Total War: Deconstruction

[The_JJ]

It's a cold and nippy start to the New Year here in Northern Italy. The wind blows cold off the Alps and the great storms the Papacy conjured in the Atlantic have been moving East.

In a small car, solar powered, Martina Frueh shifts in the passengers seat. It's too tight for her long, lanky, Lunar frame. How much farther?

Not far, the driver replies, as he accelerates the car past a UNE convoy.

It seems... desolate.

It's just the countryside, Martina. We don't all live on top of one another out here.

He is blonde haired and his eyes, were he to take them off the road, would be blue, but he speaks with an accent that is hard to place. Some might insist he was raised in France, others, more shrewd, would insist he was from Algeria. Which is sort of true.

Alfred Sun turns the car onto a rough road that leads to a farmhouse and a barn sitting out all alone amongst the fields. Here?

Here. The other's will come soon.

Greystone:
This is your little hideaway.

All:
You were all contacted, somehow, by a mysterious figure who gave you nought but a time, date, and longnitudial and latitudianal coordinates.

Also, do not fear the DMPCs because they are DMPCs.

Fear them because they have their own motives. :smallbiggrin: Remember, all PC's and NPC's are fair game.


The Cast:

Dr. Emily Warner -Greystone

Known:

Former NAC Bio-Engineer

Unknown:
Just filling space.

HK 006, aka Rodger Wilco- That guy

Known

Lunar Combat Bot

Unknown:
Rogue


Ivan Zulinsky - Fresh

Known:
Human.
Unknown:

Ex-Pandoran Whitecoat



Alexander Decimus Laviticus-UO


Known:

NRE


Former Emperor's Hand Operative



Captain Dante Borgia-Longvin



Known:
NRE
Unknown

Gladio Agent



Major NPCs

Alfred Sun:

Known:
???
Unknown

Solaris CEC



Martina Frueh

Known:
Lunar
Unknown, no peeking.

Organizer

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

He pulled the collar of the trench coat up to help ward off the cold. It was black, military issue. New Roman Empire to precise. With him, he carried all his wordly possessions in his backpack and his messenger bag. He had been walking for the past few weeks. Since the end of the war precisely. Heading south back to Italy, displaced soldiers were a common sight in Europe, even despite his NRE uniform. He had no trouble until the Swiss border and having to avoid UNE patrols. But the ratlines in place had easilly shuffled him across the border.

Approaching the farmhouse, one hand went to his Beretta pistol. He had to be careful, he did not come all this way only to be caught in a sting operation. With his other hand he knocked at the farmhouse door awaiting a response.

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

From behind a tree, Zulinsky had been watching the scene. First the car with the tall woman and her driver, and now some kind of military man. He reached inside the pocket of his long, dim black duffle coat and produced a scrap of paper with some barely-legible shorthand notes on it. It was the right place alright: a farmhouse in the Italian countryside. Since none of the visitors he'd seen so far seemed to have any intentions of going into the agricultural business, he figured that these would have to be part of his contact's organization, or possibly even independent mercenaries or thugs. Shooting a glance behind him, he could still (if only barely) make out the form of his car in the distance, hidden behind a high row of bushes. If things went sour, that would be his escape route, although he was surprised that the old wreck managed to get this deep into the Italian countryside without breaking down in the first place. Getting it back in one piece might be another matter entirely.

Zulinsky tucked his hands inside his coat, gripping the handles of his combat knife and handgun tightly (just in case), and approached the door where the military man was still waiting.

"Hello there!" he cried out jovially. Despite the cheerful tone of his voice, he watched the man before him carefully.

[Thatguyoverther]

"Roger" HK-006

The battered HK unit emerges from a sniping position in the foliage, walking towards the location given to him. The Lunar issue sniper rifle conceals the writing scratched into it's torso. Internally Roger checks the time, making sure that he will be punctual.

For the seven thousand eight hundred and twenty second time Roger questions the wisdom of his decision to meet at the rendezvous point. For the seven thousand eight hundred and twenty second time he walks through the same logic. If whoever wanted him here could find him despite his best efforts they could have terminated his existence already. The only logical decision is to follow the co-ordinates.

He continues on his path to the farmhouse, opening a threat evaluation subprogram, evaluating those already gathered.

He glances at Borgia, instantly taking in his rank and insignia. Processing... Threat Level: Severe.

He glances towards Zulinsky. Stance indicates combat training. Hands on multiple concealed weapons. Processing... Threat Level: Moderate to Severe.

He glances towards Frueh and Sun. Female's posture and musculature indicates extensive Lunar habitation. Processing... More information required. Threat Level: Unknown.

Male's posture and physicality inconclusive. Processing... Threat Level: Unknown.

"GREETINGS: END STATEMENT"

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

Dante spun around towards the source of the voice. His hand still gripped tightly on his pistol. The man wasn't in a UNE soldier that was for sure and there was no team of men charging down on him.

"Hello to you, too" Borgia shouts back.

[Greystone]

The Farmhouse

"Their here" a form muttered by the window, his gun was muffled by a cloth to keep any and all glints of metal to be shown. A woman, laughed "We've been alone far to long Harry, we can't back down now"

"I still think you should let us go out there for you"

"No, I don't think that would be prudent"

"At least take Prince with you" she sighed as his eyes got that military orders look. There would be no arguing with him now.

"Fine" she pulled out a small whistle and blew it, the sound not within human hearing. A low growl echoed and Prince came.

Outside the house

The farmhouse door opens to reveal a youngish woman, about 5'3, with black silver streaked hair. Her crystal blue eyes appraise each of her 'guests' in turn. She wears a dark red lab coat, with a small white star and number sown onto a breast pocket.

She steps forwards and behind her stalks a large wold, that is instantly reconizable as one of the NAC's 'direwolves'. It growls at the newcomers before she sternly said "Prince, behave"

The wolf closed its mouth andsat, like a big puppy dog.

The woman turns back "Good evening to you all, my name is Dr. Warner"

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

Pressing his back to the wall, Dante once again redirects his attention to another newly approached figure. A NAC scienstist by her dress, with a dire wolf. Just great. Atleast he knew it wasn't an UNE sting operation...and if it was those French and British bastards would be dead shortly.

Deftly, he removes his pistol from its holster still concealing it under his long trench coat.

"It is a pleasure, Doctor. I am Captain Borgia."

[Greystone]

Warner

The woman nods, smiling thinly "Good to meet you" her eyes drift over his trench coat "mmm, NRE yes? Military of couse, but perhaps Gladio"

She says this without a change in her expression. The Dire Wolf stood and sniffed the Captain. He made a soft 'whuff' sound as he memorized the mans smell. It eyes the man with wary distrust and pats the ground in front of him three times.

Warner smiles as she recognizes the signal for 'weapon'. But she says nothing.

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

Zulinsky inspects the woman head to toe, along with her canine companion, as she introduces herself. She had the appearance of someone in league with the NAC, although this didn't trigger any particular feelings of disdain or relief inside Ivan. Her guess that this 'Captain Borgia' was NRE seemed pretty good. As she talked, Borgia had made the slightest of movements underneath his trenchcoat, something which didn't go unnoticed by Zulinsky, but it didn't look like the captain had something sinister in mind. In all likelihood, he was just being cautious.
The robot was a little unsettling, but Zulinsky had seen enough of its kind to know it could belong to just about every major faction in the world. It seemed a little out of place in the Italian countryside, but then again, so did everyone present.

Outstretching his hand, Zulinsky introduces himself to everyone present, giving a friendly nod to them all.
"Good evening, Doctor. Captain. HK... unit. The name's Zulinsky."

[Greystone]

Outside

"Its a pleasure" the scientist nods. As she does, the movement draws the eye to the nasty scar that goes across the woman's neck. The scar is dead and ragged, though it doesn't appear that it affects her speech.

Also, anyone who is perceptive easily notices that she is speaking... very carefully.

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

Dante eyes the wolf nervously, he never liked these biological constructs, never would. The good doctor knew alot, perhaps too much. High ranking NAC officials were always a strange bunch and slippery as eels. "I am with the Imperial Army to be exact. Obviously, you are American. Science division no doubt? Perhaps bio-engineering?" He guesses from the presence of the Dire Wolf.

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus

He examined the scene from the woods through the scope of his NRE Emperor's Fist issue Sniper Rifle. These were the people he was spose to meet he guessed...... Then he caught site of the Gladio and he put a little pressure on the trigger of his rifle ut sighed and whispered to himself, "No I can't be like them. Maybe he isn't that fanatic....." He then lowered the sniper rifle and put it on his back hopeing that the Gladio wouldn't recognize his gear. After all he had striped every symbol of the NRE and Emperor's fist from the gear.

Alexander emerged from the foliage of the woods walking up to the group flipping up his collar of his black NRE issue trench coat and waveing to the group. "Greetings."

[Greystone]

Outside

Warner smiles at the Captain's deductions and waves her hands modestly "Something like that" that said, she is speaking in fluent Italien. Prince senses the arrival of the new agent before he says anything and her eyes dart up.

"Hello" she glances back at the Captain "A friend of yours?"

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

"A fellow comrade in arms." He slips his weapon back into its holster before appraissing the other soldier. An enlisted man, army of course. Looks like he has seen a fair share of combat. A nice balance of power was in effect now between them and the enemies of the Empire "Good to see you, soldier."

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus

"And to you as well." He says.

[The_JJ]

Good, you're all here. Put those guns away and let's get going. That includes you inside there. The blonde man brushes past Dr. Warner and walks into the farmhouse.

The woman next to him sighs and turns back to the trunk of the car, from which she lifts a laptop case and several sheafs of paper.

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

Borgia follows the man into the farmhouse, finding a seat he puts down his bags and removes his coat. Underneath he wears an Imperial Army uniform and from his belt hangs a pistol and an officer's dagger. If he carries any other weapons they are obviously hidden.

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

Zulinsky follows the odd pair and Borgia into Dr. Warner's house, taking in his surroundings so as to get a better idea of what this is all about, even though it's clear the tall woman would give them the rundown soon enough. After some deliberation, he decides to keep his coat on and half-sits, half-leans on a desk near the side of the room, arms folded.

His eyes wander over the captain's weapons before he inspects the newcomer, the soldier with the sniper rifle, with keen interest.
Quite the bunch. he thinks to himself. But at least they all look like they know what they're doing.

[Greystone]

Farmhouse

After letting most of the others pass her, Dr. Warner follows the group. She makes a annoyed sound as she realizes that they don't have enough chairs for everyone. She raised her voice "Harry, Linda, Kevin- get in here and bring chairs for our guests."

She looks down at the Dire Wolf "Prince, go watch the barn"

The Dire Wolf whined, as if upset that it couldn't stay, but it left the house. Seconds later, after a curse and the sound of dragging, three more people entire the room with several extra chairs.

The three are obviously military, two men and one female, all of whom seem to be related in someway.

When their task was complete they moved to what seemed to be tactically relevant spots, where they could see everyone in the room, seemingly without thinking.

Warner waits patiently then gestures at each one in turn "These are my guards and helpers, Harry' she gestures to a man taller than the other with hazel eyes and dark hair. A long scar runs down one side of his face.

"Linda" a woman, only slightly shorter than harry and sharing his darkbrown hair. Her skin tone was darker, and her eyes were closer to black than hazel. She had a dark red tatoo of a Lioness on her neck. If these two were siblings than the last could only be a second cousin.

His hair was more of a dirty blond, and while his features were similar, his eyes were a odd tone of grey. "and Kevin" the one called Kevin nodded his head, causing an earring in the form of a silver star clink.

All three were armed with NAC pattern weapons, and wearing the black armor with green stars that Europe had seen so many of as the armies of clones had marched across the continent.

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus

He follows the group inside and keeps his trench coat on. He steps back from the clone with the tattoo of a lioness on he neck but leans against the wall to cover himself being startled.

[Thatguyoverther]

Roger Wilco

Roger follows the others inside the farmhouse, continuing to assess threat levels. Processing... Situation Evaluation: Royally Boned.

"WHY ARE WE HERE: END QUERY"

[Greystone]

Farmhouse

Taking a wellworn armchair, the doctor crosses her legs and looks thoughtful "I concur, I would like to know the reason I had to let you all in my house"

[The_JJ]

Alfred Sun emerges behind the clones carrying a tomato and cheese sandwich. We are here, he says as Martina sets up a microprojector pointed at the wall, because I have a job that needs doing and need to step outside of the bounds of even my normally excessive mandate. Martina?

The women nods and fires up her laptop. The simple fact of the matter is this, the world's at stake. Though there's been a balence of power, one wrong move, one rogue maniac-

One errant virus.

Thank you Alfred. and the world faces destruction on a cataclysmic basis. Although there is much to be said for the theory of deterence, the fact remains that there is quite enough destructive power out there. In short, we need global disarmament. And I doubt very much the powers that be will comply.

The blonde wipes the crumbs of his sandwich off his shirt. Now, I've assesed all your records and determined that you've all got either reasons to feel the same, or simply have the skills I need, and something I can threaten you with. I won't name names.

Martina here will be your mission handler, but I've got an appointment to meet. Good day.

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus

He examines Martina with a skeptical look and says, "What is the mission and the nature of the mission?"

[Greystone]

Farmhouse

As the blond man eats his sandwich, the clone called Kevin looks up and opens his mouth, only to shut it as Harry glared at him.

Barely loud enough to hear, Kevin shoots back "But that was the last of the good tomatos!"

Ignoring the clones, Dr. Warner listens grimly. "So" she begins "You want us to... disarm the world?"

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

To Zulinsky, the proposal seemed reasonable enough. The problem often lied in the difference between intention and outcome. He'd met enough fraction groups that were interested in taking down such superweapons, but lacked the skill and manpower to see things through to the end - much less get started - or were content with only targeting a few nations and leaving the rest alone. What the Lunar woman asked was no small task and would be better directed towards a small army rather than what seemed to be a handful of unrelated people. So clearly she was thinking of some kind of para-military strike force with espionage, sabotage and surprise as its key goals and methods. It could work, theoretically.

Taking his eyes off the presentation for a moment, Zulinsky turns towards the Lunar woman. "Can you tell us something more about the organization you represent?"

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

The Captain stays quiet throughout the exchnage and removes a laptop from his messenger bag. While still listening to the chatter of the others he types away on the computer.


@JJ

Borgia is looking to find if Gladio had files on any of the individuals present in the room.

[The_JJ]

Disarm the world... in essesnce. The problem, aside from actually completing our goals, is to maintain the global balance of deterence and avoiding putting the 'blame' on one particular party, as then, well, we'd wreck one or two weapons and then the rest would be deployed. No good.

And our organization is... compact. This little cell of ours is nessesary because a nationally affiliated force would, of course, not be attcking it's own weapons. We have one goal, at that is disarmament. YOu might be here for different reasons, but while you are here, you fight for us. Understood?

The woman flicks a remote and her laptop begins projecting onto the wall, showing a map of the world and it's various artifical and natural sattalites, with oversize diagrams drawn next to the powers of the world. They are all labeled, some with question marks.

The tall women draws herself up and suddenly becomes much more confident in her tone. Now. Introductions for myself. I am Martina Frueh, formerly Operations Manager for Region II Command, Luna Intelligence Services, formerly Operational Consult for Vatican Intel. I do organization, operations coordination, and liaise up and down command chain. I am, colloquially, your 'handler.'

Agenda:
1. Designation of Targets: As discussed, all weapons capable of bringing about mass destruction. Included in that list, mass production facilities for semi-independent mechanical and biological weapons. That's robots and clones to you.
2. Determining Priority of Targets: Prioritizing by scale of destructiveness, while ideal, is not possible. As discussed, prioity must show concern for the global balence of power and maintinence of plausible deniability for powers opposite our victims. This shall be achieved mainly by varying our targets amongst teh nations.

3. Initial Targets: Our first target will be the Russian clone facilities near Arkhangel'sk, which are to be utterly destroyed. It's a target relativly few will miss, as the current Russian leader is in fact NAC. It's an easier target, and complete demolition should result in permanence as the likelyhood of Pandora offering to rebuild the facilities is slim to none.

Any questions?

Longvin:

Dr. Emily Warner appears on a list of NAC personel in Italy, but is listed under a subheading 'killed by UNE airstrike during Our Enemies' War.'
Alexander Decimus Laviticus is a former Emperor's Hand Operative.
There is scarce information on the HK Lunar Combat Model.
Ivan Zulinsky produces no hits, nor does the women in front of you.
Alfred Sun on the other hand pops up with tons of red flags. Solarian Counter Espionage Commision, responsible for the deconstruction of Glaudio cells acrosss Africa during the War of Swiss Liberation. Temporaily pulled from service after the Martyrdom 'Quakes. He is placed scetchly in Eastern Africa and the Arabian after that, still as an active spy hunter.

Priority for elimination: Opportunity. (As in, if you get the chance to waste him, take it.)

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

Dante gives his chin a quick rub before closing the laptop and replacing it back inside its messenger bag. "Excuse me, but, what resources will be made availible to us to accomplish this task. As talented as anyone here may be, it will be quite difficult to get to this plant and destroy it with just what we are carrying."


OOC: You have me listed as the wrong character in the First Post.

[The_JJ]

We've got a small operational stipend to use at my discretion. Enough to cover transportation to Russia and assciated bribery. We're out in the black zone here, so we're working with what our semi-legitimate members, which more or less mean Alfred, can siphon off without being noticed.

[Greystone]

Farmhouse

The clones stir at the first objective, shooting each other almost astonished looks, but they say nothing. Warner picking up her guards discomfort decides to speak.

"But what about all of the infant clones housed in these installations" she clears her throat "Tha- that would be murder"

She doesn't mention the guards, not being THAT naive.

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus

"There is a chance the infant clones have already been subjected to the propoganda and are already influenced for the worst. If we save them it could come back on us. However if we don't save them and they turn out to not be subjegated to the propganda we have striped ourselves of future allies. Expecially considering how fast clones progress..... I beilive our only solution is to find out more information about the workings inside the facilities." he says while looking a bit distant obviously deep in thought.

[The_JJ]

Martina flicks her eyes at the clones, then shrugs. At this point, we're already playing with moral fire. We may very well end up killing guards and techs and scientists of every creed and country. The potencial loss of a thousand gestative killing machines is something we're going to have to accept. That early conditioning is certainly another problem, but at this point, she stares down at Laviticus, our goal is not to set up our own superweapons. The formation of this alternative to the, for instance, NUN WMD hunters is because the Papcy and the UNE, let alone Pandora, would never destroy their weapons. Martina turns back to the NAC Doctor. That said, mission protocol demands that we remove the clones in the facility from Tsarist control, no less, yes, but no more. There are organizations that will take a few thousand infants, no questions asked, and won't try to turn them soldier.

As to finding more about the facilities, well, that's not my job. I do co-ordination. When you lot head to Russia, you'll be able to reach me through this channel. She tosses a handful of jump drives onto the table. SolTech Personal Encryption Keys. Same as used by the Solaris Council and NUN. Damn expensive but never been cracked. First time you use it it'll take biometric information and store it. Doctor, I'm going to ask you to sign in now If one of your... escorts were to sign in... well, that'd be bad.

Protect these keys, people. I have no replacements. Now, these are also only going to work if you've got internet access. That means you might well be on your own once the ball starts rolling. For intersquad communications in such situations, here are some military grade comms. Good but not unbreakable, keep on the job messages short and use codewords for everything. Clear?

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

Dante picked up one of the encryption keys carefully studying the device. Computer warfare was his speciality and this piece of equipment greatly interested him. He wasn't very comfortable with the idea of giving his DNA over to the machine, the thought of some Solarian or NUN lackeys having his DNA on file wasn't on his list of things to do. Still, he had no choice in the matter.

He moved on to the radios. Tinkering with each one individually "Just setting them to the same frequency and encryption. I trust everyone knows how to use a radio?" Leaning over the table, a rosary chain hangs from his neck in plain view. Seemingly normal, those with a keen eye will notice that the cross has been removed and replaced with a the emblem of the House of Savoy(Umberto's royal dynasty.)

[Thatguyoverther]

Roger Wilco

Roger contemplates the moral implications of shutting down the cloning facility and potentially terminating thousands of infant lives. After thousands of calculations arguments and counter arguments, Roger comes to a decision about an eighth of a second later. If there is now other way, it should be him to do it. He couldn't in good conscious let such an act stain the soul of another.

If Pope Benedict XVI, was right there might even be hope that the souls would attain heaven.

Roger takes one of the encryption keys. Opening a small compartment in his chest he inserts the key, before closing the compartment.

"I HAVE AN INTERNAL RADIO, I DO NOT REQUIRE AN EXTERNAL UNIT END STATEMENT."

Roger's optics fall on Borgia's rosary.

"ARE YOU IN NEED OF A ROSARY END QUERY. YOUR CURRENT ONE SEEMS TO BE DAMAGED END STATEMENT."

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

Zulinsky takes one of the encryptions keys, gives it a cursory glance, and then puts it in an inner pocket of his duffle coat. He'd seen its kind before, but never actually owned one. He wasn't a fan of giving up his DNA, but then again, they could get it easily anyway. He'd already touched the door, the desk, one of the armchairs and a lot of other minor objects in the room. Nothing short of wiping the whole place down and cleaning it thoroughly would prevent these people from getting his DNA if they really wanted it. Not to mention that if he wanted to make use of the key under someone else's DNA signature, he'd have to keep a constant supply of fresh samples on hand, possibly for months to come. It wouldn't be an impossible feat, but it was highly impractical.

The radio seemed decent although Zulinsky had seen models that came in smaller size, had longer range and had built-in automatic frequency-switching at random intervals. Still, it was a solid piece of work and he figured that it should be more than adequate.

"So... Arkhangel'sk in Russia." he says, taking the radio from Borgia and pocketing it. "Does your organization have a safehouse there? If not, I may know one or two places nearby where we can hole up while we plan this operation, although I can't promise anything."

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus

Alexander walks up and picks up one of the encryption keys putting it in an inner pocket of his trench coat. He had no qualms about his DNA being on file it was only a matter of time anyway before his exsistance was discovered anyway. He picks up a radio adjusting it to the same frequency as well and says, "Ita Vero" (yes in classical latin)

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

Tucking the chain into his shirt he responds "Don't worry about it, HK."

"Also, we might want to get ahold of some of Russian military uniforms. Officer uniforms, lieutnants, captains preferably. So we don't get challenged by the guards until we get to the more secure areas and not high enough rank to cause a big fuss."

[The_JJ]

Securing a safe house and whatever materiel is up to you. As I said, I'm operational manager. I keep you on task, and updated with devolopments from up on high.

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus

"So now the question is when do we leave?" Alexander says.

[Greystone]

Farmhouse

Dr. Wagner looks to the Captain "I might know someone in the Russian military who could supply us with those" she shrugs "That being if he didn't die during the war"

JJ
So, since she is NAC, could she know someone?

"Plus" she continues "Kevin here is based off the Russion model, and these others will just stregthen that claim"

The clones nod, at ease with their job.

She glances at Alexander "I'd say as soon as possible, we need to set this OP up after all"

[The_JJ]

We've got... three fake identities for each of you. Anoymous bus rides to Eastern Europe won't be much of a problem, and from there there's a good long border. Should'nt be hard to bribe or sneak your way across. You can leave whenever you feel you're ready.

Again, you just do what you do, after that... I make sure you get the job done. How that happens, it's up to you.

@Grey:

The NAC/Russian connection is pretty tenuous below the top level. You might know NAC people in Russia, or with connections in Russia, but not any actual Russians.

[Greystone]

JJ
I thought at this point, Russia was controlled by he NAC, via Han's marriage to the Romanov. Isabella is the Tsarina

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

"I think we're almost done here, then." Zulinsky says, standing up. He reaches inside his coat and produces a creaked, stained map of Europe and Asia. Even to the untrained eye, it's clear that lines and circles have been drawn on the map in several places, indicating routes that seemingly lead to the middle of nowhere or presumably indicate towns so small they're not even listed.

"I suggest we cross the border here", he says while indicating a part on the map. "Security is notoriously lax there. It's backwards enough that the risks officers take by bending the rules a little are practically non-existent, so the bribes are cheaper too."

He straightens the map out as he traces an imaginary route with his finger.
"Once we're across the border I'll place a call and see if we can get us a safehouse in Severodvinsk or Markovskaya. If we can't get either of them or both of them prove to be less than ideal, we can always rent a place in Arkhangel'sk itself. Of course, the reduced risk of privacy that would bring with it would limit our movements somewhat. If anything goes wrong and we become separated, I suggest we meet in Minsk."

"Incidentally, feel free to divide those three fake passports among yourselves: I don't think I'll need one."

[The_JJ]

Martina laughs. We've got more problems then just Russia boyo. Take your three passports.

@Grey
I know. The point I'm making is that while the dynastic marriage leaves the NAC in control of Russia, there are few actual NAC people working there. And seeing as Emily is in hiding, she can't really go up to Isabella and ask for help.

[Greystone]

JJ
Well, I assume we worked togethor in the war. Maybe I know a guy who knew the guy.

(ie, I could make a roll OR i could simply know where a supply depot is, so we can raid it)

[The_JJ]

Grey:

You do know some guys who know some guys. Do you want to contact them?

[Greystone]

JJ
Do any of them owe me a wookie life debt of sorts, like I saved their life/career

[The_JJ]

Grey
Johnathan Seiver was a grad student who worked under you. You landed him a nice job in the Russian crossover section.

[Greystone]

JJ
Then yes. I assume that I can contact him on a secure channel, with my knowledge on inner_NAC top secret workings?

[Freshmeat]

Martina laughs. We've got more problems then just Russia boyo. Take your three passports.

((OOC: Oops, misread that part. Thought we only had three passports for all of us, not three for each of us. Well, in that case Zulinsky takes his fake passports.))

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus

Takes his three passports looking over the names familarizing himself with them and their nationalities.

[Thatguyoverther]

"PASSPORT END QUERY"

Roger had fully expected to spend the majority of the trip inside a packing crate, or maybe partially disassembled in an oversized duffel bag. Or maybe disguised as a civilian robot

[The_JJ]

Well not for you. How small can you fold yourself down?

@Grey:
Well, you could call him. I'm assuming that Shona isn't quite to the point of bugging everyone, and he's not in such a high position that he'd be screened automatically. Were you, say, actively on a NAC wanted list, it'd be risky, but right now you're just MIA presumed KIA.

[Greystone]

The Farmhouse

"kevin, make sure everything is packed" she turns to Harry "Lock down the lab, and anything to large to take with us" she turns to Linda "Destroy the Gammas"

The three clones nod and rush off. Wagner turns and ays "I am sorry, but I have to make a call" she leaves towards the barn.

JJ
Alright, i call him. If he asks why hasn't heard from me, I'll blame it on a project. I tell him how many uniforms and weapons I'll need for the entire group

[The_JJ]

Grey:
Can you leave at least one clone behind? Someone has to feed Fido after all.

*ring... ring... ring...* Guh? Hello?

[Thatguyoverther]

Roger

"ONE POINT ONE THREE METERS BY POINT FIVE TWO SEVEN METERS END STATEMENT"

Once Dr. Wagner leaves the room.

"PERHAPS GIVEN OUR MISSIONS NATURE DR. WARNER'S CONVERSATION SHOULD BE MONITORED END STATEMENT"

[The_JJ]

Good, then this crate should work.

Moniter her if you want... or can. Again, I do liasing, operations is up to you.

[Greystone]

JJ
Harry is staying behind, at least for this mission.

"Yes, hello, this is Dr. Genome" she smiles, using her nickname among hose she worked with "Is this a bad time John?

[The_JJ]

Grey
... Emily!? Em... what? No it's not my wife. I'm not married Cat... just go to sleep. Jesus Em, they said you were dead. So... what kinda secret projects does Uncle Sam and Aunty Han have you working on. Must be something big if they fake your death for it.

[Greystone]

JJ
I'd love to tell you John, but then Aunty Han will be forced to kill us both" Emily forces out a laugh " But I have a favor to ask"

She continues, outlining their need for uniforms and equipment.

(btw JJ, I like him :smallamused:

[The_JJ]

Grey:
Russkie unis huh? Well let's see. I'm Stateside now but... here, let me pull up my computer.

Weapon's are easy, actually. Ever since the virus bomb went off they're spares all over Easter Europe. Doubt you'd want to wear the clothes though, amiright? Yeah let's see... St. Petersburg Textiles. Production near the ports, relativly unguarded warehouses found somewhere near whereever fine Russkies soldiers can be found in high concentration. All hushhush, say no more, say no more, eh.

You have fun now Em... oh you can't get back to bed now? I'm so sorry baby, I'll just have to find some way to use the time... gotta go Em.

[Greystone]

JJ
"Thanks John, have fun" she grins and puts down the coordinates

Emily returns to the house "I have a place to find weapons and uniforms of the russian variety"

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

Dante gets up from his seat and approaches Alexander. Facing him in a way so that the others would not be able to see him speaking( ooc:in case anyone can read lips..I'm looking at you JJ) he asks "Where did you serve during the war?"

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus

"In places I rather not say. It could cause problems" Alexander whispers.

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

The Captain gives a knowing nod to Alexander.

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus

Alexander walks over sitting down in a chair before so he takes his sniper rifle off his back and begins cleaning it.

[Greystone]

The Farmhouse

Harry and the other clones come in, and Warner briefs them "Alright, I am taking Kevin and Linda to come with me"

The two clones in question look pleased, but Harry frowns "Ma'am I-"

"Someone needs to watch the lab" she pats him on the shoulder 'And Prince needs feeding"

He sighs "yes ma'am"

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus


So when are we leaving? says Alexander seeming a bit edgey

[The_JJ]

Whenever you feel like it. Ivan? I want you in charge on the ground out there for this mission, you seem to know your way around.

ALL:

A squad leader's job is to keep the group on track. If we're ever in a situation like this, where we're waiting for someone to say "Go" the squad leader says move out. Officially, when coming up with plans, squad leader gets the final say, even if everyone else disagrees with him/her. This isn't really the case but it is protocol.

Mostly this is in the interest of keeping us a little focused and helping us make decsions quicker.

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

Zulinsky nods, noting that everyone know nows his first name, but giving it little thought otherwise.
"Fair enough. Since everyone seems about done, I suggest we leave here tomorrow at 7 AM in the morning. That should allow us the time to rest up and make some last-minute preparations. I trust Dr. Warner has little reservations about putting us up for the night?" he says with an inquiring look at the doctor.
Not really awaiting a reply, he continues:
'Tomorrow, we'll take the first bus to Russia, preferably one that goes through that part of the border I outlined earlier, and take the HK unit along in a crate. As taking along an 1.3 x 0.5 crate along might raise some questions, we might want to put it in a travel bag and pad it a little with old newspapers so as to hide the crate's bulk. If our luggage gets searched - not that I expect that to happen anyway - we can always claim that the contents are fragile and that the padding is there to dampen the shocks of Russia's notoriously bumpy roads or something like that. If that doesn't work, we just resort to bribes if the border guards seem unappreciative of the fact that we're traveling with a HK unit in our luggage."

"Buses traveling over such long distances usually have passengers of rather diverse ethnicies so I think we should be fine traveling as one group, although it can't hurt to make sure we arrive at the bus station at separate hours and we avoid sitting next to each other on the bus itself. We'll all wear unassuming clothing and just sit things out until we're over the border. We'll divide the money among ourselves so that everyones has at least some self-sufficiency in case something goes wrong."

Zulinsky turns to Doctor Warner again:
"About the Russian weapons and uniforms you spoke of earlier: I assume we can get them in Russia itself? If so, I'd like to know where precisely we can pick them up or how we can get in touch with whoever supplies them. Around that time, we'll need to start looking for some kind of van we can either buy or hire so we can transport the weapons, the uniforms and the HK unit that much easier without arousing suspicion. With some luck, Dr. Warner's arms supplier is willing to part with other gear that could be of use to us as well. Explosives, stun guns, anything that could help us bypass security, other useful disguises, etc. We then head for Archangel'sk and see what the situation looks like from there on out, and what needs to be done next."

"Captain Borgia - if you've got internet on that laptop of yours, I'd like you to check the bus hours for any bus that's heading to Russia tomorrow."

[The_JJ]

A bus leaves tommorow at 9:00 for the part of the border indicated.

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

"Of course, not a problem" Borgia takes his laptop out of the case and loads up a travel website to get the bus schedule for the trip to Russia.

"Doctor, will we be able to keep our extra equipment here? I would prefer not to have to carry all my possessions halfway across Europe."

[Thatguyoverther]

Roger Willco

It is difficult to tell, but the HK units metallic spine straightens a millimeter, at the mentioning of "the HK unit" and "it"

"PLEASE, CALL ME ROGER END STATEMENT. A MASCULINE PRONOUN IS ALSO PREFERABLE END STATEMENT."

The HK unit turns towards Dr. Warner.

"WOULD I BE OUT OF LINE TO ASK FOR A TOUR OF YOUR FACILITIES END QUERY. I MUST CONFESS CURIOSITY AS TO YOUR WORK HERE END STATEMENT."

((We can skip the tour if you want to get the show on the road. I just figured with a brain the size of a planet, poor forlorn Roger might be able to assist in your work.))

[Greystone]

"Yes, we have several rooms thar could be constituted as bed rooms" she sighs, then smiles sheepishly "I don't as much have a supplier than know where to find it"

She pulls out directions "St. Petersburg's Textiles is relativly unguarded, and can supply us with uniforms. Extra weapons are all over Eastern Europe ever since the virus bombs"

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus

Alexander follows the conversation then in a burst of routine while cleaning the sniper rifle he begins taking it apart cleaning the inside as fast as he can (Military specialist/marine style cleaning drills) then putting it back together. He sets the rifle on the table infront of him and pulls out his pistols one at a time cleaning them and seetting them down. Then proceeds to begin pulling out the start of six daggers, two from his sides, one from each of his wrists concealed in his sleeves, and one in each of his boots. He cleans them one at a time one knife oddly though still has an old blood stain on it like it wasn't properly cleaned after a battle. He looks at everyone around the room, " I think I will be fine on the weaponry." he says with a smirk.

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

Dante eyes Alexander and his cleaning ritual with a keen interest. He had been well trained, it was obvious. The bloodstain was of interest of course. There had to be a story behind it. But, now was not the time for to try to hear he. Hefting his bags he heads to one of the bedrooms to drop them off.

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

"Roger? A bit of a strange name for a robot, isn't it? But all right. Roger it is." Zulinsky says with the slightest hint of a smirk on his face. The level of autonomy the robot seemed to possess intrigued him.

After waiting until Dr. Warner has finished speaking, Ivan nods.
"St. Petersburg? That's fine. I happen to know the city reasonably well, and it's on the way to Archangel'sk. Finding ourselves a van there shouldn't be a problem either."

Zulinsky gives Alexander's veritable arsenal an interested glance but says nothing of it and instead walks to the door. "I'll just go and pick up some stuff from my car parked outside. I'll be back in a moment."
A few minutes later he returns, carrying a small, brown rucksack, having parked his car next to the barn.

"All right, everyone. Just to reiterate: we'll leave here tomorrow morning at 7 AM, so make sure you're ready to move out by then."

[UliadOglaigh]

Alexander Decimus Laviticus

Alexander nods to Ivan and says to the doctor, " Would you have any books for entertainment around?"

[The_JJ]

Day Two: Bus station

The wind has abated somewhat. Doctor Warner arrives a the station last, her accompanying clones carrying Rodger's heavy crate between them. The UNE guards come sniffiing around, but every bag outhere was a potential bomb and once it became clear that the clones weren't even Italian, much less NRE terrorists, they look for something better to do with their time.

The bus arrives, just a few minutes late, and departs, half full. It's a long drive through the battered roads of the Alps, but the trip to the Ukraine is quite uneventful, until you reach the border. An large group of men, mostly identical, loiter around the customs checkpoint. The very few passengers apart from yourselves who did not get off earlier now leave, and hustle to a man holding a handpainted sign reading 'Travel Agent.'

[The_JJ]

Warner:
Welcome to Eastern Europe, home to discount Russkie guns.

Ivan:
The 'Travel Agent' is the local smuggler. But you figure you could save money if you route around him and go straight to the people that need bribing, but it'd be a bit less anonymous.

All:
Some things I'd like: List of languages spoken. You get one (your native tongue) plus one more for each Intelligence point. You should pick English for one, as a lingua fraca of course.
List of weapons and equipment you have on you at the moment.

All right, I'm glad we all made it through day one. I'll set up an OOC soon but I'd like to set up some ground rules, for much the same reason that I delayed set up in the first place. OOC thread is for: bitching at me, socializing, asking me questions, and possibly rolling. It is not in anyway shape or form for disscuissing things that could be handled in game. Espcially planning, or updates if/when you go seperate ways.

[Greystone]

I speak English, Russian, Spanish, and Italian. Also I know UAL code

[LongVin]

Languages:

Standard - Italian
Bonus - English, German, Latin

[Thatguyoverther]

Roger

Roger sits idly in his crate. Audio equipment tuned to maximum sensitivity. To occupy himself he counts the number grains on the wood pieces of his crate, and postulates as to the age, species, and geographical region every piece came from.


Languages
Latin(Native tongue), English, Italian, Russian, Arabic, and Spanish.

Equipment: Luna standard issue sniper rifle.

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

Ivan steps off the bus and heads to the travel agent, giving him a friendly nod as he does so and lowering his voice just enough so that no on else might overhear the following conversation.

(in Russian)
"Good afternoon, sir. You look like the person my friends and myself need to get us a travel pass to the Russian border. We've only got one crate to declare, and it's filled with medical samples from West-Europe. I'll not bother you with the technical jargon, although I could get the lady doctor to clarify matters if you'd like. Suffice it to say that my associates and I, independent contractors as you no doubt have figured out already, would care little to risk contaminating our supply. As such we would be willing to pay a little extra on our travel pass to speed up some of the more unnecessary protocols while maintaining a respectable amount of privacy on our part."

"Can I count on your assistance to arrange something like that?" Zulinsky asks, outstretching a hand with a bundle of bank notes concealed in the palm of his hand.


Languages:
Russian (native tongue) + Italian, Chinese, Arabic and English

Weapons/Equipment:
Within reach:
- Map
- Watch (not too expensive and scratched and dirty in several places)
- About half of all the money Zulinsky has on him
- A book on botanica (http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/ptitleycmcaegc1mt3) (:smallbiggrin:)
- Combat Knife
- Handgun (CZ-99)
- MSP silent pistol (concealed near Ivan's left-hand wrist, close to his watch)

In Ivan's backpack:
- Food / Drink
- The other half of Zulinsky's money
- Rope (about 20 feet long)
- 10-foot pole (nah, just kidding :smalltongue:)
- Swiss army knife
- Handcuffs and key
- Flashlight
- Silencer (for the CZ-99)
- Bullets (for both handguns)
- Night vision goggles - An old pair of binoculars (as NVG might be a bit too hi-tech)
- Radio & encryption key (as given by Martina earlier)
- Spare car key (Okay, I confess: I might be trying to invoke this (http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/ptitlexn9xzsjd5fif?from=Main.ChekhovsGun) here. :smallsmile:)

A note on weaponry and relevant accessories:
I'm not sure if I should expect Ivan to get strip-searched as well, although he would probably know this IC. If the risk of custom officials searching people, rather than just their cargo, is likely, Ivan will put his guns, silencer, bullets, etc. in the crate with Roger.

A note on Zulinsky's car:
Eh, I'll handwave the fact as to why Zulinsky would leave his car at Dr. Warner's house by stating that it's a completely worthless, jury-rigged wreck that probably wouldn't have survived the trip to Russia anyway. Just assume that, for convenience's sake, Zulinsky would've given the car key to one of the remaining clones (Harry?) at Dr. Warner's house and allowed him to do whatever he wants with it.

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

Borgia remains behind by the crate that contains Roger. Not knowing Russian he lets Ivan do the work while he stays away from any potential questioning.

Equipment:

Wearing: Jeans, long sleeve shirt, leather jacket, boots

Weapons: Beretta service pistol, Imperial Dagger, Gravity knife in boot.

Other Equipment: Messenger bag with laptop, change of clothes, credit chips.

Imperial uniforms are left back at the safehouse.

[The_JJ]

That's an interesting story. The agent deadpans. He takes the wad of money, in full view of the guards, counts it and then gestures over his shoulder. Head for the warehouse over there. We've got coffee and vodka for you, and some floor to sleep on. Don't mind the girls, and don't bother the girls neither. We'll get through tomorrow.

The warehouse is fairly clean but badly lit, a concrete floor and four walls. The room is scattered with the makeshift beds (a blanket on the ground and a pack for a pillow) of several groups of young women. In one corner a few armed guards smoke cigarettes and warm themselves around a electric stove with a coffee pot on it.

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

Ivan motions over to the others and heads into the warehouse. Once inside, he addresses the rest of the team.
"Well, the Ukranian guards seem willing to turn a blind eye as we cross the border, but I wouldn't trust them as far as I can throw them. The local smuggler claims he'll help us cross the border tomorrow and that we can sleep here until then, so we can do little but wait for now. That said, it might be a good idea to keep a close eye on our crate tonight. We can sleep on the bus tomorrow anyway, and I wouldn't be surprised if these Ukranians would just take the crate for themselves, now that they know something bribe-worthy is inside. Since we can't exactly file a complaint against them if they don't uphold their end of the bargain, we shouldn't get careless here."

[The_JJ]

The 'Travel Agent' walks up to the men around the stove, and converses with them for a moment. Then one of them pulls something from his pocket, and approaches the crate.

[Thatguyoverther]

Roger

Roger waits patiently in his crate, almost completely oblivious to the outside world.

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

The good captain doesn't fail to notice the Russian. Moving to intercept him he places his hand on the crate and asks in English, the general lingua franca of the world "Something I can help you with?"

[The_JJ]

He hands you a bright yellow sticker.

Uff. A helpful customer. Has Hell come to this [garbled Ukranian] place and frohzen over? Stick that over ze edge of ze box, and don't open it until ve're over ze border.

The sticker reads:

Pre-inspected in Kiev, 29.12.2130.
Express Shipment
NOT valid if seal broken.

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

Dante smiles taking the ticket and place it on the crate where told.

[The_JJ]

OOC thread is here. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=7182899#post7182899)

[Greystone]

Dr. Wagner and her two clone compatriots walk and converse quietly with each other as they wait for something to come up. Both clones stand to either side of the Doctor (who had replaced her lab coat with normal civilain wear) something akin to a pair of bodyguards.

The doctor was searching on her phone, watching the more... sordid communications. She had been on them before, whenever she had looked for supplies, or in this case guns.

Criminals liekd to advertise the same way regular people did, just a little more subtly. She should find something....

[The_JJ]

Warner:
You see several references to a 'Kaiser' selling guns. He seems to have bought or taken everything off his competitors and monopolized the local market.
Can be contacted at 'you freindly local underworld members everywhere.'

[Thatguyoverther]

Roger

Roger hears the sticker being placed on the crate and prepares for the crate top to open. When it doesn't Roger remains alert for several minutes before returning to his wood related postulations.

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia

Not trusting the most likely lice and flea infested mastresses strewn about, the officer instead choices to prop himself up on the HK's box. Both to protect it from any would be thieves and to get some rest.

[Greystone]

Warner walks over to the group at large "Alright, we have to find a dealer by the name of Kaiser. He runs the local... trade." She looks to make sure no one else is watching "Or at least one of his brokers"

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

"Our 'travel agent' friend probably knows how to get in touch with any of the local dealers. He probably gets paid a little extra each month simply for sending potential customers their way."
With that, Ivan heads back outside to the travel agent and motions over to him, once again making sure not to attract any unwanted attention.
"Hello again. We haven't really properly introduced ourselves so, for future reference, let's get that over with. You can call me Yuri. Now, we'd like to meet a local merchant by the name of 'Kaiser'. I assume you've heard of him...?" Ivan asks, awaiting a response.

[The_JJ]

He stares at you with studious disinterest until you get to the Kaiser's name, at which point his eyebrows raise marginally. Yeah, I can put you in contact with one of Herr Kaiser's reps. Oi! You lot get out the red crate. So, what do you want? Good, because what we got is Tramp Stamps, more Tramp Stamps, and some ammo. Take it or leave it.

The 'crate' is taken in from some other part of the warehouse, the heavy locks are removed, and the top is throuw open to reveal several SMG's that seem to have been made from little more than two slabs of steel welded together with a barrel and a hole for a magazine. Also tossed into the bottom are magazines that project the same 'mass produced in a rush' vibe.

How many you want?

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

Ivan inspects the guns more out of habit than interest, as a quick glance tells him that these aren't the kind of weapons anyone would want to bet their lives on.

"Hm, I think we'll pass. We're looking for some more quality material. Second-hand military weaponry and the like. Do you have anything fitting that description around here, perchance?"

[The_JJ]

This is second hand military. Genuine clone army equipment, not pretty but servicable, he coughs. Now as I said, take it, or leave it.

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

"We'll leave it then. Thanks anyway."

There will be enough opportunities to buy weapons elsewhere, Zulinsky thinks to himself as he heads back to the warehouse.

[Greystone]

"isn't this what you wanted" Dr. Warner shrugs "This is some good equipment"

The clones look at them, then to each other and shrug. They prefer NAC equipment of course, but they had a little training with Russian works.

[The_JJ]

Grey
This particular flavor of Russian weaponry is... servicable, and plenty common all over the place.

[Freshmeat]

Ivan Zulinsky

"The deal in and of itself wasn't too bad, especially because we're not even sure if we'll need submachineguns or assault rifles during our mission in the first place - preferably not as it would imply a direct firefight - but I felt we could get better material elsewhere. Those were the type of guns you'd buy in bulk for an army, not the kind for a small commando group. Of course, I'm not saying we should spend a fortune on guns either. What do you guys think?" Zulinsky says, adressing Captain Borgia and Alexander.

[LongVin]

Dante Borgia


"There is a reason why the clone army relied on the weight of numbers in their battles. I doubt any of those weapons are suitable for our needs. They are highly inaccurate and we'll wind up dead using them."