riariadne Posted July 26, 2017 Share Posted July 26, 2017 "On it as we speak, Captain," Dwight spoke up, sitting at the navigational computer and inputting their destination. "Indeed, the base's name is quite poor... years ago, probably before you were even born, somehow a proposal to rename the base to something more sensible and at all relevant to the location managed to fail. How anyone objected to Little Rock Base is beyond me. But, I imagine something like fixing that isn't as much of a concern currently... not that it would take effect terribly quick, anyway, with how long the bureaucracy can take." As Roxanna entered the bridge, he gave a curt nod, but opted not to comment on her previous breakdown- at this time, it was very unlikely to do anything but cause trouble. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Balcerzak Posted July 27, 2017 Share Posted July 27, 2017 Christina decided to take him up on his offer, so Thorvald got another mug ready for her. He was about to just walk it over to her when he thought better, and ended up carrying over both mugs, a small sugar bowl, and a couple options for creamer (both dairy and non), all spaced out upon a tray. "I wasn't sure how you usually take it, so I figured I'd just let you doll it up yourself if you wanted to," he explained as he approached. As for Thorvald, while it wasn't his usual preference, today he was taking his black. His plans at making it Irish had been quashed by Dwight's announcement, it wouldn't do to drink and mech after all, and rather than bother with any other additives, Thorvald decided he'd prefer if he could pretend there were an actual reason behind having a bitter taste left in his mouth from all of this morning's drama. Setting down the tray on the table, slightly to one side of the plate of food Christina had prepared, he spoke up with a question that had been on his mind. "So that had been you making a beeline for the changing rooms, huh? That embarrassed about the SKIN? And why didn't you mention you'd be helping out, was it supposed to be a surprise like the lieutenant's new toy?" He nodded at Kim, as if there'd been any doubt as to which one he'd been referring to, but also inviting her to reply as well. There was also that other matter... the scene he'd seen in the kitchen later, but broaching something that obviously sensitive at a time like this was just impossible. The hostility from Juria had spoiled the mood for sure, if it might have even been a good one to begin with, and the fact that she was now coming to grips with things and apologizing didn't seem to be reversing the damage. Pulling out a chair for himself, he sat down, took a sip of his coffee, and absently reached down to ruffle what would have been fur if Reo had had any, instead settling for just running his fingers along the exterior of the back of its head. ~~ Another round of whirlwind introductions concluded, and again the new faces dispersed back to whatever business they'd been planning before Abigail had presented herself as an amusing distraction. Even worse, with the squirt also abandoning her, she was back to square... whatever one she'd been at when Brant had been the first to ditch her. Alone with the glorified calculator. A brief momentary thought of 'What did I do to deserve this' was quickly answered by others presenting very firmly grounded reasons, causing her to scowl. "Well, maybe it's not rust then, but your sarcasm detector is broken," she muttered before finally boarding the Legion and having a look around inside. It was much like she'd expected, she did have some experience with the model in general, but she was unhappily forced to admit that the shrimp wasn't entirely wrong about how spruced up it was compared to what she was used to. She still wasn't sure it was going to keep her satisfied, and it definitely didn't hold a candle to her custom. Without undue dawdling, she descended again, only to find Hannah still with that stupid grin on her face. "Just what are you smiling at anyway?" Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nanami Touko Posted July 27, 2017 Share Posted July 27, 2017 Bureaucracy "Really...? I can't imagine what the base commander was thinking, since they were l-likely the one that veto'd it... H-How strange." Jess sighed, wondering how something like that happened... But the ANF did have its odd hangups, at times. Cuppa Joe "Wow... You got the whole platter out, huh. Heh... Thanks." Christina preferred her coffee with two sugar, two cream, so while Thorvald sat down, she started getting her own cup ready. Then the questions came out... Not ones she'd been expecting. Better than more people asking about her past. "Uh... Y-Yeah. Not that comfortable with something so... Tight. I guess... Don't really want anyone to see me in it. And... Ahah. Uhm... I'm... Kind of a broken TK? I don't really know how to put it." She didn't know if Kim could explain it any better, so she figured it would be worth trying. A quick sip of the hot coffee helped her focus. "I can't feel what any of you are feeling, right now. But if you plug me into a T-Link, the whole range opens up. You... Y-You all saved me, right? So, I wanted to help. Avery needed someone to help calibrate the Lieutenant's new robot, and we couldn't pull Brant aside, so... I offered. Though I'm kind of a mess in the middle of battle... I hope Kim never records her cockpit, I... It's almost funny, how bad I get." A little self deprecation only hurt a bit. "So not really a surprise, just... Something unplanned. The calibrations for the mech are done now, but... If I can get a hold of myself, it would help her to have someone monitoring things mid flight. And I can... Disable any Telekinetics that get in range of us. I suppose. That's worth something, right?" Sarcasm Undetected "My apologies Miss Abigail, but I do not have a sarcasm detector installed. I have been informed that I perform the social quirk at times, but none of it is conscious. Conscious... Con..." Hannah seemed to go into some form of thinking as Abigail went up into the Legionary to check it out, only popping out of it as she came back down, asking what she was smiling about. "Ah. My apologies again. I am... I was not... This is difficult." Her eyebrows furrowed and she stared at the floor. "The concept of consciousness is not something that I am unfamiliar with, but only in concept. An error, or perhaps an overlooked design, has occurred in my processing, causing me to begin parsing and thinking as if I was actually alive. Whether or not this was intended on creation is unknown to me, but thinking of actions as conscious and not part of a designed program is quite difficult to me... Thinking is quite difficult, to me. Perhaps you would be able to teach me about sarcasm? While we see to your inspection of the Phalanx model. This way, please." Hannah didn't quite wait for her, starting towards the colony's pet project. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Phoenix Posted July 28, 2017 Share Posted July 28, 2017 (edited) Brant entered the hangar and took in the scene. There was some new equipment being handled, which was nice. The more guns the better, usually. His true aim was not to simply take in the sights, though, but rather to find Abigail and Hannah, assuming they were still in the area. It took him all of five seconds to spot them, and he started making his way over, all the while, his mind kept forcibly leading him back to the Alkaevs. With Apotheosis attacking them, there were a lot of people he knew that were probably dead, dying, or that would be dead by day's end. It was a sobering thought. While none of them were truly his friends, the TK wasn't on bad terms with them, and he was on a first name basis with most. Either way, they didn't deserve to be butchered like this. The situation was too far gone for Brant to entertain an optimistic outlook, any longer. It was best to just distract himself for now. <"It was almost finished,"> Firmia clinched her teeth as tears trickled down her cheeks, <"It was almost finished."> She looked up at her personal mobile suit, silently pleading to it and the universe. She hoped that somehow, some way, she could get the machine moving, again, and onto a transport plane up on the surface. That was impossible, now, though. The large elevators that carried mobile suits from the underground hangars to the surface were all shut down and unpowered, just like the machine itself. The only way out were the smaller lifts for delivering personnel and equipment to and from above ground. There was nothing Firmia could do to save her mobile suit, now. "It's probably for the best, you know." Firmia quickly turned around, expecting to see her father standing a ways behind her. Sure enough, there he was, his slender, seemingly half starved body injected into a scientist's getup, minus the glasses, which he really didn't need. He was always a pitiful sight to her and just about everyone else, pale, unhealthily thin, with prematurely gray hair, and near perpetual grin that was as false as it was unsettling. "What are you doing down here?" Firmia asked, quickly wiping her eyes. "I'm down here for the same reason you are, I suspect," Stan chuckled, "saying goodbye to some of my toys." Stan took a spot beside Firmia, looking up at the open cockpit of the mobile suit. With the hangar as dark as it was, with only tertiary lights still operating, the Edict was cast almost entirely in shadow. "I'm sorry our timing was so terrible, Firmia. We probably could have saved the Edict if the generator overhaul had been finished just a few days ago. Scheduling it a few days from now back then might have also saved it." Stan looked over to see his daughter, downtrodden and probably not listening to him at all. His grin widened slightly as he placed a hand on her shoulder. "It's probably for the best." Firmia flinched. "For the best?!" She glared daggers at her father. It was bad enough he was so unfeeling, so uncaring, and so absorbed in his work, but how on earth could he come down here and tell her it was for the best that her mobile suit be destroyed by Apotheosis? What good could possibly come of that?! "I did everything I was told! I trained my butt off to earn this for myself, and you think it's fine for it to just get blown up or taken to some Apotheosis chop shop when they get here?!" "Blown up, yes," Stan resisted another chuckle, "but not captured, no. That would be unacceptable." "Why, though?!" Firmia shouted, "and what's the difference if I lose my suit, either way?!" "Apotheosis is after our prototypes," Stan noted, looking like he'd begrudgingly stated the obvious, "We can't let them get their hands on any of them, no matter what happens to our facilities. That's why it's better to destroy the Edict." "Who cares if they capture our suits," Firmia bit out, clamping her teeth together so hard it was starting to hurt, "Their equipment is so much better than ours, anyway! They'll probably just point and laugh ... call my mobile suit obsolete, or a piece of junk ..." ... and she wouldn't be there to bust bottles of vodka over their heads. Stan gently reached over Firmia's shoulder and pulled her to his side, giving a sympathetic smile. "Technology isn't a straight line from simple to advanced. Whatever data or equipment they take from us will at the very least give them some insight into our designs. Ultimately, our machines will be obsolete even faster than the flow of war might normally dictate. That's my prediction, and that's why it's better for the Edict to be destroyed. I don't like it, either; she's a good design, and for once I'm proud of someone other than myself." "You're proud ..." Firmia didn't quite buy that, but Stan wasn't one for lying. He barely had the energy to maintain his own heartbeat, much less deceive people. In fact, he had a habit of being honest to the point of pissing off just about everyone who spent any length of time with him, including Firmia herself. "I just ... I worked so hard for this," Firmia muttered, reaching to wipe away the fresh tears. "We've still got the Edict's data," Stan shrugged. "It will take a lot longer next time around, but we can rebuild her. By then, we'll have hopefully learned some of Apotheosis' engineering secrets and can incorporate them. That's the part I love about revisions ... they can be unimaginably superior to the originals if you're committed." "... yeah," Firmia nodded along, half in agreement and half frustrated with her father's shallow rambling. "Well," Stan let Firmia go and stood to face her directly, a big ... alarming grin on his face, "We're just about out of time. A touching father-daughter moment though, I think. They can't say I'm the worst parent in the world." "What do you mean we're out of time?" Firmia squinted, turning to face her father and trying to read her his intentions. Of all the people she had trouble figuring out, it was her father, whose thoughts seemed to be everywhere at once, and whose intentions were difficult to place until the last quarter of a second, at times. "Apotheosis can't be here this soon. The army unit should still be fighting." "Who knows," Stan shrugged, "but we can't let our toys fall into their mischievous hands, either way ... so ... I'm destroying the facility and everything in it." Okay, WHAT and HOW? "You're what?! How are you going to blow this place up?! It's huge! A-and we're not even done evacuating, yet!" "I put together a little something for our guests," Stan explained nonchalantly, "We'll need a distraction to cover the planes, anyway. Besides, there's no stopping it, now ... I took care of it a little while before I found you down here. At this point, I'd say we've got between ten to twelve minutes to be aboard our planes and airborne." Firmia was beside herself in shock. "I ... we ... we're a kilometer underground! It's going to take us at least a few minutes to get back to the surface!" A few more minutes to reach the planes, and who knows how long before takeoff ... "Can we even make it in time?!" "I hope so," Stan sighed. "I probably shouldn't have walked the whole way here but at least the lifts still work." He reached into his coat pocket and retrieved a data card. "It's probably best if you hold onto this for now, Firmia. Everything you need to rebuild the Edict is on it, along with some general recommendations and my personal thoughts on T-Link related upgrades and equipment." Firmia silently took the card and pocketed it. "I can't believe this is happening ..." "Well then," Stan shrugged, his eerie grin returning, "that's all I have to say." He made his way toward the row of lifts installed on the interior of the hangar. They followed the suit elevators all the way to the surface, but as Firmia had learned, only the personnel lifts were still being powered. "I'll be going, now. Don't linger down here too long, Firmia. The bottom of a glass crater is no place for a talented young woman." Firmia watched as Stan's chosen lifted carried him up into the darkness and toward the surface, where a fierce battle was being waged. Once Firmia could no longer hear the whirring of the lift, she headed for the Edict. "I'm not going to lose everything," she told herself as she headed up into the cockpit. "It's childish, but I'm keeping something ... ... they can't take everything from me ...." She didn't have much time, but she could definitely make this work. Maybe. Edited July 30, 2017 by Phoenix Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sandalphon Posted July 28, 2017 Share Posted July 28, 2017 Nikolai quirked his head as he heard the announcement blare over the speakers. It seemed that whatever peace had transpired (if one could consider it that to begin with) was short-lived at best. Then again, such realities were typical, if it wasn't one group of humans to point weapons and shoot at, then it was another. Nothing too big or special, nothing spectacularly unusual but still disquieting nonetheless. He supposed he was vaguely surprised to hear the medical worker voice her distain for the mechanics of warfare, figuring that most people in the ANF's ranks would be more on the patriotic, gungho side of things but regardless it was nice to hear something that made sense on this damn ship. His face had been deemed probably clean and clear enough (which was good enough for him) and he nodded silently in appreciation. He got to his feet, prodding the sensitive skin experimentally with his finger tip and drawing the dull aching pain of bruised tissue. It wouldn't be pretty, but at this point not much on his physical form could be considered as such anyway. As long as he was vaguely functional, he could still find a way to pump bullets into someone and in the end that was all that mattered. "I wonder who we are needing to be shooting now..." He said as he stretched almost casually, slinking towards the door in anticipation, "It is seem like only yesterday we are shoot. Is better routine than cleaning toilets in gulag but almost a bit boring, da?" Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Shin Posted July 29, 2017 Share Posted July 29, 2017 It had taken Tarquin a while to register it, but Makoto had been in the medbay for quite some time - with the sudden announcement and the state of Nikolai's face he'd completely ignored him. "Makoto?" Tarquin replied, quickly realising that the boy hadn't been present for the meeting at all. Megumi brushed over the explanation quickly, but Tarquin had a feeling that it would only create further questions, and he was correct. "There was a disagreement in one of the meetings. Some members of the crew aren't well versed with civil conversation." he added, deciding not to name drop Elaine at the current moment. It felt a little silly, but he didn't want to spoil his admiration for the crew. "But... thanks, I hope the mission goes well too." Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Phoenix Posted July 31, 2017 Share Posted July 31, 2017 It may have been the last cigar of his life, Sasha realized, so he enjoyed every moment of it, tuning out the gunfire, rocket whistles, and engine noise as the Alkaev company's main facility slowly crumbled under incoming fire. It could have been worse; he could have been out there with the army unit trying to hold back Apotheosis. Instead, he'd been ordered to board a transport plane with the Mantle prototype. Said plane was sitting on one of the many runways, waiting for the Mantle and AMS Prototype to be loaded up alongside the Regalia. It was just Sasha's luck that he'd managed to link up with Tonya along the way. The woman had incredible instincts, even by ace pilot standards, so having her around gave him a greater sense of security. Some might argue too much. If not for one of the transport planes getting blown up during the initial push, Sasha might have wound up somewhere else, probably very close to the front lines. As grateful as he was, flying to America wasn't his idea of a vacation, right now. The ANF was getting downright bullied by Apotheosis on that side of the globe. Whether he liked it or not, that was this particular plane's destination, and he was coming along for the ride. It was just a shame Sasha wouldn't be able to act as a proper escort. The transport planes had superior stealth capabilities to fool enemy scans up to a certain point, but the mobile suits it carried did not. They would be relying on a detachment of interceptors from the air force until they were in safer skies. The most common type were more useful in up close encounters, however. When it came to engagements beyond visual range, they were a little more vulnerable. They weren't stealthy just because that was a convenient feature to have, they were stealthy because it was downright necessary when their potential adversaries included sniper specced mobile suits and long range anti-air installations that could match if not outrange them. At least, if this little group did get attacked, Sasha could launch from the transport plane and back them up if needed. If Apotheosis won the stealth game, the Mantle would make them regret it. Hearing what sounded like a jeep humming over in the distance, Sasha glanced in that direction, trying to peer beneath the Mantle's left side hip mounted pulse cannon. It was a jeep, alright ... and he couldn't believe who was driving it, nor what they had with them. <"Whaaat ...?"> he murmured, watching as the jeep pulled up beside the Mantle. <"Oi,"> he called down to the young blonde girl in the driver's seat, <"What are you doing here, and ... where did that thing come from?"> Firmia glanced up at Sasha, then to the passenger seat where her luggage was sitting, and finally to the back of the jeep, where the Edict's cockpit flight seat had been haphazardly jostling about during the drive. <"It's not a big deal! There's not much time; can I just drive this up into the plane?!"> Sasha shrugged. <"Err-... sure."> <"And what are you standing around smoking for?!"> Firmia glared at the pilot, <"We've got less than five minutes to get out of here!"> <"You know something I don't?"> Sasha cocked an eyebrow. Firmia's face went pale. Had Stan not told anyone about whatever it was that was going to destroy the whole facility? Why on earth wouldn't he tell anyone?! <"Dad's going to blow everything up, including us if we don't get out of here! Quit being so damn calm and get on the plane!"> Firmia crushed the pedal with her foot and the jeep sped off up the transport plane's loading ramp. <"Tch, I'm calm about most things and no one complains. Blow the facility up, though? She can't be serious-"> <"This is Air Traffic Control to all personnel,"> Sasha's own radio cut him off, causing a sharp sensation in his ear, <"Internal sabotage has been detected on all four facility reactors! I repeat, all reactors have been sabotaged! Estimated minimum safe distance is five kilometers! All vehicles are cleared for emergency takeoff! Ignore enemy units and evacuate the area, immediately! Do you hear me?! Get out of here, now!"> Sasha winced. No wonder Firmia was in such a big hurry. She must have spoken with Stan before coming here. That didn't explain the flight seat, but that didn't really need explaining at this point. Stan was being a severe pain in the ass, again. Firmia liked her some fancy chairs. Sasha himself had to get the Mantle loaded up, and just hope they would survive Stan's earth scorching middle finger to Apotheosis. Today was just another bad, albeit exciting, day. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Xinnidy Posted August 1, 2017 Author Share Posted August 1, 2017 (edited) Disagreements? "Uh... sounds serious." Makoto replied, wondering how that even came to pass. "I guess this means you guys had some pretty bad news, huh? Still, I thought you guys were trained to steel your nerves--" Makoto bit back his tongue, realizing that was a very rude comment to make a bit too late. "I mean, I hope everything goes well. They're going to need you on standby... so it's probably another battle coming soon, huh?" It certainly amazed him how somebody as young as Tarquin could deal with it... then again, he knew so little of everybody in general. "Well, keep fighting your best, and watch out for evil bullets coming you way. I'm a bit lost down here on earth, but I trust you guys to do the right thing." He never really knew how to salute, but he made his best impression of the gesture back to Tarquin. As far as things went, honoring an army man was pretty standard, right? Beyond Safe Walls Spoiler Sea Hawk Base, Alabama It had been a tense morning in this raided base, making sure that the Feddies weren't planning on attacking the place back during the night was a rough one, but they couldn't possibly have made more progress overnight with the state their unit was. They had the technological advantage, but in numbers they were ridiculously outmatched. Despite the logistic nightmare, ANF was holding their own in that losing battle. Not giving up to the chaos of the sudden attack. That was a problem to Carlos Santana, an intermediate in Apotheosis, sat in the control tower of the base --a small navy base resting in the Mobile, on the southern corner of Alabama--. That had been their choice building, providing supplies for the taking and a vicinity to the sea that made evacuation of the mainland easy. The man in question was distressed by how the plan was executed. If we hadn't made the broadcast, things would be easier. It's unethical, but we really shouldn't have given them a chance. He had intently listened to the radio frequencies since his arrival, gaining access to a few ANF satellites. A few that had gone rogue after some proper tampering, to be specific. Wasn't it a shame, that a piece of cold steel had no true loyalty if the enemy had greater knowledge? Carlos was intent on getting satellite scans of the vicinity for his group's safety, making it a point to keep them one step ahead. The lack of proper sleep wasn't going to hit him until tomorrow, he placed his bets, taking a sip of cold coffee he'd put beside him on the floor. He'd been going for a long time ever since leaking important information from the Bismarck Georgia Branch, it had been all according to plan. He had infiltrated as Lucas Caballero, an unassuming immigrant graduated from UNAM, and had worked his way up to a competent standing as general assistant for their treasury. All falsehoods, for the sake of Apotheosis' knowledge. They'd know the ins and outs of Bismarck and its trading deals with the east side of the ANF's military might. They'd gained an advantage too big. So why was their pace not crushing the ANF? The foreboding tone creeped its way into Carlos' mind during the first day, having fought again and again and conquered so much territory. Yet, they only truly secured the coast from all that. Perhaps his expectations were more ambitious than reality would agree with... "You still there, Carlos?" An impatient voice came from behind him, the door to the control center just opening. "Damn, you are." The man, standing at six feet and one inch of height, wavy sideswept brown hair, and aquiline nose, approached Carlos in amusement. His bored expression a stark contrast to his tanner companion's concern over the control panel's feedback. "Honestly, just teach one of the boys to do it and take a break. That's really not going to do you favors later." "No, Miguel, if I can do it, I'd rather do it. I'm thorough." Carlos insisted, not moving an inch but throwing the man an acknowledging glance. "I wouldn't be able to rest knowing that any mistake could have us ambushed, or the other groups taking rest in nearby building. It's better this way." "What? That's crazy, man. You can't do it all your own. Don't tell me you were this paranoid when undercover too, I don't believe you got a drop of sleep if you were." Miguel seemed baffled by the man's insistence. "Besides, we're going to be fine, the north guys already left for serpent eye, right? The ANF can't possibly think to attack us, all the way out in the corner of fucksville, out of spite." Carlos had no counter to that. Despite his partner's rough language he made a strong point. The ANF had too much ground to cover in land, and a naval attack would be hilariously inefficient. The islands were under control, in addition to the coast, leaving only naval support from the west viable. They would not be targets. "I... don't know. I just have this feeling. Have you seen how the ANF dealt with the attack on Colony 1? I've been thinking we haven't seen everything they could do. No, I'm positive." "Well, what can we possibly do if this is the case? We'll just have to hit harder. We've got the bots. You've seen the barriers we can deploy." Miguel argued, crossing his arms as his partner's stress got to him. Miguel himself had no mind for hesitation, almost thinking it below him. "If we die we die in a blaze of glory... but don't think I'm kicking the bucket now, so close to my chance to shine. I'll be a Lieutenant after this, man." "I'd rather be alive." Carlos sighed, not sharing his friend's ambition. "Besides, I've got bad news from the north front, not long ago." "Wait, are you kidding me? They had the ship... and a bunch of the new gen! What were they thinking?" It just didn't make sense to Miguel, something was amiss. With the power the north front had, serpent eye was all but guaranteed. "How did Vera fuck that up? Honestly... this is why you don't send women to do these kinds of job." Carlos rolled his eyes at his ally's comment, leaning against the chair, defeated by his worrying. "They aborted, most casualties were novices. Fatima and Vera are safe. They were met with the ANF's special toy as it descended. Safe to say we got passed the hot plate from the space colony group." It was terribly unfortunate; they'd do less harm by the colony if the ship couldn't risk structural damage. Furthermore, we confirmed two mobile suits we had no previous data on." "Are you serious? Damn, they're actually kind of close, then..." Miguel did frown at the new information, but not much else could be done in his perspective. They'd roll with the punches and deal with the threat. "Can't believe Vera and Fatima. Blundering on such an important target. Did we at least get some good data?" "The girls tried their best, I'm just glad they're okay." Carlos sighed yet again, glossing over Miguel's comment. "On the other hand, we now have a lot on our plate, if we move soon. In fact, you might want to see this..." Carlos lifted his arm, a communicator device not unlike in appearance to a watch on his wrist. The press of a few buttons was all needed for a holographic image to present itself. Pictures of the combat at serpent's eye, and the two unidentified suits... "One is a melee experimental suit, from the looks of it. The other is harder to tell, but its response time was ridiculous. We have to assume it the most dangerous if we ever come across that unit. And that abomination over there." Carlos pointed to a smaller, hybrid bot further back in the picture he decided to focus on. "...reads like a Heracles. We suspect it was just reverse engineered from one." "Their best, sure." Miguel scoffed, "You're giving the two a lot of credit. Especially Fatima, that pink-haired bitch's got a few screws loose, I tell you. I don't know how you handle operations with her." He leaned to the side of Carlos' chair, in an attempt to better see the image. This equipment was fairly high tech, but it certainly hurt his eyes to focus on images you could see through like that... technology was so cumbersome at points. "So we've got two winners... and some loser who bothered with a Heracles. I pity the guy if they weren't so stupid, that shit's a pain to pilot." Miguel chuckled at his own comment, the image of some Feddie making work with that painfully outdated machine coming to mind in a comedic manner. "Alright, I'll make sure to relay the boys on this." "Come on... don't be so drastic. Helena's a woman too, do you hate her?" Carlos was quick to defend, the drivel Miguel spouted whenever a Lieutenant messed up getting older than the bread in the base's storage. "The way you talk really makes me think you just hate women, geez..." He wasn't about to get into an argument about that, it'd be dumb beyond words, but it'd be nice if Miguel chilled a bit. "Anyways, please do get them on standby. Another thing, the Russian cell has made their move on an Alkaev facility. They're going to keep us updated now... I have a hunch where they might be going, even." "What? No!" Miguel protested, "First off, Helena's different. She's an army woman. That's pretty much as good as a man, way better than the pansy novices we have." He defended himself, oblivious to the horrible implications of his argument, "And I love women! I just don't think they're better than me at war. Come on, Carlos, can't you relate at all? You want these pretty faces killing themselves on our war? Fatima?" He nudged at his partner with his elbow, "...Are you two really a thing, though? I mean, no judging... but she's kinda nuts. Don't stick your dick in crazy, man." "I-- Miguel!" Carlos jumped off his seat, done with the insane chatter of his counterpart. "That's enough of that, isn't it? Just, first of all, it's not like that." He pointed a finger back, wanting to defend his privacy and shut out that line of conversation. "Second of all, we have work. Chop. Go inform the group that we need to be on standby. We're going to leave at any moment once I confirm with the Russian cell." "B'aww, alright man. No need to be such a downer." Miguel had a grin plastered on his face, stretching his arms out as he relaxed his stance. "If you're going to be that obvious, though, rumors are going to spread man. Good luck with your crazy bitch!" Making a peace sign, the man walked off, figuring it was about time to go back to his duties. "I-- Go! Just go!" Carlos decided it was as good time as any to 'help', pushing Miguel off of the control room. "Don't come back until you've warned everybody!" Carlos closed the door, pressing a palm to his forehead right after. What a frustrating man to deal with. "Goodness, what an idiot..." He grumbled, "If only he bit as much as he barked. Would make him... a little more tolerable." Done complaining, Carlos made his way back to the control panel. He needed to be alert to any information, now. Edited August 1, 2017 by Xinnidy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Juliette Posted August 1, 2017 Share Posted August 1, 2017 Juria shook the blonde girl's hand cheerfully. "Well, if Chrissy say so, then a not worry! Past things am behind." She let go of Christina's hand when she took to making coffee. She had never been allowed it when she was younger, her parents saying she had plenty of energy already, and no amount of sugar sweetened it to a taste she liked now for the rare mornings she wasn't excitable for. More interesting was the other subject they were speaking of. "You am have tele... tee kay powers? And am co pilot for Kim friend?" That anyone other than her had a co-pilot was news to the young engineer. She wondered if that was at least partly because she hadn't been paying much attention. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Phoenix Posted August 1, 2017 Share Posted August 1, 2017 (edited) Firmia hopped out of the jeep after narrowly avoiding a collision with the wall at the back of the hangar. She'd been hoping to park as far back as possible so as not to give the techs any more trouble loading up the mobile suits. The jeep itself couldn't be relied upon to stay in place during an ascent or decent, but it also couldn't do any real damage by rolling up against the suits, anyway. Firmia left that problem for the crew to deal with and focused on her own monumental task, getting her luggage and flight seat someplace safe. Easier said than done ... <"Sasha,"> a female voice chimed in over the radio, <"Do you read me?"> <"Yeees~"> Sasha cooed, <"Are you done messing around over there, yet?"> He spared his radar display a glance as the Mantle began to gingerly roll up into the transport plane. Sasha himself, even had his helmet on, despite both himself and his unfinished cigar. <"You know we're just about out of time right, Tonya? If you don't get in here, soon ..."> <"It'll be alright,"> Tonya assured him, <"The throne's falling back. It's just the army unit holding the lines, now. They heard about the sabotage though, and they're not happy. Apotheosis probably heard, too. I'm trying to convince our guys to get on the transports with us, but only a couple are budging."> <"What an angel,"> Sasha chuckled, <"It looks like our transport's a little light, actually. I think we could squeeze in a couple of volkovs ... assuming they're interested."> <"Give me exactly one minute,"> Tonya said, sounding begrudgingly resolute all of a sudden, <"If they're not in sight by then, take off. Don't wait up for me, either. I can fly just fine."> <"Right, understood."> One minute, huh? Sasha wasn't setting his stopwatch, but he definitely wasn't going to wait too long before putting his foot down and making the pilot get the transport plane in the air. Well, at least her things didn't have to sit in the jeep. Firmia wasn't happy about them staying in the hangar itself, but as soon as the transport reached another facility, she would just be offloading everything, again. Better use the jeep, again, she decided, nodding at the easier approach. The spare techs had opted to tie the vehicle down as a safety measure, so it wasn't going anywhere. Hopefully the plane itself still was. As the Mantle came to a stop in the hangar, the crew moved in to secure the suit to the hangar's special floor panels. Unlike most mobile suit carriers, this model had a much smaller profile. A variant of a military model, the Anya An-34 Black Swan had a peculiar yet unoriginal frame designed to transport a small number of mobile suits or a large amount of supplies discreetly. It was especially short, as a mobile suit had to be rolled in lying down, or, as in the case of nearly all of the transforming prototypes, enter in a partially transformed state: head stored, shield mounted, arms tucked, legs spread and configured, and wings deployed vertically. Under ideal conditions, four mobile suits could be carried in addition to a small amount of extra equipment. In situations like these, the extra supplies could be discarded, and eight mobile suits could be 'crammed' into the hangar. With the latter option, fast deployment was utterly impossible. The Black Swan's smaller size also prohibited mobile suits larger than the standard size with normal cargo layouts, but made up for this and its various other shortcomings with its ability to get around unnoticed, at least when it wasn't expected. The Black Swan also possessed a formidable anti-beam coating beneath its 'stealth layer'. As callous and, likely insane as Stan's maneuver was, a chain of nuclear explosions was likely the best cover for their escape possible. The transport planes could only get away if they weren't in plain sight. Leaving the hangar for the moment, her fear of being vaporized along with the base starting to weigh on her again, Firmia headed up to the cockpit. The Black Swan's shape resembled that of one of the world's earliest stealth capable planes, the B-2 Spirit, and as such, it's cockpit was about as far from the hangar as one could physically be while still remaining inside the plane. Just getting there took her a couple of minutes, and she was legging it between the elevator ride. <"Hey,"> Firmia called over to the pilot, co pilot, and the few others working the consoles, <"What are we waiting for? We've got ... a couple of minutes at the most."> She tried to keep her voice down, and for the most part succeeded, but she couldn't hide her unease. The crew couldn't hide their unease from her, either. The room was filled with a mix of fear and camaraderie. They were waiting, hoping more people would make it on before they took off. Their hopes were about to be spoiled, however. <"Mrs. Alkaev?"> the comms officer practically squeaked. He even bounced in his chair, something Firmia would have been amused by if not for the fact that her mother was on the other end. <"We're preparing to take off right now, Ma'am. The AMS Prototype isn't on board, yet."> <"It's not?"> Firmia tilted her head at that. She could have sworn she saw another mobile suit in the hangar. Wasn't that the AMS prototype? It was the same color ... Firmia rushed over and slapped the comm officer's console, making him bounce in his chair, again. <"Ms. Alkaev?!"> <"What is it?"> Rosa's voice came in over the speaker system. <"Mom?"> Firmia tried her hand at a greeting, but fell a little short. She had so many things to say, right now ... <"H-wh- ... oh no, Firmia? Oh my God, what are you doing on that transport? You should be with Stan. Where is he?"> Despite how angry Firmia was with her father, right now, she decided not to make the situation worse by explaining exactly why she wasn't with him. <"I-I needed to go back and get some things."> Nothing to be gained by mentioning the flight seat either, really. <"Is there a reason I should be on a different plane?"> Rosa gave an exasperated sigh. <"Yes, in fact there is. For now, stay right where you are. We can address the problem later. Comms man, put me back on your headset."> <"Ma'am."> Firmia huffed, crossing her arms as she was kicked out of the conversation. <"Hold that horse, friend!"> Sasha didn't recognize that voice. It seemed like radio etiquette was going to be one of the last things to go. It also looked like Tonya had convinced at least one of the volkov teams to get aboard. Teams, because all volkovs had both a pilot and co pilot; every volkov knocked out with no survivors was two kills at minimum. The fact that they were coming, now likely meant that the front lines had either collapsed completely, or Apotheosis was pulling back to get clear of the imminent explosion. Either way, it'd be nice to escape, having not left every last army unit sent to them by the Kremlin, to die. Sasha smiled and said, <"Plenty of room, friends. Get in. Watch the wings. Anyone else with you?"> <"Negative,"> the voice came back, some formality resurfacing in response to the good news, <"They're heading for the nearest transports, but it's a fighting retreat."> <"A fighting retreat?"> Sasha's face twisted in disgust. Were they still under attack? Then again ... <"Airborne?"> <"Airborne,"> the voice confirmed. Hunters then, Sasha concluded. It was risky, but Apotheosis was nothing if not willing to take big risks. The hunters just might be fast enough to escape the blast, even taking time to make a few more passes. It was also a lot easier to gamble on maneuvers like that when you didn't have a big red countdown timer staring you in the face. <"Sorry to hear that ... but hurry up and get in here. We're taking off."> <"Copy that. We've been cleared by your captain. We're coming in."> A second later, a tremor struck the plane. Sasha flinched, fearing they had wasted too much time on the ground and now had an shock wave and inferno headed their way, but looking over his shoulder, he saw the Volkov cramming itself into the plane. They were being awfully delicate given the circumstances, working their way in on hand and knees, the other hand holding the sniper rifle. Sasha wasn't sure why they didn't just drop the thing wherever and go prone. He only realized why once the army team got their mobile suit positioned. Sasha chuckled at the sight. <"You people never quit, do you?"> The volkov sat there near the front of the hangar, kneeling in a firing position. Even from behind, it was a glorious sight in Sasha's eyes. <"We could use the cover until the air force catches up, anyway. Thanks."> <"Thank you, friend."> <"MOVE IT!!!"> That was definitely Tonya's voice, and the roar of distant thrusters was picking up as a friendly closed in, damn near mach one! That was when the second tremor hit, this one having nothing to do with the volkov. The transport plane started moving, but Sasha feared they were already too late. <"Don't wait up, just punch it,"> Tonya shouted over the radio, the AMS prototype flying toward them from behind in its flight configuration. <"She's not going to make it,"> the volkov pilot said. <"If she's dead, so are we,"> Sasha barked. The transport plane was moving even faster now, picking up speed as it struggled down the runway and away from the base. The crew quickly initiated the shutting sequence, and the plane's hangar doors and plates began to slide in to seal off the plane, and fold up, to protect the inside. There seemed to be little chance the AMS Prototype would slip in through the narrowing opening. <"Dammit, woman! COME OOOON!!!"> A bright flash forced Sasha to look away seconds before the Black Swan sealed herself, and the AMS prototype could only be heard screaming by ahead of them. Whether they lived or died now was up to fate ... Edited August 1, 2017 by Phoenix Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Phoenix Posted August 1, 2017 Share Posted August 1, 2017 (edited) Firmia had been sitting in one of the spare seats in the large cockpit since getting booted out of her mother's discussion. She didn't learn what had transpired during the rest of the call, either; as soon as it was over, the Alkaev testing facility tested one final device, a makeshift explosive that cratered the place and flattened everything for several kilometers. After a few moments, Firmia realized she wasn't dead, and that the plane likely hadn't been hit by the shock wave. The layout of the facility had been quite ideal, and worth the money when it finally counted for something. That wasn't to say that all of the transport planes escaped, but this particular one had been lagging behind a little ... so maybe. Firmia didn't really want to think about it, but she couldn't help it. Had her father survived? It would have been awful ... and pathetic, if he'd died in his own trap, but with all of his data in tact, Firmia doubted anyone but she, her sister, and perhaps grandfather, would have cared much. Stan wasn't the most popular man in the organization, but he'd truly outdone himself, this time, and word was bound to spread, and fast. Firmia got up from the chair, deciding to leave the cockpit crew to their work for now, and go see how things were in the hangar. They must have gotten shaken up pretty badly during that takeoff ... <"So, Sasha. I've been thinking about getting myself cloned. Baby fever's winning the argument, somehow. What do you think?"> <"I think you're stressed,"> Sasha answered Tonya honestly casually. He was glad they'd both survived that hellish inferno, but they still had one more issue to address ... <"Apotheosis, your student joining the ANF, our home getting blown off the map. It's a lot to deal with all at once. A clone, though ... sounds like a lot of paperwork,"> Sasha shook his head, <"And knowing Dima, he'll find a way to get custody from you. Why don't you just push out a kid like a normal person? I could help. Maybe I have baby fever too, you know~?"> <"Afraid I can't just 'push out' a kid, Sasha,"> Tonya giggled over the comms, <"Thanks for the offer, though. That's awfully kind of you."> Tonya's eyes flashed in time with the cue on her display. <"There ... here I come."> The AMS prototype was flying just behind the Black Swan transport, preparing to enter the hangar and land. It was now or never, though quite dangerous at these speeds. Tonya steadily closed in on the open hangar, taking a moment to appreciate the iconic and undeniably attractive pose the volkov sniper had taken shortly before takeoff. A few seconds later and she was inside. The mobile suit's arms popped out from their folded positions and grabbed hold of the docking tracks. She cut the thrusters ... and the flying mobile suit gently came down onto the hangar floor. <"Beautiful landing, as always."> Tonya smiled, rolling her eyes at the compliment. <"You didn't see anything, Sasha."> <"No, but I felt it, though~"> ... fair enough, Tonya quietly conceded. A few minutes later, the two were chatting near one of the hangar's main exits, both still suited up, missing only their helmets, and each working on a their own water containers. There were few other ways to safely kill time while on alert. Fortunately, they were both being treated to a show of sorts. Between the Mantle Prototype and the Volkov sniper was the Regalia, and the transforming mobile suit was receiving its paint job in route to their destination. <"What is that, teal? Dark ... green ... blue?"> Sasha squinted at the progress. The navy blues on the chest, legs, and other areas, were being replaced with a color Sasha couldn't easily place in the current lighting. <"There's a lot of light gray, too. It looks way less intimidating, now."> <"The color is for style,"> Tonya noted, <"The rifle is for intimidation."> <"You getting yours painted, too? I personally want the Mantle in a darker shade of blue, like yours. She was like that originally, but they thought an air force scheme would be good for the sale. My opinion's worthless though, since she's 'technically' not my machine."> Tonya smirked. <"Sucks to be you, not having a personal mobile suit and all. But hey, maybe they'll let you keep this one. With how addled everyone is, you're probably one of the few pilots that can handle it, right now. As for me, I'm not interested in the paint job in particular. It can stay like this ... until I get tired of looking at it, I guess."> Sasha had been listening, he really had, but when Firmia rounded the corner just past the entrance, his eyes stayed fixed on her. <"Hey. You lost, Princess?"> Tonya followed Sasha's gaze to the youngest of the Alkaevs. <"Oh hell, what's she doing here?"> <"What are you doing here?"> Firmia countered, stopping in place and crossing her arms. <"Well, none of us are really 'supposed' to be on this plane, in particular"> Sasha explained, smiling in embarrassment. <"This is the delivery plane for the Regalia and her maintenance crew."> Firmia's face lit up with understanding. Sasha needn't say anymore. <"We're ... on the plane that-"> She let her arms go and turned to the mobile suit undergoing a paint job a short distance away. <"That's not the AMS, it's the Regalia! We're going to take it to Brant!"> <"That was today?"> Tonya asked. <"That explains the direction change. It is today, right?"> Both women were looking at Sasha, now. <"Yeah, it's a special day, today,"> he shrugged. <"It's going to be a while before we rendezvous though, so best to get some sleep while you can, Firmia."> <"Also put your flight suit on,"> Tonya said, sounding more serious than usual, <"We're not even out of Russia yet, and we've got a lot of shady spots to sneak through before we're home free."> Best not to mention the whole 'coming right back' part. They'd likely need another, much longer route to safely navigate back into Russian territory. Apotheosis was planting flags all over the north, right into the roasting machines they shot up along the way. Maybe, if they were lucky, Apotheosis would get sick of Siberia like everyone else and just leave, eventually. Firmia scowled at the older woman. <"I didn't bring a flight suit."> <"Your SKIN suit,"> Tonya amended, fixing the girl with a knowing look. Semantics were not worth her time. Sasha could only sip some water while the two women had a five and a half second stare down amidst the hustle and bustle of the techs in the hangar. He was not getting involved in this one. No way, no how. <"We're home free! The air force is here!"> The cockpit practically shook with the cheers of the crew present for the news. Outside, things were getting even more turbulent as eight Sukhoi SG-3200s joined the Black Swan in an escort formation. All the cheering was a bit much for Tonya's tastes, but she wouldn't spoil it for them. If they couldn't get a morale boost sooner or later, that alone might get them all killed when something inevitably went wrong on this trip. She spared anyone attentive enough to notice her a reassuring smile before leaving the cockpit. Her next destination was initially the hangar, but she suddenly decided to check in on Firmia, first. Tonya found Firmia sleeping in the recreation room on a couch. At first, she was annoyed to see the Alkaev in a massive mink coat, but soon noticed the unusually form fitting white boots she was wearing. They seemed to merge with her pant legs, which also fit like a second layer of skin. That could only mean one thing: Firmia was suited up, as instructed. <"... good girl."> Tonya quietly made her way out of the rec room and toward the elevator, hoping to get back to the AMS. She could use a nap, but she wouldn't dare sleep outside of the mobile suit in a situation like this. She felt reckless enough letting Firmia do so, but at least if she was already suited up, she would be ready to evacuate. Any further preparations would just seem paranoid, even to Tonya herself. Still, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong, and it was getting worse now that the cavalry had arrived, not better. When Firmia woke up, she had no idea what time it was. She didn't even know where she was, at first. Rather than head back to the hangar, where there likely wasn't anything for her to do, she went back into the cockpit to check on their progress. There was hardly anyone there. Aside from the captain and co pilot, only one comms officer, the one that had spoken to her mother, was present. As she approached the front of the cockpit, she could overhear the the pilot and co pilot. <"I've been staring at this map for five minutes,"> the co pilot said, wincing at his display, <"It says 'Great Lake Base.' Where is the lake?"> The captain shrugged. <"Too small to see? Maybe they should change the name to Little Lake Base."> <"Or how about 'Fuel Stop Base', since we're not making it back on what we have? I'm sure they wouldn't mind, with a name like that. ... americans ..."> <"Hah,"> the captain smiled, <"You think that's bad, how do you think they pronounce the state name?"> The co pilot shrugged. <"Are-Kansas?"> <"Wrong. Are-Can-Saw."> <"... americans."> Tapping the comms officer on the shoulder to get his attention, Firmia asked, <"What did my mother say? About me, I mean?"> The comms officer smiled, looking embarrassed. <"To make sure we got you back, safely. You know ... mother stuff."> While that was probably true, it likely wasn't all Rosa had said. <"I know I'm not supposed to be here .... I probably messed up something important by showing up."> The comms officer frowned, realizing he couldn't deflect the young Alkaev's concerns that easily. <"Listen, Firmia, for what it's worth-Hgyah!"> A klaxon sounded and the comms officer bounced in his seat, again. Firmia flinched, too. The alarms on this plane could wake the dead. <"INCOMING,"> shouted the co pilot. The whole plane shook violently, as if struck dead on by an incredibly strong wind. Firmia nearly fell to the ground, but caught herself as three of the Black Swan's crew rushed back into the cockpit and took their stations. <"What was that?! Where did that come from?! Do you see anything?!"> <"Scanning! We're scanning!"> <"Y-yes, Ofnir Leader, acknowledged,"> the other comms officer ended a very brief exchange with their escorts, and four of them broke off at high speed to intercept the incoming threat. <"It was a beam attack! Extremely long range! It didn't penetrate the anti-beam layer, thank God! Oh no, but we've also got an enemy squad of hunters on an intercept course. They'll be on us in a few minutes!"> <"Dammit, not now,"> the captain cursed, <"Apotheosis whores ... we're so close!"> <"Maybe the ANF can reinforce us,"> the co pilot offered, <"we're still a ways from the base, but that shouldn't stop them from reaching us if we send the call, now."> Firmia stood there, frozen as events played out at tremendous speed in front of her. What the hell was going on? Were they really under attack? How far did they have to go, still? Could they survive this? Why did Apotheosis seem to be everywhere, right now? She had so many more questions now than before. She couldn't help but wonder if she was still asleep and this was all just a terribly appropriate nightmare her unconscious mind was subjecting herself to. If that wasn't the case, though ... if this wasn't just a nightmare she would spring up from any second now ... then what should she do? Edited August 1, 2017 by Phoenix Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Phoenix Posted August 1, 2017 Share Posted August 1, 2017 (edited) <"This is Ofnir Leader. Engaging."> An entire volley of missiles were loosed by the four SG-3200s as they closed in on the opposing Hunters, and the return fire was even more impressive. Ofnir squadron was disgustingly outnumbered, but they were blessed to have no rookies holding them back, and a whole sky in dance in. They need all the room they could get in order to have any hope of winning, let alone surviving. Around a minute into the aerial showdown, two Hunters were downed, using admittedly cheap veteran tactics. Ofnir's slowest witted, Ofnir Six, was nearly shot down for the effort, however. After being targeted by five separate enemies at once, only his experience saved him. It was this unexpected momentum, their two kills early on, as well as Ofnir Six's unbelievable maneuvering, that left Ofnir Squadron unprepared for Ofnir Two's sudden and violent death. A brilliant streak of blue hellfire lanced her aircraft and disintegrated it. It was a gut punch that sent Three and Eight into a rage. Ofnir Leader was furious, but kept his emotions in check as best he could, realizing they couldn't afford to be predictable, now. The Hunters, looking to regain the advantage, all began to focus on Ofnir Eight. In the pilot's attempt to hit one of them first, his plane was ravaged. Ofnir Eight's plane was so badly damaged in the pass, that assuming he was dead had been entirely reasonable. The 3200 spiraled wildly past the Hunters bathed in flames, but managed to launch one last pair of missiles before breaking apart. Both rushed down and blew apart another Hunter. <"This is Ofnir Four. We're coming to back you up."> <"Negative! Negative, stay with the transport,"> Ofnir Leader ordered, <"All we can do is buy time, now."> <"You're running out of time, sir. Besides, we're exposed now."> <"What are you getting at, Four?"> The hopefulness in his subordinate's tone felt too out of place, here. Ofnir Leader glanced in the direction of the transport, some kilometers away, now, wondering what was going on back there. <"Have we been tagged?"> <"Probably, sir,"> Four replied, obviously pegging the Apotheosis ambush for a successful spotting job on some lucky bastard's part. <"The AMS suits are launching. They're going to help us out."> Ofnir Leader smiled. <"Alright. I don't want my squad to get wiped out here, so if they'll help us, then let's take care of these Apotheosis rookies. Swarm tactics won't work on us!"> <"Copy that, Sir. We'll be there in two minutes."> <"Firmia, do you read me?"> Tonya called in, <"I had a feeling something like this might happen. I need you to get back into the hangar and board the Regalia. Sasha and I are launching, too. If we can't hold them off, I want you to get out of there and move ahead to the base. Understand?"> Get into the Regalia? Brant's mobile suit? Of course, Firmia thought. No wonder Tonya wanted her suited up for piloting. She initially thought she would just be sitting behind Sasha, Tonya, or whoever wound up piloting the Regalia if something happened, but now she realized that she was the one they had decided to pilot the machine in case of an emergency. Fortunately, Firmia knew how to pilot all of the Alkaev mobile suits, even the ones from half a century ago. Still, this was all rather sudden. <"I understand, b-but ..."> <"Where are you, right now?"> <"In the cockpit."> An audible grunt cut through the brief silence. <"That's bad timing. Get down to the hangar, right now. There's a chance Apotheosis is after our mobile suits. I don't like putting you in danger, but if we take care of these hunters and then head off to the base, the transport might still be able to escape. It's a longshot, but either way, keeping the Regalia on board isn't a good idea."> <"Urgh. That makes sense, I guess,"> Firmia nodded, her thoughts racing, trying to puzzle out exactly what Apotheosis' reason for attacking them specifically could be. Whatever the reason, they hadn't been given the option to surrender, so it was do or die. <"I'll head there, now."> <"Take off as soon as you're on board, and while you're at it, use the master key. Tie the lock to your bio-metric signature ... just in case."> <"R-right."> Damn, she was thorough. Firmia doubted it would save her or the Regalia if they got captured and not simply shot, but it was better than leaving the suit in its current condition. <"I'm on my way."> <"Hey, Ms. Alkaev,"> the comms officer waved at Firmia just as she was about to leave. She turned to face him, suddenly remembering her old question. Too late, now .... To her surprise, he smiled at her. <"Give them one for us, okay?"> As gung ho as he sounded, Firmia could tell he was looking death square in the eyes, trying to put on a brave front. It was a terrible feeling to sense so up close. <"W-we're counting on you."> Firmia nodded, then left the cockpit. She knew this was probably the last time she would set foot there. The skirmish raged on and Ofnir suffered several more losses as they battled the Hunter squadron. Despite the overwhelming numbers, Ofnir was on their way to at least leaving the local population of Hunters at an unsustainable level before being wiped out themselves. That was when support fire from Sasha came ripping through the gaps in the dogfights. Despite what looked like a barrage, the Mantle was peppering Hunters and Hunters alone. Ofnir's planes slipped through the calculated bullet storms and pulse rains unscathed. Tonya's assistance took longer to arrive, but managed to impress the pilots of Ofnir Squadron a fair bit more. Not only did she swoop in and score at least one kill during each of her first four passes, she also did so while leading several enemies away from the surviving Ofnir pilots. Sasha's bombardment continued until he got close enough to have to maneuver ... and then it all devolved back into pure dogfighting. <"Would you kindly save some for the rest of us, Tonya?"> Sasha pleaded. <"Sorry, but there's only two things I'm good at,"> Tonya brushed him off, <"Making borscht and making explosions. No holding back."> <"Well at least we'll have these goons taken care of, shortly."> <"Not shortly enough. Hey Firmia,"> Tonya yelled as she lanced the cockpit of a passing Hunter. Staying in flight mode wasn't as fun, but it was making this a cakewalk for her at this altitude. <"Hurry up and get to the Regalia!"> <"I'm going as fast as I can! I'm in the elevator!"> <"There's got to be an emergency switch in there somewhere. Go faster,"> Tonya shot back, while also clipping someone's wings. <"This is bullshit! Leave me alone!"> <"Firmia,"> Sasha chimed in, clearly amused now that their side had the advantage, <"Language~"> <"... this is Bolshevik. J-just ... be patient! I'm going as fast as I can! Worry about those planes!"> <"We're doing okay, just watch out for that sniper when you launch, Firmia,"> Tonya warned. Her warning was well timed, but aimed at the wrong person. Ofnir Leader was the next to go, shocking the surviving squad members. The blue beam tore through his plane just as he closed in to destroy a target of his own. Sasha was able to down the vulnerable Hunter instead, but it was his least satisfying kill of the mission. <"Tch, damn that crackshot,"> Tonya hissed, realizing they didn't have any way to counter at this distance, nor any reliable means of evading. The sniper could easily target them without hitting his allies. The SG-3200s were plenty maneuverable, but the sniper had the full picture of the battlefield, whereas Ofnir Squadron didn't. Tonya had only had to evade a single shot thus far, and Sasha had gotten off entirely up to this point, but Ofnir was down to three planes, and the hunters still had them out numbered. The only silver lining seemed to be that they could wipe out the hunters before this mystery sniper wiped them out. That wasn't good enough for Tonya, though. There had to be a way to get that bastard to stop shooting. If she could do that, the transport might actually get away. Firmia stood in utter amazement as a trio of mechanics smiled like jolly big brothers at her. They were both amused and elated by her reaction. Anticipating her arrival after overhearing Tonya's transmission, they had thoughtfully loaded Firmia's luggage into the Regalia. They'd even found space for the flight seat in a compartment in the right arm used to store extra cable. It was one hell of a parting gesture, and she couldn't help but tear up over it after a moment. The mechanics soon rushed her over to the Regalia and helped her into it. Firmia fastened herself in as they began to climb down from the machine. <"Hey, wait!"> She tried to catch at least one of them before they ran off to do who knows what, <"This is a two seater, you know. If anyone wants to come with me ..."> If she was being perfectly honest with herself, she didn't really want to have a passenger, but the sense in the air was dreadful. She couldn't shake the feeling that just about everyone here was going to die if she didn't do something to help them. She didn't feel especially safe, either, but at least she had access to the Regalia's T-Link and weaponry. All they had were the Black Swan's countermeasures, and some escape capsules. <"Sorry, Ms. Alkaev,"> one of the older ones said, <"we'd actually just make your job harder flying behind you. We don't have the training to handle flying around in these suits. You do ... and you're going to need that training to get to safety. Don't worry about us, alright? You just take care of yourself."> He countered any and all attempts at argument with a smile that easily outdid Brant's. <"You're probably going to get to the base first, so tell Brant hi for us, heheh."> He began to climb down to join the others, and Firmia didn't see him again until the canopy closed and the cockpit's pilot interface activated. When the walls resolved into images of the outside world, she saw the mechanic jogging away from the Regalia to join his friends and colleagues. Some were genuinely hopeful, but Firmia felt an overwhelming sense of fear and courage. It was time to show some courage of her own, to offset the fear she was feeling within herself if nothing else. Tonya and Sasha had already launched, and the Volkov Sniper kept its rifle trained toward the outside, ready to shoot down any hunters that tried to get up close and behind them. Firmia looked forward to the Regalia's main display, remembering what she needed to do. <"Okay, set up the bio-metric lock ... then launch."> "Firmia, are you there?" That voice ... the channel was the Black Swan's internal frequency, but the Regalia was already set on it. That voice, though ... it was so close to Brant's, but so much colder. "You should respond if you can hear me, Firmia." "Rex?" Firmia winced at Tonya's voice as she chimed in, immediately identifying the man. "Tonya?" Rex seemed just as surprised. "Oh no ..." Tonya clenched her teeth, a number of pieces falling into place with the addition of a single clue. Rex was surprised to know she was there with Firmia. Strange enough that he wanted to speak to Firmia at all, but not knowing she was there ... that could only mean he was up to something terrible, something Tonya herself wasn't meant to be around for. "Rex, you're the one that tagged us, aren't you?" "Mhm," Rex admitted easily. "It looks like Apotheosis is going to try to wipe you out, but it's worth it." "Why?!" Firmia snapped, understandably infuriated by the apparent betrayal. "Why did you do that, and why are they so hellbent on killing us?!" "I said there's not much time, didn't I? Thanks for finally speaking up, though. This would have all been for nothing if you weren't actually there. Rosa's not above lying, after all." "So this is about Firmia?" Tonya asked, her thoughts divided between the hunters that were harassing her, and her former student. "You're sicking Apotheosis on her, specifically? Don't you think that's extreme? Forget how you pulled it off, I've got ten theories on that all lined up and ready to go. What I'm interested in is the why." "I'm sending you some data I collected over the years," Rex began, nonchalantly, "I've been organizing and updating it during my time in the EU. You should look it over while you're still alive, Firmia. It'll show you what your family, the Alkaevs, are really like. There are things you need to hear from me, though." "Like what?! An apology for all the people you're hurting right now?! Forget it, Rex! There's nothing that can justify this!" "If I cared about being just, I'd take you all, myself," Rex retorted sharply. "When all's said and done, I'd rather just see the Alkaevs consigned to history. There aren't many of you around these days, so wiping you all out shouldn't be too big a challenge. I just have to get a little creative." "Why do you want to kill us?!" Firmia demanded, clearly unable to mask the horror she was feeling at the revelation. <"You stupid idiot bastard!> What did we do to you?!" "To me? Hah ..." Rex was silent for a moment, then burst into laughter. "Hahahahah! You think this is revenge, don't you? I am so far past that, Firmia ... and you'll understand why when you look at that archive. You think your family hurt me and me alone? This has been going since you sons of bitches were middle class upstarts!" Tonya could hear Firmia gasp over the radio, nearly in sync with the destruction of another Hunter. Tonya was losing count of her kills now, her focus shifting more and more to Rex's open rebellion against the Alkaev family. It was risky, but since the crew of the Black Swan had bothered forwarding the data to all the company mobile suits in the area, Tonya began sifting through the files. Even her information was in there. It was nothing new ... but Rex hadn't known about this, back then. "If I thought there was any hope for you people," Rex continued, "I would have at least spared you, Firmia. Give you wretched snakes a chance to start over. You haven't gotten as far as the others, yet. You're close, but you haven't completely destroyed another person, yet. The problem is, it's only a matter of time now, and I'm not interested in seeing if you're the one exception for more than five generations. You people just get worse, and worse, and worse." "Bullshit! What did my sister do that was so wrong?! For that matter what did mom do besides-" "Let me stop you right there," Rex quickly cut in, "before you say something incredibly ... stupid. Read file 3343, Firmia. It's short and to the point." Tonya clenched her prototype's controls tightly. This wasn't the time or the place for Firmia to learn about that incident. She didn't want Sasha to know, either. Not like this, at least. File 3343? As curious as Firmia was, she was also afraid. If Rex wasn't just spewing lies, what then? She still felt nothing she found in this pile of garbage would justify killing good people right along with her, but it didn't really have to. Rex wasn't interested in justification, only letting her know the truth behind the attack. That meant that ... whatever she was about to see was ... Firmia gasped, covering her mouth with both hands. File 3343 was Rex's compiling of both official and unofficial records regarding a crash during a mobile suit exercise. The test pilot was Tonya. The official report stated that Tonya's injuries were so extensive, that her uterus and several other organs had to be removed, and all but the first replaced. What the Alkaev's archived information showed, however, was that Tonya's injuries were minor, and only her uterus was removed, entirely unnecessarily at that. Firmia read on, but only because she couldn't look away. That was when she found some very private notes on the matter. The only reason Tonya was targeted this way, was due to Rosa's orders, both to rig the exercise, and to have that particular organ removed regardless of what the true extent of Tonya's injuries were. She was content with anything short of crippling Tonya, due to her outstanding performance. "You see what your mother did to Tonya? Do you know how old she was when this happened?" Firmia couldn't stop shaking her head, trying to get Rex to just go away. This was file 3343; there were over four thousand files in this archive of nightmares. "She was your age, dammit." <"Tonya ..."> Sasha finally realized what she had been talking about, before. What a stupid joke to be making ... <"It's an old wound, Sasha,"> she assured him. She knew he wouldn't buy an excuse like that after their other conversation, but it wasn't something she wanted to leave in the forefront of everyone's minds. She preferred just being viewed as ace pilot, nothing more, nothing less. She didn't want to be seen as a victim of Alkaev cruelty, whether it was a fact or not. That couldn't define her, not after all these years, not after everything else she'd accomplished. "You wanted to know what was done to me too, right?" "No!" Firmia writhed in the cockpit, "I'm not listening to any of this anymore. Just call off your Apotheosis friends and go away! Leave us alone!" "File 3999," Rex pressed on, resolute as ever, "I wanted to save space, so Brant and I share the same files." "B-Brant?" Firmia froze. Him too? "W-what did my family do to ..." If she finished that sentence ... well ... regardless, Rex seemed intent on destroying her world, if not her in particular, today. "What did they do to him?" Her hand was moving on its own, now, navigating toward the file on the long, long list of the Alkaev's deeds. "Some of the human rights violations you're well aware of," Rex noted, "You're used to seeing that sort of thing, but I'm sure what you're not used to seeing is your mother's perversion or your grandfather's TK program. Rosa never quite grew up, but she's a great actress. She hates Stan more than anyone, but the public doesn't know that. He's just some engineer designing cutting edge technology, and she's the new face of the Alkaev company. You know how bad their marriage is, but what she never told you is how she coped with being married to a nutcase like him. She went through a lot of toys, and some of them even died ... for ... some reason or other. I don't remember the details off the top of my head. Eventually, though, she worked her way up to us, Dima's pet TKs." "Worked her way up to ...?" Firmia felt like she was about to vomit. Did he really mean Rosa tried to sleep with the two of them? "Don't tell me she used both of you to ... get herself off just because Stan's a bad husband!" Tonya was none too pleased to hear this, either. "Rex, why didn't you tell me about this?! Why didn't you or Brant tell me?!" "I didn't want you to confront Rosa over this and lose anything else," Rex said, sounding genuinely sorry for once. "I'm sure Brant felt the same way. The truth is, this whole situation could have been avoided if Brant and I weren't TKs. Dima never wanted us to pair off with anyone, not even inside the company, not unless he thought he could unlock the key to breeding more TKs. It's the same reason Firmia's so damn sheltered. He's obsessed with unlocking the secret. That's why he let Rosa have her way with us over and over and over again, hoping for a certain kind of mutation linked to the 'TK condition.' According to what I found more recently, not one of the pregnancies from that year and a half of hell gave Dima the results he wanted. When I learned that the one good thing that might come out of this whole mess was destroyed, I was blind furious ... but when I learned it was really because they weren't exactly like us ... I realized that 'blind fury' is a weak emotion, at best." "That's ..." Firmia wiped her eyes again and again but the tears kept finding their way out, "That's bullshit ... you ... you shouldn't have slept with her in the first place!" "Would you say that to Brant if he were on the line?" Rex asked, mocking her, "We didn't have a choice ... well, other than being reconditioned. Not only were we raised to obey orders, they're holding our parents' lives over our heads; they always have been. Rosa's a coward, though. Even with all that insurance, she still drugged Brant half the time. I'll admit, I stopped resisting after a while. I hoped I'd be enough for her if I actually gave her what she wanted, but she's not just a coward, she's a glutton, too. That's how she operates, and Dima just sat back and let her have her fun for the sake of his TK project." Firmia was finished. Just finished. There was nothing else she could say to that. This was what Brant carried with him everywhere? This was what it was like to see one of the brothers finally explain the situation, laying everything out in plain view? Meanwhile, on the other side, Brant was just keeping it all hidden away? How? How could he even tolerate being around any of them? Firmia didn't know what she'd say to Brant if she ever saw him, again. Despite everything they'd been through together, she didn't feel she had the right to. "... that was around ten years ago." Firmia's eyes widened in horror. Ten years ago? Rex was likely in his early-twenties, but Brant was only sixteen! <"God ... just ... no ..."> <"Damn you, Rosa,"> Tonya cursed, <"You too, Dima. It's bad enough you made me into your little freak show over some dumb boy, but you messed with my students, too?! Dammit!"> It was Rosa's crime, Dima's crime ... but some poor soul from Apotheosis died for it in the ensuing violence. "You might still have some time, Firmia. Want to have a look at another file before I go?" "No! Of course not!" "Don't you want to hear about your sister?" Rex insisted, "see how many men she's destroyed? Juliya's not as bad as Rosa, but she's learning, fast. You're about the same age she was when she got started." "NO!!! NO NO NO NO NO!!! JUST GO AWAY!!!" "I guess that's good enough, then," Rex finally relented. "I'll be honest with you, Firmia. I was afraid you'd try and explain away all of this and never listen. You did try, but ... I think you're starting to understand. For what it's worth, at least you've got Tonya with you. Maybe you'll survive this. Maybe you'll prove me wrong. Prove that an Alkaev can take a different path. If there's one thing I'm wrong about, I'd love for it to be that. Still, you're the daughter of demons, and you know that, now. Don't think you're not capable of every single crime they've committed in that archive I sent you. Don't think you're above it all. Look at those files, and remember ... that's your blood, your family, your heritage, and the people who brought you up in this world. Remember that." "Rex ..." "... yeah, Tonya?" "I can't be everywhere at once ... so I don't think I can stop you from destroying this family. About all I can do is look after Firmia for now, so that's what I'm going to do. Just ... don't give up on yourself, okay?" "Give up on myself?" "You know what I mean, Rex. It's the reason you're doing this and Brant's not. The real reason, not his conditioning or your resolve." "I'll ... have to give that some thought, especially if it's coming from you. Well, time's up. Apotheosis aren't my friends so ... kill as many of them as you like. You're doing the EU, and humanity, a favor. Good luck." The transmission ended, and they were left with nothing but Rex's data, and a world full of enemies. Edited August 1, 2017 by Phoenix Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Phoenix Posted August 1, 2017 Share Posted August 1, 2017 (edited) The ending had been bitter, so bitter Sasha could barely stomach it. The Hunters had been wiped out, but so had Ofnir Squadron. Sasha fully expected to be taken apart piece by piece by the distant sniper now that Ofnir's pilots were gone, but once again, he was passed up, this time for a much larger target. All Tonya and Sasha could do was watch as another blue streak of murderous intent crashed into the transport plane. That was it ... <"Tonya, we've got to stop that guy!"> <"I know ..."> Tonya was still reeling from the conversation with Rex. That meant Firmia was borderline catatonic in all likelihood, in no shape to be piloting the Regalia. <"Sasha get back there and drag the Regalia out if you have to! I'm going after that sniper!"> No matter how good she was, all she could really do is take on one enemy at a time and hope it would make all the difference. Sasha understood that, too, which was why she wouldn't be hearing any objection from him. <"Right. Go get him."> The two pilots broke off from one another, Tonya heading toward the source of the incoming fire, and Sasha heading back to the Black Swan. Tonya seemed to be buying them at least a little time. The next few shots that streaked up into the sky weren't anywhere near the transport, which meant the target was likely Tonya. Sasha kept up his guard, not wanting to risk being taken out for letting his guard down. <"It's Sasha, how are you holding up?"> <"He's really precise,"> the captain warned, <"We've only been hit twice, but it was in the exact same place. The anti-beam coating has a gap in it now and another shot that powerful will turn us into a kebab. We're descending and changing course. At least after the Regalia launches, we'll have mostly completed our mission. Emergency landing isn't going to be an option, so I've ordered everyone to escape capsules."> <"Are there enough of those?"> Sasha asked, not anticipating a simple yes. <"No, but no one's going to complain about sitting on anyone else's lap at a time like this."> A fair point, Sasha agreed. <"We're beginning our banking maneuver, now. Stay clear of the wings."> To Sasha's astonishment, a Black Swan was capable of some very graceful turning, despite the speed at which it was doing so. When the back of the plane began to face him, however, Sasha realized that the captain hadn't thought this maneuver all the way through. The only reason the plane hadn't been gored by the first shot was because of the anti-beam coating. The interior of the hangar had no such protection. Even the little bit that was exposed could cause enormous damage! <"Wait-wait-wait, captain, abort the maneuver!"> Another streak of shining blue appeared, and it tore through the roof of the hangar, just near the entrance, sending flames everywhere, scorching the Volkov, and cooking the nearby crewmen. The explosions that followed seemed to come from just about every corner of the hangar. Fuel, munitions, everything flammable was being set off left and right, and Sasha couldn't do a thing to help them, now ... <"... FIRMIA GET OUT OF THERE!!!"> She had to get out of there. If she died now, all of this would be pointless. Firmia was shaken violently repeatedly as the plane's hangar blew itself apart. The once pale blue hangar was now cast in a baneful orange red. She looked around the hangar, hoping her fears hadn't already been realized. There wasn't a single person still standing, and those still alive were writhing in agony or ... far far worse. This was too much. The Alkaevs had done terrible things, and she was one of them. Just the fact that she was here was the reason things had turned out this way. She hadn't meant it, but really, this was her fault. She couldn't deny that. What could she do, though? She couldn't save anyone, here, not the comms officer, not the friendly trio of mechanics, no one. <"FIRMIA GET OUT OF THERE!!!"> She jumped in her seat at Sasha's bellow. Acting on instinct, she backed the Regalia up toward the open hangar. Just as she reached the edge, a blue beam sliced through the spot where the Regalia had been docked, and flashed up through the ceiling. She fell, as the Regalia reached the very edge of the hangar. She saw the plane begin to quickly shrink as she began to tumble away from the flaming ruin. Then, as if to assure her that there was no hope whatsoever, one final blue beam struck the plane, and everything disappeared in a brilliant flash of white. <"Firmia! Take control, dammit! Take control!"> Firmia grabbed the controls and leveled out the Regalia, finally coming out of her trance. She felt her lungs taking in air slowly, filling halfway, then letting go as she came to her senses. <"They're gone ... all gone ..."> <"Yeah, it's just us,"> Sasha sighed, <"You, Tonya, and me. It's not going to be that way for long if we don't start hugging the floor where that bastard can't pick us off. Follow me."> <"Where are we going? And where's Tonya?"> The words came by themselves. Firmia herself was still trying to process what had just happened. That left her mostly unaware of the tears trickling down her face, or her trembling hands and knees. <"She's going to kick that sniper's face in. You and I are going to Great Lake Base. It's still a ways away, but we'll make it. Just stay close."> They might make it there before anymore enemies showed up, but Sasha was done leaving things to chance. He switched frequencies on his suit's radio and phoned it in. "Hey, ANF guys! Err-Riese team! Are you getting this?! Don't make me beg; pick up!" The transport's crew had likely made contact before the plane went up in flames, but that was all the more reason to reestablish contact, and as soon as humanly possible. "Our little problem went from bad to worse in a heartbeat and we need your assistance!" Edited August 1, 2017 by Phoenix Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nanami Touko Posted August 2, 2017 Share Posted August 2, 2017 (edited) Co-Pilot "Yeah... I suppose you could say that's what I am. And what I have... I just hope it doesn't get in anyone's way." Especially not Brant's... Or ever malfunction, and stop Kim's, at any important moment... Ugh, she hadn't thought of that one before, hopefully it never happened. Immediate Action Pt. 1 The crew had been informed over the speakers of the situation. They were heading towards Great Lake base to rendezvous with the Alkaev sent ship and their suits. The size of the Riese and the dangerous airspace they were flying in was handicapping their travel speeds, though, having to fly low near the ground to avoid being sighted as easily by any Apotheosis forces that might've been in the area. Things were progressing steadily until a rather stressed call came into their frequency, Jess picking it up without hesitation. Perhaps a bad move, considering the territory they were in, but they couldn't risk missing an actual call. What she got was real terror. Assistance required. She quickly relayed that they were heading to Great Lake base, but there was still the problem of their traveling speeds. The Riese was about half an hour out considering the pace it was moving at, and with that sort of time, anyone could arrive there before them. That couldn't happen. With a quick punching in of frequencies, Jess could only hope that her last option was already suited up and ready to move. "Kim? Kim, a-are you in the Mk. III right now?" It was their fastest, and strongest machine. Brant was likely faster in the Accensus... But sending a single plane out as reinforcement wasn't exactly smart. It had taken some thinking, but Kim had eventually come up with a name to go along with Avery's request, and having given it to the head mechanic, hopefully it would prevent any... "Idolblaster" shenanigans. After that had been taken care of, she had changed into her SKINsuit, and had moved to wait in the cockpit of her new machine, ready to deploy at a moment's notice, since she had already eaten. Christina hadn't been far behind, and while she was still embarrassed about the suit, it seemed that getting into the cockpit with Kim before the others came into the hangar en-masse helped her nerves, if only a little. It seemed things wouldn't remain peaceful for long, as the Captain's distressed question came through her omni-tool, Kim flipping it on proper to reply. "Captain? Am with Chrissy, suit up ready deploy. What wrong?" The Lieutenant asked, the direct contact to her specifically feeling... a tad strange. "You're deploying-- n-now! I'm sending clearance signals to Avery, y-you're going to r-rendezvous ahead of us w-with the Russian pilots. There sh-should be a transport plane... But... I-If it's just suits, then, meet up w-with them. I've informed them we're sending a single unit ahead, s-so... Hopefully they don't spook. Stay on your g-guard, in any case." "W-Wait, we're launching? Alone?" Jess paused, taking a moment to realize who the other voice was. She vaguely remembered Christina being a part of the ship's register for active pilots in the last fight. She tried not to be that surprised. "Y-Yes! You're in the f-fastest robot we have. Head t-towards the base's coordinates and m-meet up with them. We're pushing the Riese a-along as safely as we can." "I... You, heard her, Kim." Christina shrunk in her seat, which was now facing forward, meaning she couldn't hide from any of the action. The doors to the hangar were starting to open, Avery having gotten the message. She gave an apologetic shrug up towards the Mk. III's cockpit. There was supposed to be a transport, but there might not be. That meant that in all likelihood, the Russians had come under fire as they approached ANF soil. Or more likely, they had been tailed and were now being taken out. If they were in dire need of support, sending out the Mk.III made sense, it could reach the field well before the Riese itself could, and the other mobile suits wouldn't be able to keep up in a hard dash. "Understand, Captain." Kim replied calmly, reaching back and giving Christina's hand a light squeeze, before facing forward again in her chair as the cockpit began to close, and the hangar doors started to open. "Can do this. Will be fine." "Yeah... So you say. The only thing I'm not confident in here is me." Christina sighed, swallowing, and trying to steel herself. "T-Take off, Lieutenant! We'll be there, ETA th-thirty minutes! Keep those pilots s-safe until then!" "Understand, Captain." Kim replied, as the hangar opened fully, and the pilot saw Avery give the signal to launch from the ground. Gripping the controls, Kim gave her screen one last quick check, the Mk.III's singular eye lighting up as the machine finished it's pre-launch routines. "All system nominal, new equipment all green. VEX-03-00 Artemis, launching!" Kim announced as the final checks concluded, her machine's new name slipping easily off of her tongue, the Artemis' thrusters engaging as soon as it left the Riese, rocketing off towards the coordinates of the Great Lake Base. This should be about in radio range... Kim let out a sigh, the Captain hadn't given her a radio frequency to speak to the Russians, she could only hope open airwaves would suffice. Flicking on her comms, she called out to the Russian suits in the distance, hoping to make contact. "Attention, Alkaev transport, can read me? Lieutenant Kim Seung Min of ANF, hail from ANFSF Heion Riese. Coming to assist, other unit in transit. Can give current status and situation update, over?" <"Oh, finally,"> Sasha sighed in relief. The lack of response was making him even more nervous with the lakeless base so close by. "Good to hear a friendly voice," Sasha replied. It was to hear a friendly voice, petite and asian sounding or not. "As for our status ... well, we're at wit's end, here. Our transport was taken down by sniper fire. No survivors. Our squad leader broke off to deal with said sniper while we get to the base. It's just the two of us for now." It seemed like they'd gotten here a bit early from the look of things. That was ... actually quite unfortunate, now that Sasha gave it some thought. <"Lieutenant Kim ... Seung Min?"> Firmia squinted weakly at her display, just barely managing to keep the Regalia in formation. <"It's ... probably not the one I'm thinking of ..."> "Oh... So there are peo... ple... Y-Your whole transport?" Wait, these ships were like, really big, right? Enough to store mechs? How did... How did it get taken out so easily? "Is your friend going to be alright? Er... S-Sorry, Kim. Should I be talking over the radio, or...?" She'd already done it, but was more asking to clarify if it was alright to continue... "My condolence for your loss." Kim replied, pausing for a moment as she contemplated what was being said by Russian pilot... a sniper strong enough to take down a mech carrier was no small feat to say the least, especially if it was mobile... it did make her wonder whether her new magnum was capable of such a thing, but she hoped she wouldn't need to test it any time soon. "Aside sniper, any remaining enemy vessel on radar? By estimate, will take Heion Riese about twenty-five minute catch up to base, provide full support. If remain Apotheosis mech, may need hold off until they arrive." Kim continued, giving Christina a slight nod as she asked. "Is fine, Christina." Firmia's previous musings about their rescuer had been drowned out, suddenly and violently, by that explosion. She felt her fingers icing over as the vision returned. Everyone save for Tonya and Sasha had died up there. This time, Firmia noticed the tears when they returned, and sank lower in her seat as Sasha relayed his intel. For the moment, Firmia was doing the right thing, she knew, making sure the Regalia made it to Brant in one piece. What had happened, though, that was still her fault. If she had picked any other plane, they might have all survived. Maybe she wouldn't have, but at least they would had a chance. If she could go back and try it again ... it would have been worth the risk. This path, this choice, this life she was living henceforth, had too much blood on her hands. "It was bad," Sasha admitted, "but that sniper was probably the only one left; we wiped the those Hunters out. Thanks, though. A lot of good people missed a chance to meet each other thanks to Apotheosis and their war games. Anyway, don't worry about our squad leader, you two. She'll be fine as long as the laws of physics aren't being bent. I'm more worried about us, especially if more of them show up." They had come out of nowhere, it seemed. It didn't help that Firmia was in no shape to be fighting, right now. "Since we've still got a minute," Sasha started again, "Let's get some things out of the way. I'm Sasha Orlov, test pilot for the Alkaev company. My wingman is Firmia Alkaev. Our suits are prototypes so they may not meet your ANF standards. If we have to fight though, we have to fight." Hopefully Sasha could find a way to carry Firmia's load for her ... "The Mantle is my suit. It's a long range support unit. Firmia's in the suit we're delivering to your ship, the Regalia. I'm sure you've got the data on it, already. The short of it is this is a TK model. I'll introduce Tonya when she gets back, assuming we're all still here." If they were still here when all was said and done, he'd be having another cigar. He damn well earned it on this one. So it was fine to talk... And it seemed introductions were going on. "I'm Christina Troy... Private. I'll let Kim introduce herself. I'm... Well, we're... Uh... This is difficult to explain. But, you said the other robot is a TK model? Does your wingman happen to be a Telekinetic, as well?" It would probably be good to explain her odd power to an ally, if that was the case. As the Russian pilot, this Sasha Orlov, explained the situation in more detail, Kim shook her head slightly. What a waste... whatever it was Apotheosis wanted, there was no way it was worth this much disruption, this much loss. One thing Sasha said had caused Kim to remember something, though Christina had mentioned it before she had. It made sense that Brant's suit was TK equipped for obvious reasons, but the temporary pilot could be telekinetic as well... if they had any onboard, it made sense that they would choose them to fly the thing. Plus, they had said the other's name was... Firmia Alkaev. Was she a family member of the company heads from Brant's organization, or an unrelated coincidence? They'd get an answer soon enough with regards to her telekinetic status, at least. As Kim attempted to bring up the data they had been sent, it didn't appear in her database. Had it not been uploaded yet? "Well meet, Sasha, Firmia. As say earlier, ANF Lieutenant Kim Seung-Min, Christina co-pilot. As she say, if either of you TK, important. Give moment, will relay status to Heion Riese... do not appear have data in bank, will see if Captain can forward." Kim replied, opening a separate channel to Jessica, in the bridge of the Leviathan class warship. "Come in, Captain. Is Lieutenant Seung-Min, Alkaev pilot say send data on Regalia to Riese, can forward? Useful know suit capability if come into battle. As status, Alkaev transport ambush by Apotheosis troop, shoot down enemy sniper. All but few personnel lose. Meet up two pilot, Sasha Orlov, Firmia Alkaev. Only one other survivor, squad leader went track down sniper. Any update on your end? Over." Jess was so focused on getting to the base, that having a message come in from Kim was so surprising, it made her jump. "Y-Yes! I'm, here... Jesus," she muttered. "I'll f-forward all of that, to... Oh no. Firmia A-Alkaev?" What was one of the main family doing here? In suits meant for Brant? Was that on purpose? "Give me a moment, k-keep talking to them..." Jess opened a channel to Brant's Accensus, once again hoping that her talking target was around. "Brant? If you're th-there, pick up... There's a Firmia A-Alkaev in your suit, heading towards the base. W-Was that a part of the plan? And... D-Do you have the suit's information o-on hand? I don't remember b-being sent anything by Rosa..." Brant lazily perused the Accensus' main interface while waiting to hear about what was happening in the field. With the MK.III launched on such short notice, a firefight could be imminent. Brant wanted to be ready for that, even if he did have to spend a few more hours in the hangar doing varying amounts of nothing. Brant was both unnerved and relieved when Jessica's voice came in over his craft's radio. He might have gotten some of that relief across and less of that other stuff had she come with less alarming news. "... no, captain. That was not a part of the plan. What's she even doing out h-n-never mind, just give me a second. I'll send you the data." Wow, things had gone bottom up in a hurry. "Should I save the questions for later? I've got a lot of them," Brant admitted as the data finished uploading to the database. "I-I don't know, I... I'm sorry. Er... I'll make sure to forward that data to all the mechs in the ship and the... Artemis." Nice name, bit short notice, but Jess would make due. "You can ask me anything you want, but... I-I don't know if I h-have the answers. I... Kim said that, th-they lost all their personnel. Only three pilots s-survived, Sasha Orlov, F-Firmia Alkaev, and one they didn't mention, th-their squad leader." How horrible... "Does that a-answer anything?" That answered a good portion of Brant's questions, yes. It was also a painful wake up call, and a reminder of just how badly a plan could turn out. Rosa had informed him of a late change in her plan to send over the Regalia. They weren't just delivering the suit by itself, they were sending over a special team of mechanics to help look after it, some of them Brant had even known. They were all dead, now. Apotheosis ... they really did want to get everyone to hate their guts, didn't they? Well it was bloody working. "Yeah," Brant sighed, rubbing his forehead as he thought back to all the people he knew back home. Even more were dead, now, and it would be some time before he learned exactly who, both at the main facility, and in this ambush. "So it's just Firmia, Sasha, and ... mysterious pilot X. Roger that. I don't ... want to distract you so ... just ... just let me know when you need me out there." "I'm sorry, Brant..." Jess bit back her stutters. She could hear the sadness in his voice... She couldn't imagine how he was feeling, right now. "We'll get them back safe. I promise." She cut the call with him, data forwarded to the ship's mechs. Everyone would have on board data of the Regalia, to know not to target it. The other robots accompanying it would need recognition checks, but they could handle those when they arrived. Changing the channel back to Kim's, Jess sighed. "I forwarded things to Brant, and he handed over the files to our p-pilots. You can let the other t-two know, and hurry o-over to them. We'll be there, s-soon." Edited August 2, 2017 by SnakeMomMelissa Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nanami Touko Posted August 2, 2017 Share Posted August 2, 2017 (edited) Immediate Action Pt. 2 "Okay. Thank Captain." Kim replied, pulling up the Regalia's data and looking it over quickly to get a rudimentary idea of it's combat capability. "Sorry that. Regalia mark as friendly in database... don't have recognize data on Mantle, but so long with me and Regalia, can be mark manual non-hostile." "Works for me," Sasha acknowledged. He supposed he ought to make sure Firmia was up to speed, as well. "Yeah, she's a TK, and speaking of that, I need to check in. One moment, please. <Oi, Firmia, did you hear all that? When we get a visual, don't shoot. I'll update our IFFs myself, but don't overreact."> No response. Looking to his left and a half dozen meters behind his own craft, Sasha saw that Firmia was still with him, but drifting about. Overall she was keeping pace with him; the Regalia was faster than the Mantle under virtually all conditions. Still, her silence wasn't reassuring. <"Firmia ..."> <"... sorry."> Finally. Sasha could breathe a little easier. <"I heard everything,"> Firmia assured him. <"Okay, good ...> Sorry about that, just making sure everyone is on the same page." "Alright... So, er... You should have her keep some distance from the... What did you call it, Kim, Artemis? I'm... I suppose a cybernetic TK is accurate. I wasn't born, like this... I only function when plugged into a T-Link, but... I, produce an aura. That stops other TKs' powers from working... Kim's only function because she's plugged into the same system I am. So, I... I know this sounds like something out of some stupid cartoon, but, just alert her not to get too close. I know it can be... Startling, to say the least." There. That embarrassing and annoying tidbit was taken care of... Well, if Christina was just going to be upfront about the TK field being connected to her specifically, Kim supposed that was fine. Kim would have been willing to go along with making it seem like a function of the Artemis if the cyber-telekinetic had wanted to go that route, but perhaps the idea hadn't crossed her mind... or perhaps her earlier altercation with Juria had made her edge towards honesty. "What Christina say true. Telekinetics lose ability to sense thoughts and control TK weapon within field, recently re-calibrate, not field test new range... approximate twenty second flight distance. If Firmia TK, best for Sasha center formation if need take one, allow us opposite flank not interrupt performance." Apotheosis kicked down their door with no warning, ambushed them in America, again with no warning, and knocked out their transport plane from beyond visual range after distracting them with a swarm of Hunters which, you guessed it, came with no warning. Sasha could believe in something as tenable as anti-TK fields. In his ears it had the same ring to it as a jamming device, and the Alkaev company had plenty of those at their disposal. Unfortunately all of this might be irrelevant if Firmia didn't come out of her mild stupor, soon. Sasha couldn't blame her for how she felt, but mourning and regret had to take a backseat until they became affordable luxuries, again. "She needs a break after that massacre," Sasha grumbled, "Listen, ANF ladies, if anything happens, let me do the heavy lifting, here. If the Regalia gets scrapped, even by some damn stray shot, we came all this way and lost all our comrades for nothing." He wasn't trying to be macho, but Sasha knew he was the most expendable of the lot, right now, and he was okay with that. He knew his chances weren't terrible. He'd just have to work a harder for that cigar and some praise if Apotheosis showed up, again. "Th-That's..." She could agree to protecting the Regalia, or whatever it was called, but... "L-Lieutenant Kim is no slouch! Don't worry about doing all the heavy lifting by yourself. We've got your back, Sasha." Maybe it was wrong to get so brave, all of a sudden... But, she wanted this to work out. Just thinking about how the two of them must've felt, losing their transport, everyone on board... Even Christina had only lost three squadmates, when she was shot down. A whole ship's worth? She couldn't fathom it... "If Apotheosis have firepower at disposal to take out carrier like you say, won't have luxury to worry who lifting in fire fight. You say mantle designed long range support, don't want to see you die over try be a hero do something not design for." Kim replied, as they continued to close towards Great Lake base, and the Alkaev suits. "I shouldn't have to if the ANF's got this area under control, but it's been one surprise after another, today," Sasha said pointedly. Speaking of which. "By the way, that response took a while. What's going on at your base? They're not under attack, are they?" Did they at least find the Great Lake? The base... it was a bit of a mysterious subject, to be certain. The Riese had been trying to contact them ever since the rendezvous was set, but they never got a response either. "Could be. Riese trying to contact base since we move out, no reply. It possible we might need divert from base to-" Kim began, though as the cover of the treetops disappeared from beneath her, the smouldering remains of Great Lake base came into view. Cursing under her breath, Kim immediately took a visual of the base's remains and sent it back to the Riese, not bothering to explain... the Bridge would understand as soon as they saw. "If geography right, you should just see what I see, Sasha? Base... destroy. Explain unexpect Apotheosis presence in area." If he'd been flying a little higher, the Mantle's various cameras would have answered Sasha's question shortly before he asked it, but he still saw the situation for how dire it really was. "Well, that's disappointing," Sasha sighed. He was starting to know what it felt like to be Tonya, having even the most typical of worries materialize almost immediately. "What's the plan now? Do we meet up in the base and then move on, or do you want to have a look around?" Sasha was personally in favor of simply linking up and leaving. "Head in direction base, since still closest point between us, but keep eyes open. Possible occupied by Apotheosis, don't shot down over careless. Once meet up, we can move towards Heion Riese." Kim replied solemnly, training her cameras on the shell-shocked remains of the Great Lake base, pulling up various additional displays to get in as much information as she could. "Keep eyes peel on feeds, Chrissy. Make sure not miss anything... bad feel about this." The Lieutenant noted, as she prepared the Artemis to quickly shift into combat. And... The base was destroyed. Christina's gut sank. Apothesis had beaten them to it, it seemed... Taken out everyone there, or it seemed like it. She closed her eyes, trying to focus on the T-Link... See if she could pick up anything, any emotion, any feeling coming from the base or the area... All she felt was Kim. And... "W-Wait, Kim!" A feeling of anger pierced her mind, as a beam streaked towards the Artemis-- Just as Christina picked up the sudden anger on the horizon, so did Kim, the incoming beam catching her eye as the Artemis swerved out of the way of the incoming attack with ease. It contained a lot of heat and power, but a weapon like that wasn't designed to hit a more mobile target. Zooming the cameras in on the location where the attack had come from, an ominous black suit was visible in the distance. "Careful, Sasha, Firmia, current engage with unknown enemy suit, seems have been trailing us." Kim noted, relaying that same warning to the Riese as well, as the Artemis turned around in the air, and the MARS rifle began to charge, readying in an instant as it fired of with a satisfying sound, a concentrated ball of heat and death rocketing towards the unknown suit in return fire. "Yeah, I see the bastard," Sasha gritted his teeth at the distant shooter. It really was just one surprise after another, today, wasn't it? And not enough favorable ones. "We're on our way, but ... we're probably being surrounded, right now." Looking behind his flight seat and to Firmia, he said, <"Stay on me, Firmia! We're going in, but we're not giving them an opening to shoot us down!"> So that's our fast ace that showed up. What a bother. Miguel frowned at his luck, lowering the anti-ship rifle model his Deimos carried --a small step down Carlos' own--; and raised a ablative kite shield nearly the height of the suit at the incoming fire. He hadn't even bothered dodging the beam, a wall of green light coming to form at the front of the suit, intercepting most of the blow... but still leaving a charred deformation on the shield, definitely not able to take too many more blows. Oho? Interesting, it can partially pierce a Sacarian field... Miguel grinned, surprised at the strength of the Feddie toy, as the cameras of his pitch black suit locked on the Artemis' position. His Deimos floated in the air, completely oblivious to gravity, making no sudden moves after. Shooting with that rifle would be a waste of precious ammo. "Federation pilot," Miguel opened a private communication channel to the Artemis, speaking pausedly with respect to the powerful weapon the Artemis had. Wouldn't do to be shot mid-speech in case the pilot had no taste for diplomacy. "You chose poorly, coming here of your own. Your way back to the Heion Riese has been cut off. Surrender and give up your suit if you want to live unscathed." It was a straightforward threat, as his suit slowly lost altitude. On cue with his threat, Kim could sense far more killer intent, as well as dread, coming from his direction than a lone person could. He was certainly not alone. "Kim! Wh-What do we do!?" Would they head to the base, or try to break through back to the Riese? She tried her own radio, but she got nothing but radio static, shrinking back into her seat. "What do we do...?" Kim had to admit she was surprised at the sudden contact from the Apotheosis mech, though as her cameras scanned the Deimos unit, identifiable now that she had gotten it further into focus, Kim could see, at least partially, the reason why. That shield had given off the same barrier that the Apotheosis units had used to cover their retreat earlier, and there was clear structural damage to that shield... if she could hit it in the same place again, it was unlikely to hold under concentrated fire. "Apotheosis agent." The radio waves were filled with static on every frequency but the private one that Apotheosis was using, but at this range, the Russian pilots could likely see what was going on through their cameras. "You seem have done quite number Great Lake Base... you lot surprise every day Apotheosis, you much more organize than expect." Kim replied, as the Artemis continued to drift in the direction of the direlect base... if they could make it there, it would still act as cover, and could be used to attempt to stage a defense while the Heion Riese approached... even with radio silence, the ship was already moving in their direction at full clip, and if the Apotheosis mechs were caught in a pincer, their trap would be sprung back upon them. "Still, offer seem bit good be true. Man approach in dark alley, tell you be fine if give wallet, usually just stab when see stop fighting." Kim retorted, as the Artemis' thrusters revved back up to maximum, the mech speeding towards the remnants of the base, and away from the Apotheosis squadron, marking whichever units she could on radar, watching them like a hawk to evade any incoming fire. That voice... how young are they? Sounds like those asian girls you see on pop shows... this was the ace Vera struggled against? Tsk. That machine is way too strong to stay with the ANF. Miguel scoffed, watching the mobile suit rush for what was left of the base, deciding to take their chance. "Hmph. You wound me, comparing me to a petty thief. Have it your way." The part about letting them go unscathed was true, but they would probably not see the ANF for a long time. That was enough communicating with the Feddies, then. Miguel closed the private channel, connecting back with his group. "The ANF unit will resist, and has taken shelter on the base. Furthermore, three readings are left from the Russian plane. Do not let them contact the Riese. I repeat, do not let them anywhere near the Riese." Miguel scowled. He could play mean; if that's what this literal girl scout wanted. Their final approach to the base was fast and low, and unfortunately accompanied by beam weapons fire. When Sasha and Firmia couldn't use the trees for cover, they used the hills, and barring that, Sasha led Firmia through some swaying maneuvers to keep them on track while making them significantly harder to hit. Sasha even fired back in the general direction of the enemy with his suit's 200mm guns and pulse cannons whenever he and Firmia found themselves out in the open. Rather than wait for instructions that couldn't possibly come quickly enough, or follow Sasha's maneuvers as they unfolded, Firmia merely followed Sasha's intentions, the sensations that came well before the corresponding actions. Following that allowed her to remain in near perfect synchronization with the older pilot as they approached Great Lake Base. Despite her ability to keep up with Sasha's every maneuver, Firmia couldn't pull herself away from the previous battle. The previous slaughter. The brave comms officer, and those three wonderful mechanics, especially. They didn't have to die over this. No matter how many times she tried to put them out of mind, they kept worming their way back in. What did she have to do to make it stop? <"Firmia get ready to go into MS mode! We're here."> Sasha guided the two of them past the base's ruined outer perimeter and between the buildings. This was, sadly, the best cover they were going to get. Sasha quickly switched to MS mode, causing the Mantle's thrusters, to convert back into legs, and shoot blue fire out at incredible intensity as they swung down and out to the front of the mobile suit. The wings quickly swung away from the torso and onto the back as the arms unfurled themselves. As they repositioned themselves, the right arm took hold of and disconnected the massive beam cannon from the Mantle's cockpit area, and both shoulders locked themselves in place near the top of the body. The Mantle's head ascended back into its proper position, and spread out its numerous transmitters and receivers as the chest plate, and cockpit section swung down and locked in place sealing the inner frame from the outside world. Having completed its transformation in a little over one second, and with its thrusters at high output, the Mantle was able to gently touch down in Great Lake Base ... or what was left of it. The Regalia touched down a few seconds later, a very short distance from the Mantle. The suit stood tall and ready for combat, letting no outside observer so much as catch a hint of the tearful young woman struggling at the controls. Regardless of the mismatch between them, Sasha had to admit, the Regalia certainly was the most charming of the AMS suits. It even had some golden trim. A nice touch; he hadn't noticed when the suit was getting its paint job. That was enough admiration, though. "Lieutenant Kim, we're in the base ... not my favorite vacation spot, but at least there's cover. We should get to within sight of each other, but not close enough for that field to jam Firmia's funnels, or for the enemy to kill two of us with one salvo. Sound good?" And with a final quip, the Apotheosis agent cut the private line, though the pursuit seemed more held back than Kim had initially prepared for. So they were remaining cautious, were they? As Sasha came back on the radio, it seemed their comms were a bit more clear this time at least, probably due to closer line of sight. Touching down a small ways away from the dual Alkaev suits, far enough away to be out of jamming range, but more than close enough for both parties to get a proper look at one another as Seung-Min began to reload the Artemis' beam magnum. "Sound fine to me. Apotheosis blindside us as well, set up formation behind to cut off from the Heion Riese." Kim began, her lips curling into a slight grin. "At same time, that means Riese closing in on from behind. All we need do is hold out until reinforce arrive, and we pincer and crush these terrorist into scrap. From brief exchange, enemy command equip with anti-battleship rifle, intimidate, but not good use against small target. Also have strange Apotheosis shield... brief encounter last time fight them, but only use in retreat. Highly resist range attacks, but learn something important. Not invincible, direct hit from Magnum punch through anti-beam layer and deform shield itself." Kim dodged, and well. Christina hadn't expected much else from her, but it was still hard to keep calm, especially when she was getting a full view of the action. She closed her eyes and tried to steady her breathing. Kim had a solid plan, it just relied on them surviving long enough for the Riese to close in. "Okay... O-Okay. I can... I can do this. L, Let's go, Kim..." Another deep breath... She couldn't just do this. She had to do this. Closing In The Riese continued its way along, finally coming into long range scans of the base... Getting a nice shot of the mobile suits entering the rubble. "No..." So the base was already gone... But, those two were still alive. "L-Lieutenant, come in, we're... S-Static. Ensign!" "Yes, Captain!" "K-Keep trying to establish radio c-contact with the lieutenant! For now," she started, pressing the ship's comms. "E-Everyone! Deploy, and get ready to f-fight! We've got m, more than just a few Russians t-to save, now!" Player Phase / Turn 1 Victory Objective: Have Brant reach the base and enter the Regalia! Defeat Conditions: Firmia, Sasha, Brant or the Riese are destroyed! Battle Mastery: Have Brant reach any base tile by the end of Player Phase Turn 7! Stats and pilots! Edited August 3, 2017 by SnakeMomMelissa Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dandragon Posted August 2, 2017 Share Posted August 2, 2017 It was like any other mission. People to kill, mechas to destroy. But, Elaine didn't feel the same as she usually had. She was tense, for several reasons. Mostly because of the final chance she had to not infuriate the captain, but even now the call with Louise worried her. If they really had recorded the entire conversation, if she really had spoken with Apotheosis, they could pull out the recording at any time, and that would be it. In more ways than one. "This is Ares 2, ready and waiting." Her 'spunk', if it could be called that, was no where in her tone. She wasn't pumped about anything in this fight. She wasn't excited. But she wasn't calm either. She was just...an obedient soldier. And it felt terrible. As much as she hated it, Louise had been right. The ANF didn't care for what she believed in, and as long as she stayed with them, then nothing would change. Of course, Apotheosis was no option, either, but- Elaine shook her helmet clad head. This wasn't the time. She had a mission, and one last chance to prove that she wasn't dead weight to the rest of the team. "Who am I targeting first, Ares Leader?" Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Shin Posted August 4, 2017 Share Posted August 4, 2017 (edited) Russia wasn't a place Tarquin had ever visited, although he knew tidbits about the nation and its neutrality from his briefings. However, future sightseeing would have to wait, they had their own visitors from the nation. What was left of the base was a smouldering pile of rubble and whatever survivors that were left had several squadrons to deal with. Kim was one of their better pilots, but the chances were that she couldn't hold out forever by herself. It seemed strange for Apotheosis to attack an independent party, Russia didn't really have ties to either the ANF or the EU - what did they have to gain from making more enemies? Was there something that they were after specifically? "Logically, a straight path would be the quickest, but that would require dealing with enemy forces. Flanking individual groups and removing them before their allies assist may be optimal." Tarquin announced, deciding to be more proactive than in previous missions. Tarquin moves to 21,27 Edited August 5, 2017 by Shin Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Balcerzak Posted August 5, 2017 Share Posted August 5, 2017 (edited) The news that the Russian transport had been nearly wiped out had been a hit to morale, and was surely especially hard for Brant. When they learned from Lieutenant Kim's report about the destruction of the Great Lakes Base, that had been another sobering moment. Sure, it had always been a possibility, so it was not as if it came upon them unexpected, but there had been hope at least... Still, the team needed to keep it together and be professional about things, which Thorvald had a good feeling about. Elaine's enthusiasm was a little muted, as she inquired for guidance, but certainly didn't seem anything of concern, given the situation. The family man did his best to ensure a calm and level-headed response, geared toward the whole squad, particularly once Tarquin spoke up, given that the two pilots had had some friction here and there. "We do need to try and reinforce Lieutenant Kim's as soon as possible. She's taken a strong position, and is one of our best, but anyone can get worn down against long odds. Oni 3 has raised an excellent point, that charging headlong in an attempt to plow through the enemies will not be the ideal scenario; we also need to make sure not to engage if we don't have to. A solid push forward, moving as fast as we can without isolating ourselves and becoming exposed, is the order of the day, and if we can try to anticipate the enemy and manage to take them squadron by squadron, unit by unit, so much the better." Thorvald moves to 23,24 Edited August 5, 2017 by Balcerzak Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
scorri Posted August 5, 2017 Share Posted August 5, 2017 Astin nodded, even though Thorvald couldn't see them, and quickly prepared to push forward. "Hold on Juria, we're moving out." Slamming forward through the trees, Astin shot the rocket fist out at one of the nearest enemies, arriving quicker than seemed possible at first, and watching the fist go shooting out towards the smaller more mobile bot, praying for it to connect. Astin burn Accel, move to 23-22, fist Hunter 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Xinnidy Posted August 6, 2017 Author Share Posted August 6, 2017 Woo! We're moving! Tarquin reaches 21,27 unimpeded! Thorvald also reaches 23,24 without issue despite the looming hunters. Astin uses Accel! Astin steps hard on that gas and gets to 23,22, giving Hunter 3 a fistful of steely justice! Astin attacks! Target: Hunter #3 Weapon: Wired Fist Final Hit: 67 Final Crit: 23 Roll: 49, 6 Hit! Crit! Damage: 117! Hunter #3, still rattled, counters! Weapon: Plasma Missiles +1 Final Hit: 68 Final Crit: 2 Roll: 95, 46 Miss! Astin gains + 3 Will, 10 EXP! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sandalphon Posted August 6, 2017 Share Posted August 6, 2017 (edited) Nikolai wasn't the sort of man who harboured any deep nostalgic attachments or feelings about the world around him, and this little trip back onto the old stomping grounds was par for the course. Of course, it registered that this was a place wherein he'd grown, a place in which he'd scrambled with a gun and the shouted commands of the bigger and stronger dogs echoing through his mind. In a sense, this didn't seem particularly different. He shrugged, fingers flexing at the controls of a gun that was significantly larger than the one he'd been aiming at people last time he was back... home? The word seemed like the closest thing that was logical, but he knew better than to accept it as a definition. It was with some bitterness that he accepted that he was a nomadic piece of dust dragged about by the updraft of fate. Nikolai moves to (20, 26), maybe tomorrow he'll want to settle down. Until tomorrow he'll just keep moving on... Until tomorrow, the whole world is his home~ Edited August 6, 2017 by Yuuki Mishima Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ether Posted August 6, 2017 Share Posted August 6, 2017 "That my team on horizon." Kim noted to the two Russian pilots as the beginnings of combat began off in the distance. They simply had to beat back the opponents here and survive, and victory would come to them. "Christina, keep try radio contact Riese or other unit, Sasha, let give these Apotheosis bastard what coming to them!" Kim called out to her newfound allies, as the Artemis began to move forward towards the edge of the base, a few button presses setting the MARS rifle to Short-Med range as the volley of fire erupted from both the rifle and mech itself, an eclectic mix of shots starting from the railgun before transitioning to the rotating scattergun, accompanied by a hail of missiles and rounds from the Artemis' mounted gatling gun on it's free hand. Intermittently throughout the assault, the Artemis' funnels broke free from the mech itself, peppering the target with additional suppressive fire. Kim casts Focus, moves to 5,9 and attacks Hyperion 4 with Mars Mode S, with Offensive support from Sasha's AA missiles Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nanami Touko Posted August 7, 2017 Share Posted August 7, 2017 (edited) Jess got the ship up off the ground, in full view of anything that could see it, but this was a battle now. There was no point in being covert, now. "F-Full speed ahead! We've got to save those th-three!" Boat to 22,27 Hannah, having launched and assumed battle parameters, radioed over to the squad. "Specialist Eriksson, Sergeant Doyle, I will take point. Please follow up, and relay further orders. HAn4 out." Hannah activates Accel and zooms to 21,24 and shootfaces #2 with the shotgun And there went the battle! Already off to a roaring start, Christina getting a full view of Kim's weaponry blasting off after her orders were issues. "Y-Yes, Lieutenant!" With a frantic scrambling over the keyboard and monitor she had been provided, Christina tried to hail the Riese again, to no avail. Nothing but static. One of the enemies must've been using a jammer, and a strong one. She could only reach the two nearby Russian mechs. I, I just have to keep trying! Edited August 9, 2017 by SnakeMomMelissa Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Xinnidy Posted August 8, 2017 Author Share Posted August 8, 2017 (edited) Moves occur! Kim casts Focus! Kim's Artemis takes aim of the enemy Hyperion, a spread beam shot firing from the weapon! Quote Kim attacks! Target: Hyperion #4 Weapon: M.A.R.S. Mode S Final Hit: 100 Final Crit: 20 Roll: 62, 10 Hit! Crit! Damage: 101 "Ugh! How can that rifle match...?" Hyperion #4 counters! Weapon: Long-barrel Beam Rifle Final Hit: 0 Final Crit: 5 Nope! Sasha provides support fire! Weapon: AA Missiles Final Hit: 76 (thanks Miguel) Final Crit: 12 Roll: 61, 7 Hit! Crit! What an unlucky boy! Damage: 71 "Uuurgh!" Kim gains +4 Will, + 40 EXP! Sasha gains +1 Will, + 20 EXP! Nikolai moves to (20, 26)! Jessica rows that boat to (22,27)! ...Well not literally but you get the idea. Hannah moves into position at (21,24) and is gutsy enough to try to pinpoint a hunter with a shotgun! Quote Hannah attacks! Target: Hunter #2 Weapon: Blast Shotgun Final Hit: 51 Final Crit: 44 Roll: 91, 13 Miss! Hunter #2 counters! Weapon: Plasma Missile Final Hit: 75 Final Crit: 11 Roll: 35, 78 Hit! No Crit. Damage: 54! Oh no! At least Hannah gains + 5 Will? Edited August 8, 2017 by Xinnidy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Balcerzak Posted August 8, 2017 Share Posted August 8, 2017 Abigail was frustrated. She'd not gotten the chance to attempt convince Elaine to unhand her Heracles, and so she'd had to make do with the Phalanx model after all. The only silver lining was that it appeared to be really fucking good. She only wished that the CT frame would have been less awkward to get around in, especially if she needed to return to base and switch mid-engagement, but she appreciated the Vernier and Ground frames implicitly, for their respective strengths. There might have been a few more up close and personal options available if she'd had her say in the matter, but overall it was a pretty good spread of armaments that she felt should allow her to make that good impression Brant had hoped she might. And what better chance to do so than showing up that bucket of bolts, who was currently being oh so effective! Shifting into top gears, Abby zipped across the field, grudgingly admitting that the android at least knew how to haul ass when the situation required it, before drawing up just behind it and unloading a few rounds in the direction of the Hunter it had failed to connect with. Abigail moves to 22,24 fires a few rounds from her Rapid Fire Pistol at Hunter 2. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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