stops realizing that he has said a lot for everyone to process.

In reply to Jason Sinclair (msg #106):

"One riot, one Ranger."

Peter was with Rowan. That was a lot of people to take on, worse if they were actually trained and good at fighting. And fighting a Templar, even an Anti one? No bueno. He was all for not fighting at all and freeing hostages, or letting the over-eager assholes do it while he sat back and shot.

"Stickin' together is usually better, but if people wanna ride ahead an' scout, then be my guests." He frowned at the Colonel and his suggestion to take the Ma-Duece from his truck to be mounted in the sidecar. He wasn't fond of that idea but kept silent since Jane was the one usually firing it.

He rolled his eyes at Jason. "Then by all means, Squire Boy, go forth an' fight. Die gloriously." He snorted. "A duel. If you end up having to fight with your swords in this, I'm pretty sure you've done something wrong. If you think that this...Destroyer...will honor a duel and go toe-to-toe with you, an' you think you can take him or even distract him a while, then I leave that to you. The rest of us could use the duel as a way to get most of the people in one place so the Colonel's rifle and the Ma-Deuce and such could be trained on the crowd while a few sneak in to try and free the hostages."

He actually laughed when Trejo said his Ranger comment.

In reply to Peter Firecrow (msg #108):

Jane had only been half way listening until the mention of baby leaving.

"Wait a minute.  Baby doesn't go on a side car.  They aren't stable enough and I wouldn't be shootin her.  She should stay on the Deuce."

She looked to Peter and Rowan to see if they'd back her up.

"Besides Lady Luck is on our side. We have 9 people going out if we all go. That is three sets of three. See an' we have an even greater advantage Modeen's elite guard is setting him up to be killed. 13 is about the worst number to have with a Templar involved. Though he is an anti-Templar so I am no sure if that makes a difference. Modeen plus the ten thugs is a prime number while normally a good thing it's 11 which is almost 13. I always believed that one riot, one Ranger was because one is the perfect prime." Jason smiles having said his thoughts almost to himself. Jason looks at Trejo and says "Are any of these folk Rangers? I don't think they are but I need to ask to be safe. One riot, One Ranger."

"Hey come on. No way you are going. If you are then you are riding in the truck with me."

Roadkill hhears what the Colonial says about the gear and nods

"Yeah he knows, we got to set something up for you"

Roadkill is then distracted by the new guy Jason and listens to him spouting off numbers.

"in-ter-res-ting"

"You and your number shit again, Jason. They don't got a Federale, then it's easy-peasey.

"Templars are not bullshit "Renaissance" re-enactors. We got no pussy "Code of Chivalry" to uphold. If Modeen wants to duel mano-a-mano and someone shoots him in the back while it's turned, fuckin-A.

"Arthur charged the Witches and got wasted, so that is a bad plan.

"Anyone got a better plan?"

In reply to Trejo (msg #112):

"I never said not to shoot him in the back. Anyway I dunno hit and run, but that won't work they would just start killing hostages. How about we rig the inside of the trailer as a kill trap with fake crates an' shit and drop 'em when they raiders open the back. Have the .50 cal mounted inside along with a few sandbags an such and keep firing till they are dead." Jason didn't sound as happy about that one as he did the other. Less glory and less one riot one Ranger. "Hell put your sniper friend in the hills around the camp to take the shot on Modeen when the firing starts from the trailer. The bike riders would swoop in at the same time swords or guns leading. Killing as they went. Calvary style. That better. Hell have the rigs driver surrender without a fight an' he should be put with the rest of the hostages. That way as the shootin' is goin' down he can be movin' them out of harm's way into a gully near the holding area where we have a few extra guns or somethin' stashed."

"Yah, yah, the Ma-Deuce would not be fired from the sidecar, but transported, then dismounted and fired from its tripod.

"Like when we ambushed the Doombringer and his posse of Doomsayers in Las Cruces. Peter fired the Ma-Deuce, Jane fired her 12mm Hellfire SAW, the rest of us were on the ambush line.

"If we had the time, I would simply scout Modeen's camp out for a week or two ahead of time. Then one shot, one kill.

"Let us not despair. We have faced similar odds and prevailed. In Las Cruces we took out a Doombringer and his posse of Doomsayers, in Wichita you faced the Anti-Bishop and his Coven of undead Witches. These were all supernaturally powerful enemies. Call them middle-tier opponents, at least. Yet we survived."

"We won in both circumstances because we engaged them with maximum firepower, and defeated the different elements separately. In Las Cruces we ambushed the Doomsayer Posse. Then we all ganged up on the Doombringer. Although that was tough, we did not take casualties. I wasn't there but from what Rowan said, Selene and her Coven were mostly killed by a grenade. Then everyone took out the Anti-Bishop together. Arthur died because he charged in alone. And perhaps because it was unexpected engagement and you didn't have a plan beforehand."

"The key, then, is to find a way to attack them separately. Split them up if we can. Even if we take the bikes, we can carry the Ma-Deuce and the SAW. Maybe we can ambush the bikers, get Modeens posse in a crossfire, and then I can snipe Modeen himself."

"If we take the bikes we can be there tonight, attack them in the darkness or at dawn. If we take the trucks we get there tomorrow and have hours at most to prepare, then attack in broad daylight. Not optimal. But we might be able to make tactical use of the trucks."

"Peter, Roadkill, are you willing to lose or damage your vehicles? Because if we take the technical and the semi, then we must use them ruthlessly. This may include ramming."

Peter raised an eyebrow after the Colonel and Templars (well Templar and Squire Boy) were finished talking. He stared at them for a long moment as he lit up a cigarette and took a long draw on it. Finally, he spoke again.

"I think you are missing the fucking point. We aren't going to kill this Destroyer person. Oh, that may happen and it might become necessary to accomplish the mission. But the mission is to rescue the hostages. Or did you forget the hostages in your eagerness to kill Modeen? The only reason Modeen should be engaged is if it is part of a plan to rescue the hostages or cause confusion to rescue the hostages."

He took another drag. "The bikes going ahead to scout is fine with me, if those involved are willing to take the risk that something might happen to them while we are apart and they are weaker. If something happens to the scouts, then any plans have a higher chance of failure with less people to execute it."

He smiled mirthlessly. "And no I am not willing to sacrifice my truck though I may use it in a plan that has a high likelihood of it being driven away by me afterwards."

In reply to Peter Firecrow (msg #115):

Daphne had a look of surprise on her face. Was his guy listening when Simon spoke?

"Hey, Simon said to "strike Modeen down". I really want to rescue my family, but that won't happen if Modeen is alive so stop dreaming it's going to go down any differently.

"We need a workable plan, so let's stay focused on killing Modeen, here. I'm glad someone thinks you can do this."

In reply to Peter Firecrow (msg #115):



Frowning, Schaeffer replied calmly, "Such bitter arguing and swearing is beneath us. We must respect each other to work together."

"Daphne is right, you are wrong. I recall that Simon asked us to kill Modeen and that is what we agreed to do, nothing less and Boise will fall.

"You say you are not going without your truck, and you won't risk it's destruction. That is understandable. It would be foolish to think there are any guarantees here, but ramming bikes is not that dangerous for an armoured vehicle."

Peter nodded. "Yes I heard Simon say that. I don't care. I'm not an assassin for hire. Rescuing hostages? Sure, I can get behind that. Defending myself when evil rears its ugly head? No problem. Having to kill to survive? Absolutely. But just being sent to kill someone because some sword-wielding fanatic says to? Not my style. You all want to go off on a killing spree, targets being bad guys or not, be my guests. My only concern would be freeing the hostages, and killing the bad guys if they tried to stop us and if a plan to rescue the hostages required it. You don't like that, don't want me along because of that, no skin off my back, I'll sit this one out. I don't care about being a fucking Companion or Escort or whatever that is anyway."

In reply to Peter Firecrow (msg #118):

Schaeffer nodded.

"`It is good to know where you stand. If you should decide to be of any help in whatever way you are capable, that is of course appreciated. My apologies but not that I ever used one but I think prostitutes get paid, and as Companions we will certainly not be. From what I know of your kind you might want to ask Simon for money for your services, if that makes you feel better.

"It is natural to wish that the hostages somehow go free without a fight or undue risk to yourself or your truck. There is no shame in wanting this."

He addressed everyone else.

"For the rest of us, I think we can still eliminate Modeen with what we have."
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:57, Thu 10 May 2012.

"We'll see, Roadkill, we'll see. Who says I don't want to get there quicker, on my bike?" She put on Michaela's battered vest and then slung her SA Commando SMG, putting a handful of loose rounds in her pocket. She then helped Trejo unship Michaela's repaired bike, rolling it down the ramp.

"Thanks for the gear. Don't feel so naked now."

She looked grim and determined.

"Roadkill, I sure hope you're in all the way on this. Modeen's not going to let those people go without a fight. If you're not in all the way, well, it sucks but I guess I understand."

Smoker puffed on his pipe as the debate flowed. He didn't say anything, as he felt he had little to contribute beyond going along and doing whatever was necessary when he got there. Brawling wasn't his strong point, never mind tactical planning.

Roadkill put his hand up as if to interrupt smoker....

"I got this buddy, look I think you have missed a huge big ass point here. Half of us don't give a rats arse about pleasing the Templers".

Roadkill looks to Peter

"Yeah, my fellow driver and might I add, sane person, has the right idea. I am not going to blow up my truck to just kill The great Evil destroyer, that the Templars don't want to deal with and I also won't be allowing you" Roadkill looks at Daphne "To kill yourself to kill this thing."

"hostages yes. I will race in and ram my way to where they are, if you want to put explosives out front in front of the scope, that will explode outwards then go for it but I am in no way there to kill the destroyer. We got some people we know to rescue."

Roadkill laughs a bit

"really, are you kidding me? Blow up my truck to just please a bunch of dudes who won't do it themselves"

Roadkill shakes his head

"I learnt from Arthur a very important thing about the Templars. Help those that can help themselves, otherwise... fuck em"

He looks at Trejo

"I say fuck em, let them kill their own Bogeyman and we will do the rescuing. I've told you my bit and if you come up with a plan, just remember that Peter and his rig, me and my rig, smoker and you too Daphne, are in the same boat here. I ain't rescuing Angie to tell her you died"

Roadkill tries to scab another smoke of smoker but see he has a pipe going so rolls his own.... this time.

In reply to Roadkill (msg #122):

Jane looked around and finally spoke up in the lull period.  "I understand about wanting to go kill this big badass for what he's done and will do.  I go with Peter and his truck.  You were willing to split up the party before as one sort of plan.  Can you come up with a plan some go after Mr. Badass and we go after the hostages.  It matters if you kill him, but on the other hand it won't end it.  His giddy guns will take revenge out on the hostages if they aren't rescued.  Another will rise up in his place.

If you want to talk about good and evil.  Forgive me if this sounds blasphemous to most of you but...You're talking about good having your Almighty on its side while Evil doesn't.  It's Ying and Yang folks.  You better bet that they have something on their side also and you take this one down without proper planning another one or two will rise up in it's place.  We're in an never ending battle.  I've had enough of "acceptable losses" when it comes to innocents.  I'm not saying that I am not willing to fire Baby on the side of good.  I just think you need to take a step back, take a deep breath, and look at your plans again.  Look at it another way.  If you want soldiers to fight on your side you need to rescue them.  People will remember for years to come that you took out this badass but generations of fighters will remember if you saved their relatives.  THAT will give them something to fight for.  THAT will give them the backbone to look into evil's eyes and say "if I go down, it was worth it.""

Jane, who normally didn't say much finally managed to shut her mouth on the topic and looked over at Peter.  "It's your call Peter.  You know I'll be with you no matter your decision."

"Never once did we any Templar or Squire present or not say that we didn't or wouldn't rescue the hostages. I fact all of my plans either mentioned a way to do that with minimal losses or potentially no losses. Fact of the matter is that we don't have a layout of the camp. Modeen dies or Boise is finished. If Boise falls how long before Junkyard falls this rabble. The fact is without Modeen the anti-Templars will lose recruits and steam. If their Grandmaster can be beaten by a regular Templar an' his Squire then they lose some serious steam. The Reckoners most likely have a hand either turning Modeen into a minor Servitor or a full blown one. Fact is this bastard is just as evil as Throckmorten, but he has supernatural badass tacked on. If Modeen takes Denver what do you think the future is folks. Death, war, and famine everlasting! If we can't kill him in the assault to get the hostages out then we need to set a trap to kill him and as many of his people as possible and leave their carcasses for the buzzards. Ma'am." Jason looks at them and wonders for just a second if he went to far or not far enough. Probably to far but what said was said. "Best case scenario hostages get out scot free, Modeen and his elite guard are killed, and we all make it home safe and sound. That would be perfect as far as I am concerned. That being said I don't think without a week worth of recon and planning that can be done and I would need at least two more snipers. I fully believe that the Almighty as you put it ma'am is on our side. We have the righteousness on our side. Can we win sure. Can we have a best outcome happen with a lot of luck sure, but face facts this is for the survival of the Wastes and Boise. I am willing to die are you? Does your precious truck matter more than a few hundred lives? Defenseless women and children are the main population of Boise. What do you scavs think Modeen and crew will do to them?"

In reply to Jason Sinclair (msg #124):

Ian is listening in to the arguments that were going back and forth.  He really wanted to rescue the hostages but he knew from his training that with out good intel or at the very least a layout and were the hostages were, in the end there would be dead rescuers and hostages.

He says at the comment of using Roadkill's truck as an explosive weapon,"That is a horrible idea, we first have no idea where the hostages are and that could just kill them all."

Looking over Daphne he asks her, "What all do you rememberer of the place that you were keep in?  Did they keep all the hostages in one place or did they spread them around?  Were they always under guard?  Anything other details can help."

"We just can't charge in to this, I do want the hostages rescued and there is a major dead line for doing this.  We only have a couple of hours before they kill the next hostage.  We need to come up with a smart and workable plan"

In reply to Sgt. Ian Sullivan (msg #125):


"I meant run over the bikers. Blowing up the rig is s stupid idea, but people seem to be getting funny ideas."

"We will have to go through Modeen to get to the hostages. That's what will happen. Anyone who thinks it will happen differently is fooling themselves."

"Roadkill and Peter are out, then. I am in favour of Jason's idea. We take the bikes now, then the vehicles follow up later. They can transport the hostages back if they wish. I am also in agreement that Modeen should die for the good of all, not just because Simon wishes it."
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:21, Thu 10 May 2012.

Roadkill smiles

"Peter, his truck and good olde Jane"



Roadkill looks to jason and mimes drawing a gun and points it at Jasons balls.

"It means as much to me as that does to you, i assume"

"I ain't dying for the templars but i will come back from the dead and kill anyone that hurts my friends and family, the truck... is part of my family"

Roadkill points to Daphne
"As you heard... boy, her father gave me my baby, a man, who without, I would probably rape the likes of pretty little Templars like you. So think of, what you call just a truck but maybe instead a saviour of 100s of people. As for you, I have no idea who you are" Roadkill looks at Trejo "I don't even trust this guy, why would i trust someone he knows?"

"I am going there to save Angie. The rest could die for all I care. If they can make it then sure, I will help them and as for Boise getting destroyed, are you kidding me and in that way I mean are you a priest playing with a kids? If Simon is such a little bitch then hell, I might just take Boise for the convey. It looks like you guys need real leadership and strength"

In reply to Jason Sinclair (msg #124):

Jane's head snapped up at his words of "are you willing to die" and how many lives are at risk etc.

A coldness from her Black Hat days washed over her before she realized it and a cold calm entered her.  She had said what she had meant to say and for her the subject was closed.  She'd do what Peter decided to do with the truck but to question her "willingness to die" was something else.  Before she would have shot him for that.  Now she had more restraint.

In even tones, or as even as she could get them, she answered.  "Don't...go...down...that...road.  You...won't...win."

She turned and looked at Peter and Rowan, the two she felt most comfortable with.  "I'll be in the deuce."

She turned her back and went in the deuce and started to try and calm back down.

In reply to Roadkill (msg #122):



Deeply disappointed in her former friend, Daphne shook her head.

"You're wrong, Roadkill, if you think you can have your friends do the killing and just waltz in there after and save the hostages. That's loco.

"Modeen, after what he done to the people there, he's gotta be brought to justice, and if the Templars are going to do it, then I'll help them any way I can. If you don't, well, I guess we can pay you money. Maybe that's what you need to get you to help?"

"Sergeant Sullivan," she said, having been introduced, "I left from the ambush site. They could be anywhere by now."
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:12, Thu 10 May 2012.

In reply to Jason Sinclair (msg #124):

Trejo returned Roadkill's look and laughed scornfully.

"Jason, ignore these pendejos. These "heroes" got no balls, they're full of shit.

"You have a good idea. Mount up now. Let's ride and take care of business today. They can "rescue" the hostages after it's nice and safe."
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:15, Thu 10 May 2012.

Roadkill went extremely red with rage! Why don't woman just listen to him he thought. Rowan was the same though, thank god the Colonial took on most of her issues now. He thought for a bit. Smoker is a good guy, at least i could beat the crap out of him if he ever hurt her...

"ITs... not.... the... Money!" He says with gritted teeth. "Your father would kill me if I let you do this." he suddenly looks at her, all of her and shakes his head "My god, you really are not a little girl any more."

Roadkill shakes his head

"Look. Ok. You can make your own decision, but you know our side. We are not going to kill we are going to save Angie and i guess some want to help the rest. I'm not a moron, I know that what we do will connect and one without the other will fail. As, I, said. you guys know our thoughts, think of a plan and we can sort something out."

He sees Trejo leave

"Don't be a complete meat head. Get yourself killed with the rest of us"

Roadkill goes over to Smoker "what you smoking in your pipe, it always smells so good"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:20, Thu 10 May 2012.

In reply to Roadkill (msg #131):

Daphne also laughed, but not bitterly.

"You're not about the money with you? Listen, Ian, that's not what dad said."

She turned to smile warmly at Jason. He was a good-lookin' man, and she seemed to appreciate it. "Thanks. You have it right. About Modeen, about Boise, about Junktown, all of it. It's like dominoes. You have my thanks, I won't forget this."

In reply to Roadkill (msg #131):

Ian listens in on the the arguments that are going back and forth on this issue.  He can see the problems that the request has brought up.  The group is already been split on what to do.  His main objective was to rescue the hostages, by freeing them that removes a major advantage that the gang, human shields.

He was a bit disappointed that there was no other info.

When Trejo leaves he says, "So are we going try and follow him or are we going to let him go out and get himself get killed or worse get all of the hostages killed as well."

Peter leaned back a bit. More and more the so-called "good guy" Templars were giving the group shit and insulting them, veiled or not, for not wanting to be killers and focus on that to the exclusion of the hostages.  And Trejo's comments were just plain stupid. The Posse WASN'T made up of "heroes". They never claimed to be, unlike the sword-wielding fanatics.

He drew his pistol and fired off a shot near the ground by Trejo, looking calm. He didn't yell, didn't raise his voice at all and didn't point the gun at anyone.

"Everyone stop. We can't afford to let the stupid insulting Templar wannabe heroes go off on their own because then Modeen will be on alert after they fail and die horribly. We all go or no one goes." He looked at Trejo and pointed a finger at him as he holstered the pistol once more. "YOU...are a fucking idiot. We never claimed to be heroes. That's you whackjob swordsmen who do that. WE claimed to be survivors in a hellish world. Period. But we do good when we can. So shut the fuck up or I'll save Modeen the trouble of killing your retarded ass."

He didn't sound angry but it was obvious he was. Hell, he was a miser and he'd just "spent money" to get peoples' attention. "Now, you've pissed me off and lost the right to make decisions. Bikes go scout while Roadkill and I follow at the speeds we can. Once the camp has been scouted, THEN we make a non-suicidal plan. Or 2 plans since the Templars are so keen to kill and forget the hostages. If you don't like it, then fuck off but you don't get to dictate shit when you can't even stop from being an asshole for more than 5 minutes. You're supposed to be a role model for Christ's sake. You have a Squire to look up to you now. Act the part. Stop being a dick and making me cuss."

In reply to Peter Firecrow (msg #134):

Rowan smiles ruefully at the idea of being a hero.
"Okay Can I make some suggestions here"
"Now I am no military expert, and most of my skills are in healing."
"But we have extreme long range capability with My loves sniper rifle and Jane's MG.
"So lets play this both ways."
"We want to make him fight on ground of our choosing and at a time that benefits us".
"So as i see it Trejo we need to make him stand clear so he can be shot, you know of him more than us, can you think of a way of making it happen."
"Love your job is to put as many heavy rounds into him as it requires and his heavy inner circle."
"The MG's job is to thin the supporters down. those of us with small arms make sure that people leave the heavy team alone while they do their job , with some of us acting as a snatch squad to rescue the hostages."
How does that sound

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg #135):

Trejo ignored Peter. He didn't even flinch.

"Not bad thinkin', Rowan."

"Well, I want to rescue the hostages, not just kill Modeen. I think I can draw him out. I don't like it but if the Colonel can shoot him then that could throw the rest of the warband into confusion. Once they're dead and scattered we'll have a much easier time."

"If Jane's willing to help, and I think she is, then we'll have her SAW. It's Peter's Ma-Deuce, so you'll have to ask him."

Roadkill stands next to smoker sniffing in the smoke from his pipe and then hears Peter follow on from his comment towards Trejo about being an idiot.

Suddenly a shot blasts out from Peter.

Roadkill immediately goes over to were Peter is and stands next to him, his back to where he fired, and waited, not wanting to stop or piss Peter off but just to stand with him. When Peter finishes saying what he said Roadkill says
"I know man. I know. You cool? You cool? Smoker's got some great pipe tobacco, we gotta have a pow wow and forget these idiots. You and me bro. Stick together"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:42, Thu 10 May 2012.

In reply to Roadkill (msg #137):

Jane heard the shot quickly followed by peter's voice.  She listened to what he and others said for she could still hear.  Leave it to Rowan to try and be the calm one.  Nice if you could do it but Jane was still working on that part.

Jane got back out of the Technical and walked over to Peter.  She made a motion for Roadkill to step back a bit and the turned to Peter with her back towards the others.  She trusted that her back was safe as long as it was non combat and she wanted Peter to look at her.  She also made sure to stand off to one side enough so if he had to draw he could yet.  In a quiet low voice she started to talk to him.

"I did have to fall for a hot head didn't I?  We're two of a kind in that regards.  I'm not happy about this but hell, it's not the first time I haven't been happy.  Actually only been happy really recently.  Now that everybody is quiet so they can hear, repeat your idea about scouts on bikes and us following.  I think we should let Trejo take a go at badass as the distraction.  Then we can go help rescue.  I will let them use the SAW as long as I get baby.  You and baby...that's what I'll need.  Anyway, that's my opinion.  And, Peter?  I've just found you so please don't storm off."

Damn, there she had said it.  She showed vulnerability to him and she swore she wouldn't show that vulnerability to a guy again.  She must really like him.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:54, Fri 11 May 2012.

"Again to be clear scav our goal is the rescue of the hostages. I am for one not dumb enough to think that we are just gonna waltz in an waltz out. Someone has to die. Your truck Roadkill is replaceable. If the only way to get Angie out was to blow your truck to shit would you? A hundred thousand trucks can be found on the road between Boise and Seattle. Half of them may not work at all. A quarter may need repairs. The other quarter just need cleaning. People especially good people are worth a lot. Modeen was good people now he is just more scum to be cleaned up we have an actual shot to make a difference. You bow out I'm going with or with out any of you. Always has been always will be one riot, one Ranger. I might be the only one left but I am gonna make a difference before the Horsemen punch my number. Clear." Jason stalks after Trejo. When Peter's shot rings out Jason looks ready to put a bullet in him luckily he doesn't have a gun right now.

Jason was worked up so he didn't realise Jane was talking some sense.

"Jason, shut up. Don't let anyone's shit talk get a rise out of you.

"Now, The Lieutenant asked a question about splittin' up. You were yakkin', didn't hear her.

"Jane, the Colonel and I will ride on ahead with Daphne now. Clear the route. Colonel has all night to scout the situation. We'll meet up outside Twin Falls, make a plan then."

"As for distracting Modeen, I don't want to go that route and if I do, trust me, it won't be a suicide run. I'd rather we run him down or shoot him with the fifty-cal. If that's not an option because those who own the trucks want to do their own thing, then I'll do what I need to."

Trejo waited for Jason to mounted up. Jason's machine had belonged to the fallen Squire's, she was riding it at the time of her death. No one could reasonably claim she wouldn't want a fellow Squire to use it to carry out a vital mission for the Templars.

"Jason, you ride Michaela's bike with the rest of the posse. See you outside Twin Falls."
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:04, Thu 10 May 2012.

"Sure thang Templar!" Jason walks over and picks up his duffle. After strapping the duffle to the bike he gets on.

In reply to Jason Sinclair (msg #141):

Ian listens in and replies, "That has been one of the better ideas that we have come up with."

He looks over to Roadkill, "If you are planning on going I have no problem riding shotgun again."

In reply to Trejo (msg #140):

Kurt kissed Rowan.

"Do not worry, the hostages will be freed, Modeen will die. I will see you again, safe and sound. I swear this."

Putting on his helmet he said to Roadkill and Roadkill, "starting in the morning, I will transmit on channel 5 every hour on the hour. Your CBs will pick it up at about a mile out of the city. We will make plans to RV then."

"Daphne, is there a place we can meet not too far from the ambush site, that's out of sight and relatively safe? And someplace on the way in just outside the city we can leave a message if all else fails? That way we have three means of communicating."

He mounted the replica WWII BMW and started it up.

OOC: I don't like to split the party, but if the advance element is all-NPC, it's no harm, no foul.

In reply to COL Kurt L. Schaeffer (msg #143):

She nodded at Schaeffer, then made sure Roadkill knew were to meet.

"Yeah, I think I know a couple places.

"Roadkill, there's a Poseidon Oil hydrogen filling station off 84 about a half-mile from where we got hit. We'll meet there if we can.

"If we can't, there's a rest stop we camped at five miles out from the city on 84, we can meet there as an alternate. Or we'll try and leave a message in the trash bin behind the restrooms. Look for an empty Milrat pack, I used one last night and threw it in there."

"Got it? Good."

She mounted up as well on her bike.

Roadkill laughs a bit about the whole thing

"That is kind of what they wanted anyway, Recon and the rest of us coming in after. The fact is that we are going to have to get involved and help them out, unless we want to see them die".

Looking to Peter

"my god, don't you just hate that Trejo, what a complete arse"

A some what mischievous looks comes over his face

"We have so got to pants him in public or something. Though I get the feeling he would kill us for it"

Peter looked at Roadkill and gave a weary nod. "I will be fine. Drama is wasted on Senor Badass over there. And I'm tired of talking to him anyway. To hell with Templars. But the hostages need saving so..." He gave a shrug. Then he eyed Roadkill with a mock-glare. "A pow-wow? Peace pipe? Not that kind of Indian. Wanna buy a gun?"

He turned to see Jane and he quieted once more. His eyebrows rose up as she talked. He leaned in towards her to speak quietly so only she would hear. "When we are alone next, I am going to have to kiss you very hard. Forewarning."

He then shook his head and raised his voice. "I'm not storming anywhere. I am going to drive to near this camp, CAREFULLY Roadkill so we don't wreck and die. So let's go."

He ignored the Templars as they ignored him and got into the technical.

In reply to Peter Firecrow (msg #146):

Jane blushed when Peter whispered to her but nodded.  She leaned in and calmly replied "_{That's a plan I can agree too.}"

Jane looked over at the Templars and finally asked.  "Now that we have a plan I just have one thing to ask.  Do you have any paper or journals that I can buy?  I need a new book."

In reply to Jane Guin (msg #147):

As Trejo waited for the others to get going, he didn't seem to be taking the drama particularly seriously, either. He sat easily on his bike, glanced over at Jane's question.

He reached into his bag and brought out a grimy, half-used girl's diary, lock broken off. He ripped out some pages, then tossed it to her. "Normally, fifty dollars and a kiss, to trade. For you? Nada. Use it in good health."

He caught Roadkill's eye and winked. "Vaya con dios, pendejo."


OOC: I seemed to interpret Jane as asking the Templars where she could buy a book, which makes sense because hey, this is their market.

In reply to Jane Guin (msg #147):

Roan calmly walks over to the colonel "where would you like me to travel love with you in the side caror in the technical"

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg #149):

"Not with me. Both the trucks will be safe; Peter's got a cuter ass, Roadkill looks like he's a born kisser."

"We are ready. Let us depart. I suggest you get going soon too, there is no time to waste. You won't make it there tonight but you'll be there in the morning."

"Oh, remind Roadkill and Peter I can only transmit 1 mile but can receive their signals from ten miles out or more."

"Tschüss. Is means "until we meet again"."

"Just before we all light out," said Smoker, who'd been watching the debate get more and more heated with growing amazement. "Has this Modeen fellow made any demands? 'Cos that's what hostage takers usually do, give me whatever it is I want or else."

He looked thoughtful.

Distractions, distractions. Once you bikers have scouted the situation, you need to divert his attention from the hell that is about to descend upon him. Perhaps if someone goes in flag-of-truce to discuss the whatever he wants, he'll take his eye off the ball long enough for the fighter-types to start the rumble..."

In reply to Trejo (msg #148):

Jane took the pages and nodded.  "Thanks.  No kisses for you but I will load up the SAW.  Wouldn't you blaming it for any misses."

Jane managed to give a half smile to Trejo as she said it to soften the words a "little" bit.

"No specific demands. Modeen said he was waiting for Simon's "response". Could be we could try and dress someone up as Simon."

"Good bye, see you in Twin Falls."

Trejo smiled for the second time that anyone's seen him.

"Don't worry, I never miss.

"Gunslinger I knew down in Texas named El Wray used to say that."

"¡Vámonos!" ("Let's go!")

With that, the three motorcycles of the scouting party left in a roar of unmuffled exhaust. Daphne in the lead, followed by Trejo and Schaeffer.

The posse could leave immediately as well (and probably should) although there might be one or two things they could accomplish before leaving Boise. They would have to transit the Ghost Wall on the way out. Tasmin was standing by in case someone else needed to be brought back from death again. She had kept her counsel on the Posse's antics, and like all Templars was ready to serve.

"You had better survive this Trejo cuz we are so gonna talk about that El Wrey crap." Jason yells at Trejo's vanishing form.

In reply to Jason Sinclair (msg #156):

Ian looks to the posse and says,"Anything that we need to do?"

Smoker gets ready to climb back up to his customary perch.

In reply to COL Kurt L. Schaeffer (msg # 150):

Rowan takes ALL her equipment and heads for the technical. She has the feeling of a parting of the ways.
And signals trickster to follow her, then climbs in the back and sits with her back against the cab.
She says nothing but her face looks like one abandoned and left by the way side.

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg # 159):

Jane looked down at Rowan and nudged her with her foot.  "Hey, you ok?  Riding with me back here isn't that bad is it?"

In reply to Jane Guin (msg # 160):

Rowan Smiles a little sadly, "Not at all Jane, but Kurt did not me along side him and that hurts"

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg # 161):

Jane arched an eyebrow.  "You two have a fight or is he just into the battle plan right now?  I wouldn't worry too much about it.  Men do stupid things every once in awhile.  Besides, you traveled back here with me last time we went through that force.  I have to admit that I liked you being here."

In reply to Jane Guin (msg # 162):

Rowan looks toward the wall, "fight not that I know of Jane. He did not give a reason just left"

"Okay time to get my own transport again Jane."
"But for now you are correct it will be pleasant to travel together again"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:33, Sat 06 July 2013.

In reply to Rowan Dawson (msg # 163):

"Perhaps we just need to keep an eye on him for a bit.  Never know if he picked up a bug or something.  Men can be very uncommunicative at times.  You and Trickster can always ride back here with me."

Jane had to grin at her own comment about men being uncommunicative.  Peter was probably the most uncommunicative person she knew and yet it didn't bother her.  Perhaps that was part of his charm.  She felt bad for Rowan though and tried not to show it.  Rowan didn't need to dwell too much on the subject right now.