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Creative Arts and Media => Roleplay => Serious RP => Topic started by: Romulan_Furry on June 03, 2019, 04:31:01 AM

Title: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on June 03, 2019, 04:31:01 AM
(This begins the third installment of Coalition Operations. As with before, anyone looking to sign up now that this has started should apply here, provided the RP has not progressed too much: https://www.thefurryforum.com/forums/index.php?topic=40736.msg2235814#new (https://www.thefurryforum.com/forums/index.php?topic=40736.msg2235814#new) )

*** Warship Draconis Furiam, En Route to LV-1201 ***

The wolf with the blue-glowing dragon eyes sat in the command chair of this warship, monitoring reports from all across the ship. So far, everything was performing as expected. He had his "hazard team" aboard, and was now heading for LV-1201 at Maximum Transwarp. But what Viktor about this op was that he was asked for by name. Just who the hell in UNSC Space knew him by his name? And why would they want his help? It didn't make sense. According to the contact, the requester was very insistent - uncharacteristic for him, also according to the contact. Something smelled off about it, but hey - an op was an op.

"Helm, ETA to AO?" Viktor requested.

"Thirty-two minutes to designated Area of Operation, Captain," the droid helmsman answered.

Viktor sat back in his seat, thinking, then made a decision. He accessed the ship's intercom and spoke, "All Hazard Team personnel, report to the bridge for briefing. Repeat, all Hazard Team Personnel report to the bridge for briefing." He then leaned back in his chair and waited.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on June 03, 2019, 04:52:06 AM
Valentine snapped awake as the announcement ended. She stood from the meditative position she had slept in, braced against her staff, and shuffled towards the bridge. Though her headware blocked her eyes, she could still sense her surroundings. Valentine chanted quietly as she shuffled through the halls, probably putting a few of the crew off.  When someone offered to guide her, Valentine snarled. The Awakening procedure, which brought her closer to her Lord Malgus, it put her in constant pain, which in turn made her a bit abrasive. She entered the bridge, stooped against her staff, and spoke. Her voice was uncontrolled, dipping between whispers and shouting, and strained.
“Captain...I was...summoned?”
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on June 03, 2019, 08:48:19 AM
As she said during a night with Viktor, Ori would follow him in any part of the Galaxy. She has been alone quite long alone and once she met the wolf (which for some reasons appeared to be already familiar), the female Orokin has ended her way as a part of UNSC (rescue team on planets with unstable elemental situations) and switched to Viktor' service. Yes, technically she was still a part of the UNSC with the difference, that Viktor now was her commander. And she liked it. That's why she was on this ship today and has been happy to arrive on the bridge personally, preferring to meet her love once again. Because the ship was the one which the couple had taken not long ago before the start of the operation (where Ori had effectively taken the role of the starship mechanic), finding a way to the bridge wasn't a difficult task. And so she appeared but without her armor, she wasn't a Mandalorian after all (Storm has known about their culture). There was no reason for wearing it here, knowing she was in safe here. The same was about her weapon - she was unarmed.

"Commander! Private Ori is ready to roll, sir". She said and saluted. Storm knows that she doesn't have to do that, but years of service to the UNSC had developed the habit. She also noted Valentine but being busy with the ship maintenance, she rarely had time to personally meet everyone on the ship. And so the galaxy-skinned female was hoping, that Viktor can introduce each other before the beginning of the operation.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on June 03, 2019, 12:47:29 PM
A Red furred (https://i.imgur.com/or9X6sB.png) vixen (https://alessia29.imgur.com/all)with a very striking resemblance to a known blue vixen stepped into the bridge, armored in a red Mjolnir gen3.2 set of armor, helmet in her hand the vixen grumbled as she   walked past the two already there, almost shoving valentine out of the way as she did. "This better be good, they didn't pay me to get up early..." The red vixen grumbled. "And the hazard pay better be good too." The Vixen grumbled, her actions and attitude throwing almost all speculation that this was the blue known vixen that looked very similar to her, straight out the airlock.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on June 03, 2019, 11:28:11 PM
In another section of the Draconis, Sohdakin was going over his gear, tweaking the BOSS as the last thing he needed was for it to malfunction during an operation.  At the moment, it was partially disassembled so he could check over various components to both inspect and clean them.  He was also adding some upgraded components that will help smooth out the initial recoil and target tracking.  He knew he was the new kid on the block, recently assigned to the Draconis as relations between the UNSC and the Rohkah Empire were growing but not quite there yet.  So, the empire sent one of their best to join the Draconis. For now, Sohdakin had kept to himself as he wanted to observe the rest of the team, see how they interacted with one another.  Rohkah society was centered around the military as everyone served the empire in one way or another.  They were in a constant war with an enemy of their own making.  So, being with others who had different social norms interested him and he hoped to fit in with the group.

When the call for the Hazard team came over the intercom, Sohdakin put down what he was working on and immediately went towards the Bridge.  Unlike Krystel, Sohdakin did not wear his armor all the time and could usually be found wearing his duty uniform, he just had to remember that he couldn't walk around armed, like he usually did around Rohkah ships.  Once he arrived at the bridge, he ducked his large frame through the door and stood back up before looking about to see just where everyone was gathered.  He overheard Krystel as he entered the bridge, which brought a soft chuckle from the Rohkah.

"Mmmmm, you get paid for this? How cute" he teased, pressing her buttons just a little "I fight for the greater good, I have no need for payment. Would you stop fighting if you were not getting paid?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on June 06, 2019, 04:22:38 PM
"Alright - now that we're all here, we can get started," Viktor said. He inhaled deeply, and began, "Some time ago, the Weyland-Yutani Corporation lost contact with their facility on LV-1201; fast-forward a few weeks, and they receive a call from the mercenary general hired to look after the facility - General Vasili Rykov. He's the head of the mercenary group, the Iron Bears. Said the place was overrun by Xenomorphs, and he was requesting help. We were specifically requested for this op. That's why we're here. Our orders are to head in, clear out any Xenomorph infestation, take stock of the situation, and assist the survivors wherever and however possible." He tapped a few commands to the console next to his chair. This brought up a map of the AO. "Now, the facility is divided into two sections: The Primary Operations Complex and the Forward Observation Pods. The Pods are the likeliest place the survivors have pulled back to; unfortunately, it's situated in a box canyon and unsuitable for landing the Draconis Furiam. The POC, however, is just south in the canyon, but has one landing pad not far from it, at the canyon entrance that's large enough to drop the Gravity Lift. We need to, however, secure the area before landing the ship there. So, we are taking two drop ships in to clear out the area of any hostiles and restore power to the area. That should give us a beacon to fix on and land. Any questions?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on June 07, 2019, 05:22:44 AM
Valentine steadied herself after the red vixen’s shove, her head screaming in pain. She struck the bridge floor with her staff, anchoring her and preventing a fall. “These...xenomorphs. Are they organized? Civilized, maybe? Like the Bugmen on Mongdrigo. Or...are they more animalistic?” She half expected the former, losing a military outpost to animals seemed unlikely. If they were to Mongdrigan specifications, they’d still need clearance codes to bypass auto-turrets.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on June 07, 2019, 09:30:49 AM
"The only thing you need to know is that they are hostile and very vicious creatures. They were designed to be a biological weapon. Even though they're having an anthro appearance, their physiology is very different and as what I figured from the UNSC' database, they're very individualistic. They do work in groups, but they act very well even being alone. Besides, I'd like to add - their bodies are filled with an acid, so consider this when you decide to give them the business with a melee weapon. And they're very... tricky. The only question which I want to ask, as the person who was once a part of the UNSC emergency team for five years... does anyone knows where we're heading, except for this... Rykov?". Arashi asked, answering Valentine question at the same time. Ori has had vast experience at such kind of operations, so her question was very typical in given circumstances. She knew what Xenomorphs are, what is the Weyland-Yutani Corporation, but as she never was on LV-1201 and the facility down there, she couldn't be sure, that everything will go well as it should. The description of the operation sounds pretty good and with the abilities of the team, there shouldn't be any problem. Just land down there and kill everything that has a prolonged head. Hence provided, they'll be stuck on the planet without any means of planetside communication, the only people who know where Viktor is with his team gonna be their only chance. Several times during her careers it had happened, so the female Orokin knew what to ask.

Speaking about the team. Likewise, a galaxy-skinned girl wanted to ask something about the last transmissions from the facility, but then she noted a... dragon. Ori has seen reptile races over the Galaxy, Trandoshans and Tiss'shar were a bright example, but Sohdakin looked very different. Majestic, she would say and surely, wasn't a bounty hunter like the most of Trando's. Course, she failed to resist her urge to ask about this scaly teammate, it was her nature inherited by her Orokin' descent. Wild, furious desire to know everything. She is gonna work with him after all.

"I know about Sangheili but dragons... Where have you found him, Viktor? I thought, that his specimen has been wiped out thousands of years ago. Incredible. He is walking history I'd like to discover". Pointed on the Rokhah, Arashi asked. From every saurian race she has seen, one-the was the... distinct. And no doubt, she would enjoy her talk with the dragon. There were so many things to discuss.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on June 07, 2019, 01:06:18 PM
"Dragons are not extinct at all." Krystel Grumbled "They just went into hiding." The Red vixen added , pretty much ignoring what was said otherwise, she didn't care about the rest. After all she was only here because no NCC operative would even want to be seen helping WY. The red vixen grumbled to herself as she scanned over the schematics of the base. "Why are we helping these people again, why can't they clean up their own mess?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on June 08, 2019, 04:32:02 AM
Sohdakin sat taller when Viktor started his briefing, his eyes going between the others in the room as he tried to size each of them up.  He had read their files but what is on paper and who they are, are two completely different things.  He wasn't sure how much the others had fought together or were they all new as a team?  The large Rohkah remained quiet and listened to Viktor, he took mental notes of the facility as well as looking at the schematic for any potential choke points, areas ripe for ambush and most importantly, locations with plenty of egress points.  Getting backed into a corner is never good.

"I only need to know one thing, where.....they........are." he said when Viktor finished his briefing. He looked to Arashi with a squint of one eye as he made his remark while also acting as if he was using his talon'd hand as a gun and shot at an imaginary Xenomorph. He looked towards Valentine as she asked her question and was about to answer when Arashi spoke up before he could. 

After Arashi finished her explanation, he looked at the strange colored female with a raised brow and smirked "You do know that I can understand you" he said and shook his head slightly, chuckling at it all. "I would hope that I am not extinct, the Rohkah Empire is rather strong and far from being extinct." he said then paused, "We just lack a planet of our own....well, I mean a habitable planet at least"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on June 08, 2019, 11:02:00 PM
"Are we done with the commentary?" Viktor stated officiously. "Only thing that matters is that the Xenomorphs will attack anyone - or anything - that isn't one of them. Those that aren't killed are dragged to their nest to be used as incubators for new Xenomorphs. We have three hours before we hit orbit; I would strongly recommend we study the profiles we were provided on the Xenomorphs. Soon as we hit orbit, everyone will muster in the hangar; from there, the Draconis Furiam will descend the atmosphere and head for the LZ, and we'll take drop ships in to secure the site. Once it's ready, we wave the flagship in. This ship will be our base of operations, and our ticket off this rock - hopefully, with a nice paycheck and good loot. Dismissed, everyone." Viktor looked to Ori. "Ori, please remain." His eyes would tell her what he would not say with words. A word in private.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on June 09, 2019, 07:56:47 PM
Valentine nodded, turned, and headed for her quarters. She needed to meditate, and possibly contact home. A planet like this would be an excellent addition to the Mongdrigan powers. The people were hardy enough to survive these xenomorph things. They sounded small, like ravagers, and probably didn’t breathe fire. She shuffled through the halls, gently rubbing her head, hoping to calm her pain.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on June 09, 2019, 08:02:15 PM
Krystel grumbled when 'ori' was mentioned but stepped off the bridge regardless of her feelings. As she left she let her mind reach out into teh ship trying to pick up anybodies thoughts she could find.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on June 09, 2019, 11:00:31 PM
"Yes, I do. Just like the Orokin. We're a nomadic nation now. But... I've studied Rohkah Empire history, so I'm pretty sure we have a lot of things to discuss... in spare time.". Ori said with a smile before Viktor had pronounced his speech. However, her smile was difficult to notice due to her skin which was a result of an experiment which went wrong, but luckily no one got hurt in the process. Sohdakin was an interesting person, no doubt. And in her spare time, she would surely enjoy a conversation with him. Meet anyone from his kind is a gift, which Ori don't want to ignore, even though she knew about the DMC and Dragon'taan. Because like in case of the Orokin Empire, the Galaxy might still hold the remains of Rohkah Empire begging to be discovered. And hence treasures.

"Sure." Course, she noted Krystel' grumble but Arashi assumed that's because Viktor didn't answer her question. Just like the Ori' one. But she could understand the wolf. Perhaps, he was too excited being overwhelmed by the mission importance. But in case the vixen was jealous... well, she could try to befriend with Sohdakin. Because who knows, maybe they're gonna be the love till death. And when Viktor and Ori were the only people on the bridge, the galaxy-skinned girl added. "Tell me the UNSC knows about the upcoming op. After the Solanae Dyson sphere, I'm trying to be always sure about that".
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on June 10, 2019, 05:06:03 AM
Sohdakin raised a talon before they were dismissed "Do you have any ROE's (Rules of Engagement) for this op?  Weapon restrictions, no fire zones....things of that nature" He hoped that there were little to no ROE's as he would hate to leave his beloved BOSS Hoss in its storage container.  He had other weapons of course....but, when delicacy was not an option, go big or go home was his motto. His attention returned back to Arashi when she spoke up again, a curious brow raising as he was curious what exactly she wanted to discuss.  "Mmmmm, I will be at the range. Need to do an equipment check before we go planetside."

After everyone was dismissed from the briefing, he looked to Krystel with a confused look and was about to ask Valentine about the strange Vixen but it seemed the small Racoon had already left.  The moment that Krystel touched the Rohkah's mind she would feel it push back slightly 'Hey now, no peeking!  If you want to know, you better just come and ask me directly' Sohdakin's mind closed off after that and would not allow her to probe him further, yet.

The large Rohkah went back to the armory to finish tweaking his equipment, wanting to get it all ready before the muster call would sound.  If the Draconis had an indoor range, he would go there after putting his weapons back together to do some test shoots with each weapon in his arsenal.  The last thing he wanted was for him to bring a defective weapon on an important operation....that was one quick way to get you and your team killed.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on June 11, 2019, 09:32:13 PM
Once the others were off the bridge, Viktor looked to Ori. "They know. But they find it odd, as I do, that I was asked for by name. Like this... Rykov person knows me. Near as I can tell, I've never met him. That being said..." Viktor closed his eyes, reaching out with the Force, before saying, "... Something isn't right. There is a disturbance in the Force, but it's so... so subtle, I can barely make it out." He opened his eyes and looked again to his love. "Whatever happens down there... keep your head on, and I'll get to you as soon as I can. I have a bad feeling that this is more than what we were told." He shook his head, looking to one of the holographic panels. "Rykov..." he muttered. "... Korari... Rykov..." he mumbled something, but eventually shook his head. "You'd better go get prepped, sweetheart. I'll meet you in the hangar."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on June 12, 2019, 02:03:20 AM
Valentine found that, for the first time in weeks, she couldn’t focus enough to calm her mind. With a huff, she stood and made her way to the hangar. She had adjusted the psychic isolation helmet she wore. The thing acted as a focusing lens for psychics, blocking most outside sources and amplifying inner sources. Though the constant headaches and the helmet biting her scalp she could do without.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on June 14, 2019, 08:38:07 AM
"Don't worry, Wolfy; if the Voth weren't able to kill me, no single Xenomorph will, either." Ori said, after she had run over Viktor' head with her hand, she walked down through the corridor and got inside her room. She had nothing to say even, so she was finding what Viktor told her a little strange as well. Perhaps there could be something personal between Rykov and Viktor, but that's only a guess. Because any time Ori had something personal with anyone, she got called by her name too. So sticking to the plan was the option for now. Inside the room, Ori has checked her fully charged warframe and jumped into it, turning the suit on. And she was glad to feel the go-to metal once again. Once done, Arashi has picked her link gun, stuff and ran toward the hangar.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on June 15, 2019, 12:03:41 AM
Krystel could sense the 'Dark wolf' and the 'odd human' still in the bridge, The vixen mentally growled "People need to friggen learn when it's time for attachments' She grumbled to herself heading to her own room...
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on June 15, 2019, 04:49:30 AM
After an extensive check on all of his equipment, he loaded most of it on the transport that would get sent to the hangar and depending on what the ROE's were, would determine what equipment he would load onto the transport and what he would put into standby.  If the Draconis had a normal crew, he might get odd looks at how much weaponry the Rohkah had brought with him.  He wasn't sure what was worse though, the fact that he had quite a bit of weapons loaded on the cart...or the fact that this was but a small fraction of all the weapons he had stored elsewhere.  Once the cart was loaded, he sent it on its way to the hangar before he began to put on his own battle suit.  Unlike what the UNSC had for its Spartans, the Rohkah battle suit was designed to allow the individual to dawn the armor themselves as well as being able to remove the armor at will.

Sohdakin did not wait for the call to arrive at the hangar as he headed that way after he got his armor on and powered up.  Once in the hangar he would do a walk around both the transports, looking them over as well as where he would be sitting.  He wanted to familiarize himself with the craft, not wanting any suprises should they run afoul during the combat drop.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on June 15, 2019, 09:23:14 PM
Some time later, the call came to muster in the hangar. Viktor was already en route when the Draconis Furiam hit orbit over LV-1201, and when he got to the hangar, he told anyone present, "Everyone, lock and load and get aboard - we launch the moment we clear atmo." He then boarded the  drop ship  (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/avp/images/e/ec/Cheyennepylons.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/1000?cb=20140803013750) himself. A hologram Romulan sat at the pilot's controls, and a B1 Droid at the copilot controls.

It was go time.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on June 16, 2019, 12:06:44 PM
Valentine ran a paw across the hull of the dropship. Her brother had left Mongdrigo years ago, before the blockade and isolationist ideals, joining some machine-worshipping cult from the back end of nowhere. She had gotten a few messages from him months ago, but they were little more than cursory check ins and how-do-you-do’s. He would’ve knelt before the craft and praised it, praying for safe landing. With a shrug, Valentine dismissed the thought and boarded. “Captain,” the raccoon girl said with a nod in Viktor’s direction, though her eyes were obscured by her semi-conical headpiece.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on June 16, 2019, 05:02:00 PM
Even though Ori was an engineer, she trusted Viktor enough, so checking the dropship was an overkill. Besides, the vessel before her eyes Arashi tested several times before the operation, so no issues should be with the transport, at least no major. She was in doubt till today if rocket armaments make any sense. Ground troops supporting? Space combat assistance? One clear shot and the vessel is gone. The ship isn't designed for a battle. Maybe... for an operation like this, yet Ori wanted to be sure that it's right. But it wasn't the last question which she has been worried about. She has a lot of them but has no idea how to make it as a single question. There was no time for this.

"Let's get this done.". Said Ori, hoping there will be no turbulence during the landing as this scenario hasn't been tested.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on June 16, 2019, 05:41:31 PM
A Red armored Spartan Canine walked into the hanger,the metal bottomed shoes of her armor pinging on the metal floor as she walked into the Dropship "This better not be a waste of my time." The canine Spartan grumbled, as her armor's shield powered up a teal energy field engulfing her suit as she powered up the combat systems of her armored suit.  The Canine, obviously Krystel, pulled back on her Battle rifle's bolt, with a loud click her gun was primed to fire. "Do us all a favor and don't get in my way and let the big guy  do the heavy lifting he's got the biggest gun, after all." The vixen grumbled crossing her arms over her chest Rifle in one hand, Pistol 'clipped' magnetically to her hip.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on June 18, 2019, 03:01:25 AM
The large armored Rohkah had been waiting by the transport when the call to muster came. His gear was already stowed in the seat closest to the door as he would need to be the first out the door, which also meant he would be the last to board the craft.  So when Viktor entered the hangar, he stood tall and saluted the wolf "Sir! Who has lead on the ground?" he asked and remained outside he craft as more of the team arrived. Sohdakin gave the small Raccoon female a curt nod as she shuffled onto the dropship. Then as Arashi and Krystel arrived he patted the side of the craft "Welcome to the express elevator to hell!" he said and smirked at the armored canine as she made her usual grumpy remark, though he wouldn't disagree with her last part. "You do your part and I will do mine.  You are part of a team now, Spartan.  Best you remember that.  We all need to count on one another and you acting all grumpy isnt helping us start to trust that you will have our back when shit hits the fan and it most likely will"

Sohdakin would lean over and down to meet her gaze with his own "You, Spartan, are no longer the big dog in town.  Lets play nice, shall we?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Lacar Lacrest on June 19, 2019, 07:31:08 PM
The cybernetic shark sat in the seat closest to the cock pit being a backup pilot in case anything went wrong he was required to do so. He fiddled with the terminal on his wrist adjusting some settings here and there for his nano ware armor. Though he hadn't gone to the briefing due to checkups he made on the ship he already knew what the objective was from listening in over comms. He watched as the rest of the team gathered and spoke amongst themselves not paying much mind to them.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on June 20, 2019, 10:25:00 PM
The Draconis Furiam dropped out of Transwarp over LV-1201. From orbit, everything appeared normal. The ship descended through the atmosphere normally, and as soon as the ship was inside, the hangar doors opened, and the dropship took flight, heading for the AO. The first ten minutes were uneventful, outside of the vibrating hull due to inclement wind and weather conditions. All was quiet until the Pilot piped up over the radio, "Reading 1500 meters to the landing beacon." Mintutes later, she spoke again: "Wait a minute - where's the damn facility? We should be right on top of it!" Moments later, alarms in the cockpit started going off. "WHAT THE--?!" the pilot shouted, cursing in her native tongue. "HANG ON!" The dropship lurched, then shuddered as it hit something. The ship landed moments later, and the boarding ramp lowered.

"T'liss, where the hell did you learn to fly?!" Viktor growled.

"Flight school," the Holo-Romulan responded. "Same place that taught me not to fly blind in hurricane winds!"

"What'll it take to get airborne?" Viktor asked.

"A landing beacon, and wind shear data, for a start. Plus, the ship's a little beat up; stabilizer's jammed. I could fix it, but it would take me an hour or so. The antenna's fried, though," T'liss replied.

"That won't be an issue - once we secure the LZ, we'll control an entire subspace array," Viktor said. "Ori, take Sohdakin and Lacar and make for the facility, get the power online and get that beacon activated. rest of us will remain here and tend to the dropship. Remember to keep your video cameras on, and we can guide you from here. Move out."

(Sohda, you're up when it hits your post. Remember what we discussed. Everyone else, what Sohda does was discussed between him and me.)
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on June 21, 2019, 12:46:25 AM
Valentine stepped out of the lander, steadying herself with the massive icon she carried while re-adjusting the helmet she wore. After a few seconds, she drew her weapon and scanned the area. "We seem to...be clear." She turned and waited for the others. Although she was many things, a point-man she was not.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on June 21, 2019, 03:49:16 AM
A growl and a grumble could be heard from under one of the seats that had broken off it's hinges.."LEARN TO FLY  YA Green Pointed-eared Broccoli!"Krystel growled as she got up throwing the broken seat out of the dropship with the full power of her  armored suit , not careing if the leather seat hit anybody on it's way out or not. "What? could you repeat that?" She asked Viktor not hearing what he had said on account of being on the floor of the dropship....
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on June 21, 2019, 09:30:06 AM
Ori looked surprisingly on the vixen as her words made the female Orokin a little frown and made her smirk. Course, under warframe' helmet it wasn't seen, so Ori has just turned her head to Krystel side. Her arrogance Arashi didn't like, and she hoped that Viktor too. Even as a mercenary, she is too self-confident. On an unknown planet, it's not a great choice. Arashi would believe in such words by Viktor as she has known him for years. But pinpoint-eared female didn't want to discuss or argue about Krystel' statement as she thought, that the time will show the importance of teamwork. As Sohdakin correctly stressed it out.

"Viktor and I will do what we think is right.". Ori said right before the dropship hit something and the female fall to the floor, ignoring pain feeling being a little shocked of the happened. As she was afraid, it probably was a case she hasn't tested. If only she might get be prepared for this, Ori would handle as her suit was capable of climate control and everything related to the weather. That's why Ori added later as she knew, that the happened wasn't entirely caused by the dropship pilot only. "It's not her fault."

Upon landing, Arashi grabbed a rack with engineering stuff, placed a video recorder upon her helmet and headed to exit of the dropship. And this is where she met Lacar. She was pretty sure that she hadn't seen this guy on the bridge, but then she recalled his case. And she was glad, that she wasn't the only starship engineer here as she was once he, Spyra and Viktor had taken this ship on Corellia from hands of pirates... or whoever they have been. But she wasn't too much glad by the planet environment - it was way dark. Luckily, her suit has had a night vision. And in such dark, the whole team is going to do their mission. The only positive moment in all this was her squad, which she considers pretty good; thus, she can get her familiar herself with two guys more closer.

"Yes, sir. Sohdakin, Lacar, let's go, guys". Ori said and after she checked her position on the map, moved out to the entrance of the LZ, which was beyond the rock hill. During the time the squad has been traveling to the facility, Ori decided to use the time in-between to get familiar herself with teammates better. As her experience has shown it, such things always help. "How does Viktor had found you before the operation, guys?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on June 22, 2019, 05:04:57 AM
Throughout the drop, the large Rohkah remained apathetic even when the pilot shouted out a warning moments before the entire craft lurched suddenly with the impact.  He would calmly reach out with an outstretched arm to steady himself while the craft bounced and rolled as the pilot regained control of the dropship.  The moment the ship landed, Sohdakin released his harness and proceeded to grab his rifle from its stowed position across from him.  The Rohkah's face was obscured by his helmet so Valentine would not see the frown that appeared on his maw when she proceeded to maneuvered around Krystel then  him as he was reaching across to get his rifle. "Hey, Mongdrigan, how about you let those with the proper gear to exit the craft first. You are not front-line equipped." he called out then looked to Viktor as he gave his orders. The armored head nodding as he stood up, did a quick check of his gear then proceeded to exit the craft and charged his rifle.

Once outside the dropship, the heavy rainfall drenched everything around them and kept normal visibility to a few meters at best.  That would have posed an issue if they could only use unassisted vision, thankfully the Draconis was feeding them with high resolution scan data of the area and superimposed it on those equipped with an interlinked HUD. Sohdakin would casually walk up to Valentine and tap her on the shoulder and motioned for her to return to the ship and get dry. 

"Area secured" he would report after going down to one knee and scanning the area for any signs of trouble.  His head would turn as a seat was thrown from the craft when Krystel had managed to finally get herself righted and out of the craft.  The Cerinian sure knew how to make a spectacle of things and made the Rohkah chuckle softly.

When Ori finally exited and proceeded to head up the rock hill, Sohdakin waited for everyone else to get past before he stood back up and followed.  He had gotten but a few steps when he noticed a door to his right and a quick check of the map told him it was an entrance to an adjacent facility.  Since all the facilities were supposed to be linked together, he turned towards the door and highlighted it on the map. "Ori, entrance 6 meters to your right" he called out and proceeded to the door.  He pulled up the door codes that Viktor had provided everyone in the mission packet and found the door to be jammed after a few attempts with the codes.  "Welp, looks like we are going to have to attempt a bypass" he said then simply punched the controls, smashing the control pad to bits before anyone could step up to hack the controls.  A satisfying hiss let him know that the door had released its locks and allowed him to pry the door open manually. 

Sohdakin was unsure if it was because the weather was overloading his sensors or if it was because he was too eager to get out of the blasted weather that he didn't check for traps before stepping inside the facility.  He had gotten two steps in when his suits alarms suddenly flashed a warning.  He barely had time to realize his mistake when an explosion engulfed the armored Rohkah, blasting anyone that followed behind him out of the facility and collapsed the entrance behind him.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Lacar Lacrest on June 22, 2019, 08:05:16 AM
Lacar sat apart from the group continuously monitoring his Holo screen that projected from his cybernetic arm ever so often speaking up to the pilots throughout the flight. Lacar had picked up a strange reading through his sensors quickly buckling in just before the pilots sounded the warning. He jostled and jerked as the transport hurdled towards the ground only to groan in pain once the landing had succeeded. He watched the others gather their equipment for a moment before standing himself. He checked over his systems before grabbing a large equipment bag straddling it over his back. Mid way through gathering his things he would turn to Victor as he was ordered to travel with Ori and Sohdakin. He nodded turning to leave the craft only to stumble out of the way of an on passing chair. Following behind Ori and alongside Sohdakin lacar would watch his Holi screen almost none stop until Ori had asked how he got the job. "well I......" he was interrupted when Sohdakin pointed out the nearby entrance. Following him lacar didn't bother to help with the door as he waited for an order from Ori,who he viewed as his superior. After the brute forced the door open lacar followed him inside only for his alert system to begin flashing read. Without a moment to spare Lacar threw up an energy shield just in time to cover him and Ori but it was to late for Sohdakin as the explosion threw Lacar back out into the storm.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on June 22, 2019, 05:04:35 PM
And so they reached the facility. Course, Ori was slightly frustrated because Sohdakin hasn't replied on her question, but she knew, that the place and time weren't appropriate. Burned spots on goods crates and wrecked vehicles were good evidence that there was a battle for sure and it was tough. A sign that the squad should double their guard, yet there was no enemy presence. And it would seem that what could go wrong. But when Sohdakin started to open the facility' door, Ori turned serious once again. Because in her rucksack was a device designed for bypassing consoles like on LZ. Such consoles weren't only in this place. WY uses the same security technologies as a good part of the UNSC space. So, in theory, she could open the door without Sohda' brute force. However, her thoughts have faded away quickly once the explosion occurred. In no time, she performed a spin move around her axis and projected a large boulder in front of her and Lacar as it was one of her warframe ability. Combined with the shark' energy shield, the impact of explosion wave was minimal. A little disorientation because of the sound but nothing except that.

"Sohdakin! What the hell was that? Sohdakin, are you alive? Shtako...". Ori said via her comlink built-in her warframe. Then she attempted to remove the rubble using earth bending, but because of concrete' nature (it wasn't a nature element), she couldn't move a single piece of the collapsed wall. Moreover, her sensor has detected some movements from the north, and ideally, they should stay here and wait for the Rokhah. Arashi assumed that he was strong enough to deal with the rubble. But it would take time, and Ori was afraid about what could happen with the dragon and resolved to act as she always does - on her own decision. But before that, she needed to report to Viktor. "Viktor, this is Ori. I'm unsure but seems like we have lost contact with Sohdakin. There was an explosion, and now a large mass of rubble separates us. I'm also picking some movements on the North of my and Lacar position. So I'll try to do something from another side of the facility. Ori out".

"Hold me tight, pretty boy.". Ori said upon finishing her communication with Victor and then embraced the shark. The building itself wasn't too huge in height, so even with Lacar, she could use her flying ability and perform a land on the roof of the building. And so she did - upon charging enough energy to execute a mighty jump into the air and holding Lacar, Ori jumped on the roof of the building. But with Lacar the sound of their landing should be pretty audible even for Sohdakin. From there they should find a way either inside the building or find another entrance from the ground. And this what she pronounced next but directly to the shark. "Let's find an entrance. Look for shafts. I'll check the ground".
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on June 23, 2019, 03:21:00 PM
*** LZ Facility ***

"Sohdakin may be alive - his video is down, but his vitals are still coming through. I think his Transmitter took a hit though. Sohda, if you can still hear me, get your *** moving and make for the facility. Get that landing beacon online. Ori, Lacar, try and find a way to link up with Sohdakin. Krystel, Valentine, fall back to the drop ship, see if you can help T'liss get this bird flying again. Good luck, Sohda."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on June 23, 2019, 06:06:08 PM
Valentine stood as a sentinel for the repair detail. A shame her brother wasn’t here, she thought. He’d have this thing up and running far better than it once was. Something those machine cultists taught, no doubt. But machines were not her specialty. She had holstered her firearm, and instead kept one paw open at her side, fingers twitching. She’d taken Sodhakin’s comment to heart. The weapon was more a deterrent than anything. Valentine’s real weapon sat nestled betwixt her ears, ‘neath a psychic isolation helmet. Her mind had been retrofitted to mimic the Force, by way of focusing one’s mental energy. The Mongdrigans lacked the midichlorians, but strove to be like their lord, Malgus. Not to say it wasn’t any less lethal. The spears of lightning Valentine threw were on par with some Force adepts. But, with most offshoot things, there was a catch. Use too much energy and you pass out. Store too much and pop it all at once, and one is liable to tear themselves apart as well as their target. Valentine shuddered; now that’s a rough way to go.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on June 23, 2019, 06:34:41 PM
"Well that went well." KRystel muttered once she heard the explosion, continuing with the repairs of the dropship Well at least i'm not with those losers. She thought to herself considering the fact that one of the just set off an explosive trap

"With all due, respect uhh.. Sir. I'm right next to you." Krystel replied, indeed she had been standing next to Viktor the whole time assisting the repairs of the ship, now  putting a panel back on to the wall covering the wires she had been fixing...
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on June 25, 2019, 07:22:28 AM
"Warning, system reboot in progress" came a familiar computer voice of his suits AI system.  It wasn't a true AI like Sarla(or Cortana) but it was programmed to help the suit's user with various tasks. "K2, give me status report" he coughed as pushed himself back to his feet and heard the familiar hum of his shield array recharging.  It seemed that the blast was enough to deplete his shields and throw him several yards from the entrance.

"All systems nominal Sohdakin, you should be more careful when entering an unknown facility."

"Thanks for that tidbit K2. I will keep that in mind" Sohdakin would huff and brush himself off and check himself over and found that his shields had protected him from the explosion. Though it seemed the camera system that Viktor had requested he wear had shorted out when his shields had overloaded.

"So.d..kin! Wh....hel...s...hat? ..hd.kin, are...y...alive? Shtako..." came a garbled message as it seemed coms were a bit patchy at the moment.

"K2, see if you can clear up that signal"

"Recalculating, will be a moment. I am getting a steady signal through your vital coms, using that to help reroute other com paths.....Done!"

"Captain...Ori, seems this facility has a few surprises in store for us.  Ori, are you and Lacar ok?" he asked and turned to look behind him at the collapsed entrance.  Though a quick check of his map would show the two moving away from his position and sighed some relief.  "Alright, Im going to find an alternate route to the beacon. See you there!"

Sohdakin checked his rifle and charged it as he wasn't sure what to expect in here and did not want to get caught flatfooted. 

A quick scan of the immediate area, never mind that an explosion had just blew apart the entrance, it looked disheveled.  A fact that he didn't immediately notice when he first entered the doors.  It was as if a battle had taken place here and perhaps explains why there was a booby-trap set.

"Captain, keep your guard up.  This entrance had seen some fighting, looks like small arms fire and use of blasting charges.  Would explain the booby-trap.  Whatever it was, they didn't want it coming in this way." he said and paused when he saw something on the far wall that caught his attention "Looks like some plasma burns too....did the Weyland-Yutani have any plasma weapons in their armory?" he asked as he didn't recall hearing that the mega corp used plasma weapons, especially on an outpost such as this.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Lacar Lacrest on June 25, 2019, 08:32:59 AM
      Standing up Lacar would open up his system report withing his implanted eye visor. He dusted himself off grumbling as he went through his systems. The shield he used to block the blast had left him unharmed but drained a good portion of his suits energy. Though his suit would replenish quickly with it's ability to passively pull energy particles from the air it was still annoying." Damn reptile almost blew us to an early grave." he dusted himself off a bit more before directing his attention to Ori as she spoke. His eyes widened as he was suddenly embraced only to be hoisted into the air.
      Once landing lacar stepped away before speaking "I could have jumped up myself...you didn't need to carry me." when she gave him his orders he nodded before raising both arms above his head slamming them into the ground. His suit would be able to use the vibrations to map an area around them as long as it was solid since sand doesn't carry vibrations well.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on June 25, 2019, 12:46:54 PM
"Yes, we do. How are you down there, Sohdakin? I and Lacar on the roof now and we're going to find an alternate entrance into the building. And yes, as far as I know, Weyland-Yutani security forces use plasma pulse-wave rifles. So the patches we have seen are probably shots from their weapons, I believe.". Ori responded, observing the roof. Course, she was glad to hear the dragon being alive, who somehow has managed to re-establish connection with the teammates. If Ori could be sure, the reason for Sohdakin radio signal interference was the air which was way more 'statical' than on planets like Corneria or Earth. She feels it, as her suit can sense everything related to the planet' atmosphere way better. And speaking of the air, the Orokin couldn't comment on Lacar' response. So before she headed to the edge of the roof, the pinpointed girl added and shrugged. "You're welcome."

Right before Ori was able to reach the end of the roof, a scream came out from a shaft on the surface, what made the girl shiver for a bit and feel the cold on her skin. It was one of the spooky feelings she never wanted to hear or experience. Sohdakin could hear it in a way clear that than the couple above him. And Lacar may sense it through his vibrations, that there was something below the roof, in the vent system. And if that wasn't a Xenomorph, then who? Because as she knew, those freaks can use vent shafts to move. Other species of this planet never been reported as a problem. Without further hesitation, using air behind her suit to low the gravity in the place she wanted to land, Ori jumped down to the ground and looked around herself. Once the galaxy-skinned one noted a gate with non-damaged control panel, she rushed to it. Luckily, the codes Viktor had provided, were working this time, so the gate opened without any issues. Behind the gate, was a truck, so the room was a sort of a garage. Probably still operational as the vehicle wasn't damaged.

"Sohdakin, this is Ori. I suppose you've heard the scream. I've found an exit from the building, but chances are, it's below the level where you're currently on. See, if you can find any clues on how to get here". The female Orokin said, inspecting the room. Behind the truck was another gate, but codes for this panel didn't work this time. She also noted a hatch in the ceiling, but it was a little narrow. Sohdakin' large frame with his armor might not fit in the hole, but that was her only guess. And this is where Ori resolved to wait for the dragon unless other instructions provided.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on June 25, 2019, 05:39:42 PM
"Negative, Ori, Sohda - WY does not use Plasma-based weaponry. They use rifles chambered for 10mm Explosive-tipped caseless rounds; Sohda, your a/v feeds are still down, can you describe the plasma marks you saw? Pattern, size, anything?" Viktor asked.

"Almost done, Captain," T'liss reported. A spark flew and she jumped in surprise, shouting a few choice Romulan remarks.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on June 26, 2019, 03:40:04 AM
Valentine listened to Viktor’s communique intently. “Plasma scoring? Sohda, did you find any emplacements? Big things, with big clunky boxes attached by cable?” As she waited for the response, Valentine pondered. If Mongdrigan emplacements were found, what would that mean? For Mongdrigo, for her. If it was a Mongdrigan plan, what would Lord Malgus want with this backwater storm-ball? She glanced back at Krystel, flexing her paw idly. A single charge could overload locomotors, or blow the ship.
Valentine shook her head and dismissed the thought. She’d cross that bridge when she needed to.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on June 26, 2019, 04:01:14 AM
"Plasma?" Krystel asked "Correct me if I'm wrong but there are only 3 know species that regurally use plasma weapons, Sangheili, Romulans and that third one." Krystel said mostly to Viktor. "Are we possibly dealing what that third race?" she asked "If that's the case... i really need to look up their bio..." The red vixen added looking over to Valentine. 'Her scrawny race of purple coons uses plasma weapons?' she thought as she continued the repairs, turning to the romulan and shaking her head 'play with wires and your gonna see sparks, pointy ears... she thought with a sigh.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on June 28, 2019, 04:09:25 AM
Sohdakin was about to question Ori when Viktor spoke up and affirmed the Rohkah's suspicions that the burns did not come from the colony and was from an outside source.  "Toto, we aren't in Kansas anymore" he muttered into the line "Unless they figured out how to wield guns and open doors, we have a different issue going on" He said after a brief pause and heard the scream himself.  'What the....' he said to himself and checked his sensors which could not pinpoint the source of the scream as it had echoed considerably.  "Captain, are you getting this?  Why am I getting this feeling that we were not given the whole story" he grumbled and proceeded down the hallway as it appeared to take him along the best route to the beacon. "Negative Ori, we need to get that beacon on-line, that's more important and I rather not waste time trying to get back to you." he added and checked out the plasma burns again "There are not a lot and it seems like they were fired from a high angle, almost looks like a triangle pattern to some of them." he said then shook his head, forgetting that nobody could see him do so "Negative Val, no sentry guns so far, if thats what you are asking"

"Mmmm you would be wrong Spartan, there are many species who use plasma.  The Rohkah have quite a few types of plasma weapons, I even have some plasma shells for my shotgun." he would call out and smirk, though nobody would see it.  He wasnt sure why Krystel thought that only a small handful of species used plasma out of the thousands out in the known universe.  He guessed she didnt travel much, though that would be odd being that she claims to be a mercenary. 

Sohdakin simply shook his head and continued down the hallway, following the beacon as well as taking cues from K2 as it mapped the facility while he made his way. When he got to the end of the hallway, he turned and came to a locked door, which he got open after typing in the code, what he saw on the other side made him pause. "Shit...." he muttered as he held his rifle aiming towards the door while reaching into a side pouch and tossed a small device that made a faint clicking sound.

"Captain, we have a problem" he said as the device began to give him a hazy image of what was in the room as it mapped everything that reflected the pulses of energy back to it.  "Looks like I found some of the workers" he said with a hint of venom in his reply "Or whats left of them anyway"

Once the Rohkah got a good idea of what was in the room he proceeded into it and scanned the area with his own eyes and more active sensors.  "Whatever attacked this facility....decided to hang the dead workers from the ceiling, some have plasma burns through their chest....others have some nasty cut marks, like a pair of blades were used"

"Hmmm you think this might be the work of the Yautja?  I find it odd they would leave bodies hanging like this and not remove the skulls" he would say and not disturb the bodies as much as he could as he made his way to the other side of the room, making sure to stop and pickup his beacon before he left.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Lacar Lacrest on June 28, 2019, 04:42:28 PM
After his vibrations had returned to him with a small map of the surrounding area Lacar made his way to Ori hearing that she had found another entrance over the comms. Making his way over he would jump down landing behind Ori as she finished communicating with Sohdakin. "We should probably go ahead and open up the door in case Sohdakin ends up coming this way. We don't want him getting stuck on the other side with need for a quick exit." Lacar stated to Ori as he walked over to the doors terminal before giving a soft smirk. "this tech is so outdated, give me a minute and I'll have this door open....without a bomb going off." Lacar stepped over to the terminal before holding his cybernetic appendage out, small metallic tendrils left his palm hooking into different inserts withing the terminal.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on June 28, 2019, 08:24:57 PM
Before Ori could do anything, she noted a couple of flashlight beams in approximately two hundred yards from her current position. There was a bridge. The female Orokin firstly frowned trying to guess who those persons have been, but when she made a step toward the coming people, a couple of missiles appeared in the air and has hit just in the position where those persons were running. Course, the explosion has torn apart the people running, alongside with some vehicle on the bridge. Sounds of the blast should be heard well enough across the entire site. Whatever did that, that thing was furious. And her team might be its next object.

"Did you hear that? Someone has just fired missiles in the running people.". Still watching in the distance, Ori said. Now a creeping fear starts to making her blood to pulse up, and Ori began to feel the adrenaline. However, she shivered once more because those people could be her team or even herself. Because of the explosion, most of the radio air talks has got damaged, but the moment about Yautja and workers Ori has heard. And despite the fact, that the Orokin never met anyone of Yautja (or Hunters as they were mentioned in UNSC archives) personally, she read about them a lot before the operation. Matching what she learned, the galaxy-skinned assumed, that those Hunters are here as well. And it might be one of them who has fired the missiles. "Sohdakin, don't go too far, Lacar and I am going to find a way to your position right now. Please affirm.".

And while she was waiting for a response, the girl in warframe decided to inspect the room behind the door which Lacar had opened. It was something that Ori had to do on her own, but the cybershark appeared to be faster. Perhaps this is why he was on the team. This time no trap has been triggered, and the two could examine the room. Inside the room was a wrecked truck with a dead man inside the vehicle. Next to the car, a PDA was lying. Apparently, it belonged to the dead man. Messages in PDA were stated, that the landing beacon was in the primary operation complex and this building was nothing, but a security outpost. What's Sohdakin then trying to find out?

"Sohdakin, I've found a PDA of a security officer. I think we're in the wrong building. We need to get to the primary operation complex, and this building is security outpost. Thus, get yourself outside of the building through the way I suggested and let's move on further". Still inspecting the communication device, Ori said. There was nothing more worth to read, so she just put the device to a side. On the farthest wall was a door but it closed on an electronic key. If that was way on the level above, they should try it for sure. "Lacar, see if you can run a bypass against this lock."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on June 28, 2019, 10:41:52 PM
Everything was a disaster. Lithian wasn't sure how things got the way they were. Perhaps being low-level security was a blessing as he wasn't at ground zero, wherever that was. All he knew was that they had been left to fend for themselves. With absolutely nobody coming to help out those stuck in the POC, and no orders from any kind of leadership to go off of, Lithian devised his own plan.

The plan was ambitious, but perhaps futile. Go room by room, remove any threats, and then destroy any vent entrances to restrict Xenomorph movement. With enough luck, maybe he could establish some kind of foothold of relative safety. Ammo, however, was going to be a problem. He had his blaster which had a virtually unlimited supply, but his shotgun was far superior. Surely the security outpost had some kind of armory with extra shells in stock.

As Lithian made his way towards his destination, he heard a loud BOOM! He stowed his motion tracker away, pumped his shotgun, and went straight for where he heard the noise. Where on this planet did someone find explosives? Lithian burst through the door, shotgun raised only to see the grizzly sight before him. It took him a few moments to fully comprehend of what he was seeing, only to realize that someone else was in the room.

That was a giant dragon. With a big gun. And the barrel was aiming squarely at Lithian.

"If you're going to hang me up like them, then you better not miss," Lithian spoke, not even bothering to switch his aim towards the potential murderer.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on June 29, 2019, 12:26:30 AM
As the situation unfolded, Viktor grew increasingly unsettled. But outwardly, he remained calm. It was all he could be, even though he worried his lover would meet a gruesome end. "Captain," T'liss reported, snapping Viktor's view from his team's a/v feeds, "Damage repaired, sir."

Viktor nodded. He spoke into the radio, "Valentine, Krystel, strap in and be ready for dust-off; Sohdakin, Ori, Lacar, we're taking off in five; what's your status?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on June 29, 2019, 12:21:50 PM
"What We're leaving already?" Krystel asked finishing the repairs on a wire and sitting down in a seat "Here's hopeing we don't blow up taking off." Krystel muttered to herself as she strapped in.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on June 30, 2019, 06:40:41 AM
Sohdakin groaned as he heard Ori....again and huffed "I can take care of myself mom" he said over the com line,  "Viktor didnt hire me cause I was green and wet behind the ears.  I know how to function with a team and by myself, I dont need you or anyone holding my hand like Im some child. We have a job to do and a beacon to get back online.  I know where you are, I know where the beacon is, you are in a far better position to get there so I suggest you stop wasting time trying to...." he said then paused the moment he cause motion on his sensors and now found him face to face with what looked to be a Gargoyle. 

"Hands up! Do NOT move" he growled as he kept his rifle trained on the Gargoyle.  "Who are you, identify yourself!" he called out and took a step back as he waited for K2 to check their database for the security guard.  Once it was confirmed who he was, Sohdakin would soon lower his rifle "Im not a Yautja and Im definantly not here to hang you upside-down and skin you alive" he grumbled then activated his com link to everyone "I have a live one.  Looks to be a security guard." Sohdakin looked back to Lithian and hummed in thought for a moment. "Lithian, I need access to one of your security terminals.  Preferably one that your supervisor or his boss would use to log in to conduct their daily duties" he said and when the Gargoyle took him to where such a terminal was, he nodded his head and walked up to the computer and looked for a data port and jacked into that.  It didnt take long for K2 to find a vulnerability and give Sohdakin full privlages to the system.  "Mmmm, now I own the place" he said out loud and perused through the file directories till he came across an interesting folder that was labled Rykov.  "Captain, got some intel you might want to see"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on June 30, 2019, 09:59:40 AM
"Okay! okay! Calm down!" Lithian rasped, releasing his grip on the trigger and raising his hand in the air while he set the shotgun on the ground. "I'm Lithian. A security guard."

Well a pretty crappy security guard, all things considered, he thought.

He remained still, even when the first explosion was followed by several more. Being a gargoyle, he was pretty good at being perfectly motionless. "I don't suppose you are the one responsible for all these explosions, are you?" Lithian ventured, knowing full well he was pushing his luck.

Lithian made a sigh of relief when Sohdakin lowered his gun, "I have no idea what a Yautja is, but I'm glad you aren't one," he said, giving another look at the... scene. He turned to Sohdakin with the next question of a security terminal, "My superior's security terminal? Rykov? Well I can point you to *a* security terminal, but the one he uses is at the FOP I think," Lithian paused, before continuing with some contempt in his voice, "... I bet they're still up there, just watching us get mown down by those creatures. I'm guessing you aren't from there, huh? One week of this mess and they just left us all in the POC to die."

Lithian straightened himself up, "Sorry about that, just a lot of stress. A week without help is... never mind. Here, follow me. I can get you into a terminal, but my credentials don't exactly have a lot of access," Lithian scooped up his shotgun on the way out, "By the way, how many of there are you? We're going to need an army at this rate..." He then watched as Sohdakin jacked into the system before Lithian could attempt to login. "... Or you could do that."

After a few brief seconds, a realization came over Lithian, "Wait a minute, you aren't just going to take whatever you want from that computer and just leave me here are you? I know you held me at gunpoint, and for all I know you people are pirates exploiting the situation, but..." he hesitated, "but honestly, I'd rather get vented into space or kidnapped and sold off than deal with this mess." This had to be one of the lowest points Lithian had ever been in his entire lifetime, only second to returning home a mangled mess of barely functional robotic parts.

Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on June 30, 2019, 04:30:38 PM
Krystel Reached out with her mind and attempted to link with Sodahkin  'what are you doing you lug? Get back to the ship and who is that talking to you?' She asked,though her telepathy at this point was stretched to it's limit due to the distance... so the message may have been quiet, if she did link with Sodahkin,at that range it could have been Lithian instead...
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on June 30, 2019, 06:36:36 PM
The dragon has had humor sense for sure. And Ori appreciated it. However, the current situation was a little inappropriate for any humor. At least after she saw like two people were getting exploded by a missile. Moreover, when Sohdakin mentioned the security guard, the female Orokin decided that it was something that needed to be handled by her own. That security guard might know how does the security system of the entire facility works, and thus, it may facilitate access to most of the buildings. And Ori remembered, that the facade of this security post had windows and when the galaxy-skinned landed in front of the gate, she had seen them. And with enough force applied into the air dash, she could break the window, and hopefully, none of the two on the upper floor won't see an attacker in her.

"Lacar, try to open the door, and if you are not able to, wait for me here. I'll be on the level above us." Said Ori in a rush, and exited from the garage. Then she made a few steps back from the building and one she aimed at the glass window, she charged energy into her air control unit and performed the dash. And it did the trick. She managed to broke the window and even some ceiling in the process. It didn't hurt tho', maybe just a little. Inside, she spotted Sohdakin and... the security guard about whom Sohdakin has been talking about. And he looked epic. The real gargoyle. Well, this trip Ori considers pretty successfully as she met at least two guys, whose species were found as a half-myth. A material to study. So once she got up after the infiltration, she decided to speak. "A Gargoyle? I thought you, guys are a myth. Just like Rokhah. Incredible it is."

Course, it wasn't what Ori wanted to say, she just was dazed to see a creature like Lithian. Regardless, as she was still a member of the UNSC, Ori needed to present herself as such. And so she quickly changed her tone on more serious, saluted afterward. "I'm Ori Arashi, UNSC rescue and emergency team. Sohdakin said you're a security guard. Can you help us with is with the Primary Operation Complex and entire LZ facility in general?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on June 30, 2019, 07:14:01 PM
Valentine tapped her helmet against the interior wall of the dropship in thought. It was all she could do, really. Something about this place kept her divining clouded. Too many variables, she figured. Didn’t mean her moment-to-moment foresight would abandon her. Though her eyes covered and shut, she still watched Krystel. Valentine felt the crimson vixen reach out, and was confused by her. Must be like Lord Malgus, Valentine dismissed with a sigh. All the flying around was making her nervous. If the base was defended like Gorbis, climbing any higher than three-quarters of a kilometer would get them a tank-sized, macro-caliber sled to Hell. But, as she walked the thought back, they didn’t have to dodge orbital guns on the way in.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Lacar Lacrest on July 02, 2019, 11:37:26 PM
Lacar nodded to Ori before she left instantly making his way to the doors terminal. "such pathetic technology, this'll only take a moment." again having several small mechanical tendrils leave his mechanical arm inserting themselves into the scanner. After a few passing moments the scanner would spurt out a few Sparks before the door opened up. Turning on his night vision lacar stepped into the door looking down the corridor lined with a few doors. Stilled hooked to the scanner he attempted to bypass power turning the lights on in the hallway before exploring.

He stepped up to the first door, it opening as he neared it, leading into a bathroom and shower. Giving it no second though he deemed the room unimportant before moving to the next door diagonal across the hall. Opening it he found stairs leading up to the floor the rest of his team on. Last door he went to was packed, making quick work of he scanner he'd open up into the barracks. Stepping into the room lacar would give it a good once over finding individual weapon lockers, each locked with a key card and number code. Towards the back was another room, again locked. Lacar hacked his way in only to find an office with a desk, computer, some Holo pads, and so on. "Ori, Sohdakin, I found a computer along with some Holo pads and data logs in the barracks. I think it was the office of the Outpost commander. I can start trying to access it if you'd like?" he spoke into comms before taking a seat at the terminal.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on July 04, 2019, 03:54:58 AM
While the large Rohkah downloaded files from the terminal he made sure to grab security keys, schematics and any other usable intel on the facility. "I do not know about the explosions" he said as he continued to look through the files "Did you set that boobytrap?  We need another way out, the way I came in is blocked" For now he ignored the question as to their numbers as he didn't quite trust Lithian, not yet at least.  "We have enough to do the job we came here to do" was the only answer he would give on the matter and detached himself from the data port and then added a wireless access device that he then attached to the wall to turn the entire facility into a giant antenna. "You are coming with me, stay behind me, though try not to bump into me.....you'll get a nasty surprise if you do."

As Sohdakin walked out the door he yelled back at Lithian "We are not pirates"

As he made his way up the stairs and into what seemed like a control tower he turned back to see if Lithian was right behind him when Ori suddenly burst through the window.  Sohdakin turned and aimed his rifle at her momentarily and when he recognized who it was he huffed in irritation.  He made sure his external com was turned off as he addressed the Orokin "What are you doing Ori?  I told you I had this.  What possible reason did you have coming in here that I couldn't do myself?" he said, doing his best to keep his irritation to a minimum.  "Do you think that I am that incompetent in dealing with a stranded security guard, that you had to intervene personally?  Either you are inept, dont trust your team or you micromanage.  None of which are favorable for a well functioning team."

Sohdakin would look back to Lithian and turn his external com back on "Stay with her" he would say and motion to Ori before he walked over to the large door that led out of the upper floor and typed in the new code he got from the computer. "Lacar, I setup a wireless access point so you don't need to sit at the terminal if you do not want.  Range should be good to reach you.  Oh, I got the updated door codes as well as updated schematics and maps for the facility." He walked out of the facility without another word and headed down to where Lacar was, though this time  he stood outside the door and waited for him there.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on July 04, 2019, 05:46:09 AM
"No, why would I set up a trap? I'm more likely to kill another survivor than another one of those freaks..." Lithian muttered, "and what do you mean what you came here to do?" Lithian followed behind as ordered. Despite his desperation, he was still wary of his situation.

"You sure seem like it," Lithian retorted to the Rohkah's response about not being a pirate. Lithian immediately covered his mouth, mentally kicking himself.

Maybe this was a mistake. A reaction created by fear and desperation. None of this added up. There were only Xenomorphs around as far as Lithian could tell. Sometimes the motion tracker would pick up something else, but nothing was actually ever there. Just glitches. The FOP were jerks but not murderers. Someone else was behind the explosions and hangings. What if these people really were malicious? How many more people would die by their hand? Trying to escape with these people would be selfish. Something needed to be done. Or at least, something to redeem himself after his pitiful display.

A voice then came from... somewhere? Within? Without? It didn't sound like it was addressed to Lithian, but he heard it nonetheless. How could he respond? Could he even respond? What kind of insult was calling someone a lug? Given the situation, now may be a good time to pull some strings. He focused on the voice, and, having no experience with any kind of psionic abilities, tried to respond.

Your teammate here is holding me at gunpoint and is refusing to tell me anything. He's going to walk into another trap, and if you don't tell me what the heck is going on, I'm going to let him walk into it. It was a boldfaced lie, but one that might work.

His thoughts were interrupted with the shattering of glass. Lithian didn't have his shotgun at the ready, but he did have the reflexes to position himself in such a way where the big dragon was in the way of the window. After the dodge, Lithian then pulled up his shotgun, aiming it at the back of the lizard's head.

Lithian stared blankly at Ori for a few seconds, dropping his aim before saying, "Rescue? You guys were rescue and you never told me!? Why the heck would you be so evasive about this? I thought you guys were pirates! Are you sure you two work together!? And I know there's a third person here too! Your telepath missed!" he took a few steps back, "Look, listen, everyone! Before I help anyone, I want to know everything. NOW," he turned to Sodahkin walking out, about to say something, then deciding against it.

Addressing Ori again, he continued, "Look, either quit the charade and shoot me, or tell me everything so I don't help a bunch of pirates make a bad situation worse. We have enough dead as is, and I'm not going to let you guys shoot more. There are explosions, people tied up, plasma marks, and none of these can be explained by xenos. You two... three! You three are the only ones else here!"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on July 04, 2019, 06:47:26 AM
'Huh?' Krystel thought keeping this small response out of the telepathic link. ' I Dunno who you are but you'd have to be pretty stupid or pretty braindead to even attempt that, and I'm going to go with stupid or desperate. The link may be weak, but I can sense your lie, not to mention  that he'd likely make you walk into the trap if he had you at gunpoint, oh and I can read your emotions too, and your not afraid unless again your braindead and have no fear of someone pointing  a giant gun at you. So maybe you should tell me what is actually going on and what the shell that ... odd skinned, thing doing bashing through windows?!'

Krystel sighed, cutting off the link after her 'message' was sent, she turned to Viktor. "You still think this was a good idea?" She asked. "Looks like we already have some team dysfunction..." Krystel told Viktor with a sigh.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on July 04, 2019, 08:59:43 AM
That escalated quickly. Ori expected much more cooperation from Sohdakin but looking on his actions, the female Orokin now started to think, that she is going to operate here like on any other UNSC operation in the past - alone. Yes, according to the original plan, they need to stay together, and on this planet, it was a necessary thing. However, the dragon has had a personality which Ori didn't like the most - she never worked along quite well with selfish people. Weird that Viktor didn't consider this moment during the building up the team. However, the female didn't want to discuss this right now as she had more important tasks.

"Sohda, if you want to be a hero here, go ahead, yet we didn't ask for this, mister dragon. And if you die, it will be your fault. Don't forget we're on the enemy territory, so if you don't want to turn into a rotting corpse here, I'd suggest you to stick with the initial plan. I thought Viktor made it clear for everyone". Ori responded, being a little annoyed of dragon' lack of discipline, so even Krystel might feel it. Yes, service at the agency made her very militant when it comes about her job, but the galaxy-skinned girl liked it. 'It forges your will' as she would say. As a UNSC operative, she used to follow any order as is and no step aside. That is how she was still alive and part of the UNSC, and that is how every operation was successful up to this day. Speaking of which, Ori needed to tell it to Lithian as he was completely unaware of who the people have just arrived here are being. And so the female Orokin did with the pure calm voice as nothing happened before. Anger management is what she always shapes. "As I said, I'm from the UNSC. To you, we're friends. We have more people not so far from here, and once the landing beacon is activated, the reinforcement will arrive. That is why I need you there. We should be there already by the time passed if someone could follow the orders. So, I'll wait for you outside. Rest of the questions you can issue during the way to the complex."

Once she has done with her speech, Ori exited from the building through the door opened by Sohdakin. There, next to the shore of a river (or what seems to be), the Orokin waited for the gargoyle. Frankly, the female could use her abilities and reach the POC now, but she was unsure if Lithian could fly or had any flying abilties. So once the new ally approached her, she asked, watching in the distance. Just where the complex is located.

"Can you fly? And touch the sky". Ori only asked, tilting her head to Lithian' side.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Lacar Lacrest on July 06, 2019, 10:00:13 AM
Getting no response from Ori, but instead Sohdakin telling him how to do his job he let out a low groan turning off his comms. Let's hope nothing happens to the others. Going through the files within the system Lacar found a locked secret folder. "hiding something are we?" he chuckled as he hacked into the file in under seconds using his internal mainframe. It was mostly shipping documents and....wait. Found a file on a shipment orchestrated by Eisenberg in coherence with Tal Shiar. One lacar attempted to access the fill further he received an excessive shock through his pluggins. The computer combusted sending lacar back on his rear along with disfunctionel vision and fritzed out systems. Opening up his comms he attempted to speak to Ori. "System malfunction, Eisenberg assisted Tal Shiar with....with....with shipment to plan....plan...planet." he stated  before attempting to reboot his systems.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on July 08, 2019, 03:40:56 AM
Well the lie to the telepath didn't go well, though the blowback was a bit humorous... and idiotic. The telepath must have had some pent up anger issues. She also had to be lying herself since obviously her ability to read emotions was heavily flawed. Lithian was indeed scared of the situation. Maybe it wasn't a fear that caused someone to scream and run away in terror, but it was the kind that forced people to do things they normally wouldn't in an effort to avoid it.

Lithian nodded to Ori, before tilting his head, "By reinforcements you don't mean the telepath right? I think I already ruined any friendly relationships with them. Uh, sorry. I-" Lithian stopped, shaking his head briefly as if to snap out of something, before continuing, "Let's just get your other friends here."

He followed Ori out the door that the Rohkah opened, "Yes, I can fly. And... touch the sky. This should make things quick right?" Lithian spread out his wings; the thrusters tucked underneath them began to glow and hum ever so slightly.

"Okay, so to repeat some questions, does anyone know anything about the explosions and that trap? Also my dead teammates. Unless the FOP went rogue and has started killing its sibling, we've got more than just xenos here. Oh, and... what's-your-name... if you see any survivors, for the love of everything, tell them you're part of a rescue team next time. With all the explosions going off, I'm sure some of them have come to the same conclusion I almost did and are just going to assume that outsiders are hostile."

Whenever Ori was ready, Lithian was ready to follow.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: MintPlush on July 08, 2019, 06:44:15 PM
The explosion was what alerted Minthe that others were there. She had spent the last several minutes after that trying to get the comm-link in the medic bay to at least pick up something. It had crossed her mind that these may be folks she didn't want to find, but she was low on supplies and the longer she stayed barricaded in this hellhole, the shorter her life expectancy got.

She decided that reaching out was probably her last option for getting out of here. After some time, she was able to pick up some chatter. The young medic couldn't make out a whole lot except one word here..another there..

Minthe's fingers typed deftly.  She began to pray to whatever god there might be..
"Medic Bay 104. Help. Medic Bay 104.." She typed in the coordinates to her position, took a deep breath, and sent the message. "Please, someone get it.." She put the message on loop and hoped it would come through to someone.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on July 09, 2019, 08:55:59 PM
Sohdakin was standing outside the compound, waiting for Lacar to finish what he was doing when an alert popped up on his HUD, indicating that traffic was transiting the network that was not originating from any of them.  "Lacar, you getting this?" he said over the com channel and waited a few seconds before trying again "Lacar.....you there?" he said and just before he was about to check on him, he heard him respond to Ori and shrugged, figuring that the Shark was busy and pulled up the communication that appeared to be repeating over and over.

"Ori, going to check on that emergency call, may be a trap but cant leave someone behind if its not a trap.  Please keep others away till I can confirm....but stand by, just in case this is a trap" he said, chuckling darkly as he hoped he wasn't the trap magnet for this op. He was still irritated at the Orokin, but he wasn't going to let his personal issues interfere with the mission, nor put the team at risk cause the two had a bit of a tiff.   After confirming the location of the Medical bay on his updated map, he proceeded back into the complex.  He took it slow as he wasn't sure if there were other surprises to be had along the way. 

As Minthe waited in the med bay, she would, at first, feel the slight vibrations through the floor till the sound of heavy, metallic footfalls echoed in the hallways and got louder.  The large armored Rohkah was anything but silent and for this instance, silence wasn't exactly needed.  When Sohdakin got to the med bay, he paused and waited for K2 to access the security cameras in the med bay to confirm who or what was inside, hoping that the Yautja would not mess with the cameras. Once he had the feed up he banged on the door and took several steps back from the door.

"To the personnel inside, open the door, identify yourself, and slowly step out, one at a time, with your hands up, facing away from me" he shouted as he stood back from the door by several paces.  He turned on his flood lights  so that if it was a trap and those inside were going to ambush him, would come out to bright lights flooding their vision.  He wasn't taking any chances as he also had his rifle aimed at the doorway, waiting for whomever was in there to exit.

After Minthe exited the med bay and identified herself, Sohdakn would turn off his floodlights and lower his weapon "Are you or do you have injured?" he would ask and approach the med bay to peek inside.  Once he confirmed it was just her he took a step back "Get what you need, we need to head out to meet with the others.  Not sure how secure this building is.  Do you have any weapons training?" he would ask while waiting outside the med bay letting Minthe gathered what she needed.

"Ori, got another stowaway, she looks to be a medic, coming out to you in a minute" he said over the com line and when Minthe was ready to go he would start to head back down the hallway.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on July 09, 2019, 11:07:26 PM
"Yeah. Well, someone here doesn't seem glad to see us here, and I do suspect who it might be. And that's someone going to be one of our enemies". Ori responded to Lithian observing the sky and trying to figure the position for her flying abilities. The previous security guard' question about making things quick sounded more like rhetorical to the Orokin, so she didn't respond. Because why? It was obvious that if he can fly, the process of getting to the complex could be faster. However, further events put the galaxy-skinned one in doubt once again. Firstly Lacar, then Sohdakin. Course, she couldn't ignore any of them, but she had her task which must be already completed and Ori didn't want to delay it anymore. When the shark mentioned Tal Shiar, the girl in waframe should inspect those files in the first instance. But... Viktor counts on her, so she can't fail. She has no right to. And besides, she is a UNSC operative with thirty years of experience. And she is going to prove it.

"Copy on that, Sohdakin. Lacar, if you're fine, set your course to the primary operation complex. Sohdakin, you too, along with the stowaway you have found. Lithian and I are going to examine the complex and bring the beacon online. Stay vigilant tho'". Upon those words, Ori charged her suit' energy into her air bending ability (the Gargoyle probably could hear a thud hum coming outside of her suit) and lifted into the air on ten meters. But as the territory was unknown for her, the first several seconds she was drifting in the air observing the surface, luckily the POC was large enough building to recognize.

However, when she attempted to move forward, Ori detected a couple of missiles heading right into her. And if she has had would turn her night vision off, the female Orokin has probably missed it and got exploded like those two guys on the bridge a ten minutes ago. It was a night (or typical planetside condition), so on its background, it would be hard to locate. And yet she was able to change missiles direction in the last moment by creating an air dome in front of her, knowing that Lithian was behind. And thus rockets had hit a mountain to her right side. Good thing, the explosion produced by the rockets wasn't strong enough to harm the couple mentioned above, but the fact of the attack has Ori alerted heavily. It was the first direct attack toward Viktor' team since their arrival.

"Hell... This is Ori. Got contact with an enemy next to the complex.". She reported over the comlink and attempted to shot an unknown hostile from her link gun as the distance between them was affordable for plasma-based weapons. As she saw, the shooter was on the top of the cliff and was about to launch one more missile, yet Ori' plasma shots were faster and reached the target before the Hunter could do anything. Even though shooting being in mid-air was challenging (because of drift), two of ten shots had hit the Yautja in his chest, and he fell behind the cliff. Ori wasn't sure if the hostile shooter got killed or it was a tactical move. But it was a sign, that landing beacon needed to be activated right now. Hence, she flew further once she gestured to Lithian. "Go, go, go!"

Meanwhile, a pair of eyes were observing the newcomers and planned his further actions. But even if his brother was dead, the plan must be implemented. So he was simply waiting in the shadow.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on July 10, 2019, 02:52:44 AM
The comm chatter made Viktor increasingly worried. It was all he could do to not jump out of the dropship to assist Ori when she came under attack. When she nailed the assailant, Viktor made his voice known: "Alright, dropship is airborne, and flagship is inbound. Ground team, I hope to god you're still on track; take any survivors and make for the POC landing bay. Ori, Lacar, head down to the power station and restore power; Lithian, Sohdakin, make for the control room, and once power is restored, set the beacon. Minthe, if you can hear me, go with either group, but keep your head down. All of you, keep your eyes open for traps and your heads on a swivel; whatever that thing was that Ori nailed, there's bound to be more." Viktor then looked to Krystel. "Even a merc like you knows that when you get a job, you gotta make good, even in the worst circumstances." He then directed a question to Valentine: "Can you sense anything?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Lacar Lacrest on July 10, 2019, 03:18:18 AM
Lacar slowly stood to his feet only to fall to his knee. He twitched as he pushed himself to his feet walking out into the hall. His vision was hazed as his sight glitched and spazed out. "Affi.....fir.....firmative sir, will attempt to reboot pow....power.  "he voice was mechanical and stuttered in a laggy glitched matter. He left the barrack heading back to the main entrance him an Ori entered the out post from. As he stepped out of the Outpost be attempted to scan the area only for his vision to go static for a few seconds. He'd beat his own head a few times before shaking it his systems struggling to return to optimal functionality. "Ori, w....where....where are we go...go...going?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on July 10, 2019, 05:45:03 AM
"If you say so are we leaving ,yet i'm getting bored." Krystel replied back listening to the radio chatter.

"What's the plan once we're back on the ship?" SHe asked.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on July 10, 2019, 05:32:42 PM
Valentine bent her head against the icon, eyes closed though it mattered not. She reached out with the pseudo-Force power she had been given. Flits of something, though what, or who, it was wouldn’t come to her.
“Something is...wrong, Captain. I see something, yet the future is withheld. Someone or something is dampening my vision. It must be destroyed.”
She sighed, leaning back and wiping away the nosebleed that always accompanied straining her abilities. A side effect of artificially replicating Force sensitivity.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: MintPlush on July 10, 2019, 06:21:50 PM
The heavy sound of someone..or something..huge set her teeth on edge. Minthe hid behind a toppled over table and held her onto her handmade shock weapon tightly. She about jumped right out of her skin when he banged on the door.

 Slowly and with some unease the little ram opened the door, as she did she turned around away from him, her crude weapon clutched in her hands in front of her because she had forgotten to put up her hands and couldn't bring herself to let go of the one thing that had kept her alive this whole time. When the lights came on and she wasn't immediately taken or shot she sighed and let the electric pipe fall to the floor to her side.

A short statured Ram Anthro stood before the huge dragon. She had on a basic defensive power suite, her helmet wasn't up at the time so that he could see her face and know that she was not a bad guy. Huge curling horns of a leafy green color framed her face. Her ears were down and pulled back, still unsure about how 'good' this guy actually was and a bit uneasy without her weapon in hand.

"No. I..I couldn't save anyone, but I'm not hurt." As soon as he let her go back and grab what she needed she took no time to race back in and grab her pack which already held all the medical supplies she could carry plus some as well as she weapon she'd made herself.

"I was trained to shoot a basic plasma gun, but that doesn't kill the monsters here. So I made this.." She held up a long metal pipe with a grizzly sharp end, the handle was wrapped with some sort of medical grade rubber casing that she'd melded onto it. Wires and a battery pack were crudely strapped to the side and when she squeezed the end a dangerous arc of electricity erupted with a sizzle at the end. There may have been some dried blood and skin attached to the end if he could see well enough.

She followed him, connecting her comm-link to the rest of the team's in time to receive the message from Viktor. "Yes, sir." She complied. She just decided to stay with the one who'd come and got her.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on July 11, 2019, 05:21:22 AM
Lithian didn't hear what Viktor had to say. His comms weren't synced with anyone else's, and he was nowhere near Ori to listen when the plasma bolts were spotted. He did what any ace flyer would do when approached by ordinance. He did a aileron barrel roll. From there and without a word, he headed directly to where the bolts were fired from. He may have not been able to see who fired them, but he did know where those shots came from. He certainly saw the downed hunter.

Making the assumption that the hunter who was shot was at least out of combat for the next precious few seconds, Lithian slammed into the ground next to where the shots first came from. With his wings fanned out around himself, he activated his stasis mode, supercharging his shields, and electrifying everything and everyone around him. Lithian didn't know if there was more than just the one, but if there were, it wouldn't matter if they were invisible. The discharge was indiscriminate. Collateral damage was a guarantee. Any form of reprisal would be met with an extremely resilient energy shield. Of course, the one big downside to this was that Lithian was immobile as long as stasis was active.

The stasis would last only for a few seconds, provided that no form of counter-attack was made against Lithian. If clear, Lithian would deactivate stasis, approach the side of the cliff where the hunter was downed, and if he saw the beast, blast it with his shotgun regardless of its vitals.

"And that's for stringing up my friends!"

Lithian then pulled out his motion tracker, watching for any kind of activity.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on July 12, 2019, 08:05:31 PM
If stories told anyone anything it was to always watch for the cute ones.  Sure Minthe was a cute female Ram, but cute and innocent was what they WANTED you to think so you would let your guard down and pounce when you least expect it to.  Still, if Sohdakin were to fall prey to the cute little Ram, he wouldn't complain.  Once she got her supplies and ran out to meet him, he nodded his head "We will get you a proper weapon as going hand-to-hand is not the best idea with these bugs. They will swarm you quickly if you let them get too close"

When he heard Ori's call about enemy contact he picked up his pace "Stay behind me, lets get a move on!" he would call out towards Minthe.  The large armored dragon thundered down the hallway and emerged from the complex in time to witness Ori take out the unknown shooter.  "Roger that Viktor, its probably best she stay with me for now, Ori and Lacar need to remain mobile as much as possible." he said, figuring that Ori and Lacar had already come to that conclusion themselves but wanted to say it so everyone was on the same page.  He would look back at Minthe and hope she wouldn't mind that decision.  "Come here, lets see if you have any anchor points on that armor as I have an idea"

Sohdakin looked her over and when he found some points on her armor for attaching various things he would set his weapon down and pull out some clips and cabling "Stand still and I apologize for any inappropriate touching.  I promise, I am not trying to cop a feel but, cant have you falling off to your death" he would say as he looped the high strength cabling through some of her armor's rescue handles and made sure that it would not only hold but be able to release her quickly should they get into trouble and she need to get away from him and find cover.  Once that was complete he knelt down and motioned for her to face away from him before he clipped her into place and stood up with her now dangling from his chest. He was glad she couldn't see his blush, though Viktor might see the Rohkah's heartbeat increase slightly. "Umm, ok....hang on tight" he said clearing his throat and swallowing the lump in his throat before he went to pick up his rifle and opened his wings.  In a few hard pushes and some assistance from his armor, they were airborne and on their way to the POC and the beacon.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on July 12, 2019, 11:33:53 PM
Everything went smooth so far, much better than Ori anticipated. The way of how her winged ally handled the threat even has impressed her for a little as when Lithian has executed his attack; the gargoyle could hear a roar. A sound, which Yautja produce when they're dying. Regardless of that, the Orokin had continued her way toward the complex, once she spotted Sohdakin flying to the POC location. Following by a powerful acceleration in the air, the galaxy-skinned girl has successfully bypassed the POC gates and landed on what's appears to be the landing platform. Course, it had no lights. Then a very strange, a spooky sound came from nowhere. It was a combination of thud clicking and hissing at the same time. Something the same Ori heard back on the security outpost, but now the sound was a bit louder. Still, it sounded like the source of it was everywhere. If those sounds had been hearing by local workers, the galaxy-skinned one felt sorry for them. And if she wasn't able to bypass POC' gates, the girl (or someone else) could find out some of the skinned off creatures, hanging on a wire up-side-down. It was a ritual performed by Yautja.

"Nice threat handling, Lithian. Wish I Weyland had more guys like you". The female said, once Lithian was around. Then continued to find a location of power generators according to the map of the facility which Sohdakin had retrieved at the security outpost. However, Ori had no confidence that she could fix them. Maybe Lacar or Lithian could do it. Even though she wasn't sure about the former one as he was a security guard. Or do Weyland combines multiple jobs into a single one? That wasn't documented. "As you're local worker, I assume you do know how to fix power generators?"

Predator' P.O.W.

Once the Prince witnessed Lithian' actions and heard the roar of his brother, along with an unknown two figures heading to the complex in the air, he went to the POC side, being in cloaking mode. Then he spotted a dropship in the sky and figured another plan. That one will probably a bit slower than he planned before but the amount of joy which it will bring... it was worth of efforts. It was a beautiful view from his current position on a cliff. From there Prince was observing the landing platform. Now he needs to wait. The Primal Hunt is about to continue.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on July 14, 2019, 01:03:18 AM
"Ground teams, status report," Viktor requested. The dropship shuddered and groaned, causing Viktor to recoil a little. Looking to Krystel while waiting for the ground team to report in, he said, "Check around the ship, make sure everything's secure and there's nothing needing fixing." Looking to Valentine, he added, "See if you can help her. At the very least, make sure nothing's loose."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on July 14, 2019, 03:44:05 AM
"You'd think you could hire a better Pilot/mechanic." Krystel grumbled as she pulled off a panel to check on things... "I don't sense any sort of distres the comm system appears to be fine this dropship, however" She shrugged as she looked behind the panel finding nothing loose, she moved to another part of the ship to check....
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: MintPlush on July 14, 2019, 07:00:38 AM
She knew how dangerous of a situation she was in and she knew what risk this Rohka was taking to assist her escape, so she obeyed him as he checked her armor and hooked onto her anchor points. She merely nodded and said, "Okay, I won't fall."

Once she was clipped in and he stood she felt her feet lift off the ground. About the same moment she realized he was going to start flying she felt her stomach lurch forward and they were already lifting off the ground.
This was definitely not something she did everyday...or ever..and she was not that fond of dangling in midair dangerously. Out of sheer panic and unconsciously she gripped his arm tightly to her chest for dear life. "Don't drop me!"

They definitely had to live so she could talk to him later. Minthe refused to die here before properly talking to him.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Lacar Lacrest on July 14, 2019, 03:55:59 PM
Lacar re-entered the security Outpost moving to one of the vehicles. Spotting a large transport that seemed functional he'd open up the driver door a body falling out. It had a large plasma burned hole in his chest. Lacar shrugged this off jumping into the vehicle. Though the windshield was destroyed along with the seat none of the vehicles systems were damaged. Lacar was happy to see the vehicle's keys were still there and ignited the vehicle's engine. He'd punch the gas quickly bolting from the facility as he drove at the transports top speed towards the POC. His stems were still malfunctioning making it semi-hard to navigate.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on July 14, 2019, 07:49:51 PM
Sohdakin grinned, just a little, when he felt Minthe grip his arm firmly as he flew towards the POC. Though, he kept his eyes forward as he knew the area wasn't exactly safe and he needed to get back on the ground.  The longer he was in the air with her, the greater the chance of him getting shot at and with Minthe being barely attached to him, he would not have the ability to dodge much in the air.  "I got you" he said over the com as the wind and raging storm around them didn't allow for external communication. While the storm did provide some cover, it also made the flight a bit....bumpy. 

He followed the waypoint to the POC entrance and gripped Minthe tighter as he flew in for a quick landing, his large wings snapping open fully to brake his forward momentum and land with a light jog.  Once on the ground he would kneel and quickly detach the Ram before standing back up and pointing straight ahead to the door.  The high winds and rain still making it difficult to see potential danger as it also interfered with his sensors.  "Stand back, behind me but keep an eye out for trouble" he said to Minthe over the com channel and tried the new codes he got from the security complex, hoping that it would work.

When Sohdakin heard the satisfying hiss of the door seal releasing he smiled and took a step back, bringing his rifle to bear as the large doors opened up.  He did a quick check of the entrance for any signs of a trap and stepped in.  He turned to wave Minthe in and once she and anyone else got inside, would he then shut the doors to seal off the weather.  His suits floodlights kicking after the door closed, cutting through the pitch black as the power was still out.  "We are in, proceeding to the beacon controls and waiting for the power to get turned back on."  If the Yautja had a presence here, they all had to keep on alert.

"Lets see if we cant find you a proper weapon" he said to Minthe and after a brief search he found a small arms closet with a few Pulse Rifles and several full magazines inside.  He would pull one out and offer it to the small Ram "You know how to use one of these?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on July 15, 2019, 02:45:04 AM
"To be fair," Lithian began, "I only accepted this job under the assumption that this," he motioned around, "wouldn't have happened. I wanted a step down from what I usually did. I assume most who join Weylend were looking for a step up rather than a step down."

"Fix the generators? It was never my job, but I do know a thing or two about them. I had to construct my own body after all. The generators shouldn't be too far from here, though I wonder why they went offline?"

During the trip, Lithian finally got his comms synced up with the team, transmitting a small test message, "One, two, check. Is this thing working?" Of course, being that he just synchronized his comms, Lithian completely missed the fact he was supposed to head to the control room.

Upon arrival, he made sure that both him and Ori were standing off to the side of the door before opening it to avoid any kind of trap. Then just to be extra safe, he threw some debris left on the ground inside. "Okay, we should be clear."

The generator inside was a bit of a mess. It was supplying barely enough power to power the doors and other critical functions. Whoever built it didn't do a bad job however. The generator still functioning after the damage it received was a testament to their skill.

"Ah crap. Looks like someone messed with the generator," Lithian muttered, looking over the generator, "I can jury-rig a fix. It won't completely fix the problem, but I can route what extra power I can squeeze out to the POC. We need the proper parts and more time if we want to completely fix this," he grabbed a spare toolbox, "this shouldn't take too long. If you can watch the door and make sure nobody gets in, I should be able to get enough power to... uh... wait what do we need the power for? Don't tell me the beacon doesn't have its own independent power supply. It has its own battery... right?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on July 15, 2019, 03:48:22 AM
Valentine stepped around within the dropship, following Krystel at a distance. The machine she was tasked with fixing was foreign to her just as before. Her paws weren’t trained for maintenance, especially for military vehicles. Meanwhile, she reached out, trying to divine the future. It wasn’t taking, which troubled the Mongdrigan greatly. With a sigh through her nose, Valentine returned her attention to the machine.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on July 15, 2019, 08:23:40 AM
"Ori is reporting - Lithian and me at the POC and about to bring the power supply back. Hang on in the air for a while". Female Orokin said right before Lithian had landed. Then she continued walking with him further. Course, she has seen the dragon with the new member of the team but was too busy to talk. "Hm... you probably do know, that the most of local workers are laborers who were criminals with death sentences verdict. Have you volunteered here on your own or you have been bought out by the corporation? Also, do you aware of Eisenberg researches?"

The fact that the facility had a single power generator sounded for Ori unrealistic. WY saves money on people, not on equipment for their job. That is why the girl in warframe inspected the map on her helm' HUD once more and spotted a small room, or rather a basement, not too far from her and Lithian position. It looked like there was some sort of an auxiliary generator and maybe they should activate it now, than wasting their time for fixing the current one. They were short on time; hence, quick solutions of any kind of problem were very welcomed here, especially when Viktor' dropship was still in the air.

"I don't know. From the schematics retrieved by Sohdakin, it appears, that the power supply of the complex is centralized. I guess we can wait for Lacar, and I suppose he can help with this. But, hold on... I see one more generator in a room right under the landing platform. Maybe we should activate it and hope, and it will have enough power to supply the facility. Let's check it out, mate". Ori said and neared to a hole next to the landing bay. There was a ladder, leading down. She jumped down and observed some kind of a tunnel filled with red, alarming lights on walls. According to the map, the auxiliary generator at the end of the tunnel. And she would continue, but Ori was unsure if she can activate it on her own. Thus she enabled her comlinks to talk with the shark and gargoyle, examining the interior. "Lacar, I hope you're fine. When you get here, see if you can fix the primary generator. If not, don't waste your time. Lithian, let's go and see if we can activate the second generator".
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: MintPlush on July 16, 2019, 12:51:19 AM
Yah know, flying in any other circumstances may not be so bad.. Minthe thought as the turbulence bounced her around and the threat of being shot out of the air loomed over them. She was grateful for him gripping her to help her feel more stable as he landed. She felt her stomach flip as his wings extended and the bounce of him jogging to a stop on the ground.
She had never been so thankful to be unattached to someone and on the ground in her entire life. "Gotcha." She replied to Sohda, watching his back.

Entering the building once she was told to do so, she let him lead again. She switched on two small lights on the shoulders of her suit to assist her in the darkness. Minthe took the weapon and rounds he'd located for her, loading it casually. "Not formally trained, but yes I do. After you." She once again fell back behind him, feeling much better with a weapon that had some kick to it.

She heard Lithian over the comm and acknowledged him. "I read you. Minthe here. Sounds like your comm is working."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on July 18, 2019, 05:33:45 AM
Lithian paused for a moment, locking eyes with Ori "I came here on my own under a contract. I got a tip from a friend. As for the criminal thing, I figured that most employees here were vetted, considering the nature of the facility. Either way, I got to know these people, and most of them seem like pretty alright. I'd trust them in a gun fight. As for Eisenburg, I've never head of that."

He nodded to Ori's mention of an auxiliary generator, "That seems like a better idea. I'll follow you." Lithian didn't know of any other generators. Being a security guard, he didn't exactly have access or need to have that information.

"By the way, you never answered my question. What do we need the power for? The beacon has its own battery right?"

The duo traveled down the tunnel, reaching the generator at the other side. It was smaller than the previous, but otherwise looked untouched. "Oh, this should be as easy as hitting the power button."

It wasn't.

After a solid minute of tinkering with the generator and a little bit of a kick, Lithian managed to get it up and running.

And with the generator, what broken remains of the security system slowly came to life. Across the compound a garbled siren began to sound. Turrets either failed to deploy or had long ran out of ammo. At this point, security was only good for making a very loud noise. A noise that would draw the attention of everyone and everything within a large radius.

"I... think I know why the other generator was damaged, and I don't think it was for malicious reasons. This could be bad."

Lithian aimed his shotgun towards the only entrance... and only exit.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on July 19, 2019, 04:01:57 AM
Sohdakin checked Minthe over quickly as to make sure he removed all the cabling so it wouldn't trip her up should she need to maneuver in her armor.  "Good, grab some extra magazines, lets go" he said and went to the door that would enter the hallway they needed that should take them to the beacon controls.  "Ori, we are proceeding to the beacon controls." he said then checked his map "ETA should be 5 mikes"  He looked back to Minthe again to make sure she was good to go before proceeding down the hallway.  As they made the trek, he would occasionally glance behind him at the small Ram to make sure she was doing alright.  Sure, he could see her position on his map, but his map didn't tell him her state of presence. 

As he predicted, they reached the beacon control room just before he felt a shudder run along the floor and a faint rumbling sound as the power kicked in and lights slowly began to turn on.  It was at that moment his audio receptors caught a soft hissing sound and it seemed to come from everywhere.  "Crap....." he muttered and then ran over to the beacon controls and began to get the systems back online so he could activate the beacon "Viktor, I think we just woke up the hornets nest!" he warned everyone and looked to Minthe "Lock and load, we may be getting unwanted company...." he gruffed and activated his motion sensors. "Lets hope they wont come our way"  He would jack K2 into the terminal so he could go back and pickup his own rifle and made sure it was ready to defend the two of them "Ori, get your skinny ass up here!" He said as he checked his map to see where Ori, Lithian and Lacar were located and had K2 estimate the path they will potentially take and marked it so he knew where to expect them to come from.  "Minthe! We should have friendlies coming down that hallway..." he pointed out to his left, "...so shoot anything that moves from this one" he said as he pointed to his right and proceeded to begin sealing and closing the doors that went further into the complex and potentially where the Xenos would come from.  "Goddess help us if they figure out how to open doors"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on July 19, 2019, 02:01:35 PM
"Looks like Weyland keeping their workers are dumb enough not to let them figure out the actual state of the things. Can't say it's something bad, but UNSC's auditor reports never lie. You probably want to read them all now." Ori has said, upon she made the way to the auxiliary generator along with Lithian. His answer was pretty expected as the corporation doing anything they can to prevent laborers from getting access to auditor's report. Otherwise, the laborers would raise a rebellion against their employer. And Ori would be glad in case it could happen because it would mean less headache for the UNSC who has a lot of tasks in the present days aside from the WY. She then added once she was able to track the electric circuit of the landing beacon. "Seems like the beacon is powered up from power generators. So, turn the generator on.".

Once Lithian has started the generator, quite soon, warframe' motion detector started to pick signs of lifeforms, and the rate of detecting signals was high. If those lifeforms were what Ori assumed, the ground team would get a good experience at shooting practice. And today's practice they'll remember for the rest of their life as their lives will depend on how strong their shooting skills are. Since Ori was closest to the exit from the basement, she rushed to exit and with a single high jump, got on the POC' landing platform. There are the galaxy-skinned one noted an opened gates, which were closed a couple of minutes ago. After checking the map, it turned out, that it was a security station. But what was worth to note, is an APC inside its garage. And no doubt, it was the Weyland' armored transport. Even from the position where Ori stand, she could say that the car was huge. And so she decided to report this to Viktor.

"Viktor, there is a Weland's APC next to the landing platform. I suggest to make use of it, provided it's still working-". The female Orokin said and wanted to continue, but then two Xenomorphs appeared from the same room where the APC was standing and rushed to Ori. Luckily, the distance between her and two hostiles was big enough to kill them with her link gun before any of them able to reach the girl. But it was just the start of the party, as the hissing and clicking sounds were getting louder. Course, she can't leave Lithian behind, so Ori resolved to wait for the gargoyle and then move on. With her abilities, she wouldn't have any problems at killing Xenomorphs, but most of her offensive skills are for mass destruction. In this way, Ori was afraid to harm anyone or the POC itself.

"This skinny ass can kick yours in a blink of an eye. Me and Lithian en route." The female Orokin replied on Sohdakin' request and then rushed inside the POC control room, watching for more aliens. She thought that with Sohdakin' support, Lithian and Minthe have good chances of surviving the waves of vicious creatures attack, even though they were in the building. And Ori might wait for Viktor and his team to land, providing covering fire. But then she figured, that firing from a high would be better and thus, she proceeded further.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: MintPlush on July 19, 2019, 08:20:06 PM
She was just grabbing a few extra magazines, strapping them to her side for easy access before following. Minthe picked up Sohda's chatter to Ori, nodding to herself as she reaffirmed that they were heading to the beacon controls as she suspected.

A week in this place had been enough to know how the Xenos worked and traveled in the base. She was on her toes as she backed him, quiet and careful yet easily keeping up with him. Yea, she was scared...If you weren't scared of a swarm of Xenos then something was definitely wrong with your brain..but she was also determined and flat out angry that she was put at the base and left to die for the reasons she suspected. She'd made a promise that she wouldn't die so easily long ago and this was one of the times she'd need to prove her words were true. Minthe was a survivor and she'd be as savage as she needed to stay alive. That was why, when Sohda glanced back he would see a soldier behind him instead of a medic.

They entered the beacon control room just as the power began to surge back on. The low garbled siren sending a shiver down her own spine. "This is going to get bad.." She whispered, remembering how awful things had gotten beforehand. She double checked her weapon and brought up her shield, readying herself to the door on the right but also keeping the vents within view. "10/4" She acknowledged Sohda. "Don't forget to watch the vents." She advised. "I sure hope your friends are ready..And I hope they are quick.." She aimed her weapon at the skittering and hissing noises she could hear.

As soon as a Xeno popped out of the vent closest to her, she shot it quickly and accurately, downing it right there and helping keep the vent clogged.  She could hear sharp noises as they began shredding the door on the right to reach them. Minthe re-centered and held her own, breaths even and slow. She would get out of this hellhole alive.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on July 23, 2019, 12:38:49 AM
"Ground team, status report!" Viktor barked, having since returned to the bridge of his ship (hopefully with Krystel and Valentine). "Sensors are picking up multiple contacts all over! What the hell's going on down there?!" He looked to his helmsman. "Helm, ETA to LZ?"

"Two minutes and counting," the droid replied.

"Team, regroup and hold the line - we are inbound aboard the flagship! ETA, two minutes! Copy?" Viktor spoke to his team.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on July 23, 2019, 12:49:47 AM
"Should I bring the weapons online?" Krystal asked as she moved to the tactical station. she couldn't establish a telepathic link with the team at this range....so there was little left for her to do.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on July 23, 2019, 02:02:03 AM
Valentine stood leaning heavily on her staff, head bowed. She concentrated heavily on divination, but it was foggy at best. Grunting in frustration, she righted herself and shook her head. “This place is cursed. I can’t...divine...anything.”
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on July 24, 2019, 03:21:28 AM
Lithian followed Ori as best he could, as his motion tracker began to light up like a christmas tree. "I don't think we have enough bullets for this... are we sure we don't want to back off and wait for the storm to die down before trying again?" Despite his apprehension, he followed Ori inside the POC. He assumed they were heading inside to better protect other non-flying teammates, as out-ranging most of the aliens by flight seemed like a better idea.

Throughout the building he could hear skittering, clawing, the sound of metal breaking and tearing, "This place is a death trap! I sure hope you know what you're doing," Lithian kept up a quick pace, though fell slightly behind Ori as he took the time to fire a few shots with his blaster to jam a vent closed.

With a loud screeching sound that pierced the air, several doors between the duo were torn to shreds, pouring out aliens into the hallway. Lithian made a mistake on instinct, letting a shotgun round loose into the nearest hostile. The death throes of the xenomorph sprayed acid all over Lithian, which burned away at his energy shields. He let out a few choice words before being forced to retreat back the way he came to create space, which only further separated Lithian and Ori.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on July 28, 2019, 01:31:23 PM
"Well get in line..." Sohdakn growled in response to Ori's message about kicking his tail, the growl tho, was not directed at her but at the Xenos that had dropped from a vent nearby, he did not turn to check on Minthe as he heard her Pulse rifle report and continued to fire at her own targets.  He had purposefully chose his spot as there were no vents above or below him so it would lessen the chance of a Xenos dropping in on him as he focused on the door down the hallway.  "Minthe, let me know if you get overwhelmed" he said as he kept his own rifle aimed down the hallway, he could hear the dull thuds of the Xenos as they rammed the heavy door repeatedly, it wouldn't be long till they would break through.

"Sir! I have a medic with me, we are holding the control room just south of the landing pad entrance, waiting on the others to show up and assist with defending the control station.  The Xenos have broken through two other security doors and are working on the last, some are dropping in from the vents but our newbie has that covered for now." he said and fired on a Xenos that dropped from a vent down the hallway just as  Ori arrived in the control room. "About time! They are slowly breaking through the doors but that should break them up enough to not completely overwhelm us." he reported rather calmly and fired on another Xenos that dropped from the nearby vent "Where is Lithian, thought he was with you?" he said and looked up to notice that Lithian's icon was further back and seemed to be retreating "Lithain! Do you need assistance?" he growled and look to Ori as she was probably the best to help the Gargoyle as he had to hold the control room with Minthe.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on July 28, 2019, 05:36:49 PM
"Shtako! Sohdakin, as you're a dragon, can you breathe with fire? Those monsters are afraid of it like the plague.". Ori said and figured, that her rifle in given circumstances, not the best option. Her gun is supposed for accurate, medium-range shots, without harming everyone around her, what may happen upon using her abilities. Preferably for a few targets. Therefore, she resolved to use the destructive power of her suit to assist with some Xenos here and then to help Lithian. So, once she detected, that something was coming next to her right side, in a ground vent, she produced dense, long fire beams from both hands, similar to napalm. Filling the shaft with flame and burning every creature inside. Judging by a loud, screeching noise from the hole, Ori' has fried some of the bugs. "Lithian, I'm coming for you. Stay where you are. I have to fry some bugs first."

Because the ground team should leave this building soon, Ori scorches every room which was separate her from the Gargoyle, filling the air with even more screeching sounds of burning aliens. Luckily, there were no any high-explosive things in the control room. Hearths of flames the female Orokin creating serve as a sort of a barrier. The fire not only harms Xenos but seeing the flame the bugs tend to fall back. Ori couldn't find why it so, as there were no explanations on why in the UNSC archives, but it works. In this way, she reached Lithian, but this time is operating with her rifle to save some energy of her suit for more destruction, which would inevitably happen later. It seems like this facility is full of these creatures.

"Have you panicked or what? If you're not wounded, I suggest moving on and regroup with the rest of the team.". Ori suggested, killing a Xeno. All in all, the situation was not as bad as it could be. But a little help would be much appreciated. Hence, her next speech Ori had addressed to Viktor before another Xenomorph attempted to jump on her. "Viktor, if you can land now, do it."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on August 01, 2019, 05:53:54 PM
Almost as though on cue, the Draconis Furiam seemingly descended from the sky, and the gravity lift anchored onto the landing pad. Almost immediately after, BX-Series Commando Droids armed with Disruptor Auto Rifles began descending from the ship, down the lift, and onto the landing pad, and engaged the Xenomorphs. Xenos would have difficulty fighting the droids, as they were armored with an acid-resistant Durasteel/Cortosis/Beskar Triple Alloy plating, and the Disruptors would cut through their shells with ease. The droids would come down the lift and into the facility, as Viktor came over the radio, "Someone call for reinforcements?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on August 03, 2019, 12:36:50 AM
In a room on board the ship Krystel had taken control of the commander BX-Droid  using a sort of VR helmet and  in a way her own telepathic powers to finely control the droid boosting it's  effectiveness, by remotly controlling the droid.  Her remote controled droid ripped through a Xeno with it's disruptor before  stabbing another with it's wrist mounted vibroblades.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on August 04, 2019, 05:34:00 PM
Behind the droids, but over their heads, the icon of Malgus seemed to move of its own volition, Valentine obscured by the war machines. When they parted, leaving enough room for the raccoon girl to operate, she did. Bolts of blue lightning lanced from her palm, striking xenomorphs down without mercy. When one of the black creatures was struck, the unexpended energy jumped to those nearby, injuring or killing them haphazardly.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on August 06, 2019, 05:23:54 AM
Lithian fired a few more rounds into the crowd of aliens, backing up as he did so. He could hear more creatures coming up from behind him. Lithian considered using his stasis mode again, but friendly fire was an issue with Ori coming back to help. That, and if he didn't escape now, he'd just be buried with the endless onslaught after his stasis ran out. At last with the flames and screeches of fear, Ori came to the rescue.

"Panicked? No. I stopped for a second and they tore the doors down!" Lithian glanced behind him, "Only shield damage taken. We need to get back to the others. There's a lot more excitement to be had." Speaking of excitement, combat droids were just deployed outside the facility at the landing pad. Lithian then turned to Ori, "Okay, do we want to regroup with the others, or head outside and help secure the landing pad? I'll follow your lead." He was more inclined to head to the pad. The big dragon could probably handle himself, and Lithian wasn't all that inclined to help him either. Still, leaving someone behind was a jerk move, and Lithian wasn't the one calling the shots anyway.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on August 09, 2019, 04:20:41 AM
Sohdakin kept a steady stream of 10mm rounds down the hallway, blasting apart any Xenos that poked its ugly head through the breech in the door.  Unlike standard issue Pulse rifles, Sohdakin's rifle could keep sustained fire and not be restricted to short bursts.  While he was able to keep the Xenos at bay...mostly, their acidic blood was slowly melting a larger hole in the door so that more of them could push through.  The large Rohkah looked to Ori when she inquired if he could breath fire and while he could, now was not the time for a demonstration as his fire breath was short ranged, 10 feet at the most which against Xenos could spell death.  He did, however, have some other items in his arsenal that would work quite nicely.  "Go! Get Lithian, I got this!" he grunted and pulled out a large canister from his hip. "Fire in the hole!" he shouted, the only warning that Minthe and Ori would get before he chucked the canister like device down the hallway.  It spun through the air and at a pre-determined distance it began to release a fine mist cloud of gas that hung in the air like an eerie green fog while the canister continued to travel down the hallway.  It would ricochet off the wall and bounce through the open door.  Once it passed through he door and just as a Xenos broke through the green cloud, Sohdakin would lean forward as a port on his helmet would open briefly. A stream of fire erupted suddenly from the Rohkah, roasting the closest Xeno before it touched the gas and immediately all the gas ignited rapidly.  As Ori left the room she would feel all the air rush past her as the ensuing fireball sucked all the oxygen towards it, creating a vacuum to which it would pull any Xenos nearby towards the fireball, consuming all within in a fiery blaze.

Of course, the explosion and ensuing fireball caused the fire suppression systems to kick in and doused the area with a steady stream of liquid.  "We have incoming!" Sohdakin growled as the explosion did seem to push the Xenos back briefly, it did not deter them for long and it seemed they were now charging down he hallway en-mass. He began to fire his Heavy Pulse rifle at the incoming swarm, all the while he was yelling obscenities in the ancient Rohkah language.  While it may seem as though the large Rohkah was enjoying himself, he was constantly checking the map to see if Ori and Lithian were on their way back as he could really use some extra firepower.  When he was about to inquire as to when the two would arrive, he heard Viktor's message just as droids arrived to push the horde back.  "About time! I was getting close to needing a reload" he chuckled as he looked back at Minthe to make sure she was ok.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on August 09, 2019, 11:47:51 AM
Before Ori could say anything, a Xenomorph jumped on top of her, effectively pinning her down. With almost no resistance, the vicious creature started to hit Ori' in the head. Luckily, her warframe was sturdy enough to mitigate the bug' attack, leaving nothing more but scratches on the suit' surface. The female Orokin knew that slamming the Xenomorph against the wall with her would surely cover her in acid. And as a result, it would mean her death. So she decided to use a tactic which Ori will use a little later. By using the air bending, she quickly got up, and then by spinning fast around her axis, so even Lithian could feel it, the Xenomorph has been thrown into a wall with high speed, forcing him to lose a concentration for a while. Its had provided enough time for Ori to finish the bug with a beam of dense flame before it did anything. Course, it was doable to prevent such situation if Lithian shoot the Xeno once it appeared. But luckily for him, Ori' reaction and actions were faster.

"Don't worry. I'm okay. Now, we should regroup with Sohdakin. Don't fall behind, please.". Ori said, and proceeded into the room with Sohdakin and Minthe, noticing droids deployment on the landing pad through the window. And she was right about her choice, hoping that Lithian was alongside with her. Truth told it was strange how none of the deadly beetles figured out to break the glass. And the girl hoped they wouldn't. The fire support was needed indeed, and this is what she was about to provide literally. Using her fire control abilities, she produced a generous portion of flame (similar to napalm) in the hallway, creating a wall of fire, which now separates the rescue team from the rushing Xenos. And Ori hoped it would give the team enough time to get out of here safely. That is why she continued to maintain the wall because of the fire suppression systems. As there was no time to search for a switch, which could turn off the system. The burning fire wouldn't let Xenos approach any further anyway. Hence her next speech, Ori has directed to Viktor. "Hey Wolfy, are you going to stay on the dropship for the rest of the mission? We need you here."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on August 09, 2019, 07:54:57 PM
Almost on cue, Viktor appeared with a fire team of the Commando Droids, all of them armed with Disruptor Auto Rifles. The lot of them fired full auto on the Xenos, and slaughtered that particular group. Viktor looked at the others, giving a respectful nod. The Xenomorphs, apparently not sure what to make of the commando droids, chose that moment to retreat. Their screeches echoed, but faded, until they were gone entirely. Viktor looked to Ori. "Status report," he requested.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on August 09, 2019, 10:17:02 PM
 The commando droid Krystel was controlling walked up to Viktor "Minimal losses of droids ,but i don't exactly like how they pulled back." Cam krystel's voice from the commanding commando droid. "I recommend pulling out ASAp the monsters are likely regrouping for another attack or something more sinister." She finished as she checked the status of other droids via her  link with the command droid.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on August 12, 2019, 12:04:32 AM
Lithian was caught off-guard by Ori's attacker, knocking him off balance for a split second, but that was all the time Ori needed. Before he knew it, the xeno was dispatched. Giving Ori a nod, he followed her back to where the rest were held up.

The gargoyle lowered his gun, watching the droids repel and clean up the massive swarm. It would have helpful if the group started with the droids going in, but there were no casualties that he knew of, so he couldn't complain too much. He turned to look at what he assumed to be Viktor, before shooting the drone that Krystel was commanding a dirty look, as Lithian recognized the voice.

He'd let the two discuss the situation. Lithian took a look at his motion sensor, though it didn't have any helpful information with all the droids mucking about.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on August 15, 2019, 05:27:41 AM
Valentine, after the xenos had run off, gripped the shoulder of the nearest commando droid and steadied herself. Her vision swam, her nose bled, and the world wouldn’t stop spinning. She over exerted her abilities, and they took their toll. Valentine slowly lowered herself to the ground and sat upon a long-forgotten power bank, dabbing her nose to staunch the bleeding. She would need a few minutes before moving.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on August 15, 2019, 10:09:31 PM
The large Rohkah stepped up to Lithian as the Gargoyle milled about the room and gave him a firm pat on the shoulder "Eh, Glad you could join us.  Did you get yourself a proper rifle yet?" he asked and motioned to the gun locker with a few Pulse Rifles still inside.  "Stock up, no telling how many of these buggers are still out there" Sohdakin would give Lithian another pat on the shoulder before moving over to where Valentine now sat, his large form moving to squat infront of her so she didnt have to crane her neck so much to speak to him. "You're one of those telepaths aren't you?" he asked as he was not privy to the personell files for everyone in the team but seeing how she lacked a decent weapon, save the pistol, he figured she had some other job in the group.  "If you need a meat shield, stick with me, I will do what I can to keep them away from you." he hummed then chuckled "Just hope you do not mind the noise" he teased as he gave oversized rifle a few pats and winked at her.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on August 16, 2019, 08:45:09 AM
"So far, so good. No casualties amongst survivors, so I think we're free to go. As I said before, there an APC in the hangar next to the pad. I'll suggest to use it, and provided it's still working, move on further until Xenomorphs didn't return. Me, Lithian and Sohdakin will provide aerial support. Unless you want to continue the trip on the dropship. Krystel remained on the ship as I see.". Ori added right after Krystel's droid and started waiting for other instructions from Viktor. He could note scratches on her helm tho.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on August 19, 2019, 09:56:09 PM
"I would advise using the APC - and I'm bringing escorts down, too; but no airial recon" Viktor said. He motioned his head for Ori to walk with him. His face said what his words did not: We need to talk. In private - just you and me. No one else.

Elsewhere in the facility, the Xenomorphs were in a fighting retreat; these ones were smart. They knew the enemies they currently faced were not normal, and were very hard to dismember. They would have to regroup - and were putting distance between them and these machines.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on August 22, 2019, 11:55:40 PM
"A proper rifle? Excuse me?" Lithian said with a bit of hostility, "What is that supposed to mean? This shotgun has gotten me out of more jams than I can count. The only reason I got pincered was because some of us can't fly and needed help. I'll stick with this thank-you-very-much." He did walk over to the gun locker however, if only to waste time. Lithian wasn't inclined to talk to the telepath, and Ori was busy with a conversation. He wasn't sure what the group was planning to do afterwards, but he suspected that they still might need him, seeing as he was one of the only living staff members left.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on August 23, 2019, 04:03:01 AM
Valentine looked up at the Rohkah, a knowing grin on her face. She dabbed the last of her nosebleed away. “If I am in need of a shield, friend, I’ll borrow one of the bugs. Though I’d like to say I’m like someone like her,” she motioned at the lead commando droid. “But, she is connected to the universe through the Force. I, however, was not born as such. And due to this, I assume, the planet is muddying my foresight.” She sighed and massaged her shoulder. “I’m seeing...something. A Hunter. A clash of future and past. These insects are simple. Savage yet organized. But this other thing is...devious. Employ detection systems if you’re equipped. I fear of traps “
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on August 23, 2019, 04:33:24 AM
Sohdakin nodded his broad head at Valentine's reply about her force like powers. "Well, not sure how well they make for meat shields as they bleed acid and I would hate for you to get burned." he said and blinked when she mentioned seeing a hunter and looked over to Ori and wondered if his suspicions were correct that indeed the Yautja was here!  "That explains the guards in the other room.  If the Yautja are here, they probably either brought the Xenos with them or they followed the Xenos here" he grumbled and looked to Viktor, wondering if the ice-wolf somehow already knew this as a possibility.  Though his attention was soon turned to Lithian and his outburst. 

The large Rohkah stood up and walked over to the Gargoyle and snorted as he could hear the venom in Lithian's words "It means you have a close quarters weapon and Im not sure if you noticed....but those bugs bleed acid!  At the range your shotgun is effective....you will likely get yourself and others sprayed when you shoot one," he put simply, "So unless you plan on standing around like a knot on a log....waiting for these things to get close enough for your shotgun to be effective, I would suggest you get yourself one of those pulse rifles or take one of the disruptors from the droids....your call" he said and just stared down at Lithian. "Take this as friendly advice from a soldier who has more combat experience than you do years alive." Sohdakin reached behind his back and pulled out his 1 gauge shotgun...which would look like a cannon Lithian's hands, he didn't want Lithian to think he thought shotguns were useless. "We can reminisce later about your shotgun but you really should consider grabbing a rifle"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on August 26, 2019, 10:00:55 PM
"Cut the chatter, people - sensors indicate Xenos are pulling back, and we have a straight shot to the next AO. Sensor scans indicate there no survivors here other than what we already picked up, but the Forward Observation Pods may, in fact, be still alive. We're taking the APCs to them through a series of tunnels; soon as the escorts arrive, we'll mount up and move out!" Viktor said over the radio while still waiting for Ori to join him in private. "In the meantime, I am bringing in a supply drop - I would advise everyone to stock up and make ready for the next op."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on August 28, 2019, 04:56:12 AM
Lithian blinked. He felt a fire within himself begin roaring to life as he stood there.

"You're... you're kidding right?" Lithian began to raise his voice, "Are you stupid? Why do you have that shotgun if you don't know how to use it? A shotgun isn't a melee weapon. The only reason people think that is because they play video games. A shotgun is effective within 45 meters, and I've seen some sharpshooters hit farther," Lithian was practically yelling at this point, "So far I haven't seen a single hallway more than 45 meters, so before you call me dead weight and a potential team killer, get your facts straight first."

With that, Lithian left the room in a huff, unless someone physically stopped him. He needed to cool down, and he didn't need flak from anyone. Lithian was trapped here for a week, and these guys were here for less than an hour. What gave them the right to boss him around? Or pretend they knew more than Lithian did? It was times like these that he missed being the leader of a squad, only if it was because he could throw his authority around.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on August 29, 2019, 10:01:40 PM
Before Ori could go for a private talk with Viktor, a dispute between Sohdakin and Lithian has attracted her attention. She decided to drop the increasing tension between the two. As one of the operation' leaders, it was her duty to handle all issues in the team. Probably the girl in warframe wouldn't say anything and even doesn't interrupt their conversation. But since Lithian sounded a little rude and Viktor asked to stop any communication, the Orokin has to act. No any operation with her participate is failed. Hence she didn't want to put the entire mission in danger because of talks like the one with the dragon and gargoyle. She was too proud to fail.

"You two talking about non-sense. Because if not Viktor, then I'll kick your ass. Otherwise, we leave here you to die; the choice is yours. That is UNSC' directive, and it's up to you to do what Viktor and I ask you for. In case you're really want to make it out of here alive. Speaking of the weapons. All of you - use the firearms you're comfortable with. No need to make a drama. If you like it... Well, I'm sorry, but you're in the wrong place. Did I make myself clear?" Ori said and retired for a private talk with Viktor. She finds her speech a little mean. It may even surprise Viktor who never has heard anything similar from his love' mouth. But unfortunately for him, the female Orokin isn't the sinless girl and had in past deeds, which upon being discovered, may frustrate the wolf. The acts, about which ones Ori prefer not to talk at all. Yet she regrets. And as the purple-skinned can say, some things best left untouched. "I'm really sorry about my words. I just can't let them fight with each other and ruin the mission. Now, what you wanted to talk about?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on September 01, 2019, 03:15:06 PM
As the group fought and angered each other, Valentine seemed to relax. As the technology used to give her her powers, Valentine and the Mongdrigan scientists didn’t have a firm grasp on what powered their pseudo-Force. But, as the Mongdrigan was piecing it together, the device fed on heightened emotional response. Anger, sorrow, pain, et cetera. All gave her strength. Valentine stood and turned to follow Lithian. “We should not stray from the group alone. The Hunter finds his targets easily slain when in solitude.” She then shuffled off, both to protect the survivor, and to feed off of his anger.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on September 01, 2019, 04:45:00 PM
Sohdakin wasnt sure what irritated him more, the impertinence of Lithian or the fact that Ori was coddling him like a child.  He felt his temper raise when Lithain exploded and lashed out at him for trying to help.  Vents on his helm opened up to vent the smoke that was not fuming from his nostrils.  He was about to reach out and stop Lithian as he wanted to put the little punk in his place but suddenly Viktor's voice called out over the com lines, "Everyone, leave Lithian alone - man needs to cool off. Sohdakin, back off! Get your *** to the APC, make sure it's set to go! Valentine, leave the man alone, he's been through enough as it is! Everyone, I want to be ready to move out in twenty! Lithian, you go cool off, and when you're ready, you can join us at the APC."

That was enough to snap the Rohkah out of his angered haze, a large plume of smoke vented before the seals closed again. "Aye Sir, heading to the APC" he responded smartly saying or doing nothing more towards the Gargoyle.  While he wasn't too happy about it, he would not dare cross Viktor as he respected the Icewolf greatly, he had saved the Rohkah's life once, long time ago. 

Once at the APC, Sohdakin checked the perimeter before he opened the APC up and checked to make sure nothing made a home inside.  Once he did a thorough check he began to startup what he could of the APC and began to do any of the heavy lifting that was required, grabbing fuel, ammo or supplies he could find.  It was during this time, after he had cooled down, that he realized what a fool he was for not realizing that Lithain was probably still wound up from having to defend himself from the Xenos...for goddess knows how long and watching his comrades die off one by one till he was fending for himself in this nightmare scenario.  Only to get pulled out of that and thrust into another one and then get told that the very weapon he used to keep himself alive...was "useless"....While he still thought he was correct about Lithain needing another weapon he was going to approach it differently....should he get the chance to apologize to the Gargoyle for his rude behavior and poor treatment. 

For now, he worked on getting the APC prepped, storing the BOSS in a quick access compartment in his spot on the APC, which was right infront of the door.

(Viktor's words were provided and approved for use by Romulan_Furry)
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on September 01, 2019, 06:56:15 PM
the commanding commando droid  hooked onto the side of the APC as did a few other droids, the rest formed a protective barrier around the APC leaving room for people to get into the APC.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on September 01, 2019, 08:28:56 PM
Once Viktor and Ori were alone in a corridor, he looked to her. "Something feels wrong - there is a disturbance in the Force. Something waits for us here," he said. He looked around to make sure they were alone before telling her, "No matter what happens, know that I'll always love you; if this goes south, get our people out of here alive. If I survive, I'll find you. Understand?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on September 02, 2019, 07:20:46 AM
Valentine sighed and stopped. Lithian stormed off faster than what the hobbled Mongdrigan could shuffle. She turned and, remembering the offer, moved over to the APC and took a seat. She began massaging her temples, or what she could reach, and spoke to Sohdakin. “So...not a fan of the survivor, hm?”
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on September 02, 2019, 06:09:13 PM
"Lithian, just in case you feel it right, we can lift you to our flagship where you can stay for the rest of the mission. You don't have to fight if you don't want it.". Ori said, worrying for the Gargoyle. She was afraid that he may do something silly and got himself in danger where no one will get time to react quickly. At the end of the day, Lithian was surviving here for a while before the team arrived. Considering this, he needs a rest. And if something terrible may happen with any survivor, Viktor and Ori will be the first ones in charge. Naturally, as one of the experienced UNSC' operatives, Viktor' girlfriend wanted to avoid it by any means. And if that means Lithian' extraction - so be it. After all, the rescue team has superior firepower, and with the Gargoyle on the cruiser, the team will have for one fewer things to take care of. For Ori, it was a good option.

However, Lithian wasn't the last thing that had alerted the Orokin. Viktor' words caused Ori' to frown. But of course, because of her helm, it was impossible to see. After everything Viktor has experienced and survived, such words sounded quite strange. It seems like nothing can stop him and the only people who were stronger compared to the wolf, were DMC' generals. She couldn't even imagine what can kill her lovely furry. Because if that something can kill Viktor, then it may have no problems to deal with the rest of the team.

"If you survive? Viktor, my dear. We came here together, and we will leave this horrible place together. Shoulder-to-shoulder everywhere, do you remember?". The galaxy-skinned said and ran over with her metal-plated hand over Viktor' head. No fear or doubt was in her voice. It sounded like she was trying to calm him like a puppy. But frankly, Ori tried to calm down herself too, because in the defensive mode she can do awful things. It was especially true when it comes to Viktor.

- Prince' P.O.W.-

And so, his patience is finally got rewarded. The Hunt was about to continue. While the ground team was busy with their stuff, the Prince observed the place from above and figured a couple of places where the team could muster. And even though his plans were a little changed, the Predator guessed right about the hangar. He couldn't let his victims escape, so once the hangar' entrance was on a direct hit line, the Prince fired twice there with his shoulder' cannon. Just when Valentine was about to enter the APC. Even if the shot can't hit anyone, setting everything around the vehicle on fire would surely disrupt victims' plans. Or at least may separate them.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on September 02, 2019, 09:32:29 PM
Valentine was unceremoniously shoved into the APC when the Rohkah's threat detection suddenly flared up and alerted him to incoming fire. He used his body to shield the opening from the initial blast as his back as the fireball blanketed the APC. "Stay inside!" he called out before slamming the door shut.  He pulled out his heavy pulse rifle and aimed in the direction that K2 had indicated the shots came from and unleashed a volley of 10mm rounds into the vicinity where the two plasma shots had come from.  "I have incoming fire from the rafters, possibly a Yautja! Val is safe in the APC, Krystal, I could use some backup right about now" he called out as he did not remain in one spot and continued to fire while he moved.  He didn't move in a randomly picked direction as he made his way to the fire suppression system.  He wasn't worried about the fire as everything was in sealed containers still so they would be protected from the fire but that didn't mean he wanted to let it continue to burn. He switched his imaging overlay to thermal readout as he figured the Yautja was using optical camouflage....though if the bastards upgraded to both optical and thermal camo....they might be in a bit of trouble. "Krystal shut off the droids optic sensors now!" he called out before pulling out a small device from his belt and tossing it into the air.  It hovered in the air briefly before it fired, sending off a intense and blinding light....hopefully enough to either damage or disrupt the Yautja's active camouflage temporarily.

As the nova flare went off, Sohdakin reached the fire suppression system and used his tail to activate it while he kept his rifle aimed up into the rafters, scanning for any heat signatures once the nova flare finished its cycle.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on September 02, 2019, 10:49:12 PM
By the time Ori began to speak, Lithian had already shut the door behind him. He was moving quickly down the halls, taking turns at random, scraping the walls with his claws, and shoving over any droids he stumbled across. His mind swam, flashing through every single negative event that happened in the last week, before finally settling on what happened in the last hour. Everything was crumbling. A cascade of thoughts ripping into one another. So much stress, and this small argument about weapons was the tipping point, the match that set the set his inner fire roaring. First he was held at gunpoint. Then psychically threatened. Then told that he was a useless team-killer. Then yelled at. And to top it all off he swore he heard someone trying to follow behind him. This mounted on top of all the stress of a full week without respite, watching his friends, who he was told were actually criminals, fall one by one. If anything, those "criminals" treated Lithian better than anyone of this squad.

He charged out of the building, taking flight. He needed somewhere to cool off. Someplace away from everyone. He slammed into the ground next to the generator they hadn't repaired yet. Maybe throwing himself into a bit of busywork would help take the edge off things. Despite being a gargoyle, he was fond of replacing himself with robotic parts. Naturally this made him a good engineer, and he loved it. Taking a good look at the damage and scavenging what spare parts were left around, he began to set to work. For a moment, the world faded. Just him and his machine.

Then an explosion. Of course there was. Of course of course OF COURSE. The constant pounding thoughts came back. For a moment he completely broke, just standing there silently while constantly tapping a wrench on the generator. Why why WHY? No... no it wasn't here. It was their problem. Those hotshots could take care of it themselves. They obviously didn't need him. He was useless. Someone who stuck with an ineffective weapon. Someone who first begged to be rescued like a pathetic loser. No... no he would show them all what he could do. Somehow. Someway. For now, the generator. Only the generator. That was all that mattered at the moment. Whatever else was happening would happen. Maybe if the explosions came here, he wouldn't have to worry anymore. It could all just end.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on September 04, 2019, 12:02:48 AM
 Krystel's droid let out an audible sigh befor the droid started to twitch,Krystel disconnecting, and the droids normal programming kicking in.  "I'll be planet side in a few minutes. Try not to die before I get down there, please."

"I'm picking up a plasma weapons, what  is happening down there?" She asked already mid flight to the surface... She prepped her automatic Crossbow loading it with a fresh clip of bolts as her armor powered up sheild forming around her.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on September 04, 2019, 11:55:23 PM
"Taking fire! Let's go!" Viktor shouted. "Horgus to the Draconis Furiam - get a feed on where those shots came from and light it up!" There would be a few moments before the ship would light up like a Christmas Tree and direct a brief burst of Turbolaser Blasts to the general area where the shots came from. "Everyone else not already present - get your ***es to the APC! We are moving out! Flagship, provide air cover to destination!" Viktor gave one last nod to Ori before he headed for the APC.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on September 05, 2019, 03:54:07 AM
Valentine grunted as her helmet bounced off of the APC’s hull. She rubbed what she could of the back of her neck, as she tried to focus on the shooter’s location. “Curse this planet,” she groaned. “I can’t see anything.”
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on September 06, 2019, 10:30:05 AM
Ori' reflexes were fast but not enough - once she spotted a couple of shot flying into the APCs hangar, she performed a powerful dash into the air. It has changed the bolts vector slightly with the airflow she created. Unfortunately, one of them had hit a ground next to large Rokhah, and another one hit a space next to the armored vehicle, creating hearth of fire and a hole in a wall. Instead of flying into the spot where the shot had come from, the UNSC' operative decided to put the fire down. There was also a crate with ammo for the APC, creating another possible danger. Luckily, with Sohdakin' assistance and her fire manipulating skills, the fire' source was shut, and the fire' spread is stopped. Sure thing, retire from the POC now was the wisest choice, and so she headed into the APC as well. Afterward, she had taken a gunner seat since the APC is equipped with dual-barrel machine-gun (.50 cal, explosive rounds). However, with her abilities, it would be better if she could cover the vehicle from the air.

"Hurry up, people. The faster we leave this place, the better for us.". Ori said, staying on overwatch for enemy presence. The only person she was still worried about is Lithian because he didn't react to her speech. She was afraid that after the operation concludes, the Gargoyle may turn against the UNSC and start making problems for the agency. And eventually, the agency will ask someone to deal with Lithian, meaning to make him disappear. One way to achieve this was to let Lithian die. But since John-117 will question Ori and Viktor for survivors, casualties aren't allowed. So once Viktor was inside the APC, the female Orokin added. "We need to save Lithian somehow. UNSC won't be too pleased with the death of survivors.".

- Prince' P.O.W.-

Prince wasn't satisfied with the result, but at least his preys are aware of him. The Predator considered it's a good start, so once there he had got incoming fire, the Yautja quickly retired in order to avoid any injury. Hence, he resolved to hide between cliffs as he was visible now because of Sohdakin' actions. Now, Prince needs to lose heat and watch where the ground team will go further.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on September 07, 2019, 05:58:58 AM
What was going on? It sounded like someone called an artillery strike on the area. Despite all the noise, Lithian managed to patch up some of the damage of the generator. He flicked the switch and the generator roared to life. Perhaps with more power, more tactical options would be available in the future. Still, there was the pressing issue of potentially being left behind. The team wasn't going to rescue him. That was a fact. The gargoyle would need some kind of insurance. From his position, he could modify the power flow from the main generator to other parts of the facility. The first step was to close off power to the beacon. The backup generator was still supplying it, but he'd fix that in a moment. Next, he set it so when the beacon was restarted, it would draw from the main generator, but at a highly dangerous level.

The plan was this: the beacon would shut off after he broke the backup generator. If it was restarted before the sabotage was discovered, the beacon would be destroyed. This didn't matter if the ship didn't need the beacon of course. If the plan worked, the group wouldn't be able to leave without telling Lithian first, and getting him to undo his rigging. If he died or they abandoned him, then at least they would share his grave.

Completely ignoring Viktor's orders, Lithian set off towards the backup generator. He chose to walk, as with all of the explosives flying everywhere, he was bound to be shot. A flying target is easier to see, and there are many weapons dedicated towards taking out fliers. His mind was still flooded. He still couldn't think straight. Maybe this was all a bad idea, but did he care? Maybe all he cared was getting back at the world which did him such a disservice. He needed something or someone to take it out on.

He had a crowbar with him this time. With it, he'd make sure to slug every droid he came across with it as he headed towards his final destination. Maybe they would register him as a threat and fight back. Maybe it was better that way.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on September 12, 2019, 04:10:46 AM
An LAAT Gunship landed near the APCs unloading a few more droids and Krystel herself ,who hurried to an APC "Well I'm pleased to see you haven't killed youselfs." She mummured upon entering the APC, If it wasn't clear at this point , socilizing wasn't her strong suite....
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on September 14, 2019, 05:54:57 AM
A deep growl slipped from the Rohkah's throat as he continued to scan the rafters for signs of the Yautja.  He figured the Predator had vacated the area once the flare went off but still kept his eyes peeled just in case the flare did not chase the Yautja away.

"Ha! It will take more than a few Xenos and Yautja to kill this dragon!" he chuckled darkly as he hoped that were true.  While he was confident in his skills, his equipment and the rest of the team he was with, he was not stupid enough to discount the unknown and that bravado and ego can easily get him killed.  Still, he put on a strong front for the team.  "Yautja opened fire on the APC as Valantine was getting inside.  It tried to ignite the weapon and ammo stores I had pulled out. Looks like he was chased off.  I will feel better when your Spartan ass is on the ground with me"

Sohdakin kept his poistion when he heard Viktor call in for the Draconis to fire on the last known location of the Yautja. He would make sure that his suit's data was fed to the Draconis's fire control systems so it could update and adjust fire as needed. "Val, you ok in there?" he asked then thought back to her question before the Yautja had opened fire on them "He is in pain and needs to grieve for his lost comrades.  As right as I feel I am on the subject.....I could have handled that better....a lot better." he gruffed and looked up as Ori landed near the APC before taking a position on one of the APC's weapons. "I will load as soon as Krystel gets her armored tail on the APC, Ori.  That Yautja could still decided to ambush us while we load up." His thoughts soon went back to his argument with the Gargoyle, a deep sigh hissed through his ventelation systems as he felt like such an idiot for how things went down with Lithian.  "He has survived this long without us, he has a radio and knows how to get in contact if he needs our help.  All we can do is follow Viktor's orders and just let him be"

As the LAAT Gunship decended down near the hangar  the APC was stored in, the Rohkah would make his way to the hangar door, all the while keeping an ever watchful eye on their surroundings "Happy to see you too Spartan, now get in the APC so we can get the heck out of here."

Once everyone else was loaded, Sohdakin would be the last to enter and take his seat near the door, shutting it firmly before slapping the door loudly "We are in, lets get this mobile buffett on the move"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on September 15, 2019, 03:37:57 PM
"Alright, we're moving out - Lithian, I hope to god you're still here and can hear me; we're gonna head for the Forward Observation Pods," Viktor said over the radio. "If you can here me, get your *** in the air and provide Arial overwatch; I'll scramble a squadron of TIE Defenders to escort you. You spot anything, you radio this channel. Again, we're headed for the Forward Observation Pods. The Defenders will circle the facility until they spot you in the air. Finish whatever you need to do here at the POC and we'll rendezvous at the Pods. And Lithian... given how we found you, I would strongly advise you keep away from any command staff that might still be alive at the Pods. Stay in the air or near the APC and let me do the talking. Good luck... godspeed. Captain Horgus out."

Shortly after, the APC and its escorts - two M12 LRVs equipped with M41 LAAGs, and two Spectre Light Attack Hovercraft - set off for the canyon leading up to the Pods. Almost immediately after departure, the roar of Twin Ion Engines could be heard as a squadron of TIE Defenders were launched from the Draconis Furiam, just as Viktor had said. The Defenders circled the facility, evidently waiting for something.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on September 18, 2019, 06:17:49 AM
Valentine watched the Defenders circle the facility, trying to focus. She desperately wanted to see what would come. A fight, to be sure, but with what or who. And with Lithian’s departure, it only complicated the matter. She wondered what his plan was. To swoop in at the last minute, or doom the the team’s mission?
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on September 18, 2019, 05:13:20 PM
Ori was silent until Sohdakin didn't refer to Krystel as a Spartan. She didn't mind Lithian to having fun alone even though she assumed, that it may end badly. Her point was is that once the Gargoyle would need help, he will crawl up to the UNSC team by himself. And Ori was pretty confident with it. However, Krystel' affiliation has raised a suspicious from the Orokin' side. The galaxy-skinned was a UNSC operative for thirty years and has been familiar with most of the agency' management. That and high-ranked agents like Viktor, so eventually Ori would know about Krystel, provided the she-wolf was in the UNSC' lines.

"Krystel is a Spartan? Since when? Wearing Spartan' armor doesn't mean being a Spartan. It's a state of mind, you know. Besides, Krystel, where did you got your armor? I doubt John-117 has issued it for you by himself.". Ori asked, resting' on the gunner seat and watching for the security convoy. The female Orokin did not doubt that the Yautja would dare to attack such an army. Maybe Xenomorphs can try, but TIE Defenders will surely annihilate them. Hence the team has a little time where they can discuss the plans.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on September 18, 2019, 07:41:03 PM
Krystel climbed deeper into the APC hearing Ori she responded "Who? I bought it from some odd Tiger woman  awhile back, it's served me well enough so i never really changed too much of it, Mjolnir style armor isn't that hard to come by." She turned to Sodakin. "I'm not a Spartan..."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on September 22, 2019, 03:05:19 AM
Upon approaching the backup generator, Lithian raised the crowbar up over his head. More thoughts were flowing through his mind, but this time, more concrete. He slowly lowered the tool, beginning to back away before sprinting back to the main generator to undo his mistakes. The sabotage was removed, and the generator was restored back to full working power. Lithian felt hollow inside. He didn't really know how else to describe how he felt. His emotions had rammed him, and then left him empty inside.

Lithian received the transmission from Viktor. He didn't really have the heart left to respond. Still, Lithian took to the air and flew towards where he last thought the group was at, following the APC once he had spotted it.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on September 25, 2019, 03:38:38 AM
The large Rohkah leaned back in his seat as he felt the APC begin to move and head towards their next destination.  He made a small prayer to the goddess to watch over Lithian and help guide him back to the team.  With a sigh he was about to close his eyes and just relax as they traveled but when he heard Ori ask about Krystel he sat up and looked to the Orokin for a moment. "Spartan is not a state of mind, I am not UNSC but even I know that one can not just will themselves to be a Spartan. You UNSC types do not give out that armor to just anyone so yes, Spartan armor is only worn by a Spartan." he hummed and shrugged his shoulders as he wondered how much Ori knew about the Spartan program...did the Rohkah have better intel than some of UNSC?  When he heard that the UNSC would be a part of this team he figured they would have brought at least one Spartan with them, seeing how they were the best the UNSC had to offer in a fight.

Sohdakin's attention soon turned to Krystel as she moved through the APC and spoke about where her armor came from and that she was, in fact, not a Spartan. To which, he shrugged his shoulders "I have always known you were not a Spartan as you are not on the list.  I just called you that as you wear their type of armor and I had nothing else to which to call you. Other than your name"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on September 25, 2019, 11:50:44 PM
It was then, halfway to the Forward Observation Pods, that the APC stopped. Viktor growled some curses in his native tongue before saying, "Damned weather anomalies... comm signal's range has been cut in half..." He emerged from the cockpit and went about the APC gathering a few items before opening the door. "Keep an eye on the motion sensors, and alert me if anything comes up; I'll be right back." He then closed the door behind him, walked some distance away, and set to work assembling what appeared to be some sort of makeshift subspace signal relay. This took him at least an hour, before he activated it and hid it near some rocks, then re-entered the APC and resumed course. "... done and done. Now we'll be able to call in support if needed. Did I miss anything?" he asked the crew.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on September 27, 2019, 02:56:06 AM
Lithian set himself on a high distant perch. He wasn't ready yet to fully reunite. His mind was quiet as he focused all of his thoughts to simple observation. He had heard that some people deal with stress by burying themselves in their work. He wasn't too good at keeping a lid on things, but keeping watch was a start. During his vigil, if anyone tried waving at him or other kinds of similar interaction, he would ignore them. As far as he was concerned now, they were just faceless government goons paid to do a job. Once they were done, they could get off this rock, and that would be the end. No need for further interaction other than "Yes sir," and "No sir." It would be like co-workers that he didn't like, perhaps despised, but also knowing he didn't have to deal with them for much longer. For obvious reasons, Lithian wasn't there to respond to Viktor's query.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on September 27, 2019, 07:23:40 PM
"So it turns out, that UNSC selling their armor? Woah. I didn't know that the agency has a huge need for money. They never told me at least.". Ori said, and that's all she spoke until the APC stopped. And the female operative would be really surprised if the fact that the UNSC selling their legendary armor is real. Indeed, as Rokhah has noted, Spartans was a special program. The Orokin did somewhat similar back in their days and far beyond of humanitarian principles. Maybe it was a little cruel but Spartans were the best soldiers, that UNSC has now and ever. Course, they can't be compared with guys like Sohdakin, but in order to serve in the agency, the one has to be not as strong as a responsible person. The armor was a tool.

"No, luckily. But if you need to change the weather, just ask me. One of my jobs, after all.". Ori asked upon Viktor question. She knew reasons when radio signals get jammed, and her sensors didn't pick any of the sources. Yes, LV-1201 environment was aggressive, but none of the plants could cause it. Maybe it wasn't an anomaly at all.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on September 27, 2019, 09:37:19 PM
"The UNSC does not sell Gen3 armor the Gen3 armor, which i use is only produced by one faction and not the UNSC however the UNSC does use the Gen 3 armor on it's newest batch of Spartan II's and apparently you haven't heard of the  Gen 2 armor that the Sangheili made...." Krystel replied, not really interested in explaining further.

She sat down in a seat on the APC , closing her eyes as she reached out with her mind  just trying to focus "Not sensing anything nearby that'd cause interference, what are you using laser, Microwave?" she asked eyes still closed.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on September 29, 2019, 05:45:45 AM
“Electromagnetic?” Valentine chirped, before returning to her farseeing. Perhaps she over exerted herself at some point. She knew the Hunter wasn’t done, not by a long shot. He would make his appearance soon. “I can see some sort of catastrophe, sir.” She said to Viktor. “The FOPs are most likely trapped. And,” she added with a smirk. “The survivor will make an appearance as well. Perhaps in our hour of need.”
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on October 03, 2019, 02:33:53 PM
"It's just a subspace relay so a signal from the Pods can get to the Draconis Furiam," Viktor responded. On hearing Valentine's comment, Viktor said, "Good to know." The escorts stayed close to the APC, and on exiting the canyon, the Pods were in sight. "I have the Pods in sight. Personnel at the bottom - looks like there are survivors. Everyone, on your best behavior." In an aside directed at Ori, Viktor added in Dovahzul, "And keep your eyes open, my love - something's not right."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on October 05, 2019, 05:41:31 AM
Sohdakin chuckled softly as it seemed that the Rohkah had better intel than most of Earth realm and maybe even some of their own UNCS personnel.  "There will be no more Spartan II's, your Master Chief is one of the last of the Spartan II's that will ever exist.  All of the new Spartan's are generation three Spartans. Your UNSC has decreed that the Spartan II program was too edgy and candidate selection was not sufficient for the high dropout rate of the training and augmentation required." he hummed and looked to Krystel as he had indeed heard about the Sangheilli armor.  The Rohkah and the Shangheilli had gotten along quite well after the fall of the Covenant. 

The large Rohkah would lean back in his seat as the APC trudged along, his eyes closing for a moment as he let his mind rest a bit as there may not be another opportunity to do so.  He was not needed right now and so he would rest and listen in on what was being said around him.  When he heard that they neared the pods and that survivors were in sight, Sohdakin sat up and looked at the display to see what it was they were approaching "What can you tell us about them?" he would ask then click his tongue against the roof of his maw when Viktor spoke to Ori in a strange language, the ice wolf's use of another language unsettled the dragon a bit, however, he kept his thoughts to himself for now and hoped that it was some love note and not something he was keeping from the rest of the team that would prove vital.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on October 05, 2019, 03:50:42 PM
"Like the whole operation was right from the start.". Ori said, smirked, and then looked at Sohdakin and Krystel like on privates. Sure thing, her face expression wasn't visible through her helmet. And although she wasn't a soldier in its classical meaning, her combat experience was precious. And that is why she was here. Besides, Orokin rarely was keen on the financial side of the agency, so with who or why the UNSC trades the girl rarely knew. Because aside from mission details, Ori didn't need to know anything else. "Rely on your armor is like trying to defend yourself with a can cover against a nuclear explosion. A silly allegory, but it's true. John is a bit old fashioned, but his experience easily compensates his armor. Because if you have no brains, no armor will help you. And this is how UNSC recruits other people. I'm entirely second them on that matter."

And then Pods came into the sight. The thing was huge, no doubt. How many people manage it? Regardless, Ori has embraced herself to act as a diplomat. On any UNSC' operation, which was including negotiation, Ori was one of the first persons who perform the role of an intermediator. Even in the case of pirates. And this time will be no different than previous ones. She never was in fond of a fight, when it's possible to handle the issue without bloodshed.

"We shall see. I have never been here before, so I can't tell. Watch for Rykov, though. I'm pretty sure we'll face him soon.". The female Orokin said, focusing her gaze on people at the bottom.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on October 05, 2019, 09:46:25 PM
"The armor is just a second skin, a tool." Krystel began "Don't worry your little head I can fight when the time comes, one doesn't last as long as me even with armor, and not know how to use it to enhance my abilities." Krystel finished, getting a feeling Ori didn't like her or something.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on October 07, 2019, 08:53:02 PM
Lithian followed from up above. He was glad to see survivors, though he wasn't sure on their reception. While he was trying to salvage the situation and rescue who he could, absolutely no help was sent. Yeah sure, he could have wussed out, but that would make him just as good as the rest of the survivors. Granted, he didn't expect the non-combat personnel to do much, but the rest better have a good excuse for not sending even a token effort. A lot of innocent people died; there was only so much a single gargoyle could do.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: MintPlush on October 11, 2019, 06:39:08 AM
The moment she started shooting everything just sort of...went black?  She was shooting and fighting and walking and following orders, but everything felt as if she were doing it from a fog. By the time she regained some form of composure on the real world she was sitting inside an APC, blasts were still going off. Minthe put a hand to her head, massaging her temple as she began to recall the last moments of action. 

The one thing that struck out in her mind was Lithian and Sohdakin's argument and how Lithian had stormed off in anger. She whipped to the side and smacked the dragon upside the head with quite some force for her small figure. The glare she gave him was deadly. "That Gargoyle was left..alone...watching his comrades and friends die and forced to survive a week down there in that base! Seventy-five percent of the survivors down there won't even be eligible for jobs any more because of the tremendous mental trauma they suffered down there! Study your bedside manners!" It didn't matter that she was a bit late to that. She'd been fighting her own demon after all.

Turning away from the dragon she would raise her visor, and ping Lithian privately. She felt like...out of everyone that had convened..Lithian was her real and true ally. He was the only one that she'd met so far who had been there through that horrifying week and she hoped that he would answer her call. She wasn't a part of the crew, she was a survivor just like him. She had been left there with nothing, watching as her friends and coworkers died just as he was. Minthe breathed deeply, praying that he would accept her hail.

"H-Hello?..Lithian?.." She began quietly. Pausing to see if he would answer. When nothing would come through she'd exhale slowly. Her voice was still shaky from everything, and she could feel herself at some sort of breaking point, but she felt the need to reach out nonetheless. He needed the distraction. "You were looking for survivors, right? " She smiled although he wouldn't he be able to see it, maybe he could hear it in her voice. "Well they're going to need lots of help...."

As she spoke she physically placed her head between her hands, her knees pressed against the back of the seat in front of her, she curled up. Minthe did not have the energy to navigate the real world right now.  "Even the ones who were trained to fight..Some of them have never even seen real combat, much less this horror. They are scared, terrified..They need someone to look up to and follow right now and to give them that hope that the awfulness is ending. They need someone who cares and who understands what they've seen...like you"
 
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on October 12, 2019, 03:43:43 AM
The APC and its escorts drove down beneath the pods, where an elevator was now arriving with a tall, lanky man dressed in black, an equally tall, but stocky man dressed in more mercenary-military attire with the Iron Bear logo on his sleeve, two technicians, and a fire team of mercenaries armed with M41A Pulse Rifles. Viktor halted the APC near the elevator, and powered the craft down. "Remember, everyone - best behavior," he told the others as he went for the door. On opening it, Viktor was the first out, and approached the men. "Captain... welcome to the Forward Observation Pods." Viktor surveyed the faces present, but the stocky man - identified as Rykov, by the name stenciled on his uniform - seemed... maddeningly familiar. And he regarded Viktor with cold, calculating eyes. Almost as if he was pissed to see him.

"You are bold to come this deep into Xenomorph territory," Rykov said. "Or foolish."

"I was told you needed assistance, General," Viktor responded. He looked to the other man. "I assume you are Dr. Eisenberg?"

"You assume correctly, Captain," the man in black affirmed.

"My forces and I have come to render assistance - that is why we were sent here, after all. Is there anything I need to know about?" Viktor asked.

"We have teams out in the field for archeological research," Rykov said. "One of which is trapped amidst a Xenomorph Hive."

"I have spoken with the team - they're alive, but they don't have the supplies to last very long out there," Eisenberg added. "Ordinarily, I'd send some of Rykov's mercs to extract them, but... they're shorthanded. Half of them died at the POC when it was overran, and a third of what was left disappeared in the field. That is why I urged the General to ask for... outside assistance."

"If you'll allow it, I can link your comm systems with that of my ship's so we can coordinate our efforts," Viktor offered.

"If it were possible, I'd allow it, but the landline was severed when the POC was overran - communications with anyone beyond the surrounding areas is impossible," Eisenberg sighed.

"Actually, I deployed a subspace relay in the canyons leading to the POC, and I have the POC secure; if you'll show me to your comms equipment, I can make the necessary adjustments," Viktor told him. Eisenberg looked impressed.

"You don't waste a minute," he commented. He then directed an aside at one of the technicians. "Technician Stiles, please escort the Captain to the Communications Blister. Assist him in any way necessary. Before he got on the elevator, Viktor would turn to Ori. "Ori, take charge down here, get everything prepped... I have a feeling we're gonna need to roll out soon." He leaned closer and added in Dovahzul, "And keep your head on straight; anything happens, I'll come find you." Viktor then got on the elevator, and began the long ascent into one of the pods.

It was during this ascent that Rykov appeared in pain. Subtly, he nearly doubled over, and one of the mercs went to his side, whispering something in his ear. Rykov shook his head, but the merc seemed insistent, and Rykov reluctantly nodded, and headed off to a nearby bunker with the merc.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on October 14, 2019, 04:20:25 AM
A large armored talon reached out to give Krystel a pat on her shoulder after she finished her words with Ori. He found it odd that Ori would be the one to make a comment about relying on armor when hers was no different than anyone elses.  However, like Krystel, his armor was a tool and a good tool at that.  "If you or Viktor were worried about our skill as soldiers he would not have hired us in the first place." was all he got to say on the matter when a paw suddenly flew up and gave him a good smack on the back of his helmet with enough force to push his large noggin forward a bit. A warning hiss almost slipped from his maw till he turned to the one who smacked him and came eye to eye with an angry glare from Minthe.  His head reeled back as she tore into him, almost as if she had been building up to the exploding powder-keg of a sheep that now sat next to the large Rohkah. 

Oh Goddess, how he wanted to snap back at her, tell her that he was only trying to help and that he had not set out to push Lithian away.  But....none of that mattered as his anger slipped away. Minthe wasn't wrong, he was a fool and was already beating himself up over the whole thing so he took her verbal lashing  in stride and was glad that his full helmet hid the hurt look that befell his features.  With a huff, he looked away from  Minthe and sulked in his seat while she contacted Lithian. While he couldn't hear what she said he could hear the sorrow and worry in her voice and when she had curled up in her seat he tenderly reached out to place an armored talon on her lightly, hoping the contact would help calm her a little. 

When the APC came to a halt near the pods and Viktor stepped out, Sohdakin looked to both Minthe and Valentine "You two stay inside for now, you will be safer in the APC" he hummed and looked at one of the screens that showed Viktor approaching the one called Rykov, "Lets not forget about that Yautja still lurking about. Also, I am not sure if I trust this group and would rather them not know you are with us...yet" he said and hoped that Minthe would not take offense to it and listen to him about this.  He knew he would have a lot of work ahead of him if he wanted to rebuild any bridges he may have burned. "Please"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on October 14, 2019, 04:43:02 AM
Valentine, who had remained silent for a while, finally spoke to no one in particular. “The monsters infiltrate. They are in our midst.” She looked around the APC. “Be on your guard, comrades. I feel something horrible approaches.”
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on October 14, 2019, 12:33:09 PM
Ori decided to shut as the conversation started to fall in the wrong direction. She didn't want one more conflict, which could involve her now. But sudden Minthe' returning to life and her next actions forced the UNSC' operative act more formal. The female was damn tired of what's happens in the squad. And it was a matter of time when she starts speaking on behalf of administrative protocols, which no one would like, Viktor including. It means cutting any connection between UNSC official operatives and hired guns. Essentially, it's an abandoning the last ones on their own. Of course, the evacuation of mercenaries, in this case, can't be even discussed.

"Ma'am, I'd like to ask you to restrain from harming the team members. Otherwise, your actions I'll evaluate as a threat, and the response will be according to them.". Ori said, picking a formal tone before leaving the APC, hoping nothing wrong will occur in the team anymore. Ori doesn't want to point out on her mates with her gun to stop debating and misunderstanding, which may lead to what just happened between the ram and dragon. Hoping that they were smart enough to negotiate anything without any assault. The team already has had problems, and internal conflicts won't solve them any better.

On another hand, Ori's appearance has probably impressed Pod's guards as they all directed their guns right on her. They had a good reason for that as Ori's warframe was the most intimidating thing from the entire rescue team. Luckily, after the female explanation of who she is, the security team has lowered their firearms. A relief, but it lasted for a moment. Viktor's fiancee listened to the end of the conversation very carefully, and before Vyktor was taken to the Pods, the female warframer decided to go with Eisenberg instead. Aside from knowing Xenos better, she wanted to discover the real activities here and how exactly the accidents happened.

"Ori Arashi, UNSC rescue team. Dr. Eisenberg, I'd like to get more information about Xenomorphs and ways to deal with them. Their anatomy in-depth, behavior, and what else. I know you were researching them for a long time. Would you like to share what you've got so far? UNSC would surely appreciate your job.". Ori asked, and after a brief node from the scientist, lifted to the Pods as well. But soon, she got separated from her beloved wolf and the rest of the team. What was in question is how easily Eisenberg agreed to share his info. Perhaps, he wanted to share not just intel about vicious creatures.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on October 14, 2019, 11:26:16 PM
Lithian continued to silently follow from up above. His thoughts were interrupted by a transmission. He was about to mute it when he heard Minthe's voice. For a while Lithian was silent, before responding, "I'll be around."

Up high, he could see a lot of the damage that had been done. Perhaps more useful however was that he could spot alien swarms more easily, at least, those out in the open. His motion scanner was pinging so often that it began to sound almost like a distorted duck on steroids. Lithian turned it off. He couldn't tell what was being said on the ground, but he had a feeling that Rykov had put his interests above evacuating all of the survivors. More reasons to make Lithian's metaphorical blood boil, but he couldn't be sure. He had already had a mental blowout, it was best to avoid another if he could help it, though strong words might be traded back and forth in the near future.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on October 14, 2019, 11:38:12 PM
Krystel sensing something amiss, but unable to point it out nor speak of it without causing trouble decided to keep the thought to herself , but he hand mind hovered over another idea , a secret locked into her armor.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: MintPlush on October 15, 2019, 12:03:24 AM
As the APC landed, she watched the screen aboard to see what was going on. There was Rykov and Dr. Eisenberg as well. She sat up straight, leaning in closely to hear and observe easier. Minthe listened intently to what they were saying, and watched as they walked toward the elevator.

Just before the doors were closing she saw it...the small grimace of pain as Rykov shifted in what was a movement to cover it. He had not wanted that pain to be seen. The ram about pressed her nose to the broadcast. "....He's in pain..." She whispered.

She furrowed her brow in thought. Minthe really did not want to contact the one they called Viktor. He was a bit....intimidating...buuut... She remembered Ori who had seemed to be second in command, and had a good head on her shoulders. It would be easier to tell her. "I need to breathe for a moment." She smiled toward Sohda and gently slid around him to step outside. The little ram stood in the entry of the APC as she spoke quietly, so that no one around her could hear.

"Ori? Minthe, here. Just listen. It's imperative that you know. I know that Rykov shattered his spine from an accident on Korari. I know that he elected for Synthetic Nerve Adaptation, which I helped perform under Dr. Eisenberg's command. It restored his ability to walk, but he still had near-constant pain that requires a constant pain medication..." She finally took a breath.

"I think...I have reason to believe that Eisenberg is going through great lengths to acquire this medication, even going into black market goods for it. I just...I wanted to tell you. " She really did not want to get thrown under the bus for that mess, and she could see that happening in the blink of an eye.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on October 17, 2019, 01:44:02 AM
While the others went about doing whatever, Viktor was escorted to the communications blister. The tech was familiar, and Viktor would find it easy enough to work with. He waved the technician away, then set to work. Accessing the comm routines was easy enough - almost child's play. It was as he was linking the blister to the subspace relay that he came across something he wasn't expecting to:

"Data: Rosters have been altered. Archeology team already dead, presumed killed by unknown adversary. Team lead by Horgus to be--" The data stream cut off abruptly, and the blister shut down.

"What the hell--? Any technician hearing this, I'm having trouble with the--" Viktor began, before the Force warned him of another approaching. Hostile intent, sort of. He immediately grabbed his rifle and rounded on the doorway, and a woman, human, was standing there. She made no hostile gesture, and Viktor lowered his weapon. "You shouldn't sneak up on people," he told her.

"My apologies - I often can't help being silent," the woman apologized, her accent having that thick Russian quality. The name stenciled on her armor read "Dunya". "There was a problem with this terminal - it gives us issues from time to time. You'll need to interface with the communications mainframe. Please follow me." Dunya turned to leave, and Viktor reluctantly followed. Strangely, he sensed no deception from Dunya. So why did the Force warn him she had hostile intent? Strange. "It would take a brave and cunning man to take back the POC from the Xenomorphs," Dunya commented after some time.

"Just doing my job," Viktor said. "I get paid for that kind of thing.

"I like brave and cunning men," she chuckled.

"I'm sure you do; but I'm spoken for, so don't get any funny ideas," Viktor told her.

"Don't worry - I have fiancee," Dunya stated. She halted suddenly, her hand going to a comms device in her ear. Viktor could hear no discernible transmission, but Dunya nonetheless nodded and spoke, "Yes, of course - I will be there soon." She looked to Viktor, and pointed through a nearby door. Viktor got the implication when he saw "Communications Mainframe" on the door. He headed for the door, and just before he could trigger the door's motion sensor, something hit the back of his head with such force, it knocked him out. His body slumped to the deck, and was quickly removed from the scene...
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on October 17, 2019, 03:05:23 AM
Krystel stood up her rifle in her hand cocked  itas soon as she stood up "Something is wrong, if this thing has shields activate it now!" The red vixen said her  armor's shield powering up. "I dunno what just happened but whatever it is it's not good, Minthe if you have any way to contact our friend the gargoyle privately do it now, something bad is happening."  Krystel finished, trying to contact Viktor "Viktor something is going down , are you alright?" she asked over the comm, while in her mind she wondered what the heck had set her senses off, why now of all places and of all times.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on October 17, 2019, 08:55:34 PM
While she and Eisenberg were lifting to the Pods, Ori has carefully listened to Minthe and the things she was telling. And the she-warframer didn't like the fact that a sick General was the head of Pods' security. Why didn't Weyland retire him or send him on healing? They either didn't care, or Rykov didn't tell them at all in fear of losing his job. Or both. Well, bad for Rykov as he will be in charge of what happened here. To do so, Ori needed some proofs, and the doctor might help with it inadvertently.

"I've heard you, Minthe. Did Rykov ever tell to Weyland about his problem with his back? Regardless of it, thank you. Stay vigilante down there.". The UNSC female said before entering the building while she was still processing intel from the ram. The interior was clean and looked nice as for Weyland facilities in general. Because usually, it was grey walls everywhere. And so Ori decided to ask Eisenberg before they approached the lab. "I know little about Xenomorphs. Only that they're not super friendly and their blood is acid. But I'd like to know about their history and anatomy. The way they appeared and similar stuff."

But once the two entered the lab, what in reality was pods with eggs in stasis, the galaxy-skinned has petrified for a moment. There were a lot of eggs. But why so many? What were they supposed to do with them? Ori couldn't resist but asked.

"Is that Xenomorph's eggs? Why so many?". Observing the eggs, she asked.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on October 18, 2019, 04:10:08 AM
Sohdakin's head tilted to the side a bit when Minthe had walked up to the row of monitors and mumbled something, almost under her breath. "Who is?" he asked and stood up slowly to peer at the same screen Minthe was starting at.  However, by the time he looked at it, the doors to the capsule had closed.  He was about to protest when Minthe informed him she needed to get a breather but stopped the moment he saw her smile at him.  The large Rohkah would take his seat again, his services were not needed right now and the last thing he wanted to do was intimidate the guards outside, he knew how intimidating his presence could be. A 10' tall armored leviathan would put anyone on edge, especially if or when they saw what weapons he could field.  The same could be said about Krystel as she did, to many, look like a Spartan and they did strike fear in many who found themselves on the wrong side of the fence.

The large Rohkah looked over at Krystel when she stood up, grabbed her rifle and chambered a round.  "They would be foolish to attack us right now" he said over the com channel so the guards outside could not hear him.  "Minthe, get back in here and close the door" he said, hoping the sheep would listen to him and shut the door.  He brought up the camera feeds to his internal hud, observing all that was going on around them and looked for any tell-tale signs that something was amiss.  It could be something as simple as one of the refugees finger hovering over the trigger or how they fidget or lack of fidgeting.  "Val, can you man the turret? Controls are simple and Im sure you have used them before?" he asked as he figured having one of them on the turrets would help them should an ambush be on the horizon. 
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on October 21, 2019, 02:47:29 AM
There wasn't much to do at the moment. It would probably be a while before anything did happen, unless that Predator thought it was a good idea for an ambush right now. Otherwise, Lithian was already well acquainted with how long and boring meetings could be. Especially anything corporate. Viktor and Rykov would probably be in there for hours. Why not spend the whole night? Could go for a corporate dinner. Whatever it took to waste more time.

Perhaps out of sheer boredom, Lithian started fiddling with his comm unit. Yes, it was linked with the team, but it was also still linked to the rest of the station too. Since they weren't aware that Lithian was even alive, maybe he could overhear some of the surviving staff talk trash about him, or the new team. Snoop in on some details he wasn't supposed to be privy too. Of course, any transmission that wasn't shared with the general staff or security Lithian would not know of. He didn't have anyway of breaking encryption either.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on October 26, 2019, 05:58:48 PM
"History, we don't know much ourselves - Anatomy, that much we can accommodate," Eisenberg responded. When Ori asked about the eggs, he answered, "Well, we tend to need a lot of specimens for study. That's why we need a supply of eggs."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on October 30, 2019, 08:20:51 PM
Krystel was still on high alert, her senses telling her something was wrong ,but it was quiet outside, almost too quiet. Ever since they had gotten to this world something had her on edge, and she couldn't figure out what it was and that had put her even more on  edge. She continued to whatch the outside cameras though the wireless feed in her helmet  'nothing nothing nothing nothing what the hell is going on?' she thought to herself, biological alerts flaring inside her head.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on November 06, 2019, 08:15:11 PM
"Ideals are peaceful, but the history is violent. Have you ever heard about this metaphor, dr. Eisenberg?". Ori asked, observing the eggs. In her experience as a UNSC operative, learning the past of every foe was an affair that always comes into play first. It's always nice to know what drives your enemy to behave. Xenomorphs are not an exception. On the contrary, understanding the deadly nature of these creatures, their background is what Eisenberg should unveil first. It could be even better than knowledge of their anatomy. "Tell me everything you've discovered so far, please. As we both share the same enemy.".

But then happens a thing, no one of two has expected. Near an air shaft, three ovomorphs cracked, and the Facehuggers rushed into the shaft with a blink of an eye. It happened so fast that Ori couldn't react quickly enough. And if she could, the female Orokin wasn't familiar with security protocols here. Perhaps, Eisenberg should be aware of them as everyone here now in danger. But accidents might happen now with no doubt. The she-warframer hoped that the first victims of the Facehuggers wouldn't be her teammates.

"Suggestions, sir?". Ori asked with her typical calm, looking on the scientist. Of course, she wanted to burn this place to the ashes, but that would make the situation only worse. Simply because it will mark her team as enemies for Pod's staff as well.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on November 07, 2019, 04:28:54 AM
Valentine tilted her head. “A turret..? It’s...a little below my skills, but...I suppose...” She quickly shuffled into the turret’s control pit, pulling the seals shut, though a good bit of her robes stuck out from behind the seals. The turret swung lazily to and fro as Valentine acclimated to the controls. “Bit more complex than the Mongdrigan standard...and no cranial jack. How does...oh. Electronic display screen...but what..ah...projected crosshairs. I’m not going to lie, Rohkah, I’m not a fan of this thing.”
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on November 09, 2019, 05:10:17 AM
Sohdakin looked over at Krystel as she seemed rather tense and uneasy as if she sensed something, what it was, she did not seem to say as he watched her just stand there with her fist clenched.  He did not like waiting either and while he did feel something was amiss, he kept calm as being on edge would only cause him to simply react to danger rather than respond to it.  No, he had to keep a cool head as he needed to be that rock for the squad.  That was his job afterall, the fall-back point, the solid ground for the squad to regain their footing should they lose it or get turned around in the chaos that was battle.

When Valentine spoke up about the turret being beneath her skills he couldnt help but chuckle softly and wink at the Mongdrigan.  "Mmmmmm, it is a skill worth having tho as you are one of the few that can operate the turret.  Add your...unique skills to the equation means you are a better turret operator than the rest of us." he hummed and winked at her again as he did have to agree that the controls and interface could do with some upgrades.  "Definitely not up to Rohkah standards either, do what you can as I may need to step out if things go south and we do not have time to train Minthe on the controls so you are it and I know I can count on you" he hummed and gave her a gentle pat on the shoulder before going back to look at the screens and gave Krystel a gentle nudge "What is it?  You sensing something or did you see something?"
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on November 09, 2019, 08:50:30 AM
Krystel turned her head to Sohdakin a look of worry on her face ."I cannot tell, as I don't know but I feel something is amiss, like a deer before the ambush of a pack of wolves I sense something is going to happen ,however I cannot tell what, and that is what worries me the most, the unknown."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on November 09, 2019, 11:40:59 PM
"Get clear," Eisenberg said as the alert klaxons sounded, "Security will handle this." Moments later, Eisenberg was hurried away from the scene, but another corridor was left open and unguarded, beyond which was a hall leading to a shaft and one particular room that was left open and unguarded, a terminal inside, leaving Ori with a choice: Follow Eisenberg, or head into the unguarded corriror. It'd be easy to assume her innocence in light of this event.

*** Elsewhere in the Pods ***

Away from prying eyes, a body was carried on a stretcher - a wolf, unconscious, dressed in a convict laborer outfit, the number 16 on his back. What set this wolf apart was the scars on his face, and a hastily-treated injury to the back of his head...

*** Down on the surface ***

Also away from prying eyes, and under dilapidated surveillance cameras that conveniently shorted out for the time being, Rykov underwent what seemed to be a medical administration of pain medicine. He groaned, quietly, then commented as quietly as he could given his evident pain, "Damn cheating Black Market... dammit, Eisenberg! Each batch is worse than the last!"

"The pain will subside, General - and you'll be back to operational status in no time," stated a red-haired mercenary officer. There were a few moments before Rykov asked,

"Ivan... you prepared the rosters, yes?"

"Yes, sir," Ivan replied.

"Will it hold up to investigation?" Rykov inquired.

"Without witnesses, who will be able to say anything to refute it?" Ivan scoffed.

"We do what we must... go, then," Rykov commanded. Ivan nodded, and started for the door of the bunker they were in.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on November 11, 2019, 05:37:39 PM
Ori set off the scientist with a smirk; it was what she wanted. The she-warframer wished to help Eisenberg with no doubt. However, the female Orokin would never find out what's going on this planet by merely talking with Pods' staff. Or it could take months. It's a task she must to accomplish with a cunning and dirty tactic. So once Ori checked by looking in adjacent corridors, that no one was around, she quickly rushed to the nearest room with a terminal inside and various control panels. Luckily, the room was empty, but the UNSC' operative suspected, that won't be for too long. Once Eisenberg realizes that Ori is gone or she is a spy, he will alert the security team. Hence Viktor's fiancee should act swiftly.

The old-fashioned terminal isn't locked, not a surprise in such a facility. Security violation Ori would say, but for now, it's only a benefit. All in all, security breaches were here everywhere. Inside the computer were two e-mails that addressed to the Pods' security team. Both messages have one-word subjects: Viktor and Jeri. Because the first e-mail has contained the name of her beloved wolf, the female Orokin resolved to open it first.

"As soon as Captain Horgus and his team arrive, isolate Viktor by any means necessary. We must get him away from his team. The team is immaterial - they will be dealt with later. Viktor is a top priority. As soon as you have him alone, incapacitate him any way you can, then dress him up in a Convict Laborer uniform and throw him in cell 31B. Assuming the other cons don't kill him, laboring in the implantation labs will.". The message said. In spite of her desire to leave no single living rock from this building, Ori perfectly aware of the possible consequences of her actions. For putting Viktor in additional danger can't be considered. But why those who supposed to separate the Ice Wolf from the rest of the team started to operate only now? Frankly, the e-mail spawned a lot of questions in Ori's head, and she was unsure who can give answers to them.

The second e-mail was about a synthetic Xenomorph named Jeri. Designed by Dr. Mayakovsky, the description of the artificial alien looked promising. But the message left a question - is Jeri a robot who is wearing an exosuit very similar to Xeno's skin. Or the creature has been raised by Mayakovsky, and its DNA changed somehow in a way that makes Jeri a docile alien. Like a dog. Aside from testing results, the message was saying, that Jeri now on an object called Peragus III. A misfortune, but even if Jeri was here, Viktor and his team have a lot of things to do. And likelihood, they would never face the synthetical one. But Being swallowed by reading mail, Ori was unable to hear like a Praetorian has broken the ceiling and started to walking around in search of prey.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on November 15, 2019, 08:28:04 AM
Well. Not much was happening. Other than Rykov's injury maybe. Lithian never noticed before, but then again, he wasn't too acquainted with the higher ups. Well, most of the team was parked outside, but Lithian had an advantage in that regard. He was an employee, he could legitimately show up and pronounce his status as not dead. Maybe even get a few merits for trying harder than anyone else. Or rip into everyone for leaving everyone outside the pods to die. Keep calm, anger was still in his veins, and Lithian wasn't the best at hiding his emotions. Still, he'd try to keep a calm demeanor towards his comrades.

Lithian made no attempt at hiding as he flew to a backdoor locked to all but those with a security clearance. He spoke in his comms as he entered through the door, directed specifically towards Minthe, "Minthe, you're an employee here. You don't have to wait with the others. Maybe catch-up with what happened in the past week? We're the only ones with a home-field advantage."

He greeted his fellow compatriots on his way in, making sure to both announce his status as not being dead, and throwing a small amount of shade of how he was only among one of two who stayed behind to help as many as they could. Only a subtle amount of shade. Now to find Rykov and ask him, or rather accuse him, of leaving everyone else out to die. Lithian got a few clues from co-workers with when they last saw him.

Though Lithian didn't quite see Rykov, he did hear a voice that sounded like him. Sounded like he was in pain, which would explain his behavior before hand. Also something about a black market? Lithian could only assume painkillers. Well, that was incriminating evidence to keep track of. He didn't have proof of the conversation, but he was sure mentioning it might cause an investigation. What was he talking about? Of course there was going to be an investigation. This was a disaster. The leadership would be lucky if they kept their jobs. Weyland would surely try to cover up the incident, but that didn't mean they wouldn't expel the people who allowed it to happen.

"Some juicy rumors here," Lithian whispered into the comms, again addressed to Minthe, "Nothing concrete, but leadership might be even more screwed up than I thought. Do you have access to medical records on Rykov? Surely his pain medication would appear there, otherwise, he might be using... uh... other sources. Illegal sources."

Romulan gave the okay to overhear the conversation.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on November 17, 2019, 07:41:48 PM
"Where the hell is everyone?" Krystel grumbled mostly to herself "First Vicktor dissappears and now that wierd Elf, Ori." The vixen red grumbled. "Has anybody heard from either of them?" she asked 'feeling even more unnerved now. "I can't tell what the hell is going on but it doesn't seem good...Everyone stay on high alert, their either waiting for us to do something or their planning something like an ambush..."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on November 25, 2019, 05:48:50 AM
Sohdakin sighed as it seemed Minthe was in a bit of a trance again.  He didn't like this either, sitting in the APC twiddling his thumbs waiting for something to happen.  However, he knew that all he could do was sit and wait, Viktor had told them to wait and attacking the guards was not on the menu.  Neither was entering the facility as they had neither the access or the permission to enter. 

The large Rohkah looked to Krystel when she asked the very same question he was "Bah! Both Viktor and Ori leave to go inside and leave us to twiddle our collective thumbs. Would have been nice if they clued us in on what the heck they were up to so we knew what to expect if things go south on them......Are we to just sit here till we expire? Viktor tells Ori the plan and then Ori up and freekin leaves us to kiss face with the creepy Doctor.....with not a word on what they want us to do other than 'behave'.....Is this how the UNCS always operates?" he grumbled and looked to Krystel again. He looked to the monitors again and saw a brief glimpse of what could only be Lithian soaring high above them all.  At least it seemed the Gargoyle stayed with them....mostly.  That much was a relief to Sohdakin.

"Valentine, Krystel, do either of you know how to call our pickup?  If things go south we need to know how to get off this rock if we are unable to get to Viktor.....though we have no idea where either of them went since neither bothered to tell us ANYTHING..."  Sohdakin was very irritated at how the flow of information vanished when it mattered most.  He did not like the idea of leaving anyone behind but, did Viktor expect the team to die trying to find him or Ori with not a single clue as to what and where they were going inside the complex?
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on November 25, 2019, 06:04:40 AM
Valentine shook her head. “Unfortunately, my friend. I believe we are expendable defense, merely an early warning system for the creatures to grind their razor teeth against.” She sighed. “I have no trust in these people. They harbor ill will, I fear. This place is much more sinister than it seems.” Valentine studied the guards through camera feeds. The seer has no idea, but the fading pain in her head indicated that, unfortunately, the turret’s housing was beginning to coalesce her power. A gigantic reverberating bell, awaiting to discharge all that energy. If Sohdahkin or Krystel’s onboard sensor suites could detect electromagnetic radiation, the sensors would be steadily increasing their counts.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on November 28, 2019, 05:25:45 PM
Viktor's head swam in darkness. He could feel hands grabbing at him, stripping his armor, then... nothing. Last thing he remembered was being escorted to another part of the Pods, then... blank. Something must have knocked him unconscious - next thing he knew, he was waking up in an unfamiliar environment. This wasn't a Xenomorph hive, that was for sure. He wasn't immobile - but his armor and gear was gone. And he was in some sort of uniform.

"Been a while since we had... new blood, around here," said a voice. Viktor looked over and saw a scarred canine. A convict, by the looks of him. "Nice eyes. You just come out of cold sleep? What're you in for?"

Viktor frowned. "Huh?" he asked, still half-groggy.

"What crime were you convicted of..." the convict growled, clearly amused.

"I'm not a convict; I'm a Starship Captain," Viktor responded. The convict scoffed.

"Sure you are - and I'm innocent," he retorted.

It was then that a voice came over the intercom: "Attention Lab Personnel: Please escort convict number sixteen to Implantation Lab Four."

The convict smiled. "That's you; boy, you must have pissed somebody off - out of the freezer and into the frying pan. Eh... too bad we didn't have enough time to get... better acquainted."

"Yeah, I'm heartbroken, too," Viktor said with clear sarcasm.

The convict looked up to the overlooking window, and saw the lone guard head for the elevator - alone. "Guard's alone - idiots," the convict scoffed. "They've been getting sloppy lately. Hnh... their loss." Viktor saw the convict pick up a shiv from beneath his mattress. It gave Viktor an idea - on a quick inspection of his body, he realized he still had access to his other powers - his Force ability was not inhibited in any way. Whoever was behind Viktor's imprisonment clearly either had no idea he was Force-Sensitive, or had no way to cut that off.

The guard entered the room, and the instant he did, the convict rushed him. He was quickly shot dead by the guard. Viktor leapt into action and gripped the guard with the Force, and quickly snapped his neck. Yep, definitely could still use the Force. No alarm klaxons sounded. Viktor quickly secured the guard's weapon and ammo, and headed for the elevator he had used to ascend. In the guard area, he mind-tricked a few guards and slipped up a ladder and vanished into the vents. He had to find his team. But first, he needed intel... something was wrong here. Something was very wrong...
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on November 28, 2019, 10:03:08 PM
Upon exiting from the room where she read the message, Ori decided to contact the team and tell everything she found out. There was no sense of keeping secrets. But a Praetorian behind the door was a nasty surprise. The being was way more bulky and taller. Also, its head looked differently. That being said, Ori was faster at raising her rifle. Afterward, she released a burst of plasma charges in the creature's direction. Alas, the trick didn't help too much as a new Xenomorph' version appeared to be more armored than a regular thing of the kind. Along with that, the Praetorian is far more agile. So it hadn't has issues by hopping on the woman and pinning her to the ground. It coerced her to drop the weapon.

The creature started to smashing the she-warframer, leaving deep scratches on her armor. And before the beast could able to do any significant damage, the female UNSC operative managed to turn the Xenomorph into a lump of ice for a couple of seconds. The rate of temperature her warframe generates is faster than it would be from any device. Surprisingly, the corridors of the Pods are continually cooled, that's why Ori didn't have any issues with water condensing. Being done with the abomination, Ori has got on her feet. Then she grabbed the rifle dropped a moment ago and fired another burst of plasma shells into the ice sculpture made of the Praetorian. That has effectively split the being in two, ending its life. Ori wanted to hope that was the only one such a strong Xenomorph because one more close contact with any of them might not finish quite well.

"Hey, team. That's Ori. How are you doing there? Bad news: aliens are running inside the Pods, and I have no idea how many exactly. A stronger version of Xenos has just attacked me. It looked like it's on steroids or something. Also, I think that Viktor might be in danger. I've read an e-mail from a terminal here, and someone wanted to split Viktor from us. I don't know why. I'll try to find it out. Stay vigilant down there. If any of the Pods security team might ask you to go one-by-one - refuse it by any means. If they don't understand it - well, kill them. Weyland's game here is over.". Ori said over her comlinks before she went to another room with a terminal along the corridor, hoping to find more intel about Viktor's mission. And at this time, she didn't know that she would bump into Lithian soon enough. Her battle with the alien is probably seen in the surveillance system. So either she will meet with the Gargoyle or Pods' guards may try to get her. But she doesn't care now anymore.

*** Prince ***

They thought they could escape from the Prince. They were wrong, dead wrong! Upon a recover from a failed attack on the rescue UNSC team, the Prince patiently waited when everyone will go. Then the Predator examined remained buildings in the POC and found another APC. The Yautja has spent some time trying to turn it on, but the efforts he put are rewarded. The vehicle he obtained is fully operational. It wasn't the first time the Prince using a non-Yautja car, so he had almost no issues at handling it. He knew where the UNSC team has traveled, hence getting there wasn't a problem as well. The Predator went with the same route as Viktor's team. Once done, the old Yautja has left the vehicle in five hundred meters from the Pods, the rest of the distance he covered on his feet.

The tactic he took this time was the same. But it wasn't true about the weapon. Being cloaked, the Prince climbed on a huge climb. From the top, he saw the same APC on which he arrived. The Yautja wasn't sure if there someone inside. So the Predator had used his thermal vision, that revealed the future prey. By considering the range between his victims, the choice is obvious. The Prince continued with fishing out his Remote Bomb and throwing it on the ground, right in front of the vehicle. He plans to detonate the bomb once someone exits from the car.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on November 29, 2019, 12:19:32 AM
The Apc jolted to the side a bit ,causing the Red vixen to fall off the edge of her seat and onto the floor, grumbling with her face in the floor she began to speak "WHAT WAS THAT?" She growled ,getting to her feet..."Can somebody give me a report?" She said almost through her teeth, something had her very grumpy...
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on November 30, 2019, 05:05:25 AM
Sohdakin had to disagree with Valentine, despite the fact they did not seem to get good enough intel he knew they were not exactly expendable.  "No, Viktor paid too much to have us join this operation.  Had he wanted more...expendable fighters the would have paid less....a lot less." he hummed as he did agree with her other remark "Mmmmmm, yes.  I do not trust these 'refugees', they are hiding something....what it is, I do not know" he said and when he used the term refugee, he made air quotes when mentioning them. 

When Val's power began to spike, Sohdakin looked to her with curiosity as he wondered if she was doing that on purpose or if there was something else going on "Are you ok? I am noticing a field developing near you Val" he said, taking a step back just in case.  Sohdakin stepped back and glanced at a monitor, pausing when he noticed something peculiar.  Another APC was approaching from the POC, its IFF beacon showing on the sensor grid.  Just as he was about to check on the APC's IFF signal, Ori's message suddenly arrived.

"Where in the breath have you been?" he said as he was still slightly irritated but most of his anger had dissipated so he kept his voice as calm as he could. "I doubt they would be foolish to start something with us. They will regret crossing us Ori." he chuckled and looked back at the monitor and noticed that the other APC had stopped half a click from their position.  He felt the scales on his neck raise "Something is up, Val check the perimeter.  I don't want to....." he stopped when a glint of light on one of the camera's caught his attention. 

"DRIVE! NOW! GO!" he roared to the driver.  Their APC began to move but it was already too late as the remote bomb detonated. The blast lifted the rear of the APC in a violent explosion. Anyone not strapped to a seat was suddenly tossed into the air.  While the blast was enough to lift the APC from its wheels momentarily, it was not enough to flip the armored carrier.  "Val! Light them up!" he growled and looked to Krystel as he picked himself up and back onto his feet.  "That was a bomb Spartan! Guess they changed their mind about being hospitable."

The side exit to the APC suddenly opened up as an armored leviathan stepped out and began to fire on the guards that he thought had initiated the attack. However, after a short burst of his heavy pulse rifle did he notice that the guards were already dead.  "What the....."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on December 02, 2019, 05:06:59 AM
Lithian completely missed that he opened his comms to the entire team, rather than just Minthe. This was perhaps for the best, as he overheard was Ori had to say, which quickly explained the gunfire. What it didn't explain was the massive explosion. Of course, the security team was scrambling to defend the base and investigate what happened.

"Hold up, HOLD UP!" Lithian yelled into his headset, "those are some pretty bold claims! But..." Lithian hesitated, then dropped his voice, "I... you already heard what I tried saying just to Minthe. Look... I know we don't like each other, but this is getting sketchy. Obviously I have the most freedom to move around the base. I can get into areas you can't. Keep that in mind, will you? I'm heading to where I heard gunfire."

He wasn't comfortable with what he had said, but... new discoveries were changing Lithian's perspective on things. He still didn't like the team, but he was growing to hate Weyland more. Thoughts ran through his head. All of this was simultaneously making no sense and adding up. Why call a mercenary team a week after the incident rather than call in more staff? Why leave the exterior areas to fend for themselves? Why were aliens still inside the pods when they should have been purged? It was almost as if this place was designed to fail, and maybe that was intentional.

"Do you think they deliberately left us out here to die just to lure you guys here?"

Then, Lithian came across Ori. He wasn't sure whether he should wave, or just stare.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on December 02, 2019, 06:09:12 AM
Driver bolts clunked into position as Valentine thumbed priming switches, the twin barrels of the fifty-caliber rotary cannon spinning up. As the gun reached its low-speed RPM, Valentine mashed the kill switch. Round after round of red-hot death streaked across no man’s land, slamming into the facility’s external frame, shearing free paint and starting small fires. The Mongdrigan swept the gun across the facade, splitting sandbags to ribbons, smashing equipment and pulping the already dead guards. The gun traversed across its entire axis, stopping at a 90 degree angle from the APC’s front. Valentine then swept across the opposite direction, perforating more defense and equipment. The stream of lead only stopped once the turret rings clunked against its limiter.
Unfortunately, Valentine had neglected to don ear protectors. Her ears were filled with a high ringing, and she stumbled from the turret controls, looking around for her comrades.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on December 10, 2019, 04:09:31 PM
*** Pods Lab Area ***

Viktor crawled through the vents and ductwork, looking for an empty place to drop out. "Hnnh... now I know what a TV Dinner feels like..." he grunted quietly. He came to a hatch, opened it, and saw a massive shaft, the kind the Pods used to house their elevators and walkways.An elevator stopped just above him, but the undercarriage stopped right in front of him. Perfect.

"Pair off and search by twos - I want this b*****d found!" barked someone on the elevator. Viktor was quick to get on the undercarriage. It was then that alarm klaxons sounded.

*** Pods Dorm Areas ***

"Excuse me, madame?" came that red-haired mercenary Lieutenant, Ivan. "Are you Ori? Second-in-Command of that crew that recently arrived here?" The human approached her, seeming not to notice the dead Praetorian.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on December 10, 2019, 09:32:31 PM
*** Pods Dorm Areas ***

"Not anymore, bud. I'm here already.". Ori answered on Lithian's speech, though for the Gargoyle, it should be self-evident that she was inside the Pods already. Despite all the things that happened in the POC, the Orokin was glad that he's alive. More witnesses against Weyland, and hopefully, this facility will be the last straw to declare or take from the corporation up to every single credit. Or simply make it illegal across all the space under the UNSC's control. The fewer people involved in dirty, cruel jobs of the corporation, the more will it save lives. It's the bright future for this part of the Galactic Society, isn't it great? Without an error named Weyland.

Then it was a moment when the UNSC operative almost ran into Ivan. The way he spoke and his absolute indifference by seeing the dead Xenomorph (not a typical specimen), made Ori suspicious toward the Lieutenant. He's either is fearless (a mandatory trait for every security guard here) and used to see aliens. Or the man has known something that Ori doesn't. Luckily for him, the female operative was in a rush and couldn't forecast such a plot. That's why she decided to answer politely, even though she never liked humans, let alone a staff of Weyland facilities. Just because humans are the dominant race in the Galactic Society (from her perspective).

"Yes, I am. Something wrong? Aside from Xenomorphs running in the Pods.". The lady asked in return. Like an answer to her question, an explosion, and sounds of a firefight Ori heard outside of the Pods. Then she felt like a spiritual connection with Viktor dropped significantly. That means he is far away or about to die. All those factors, combined, made the woman extremely tensed for the first time. She was about to opt for the way of destruction, not overthinking about this place. It needs to be destroyed regardless. And may the Force save Ivan's soul if he brought bad news. The Orokin patience is close to it's ending.

*** Prince ***

The Yautja was satisfied with his actions. They have warmed him up pretty well. Even though the victims were still alive, Prince could felt the taste of the hunt. And what he will do with them upon their slaught. As such, the Predator has produced a roar to fright the prey even more. Oh yeah, they must fear him. Even the bullets released by the APC didn't stop Prince's desire to continue his dark affair. On the contrary, he waited behind a rock until APC gets flipped. Afterward, he rushed more closely to the Pods, chasing the rescue team. And once the distance between him and the UNSC' group was optimal for the Plasmacaster, Yautja has fired two plasma bolts into Sohdakin and quickly retired. Sure thing, being cloaked.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on December 11, 2019, 11:34:37 AM
"WHAT  THE HELL IS GOING ON OUT THERE!?" Krystel almost roared. "Where the Hell is Ori or Vicktor I'm tried of wating, DRIVER, GET US out of the open!" Krystal demanded really tired of staying in the APC ,but she knew that if something hit them it wouldn't just be shooting at them and she had a really bad feeling.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on December 11, 2019, 10:51:36 PM
There was no sound better to the Rohkah's ears than the sound of a high caliber weapon roaring out fire.  What was left of the guards turned into pulp as the ground around them was chewed up by the explosive rounds of the APC. It was a testament to the sheer power that such a weapon could bring. 

While Valentine was firing the turret mounted weapon, Sohdakin scanned the area as something was off.  No guard would be stupid enough to blow themselves up, no....something else was amiss.  "Frak!.....Spartan we got trou..." he was cut off when a warning flashed on Sohdakin's hud moments before the first plasma bolt hit the large dragon and his shields flared up.  He was able to deflect the second shot as he raised a wing and used his shield to angle the shot so he didn't take the full brunt of the second shot.  Red warning messages flashed in his hud, alerting him that his shields were almost depleted and he may not withstand another shot, even if he tried to deflect it.

With a grunt, Sohdakin moved around the APC to get out of the Prince's line of fire or at least the last known position as K2 was able to triangulate where the shot came from.  "We have contact, grid alpha one one three, looks like its our mystery guest!" he roared into the com channel and waited for his shields begin its recharging cycle before he peeked from behind the APC and opened up with his heavy pulse rifle.  With the APC damaged and the nearest cover a few hundred meters away, they were sitting ducks if they couldn't locate their mystery guest.  Slowly the Rohkah worked his way around the back of the APC till he got to the rear hatch and opened it "APC is shot, we need to get to better cover, maybe even inside" he said as he closed the doors to the APC to reload and re-attach his kit. Knowing that their new guest had a plasma gun of some sort Sohdakin grabbed a hand-held shield to provide some extra cover and hopefully it would be enough for them to reach the safety of the pods.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on December 16, 2019, 10:41:59 PM
Lithian made his way towards Ori. What he saw looked like quite the fight, considering the... scene. He could feel his nerves being strung up again, seeing the corpse, and the nonchalant Ivan who seemed to be ignoring the mess. There was also still the pressing issue of what sounded like a vehicle being blown asunder, along with the comm chatter that painted the situation is a dire light.

"Hey, I know I'm barging in and all, but I can't help but notice that we have an emergency. Someone is attacking the gate, and there are obviously aliens running about, and for some odd reason, everything is being targeted at our only rescuers, and nobody is helping them. How the heck did you guys survive for a week and yet not have everything on lockdown!? Even in the outer areas we at least kept the turrets up until they ran dry," Lithian didn't draw breath. He was still fuming, "you had all of these supplies, and couldn't be bothered to help anyone but yourself? Then for some reason as soon as backup arrives everything begins to breach and fall apart. Do you know how sketchy all this is? What is Weyland going to think when someone has to file a report for this disaster?"

There was more he wanted to say, but some of those things would reveal that Lithian had information that he shouldn't be privy to.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on December 17, 2019, 04:30:43 AM
The turret, despite all of Valentine’s struggling, would not traverse to Sohda’s indicated position. She roared in frustration, which didn’t help her head. The electromagnetic radiation increased, exponentially so. Valentine raised a paw to lift the turret lid, but an arc of lightning burst through the steel like wet tissue. Slag steel sprayed out over the APC, and the purple raccoon pulled herself from the turret. Energy crackled around her, a veritable tempest of forced empathy. As distant as they were, both Sohda and Krystel would feel something like a migraine begin to form, a fraction of a fraction of what Valentine felt. But the focus of her pain was, for the moment, the Hunter. He had caused enough problems for one day, Valentine felt. She scanned the rock formations, reaching out for the Yaut’ja. She would find him, if given time. Not by seeing him, but by seeing where he would be in the future. An arc of lightning, pain made physical, lanced out, nearly striking the Hunter. Valentine yelled incoherently, as she left off the Hunter for the research station. Another bolt lanced forth, scoring the walls and reducing the doors to molten slag. All the while, Valentine’s nose and lips were stained crimson, an indication of her efforts.
Her pain was immense, and so to would be all those around her. She had reached critical mass, a self destructive level of energy. If not stopped, or rendered unconscious, she would rend her very soul from her body, taking most life around with her. 
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on December 29, 2019, 04:12:25 AM
*** Pods Dorm Area ***

"I'm sorry, sir," Ivan apologized, "But we're fighting a lot of fires here - we got the bugs breathing down our necks, ghost readings at the perimeter, several archeological teams in the field cut off from support, and now a convict running loose somewhere in the pods..." Ivan looked to Ori. "... which is why I was ordered to find you. Madame, I am terribly sorry to tell you, but your husband was killed by the aforementioned convict. I'm not sure what he was doing in the Implantation Labs, but there was an incident - a convict laborer got rowdy, and managed to wrench a plasma flamer away from a guard, and turned it on Viktor - and inadvertently set off his ammo pouch. I don't think he felt it, given how one bullet went through his head. We have another of our Lieutenants, Dunya, tracking this convict. She will update you when she has him."

It was then that another made himself known. "Is... my god, is that a Praetorian?!" Eisenberg gasped. "The pods are going to hell in a hand basket, fast!" Eisenberg took a moment to compose himself. "I'm sorry... look, we just made contact with one of our critical Archeology teams, and while they're safe, they have no way to get out of the Xenomorph Hive they're trapped in. I was hoping to enlist your team's aid. Where is your commander?"

"He's dead, Doctor," Ivan reported. "Which I think makes Ori, here, the new Commander."

"Oh," Eisenberg sighed, seeming genuinely sympathetic. "I'm sorry. Well, take some time to process that, and when you're ready, I need you and your team to muster in the briefing room. With your help, we might be able to get the archeology team to safety."

*** Elsewhere in the Pods ***

Viktor managed to escape the elevator shaft, and wound up in another lab area - one that, thankfully, wasn't studying Xenomorphs. He needed to find his gear, then link back up with his team. They needed to be warned. Along the way, however, Viktor needed to get some evidence of what transpired here. He managed to hack a few computer terminals, and got a lot of chatter, but little else. One of those terminals, however, had a clue to Rykov. Viktor read an email chat between two people about how Rykov had been on Korari, years ago - fighting an "Ice Wolf". The incident described brought back a memory of how they fought, and how he cast Rykov into a dark canyon. Viktor never saw him again. Never thought that incident would come back and bite him. So that's what this is all about, Viktor thought. It's a vendetta. I've got to warn Ori. But I need my gear, first... Viktor got out of the room the computer terminal was in, and trekked to the Crew Quarters...
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: XIII on December 29, 2019, 01:45:13 PM
*** Pods Dorm Areas ***

Ori wasn't too much surprised when Lithian has shown himself. And his arguing was entirely fair and reasonable. The only difference is that this facility won't be reported - it will be wiped out. Once the issue with Xenomorphs will be handled, and survivors are extracted, the nuke will happen. But as always, the female Orokin was calm. And thanks to her helmet, it was impossible to say if she had any facial expressions at all. Ivan's news did not affect her mind, as well. Viktor is tough as a nail, and there no chance that the Ice Wolf can lose a fight against some convict. Unless it's someone like Aldukaal, all other threats are like annoying insects. After all, Ori could sense her beloved wolf's heartbeat across the distance. So that means he didn't kick the bucket, and Ivan was trying to cheat on her. But why? Perhaps there is a connection between the email she read and what he has just heard. To get more details on that, the galaxy-skinned one decided to behave as she believes to the soldier's words. As Ori would say, he may continue to speak heresy as long as he wants. But she will get the truth. The girl needs a little more time.

"It's terrible news, indeed. And in case of Viktor's absence, I'm taking the leadership of the team. We will do what you want if that helps to find Viktor. I'll go to meet the team at Pod's entrance and then lead them to the room. Wait for us there.". Ori said and went to where she told Eisenberg and Lithian in her speech. It needs to be done. Chances are Viktor is alive and kicking. But searching for him in the Pods alone was a dangerous and doubtful affair. So this time, Orokin needs to rely on the team once again. That's why she resolved to contact them over the comlink channel. "Team, this is Ori. Rendezvous to the Pod's entrance. Viktor is dead, and Eisenberg wants us to meet in the briefing room. Frankly, it sounds like a trap for me, but we have no other options. Ori's out.".

*** Prince ***

Before the Prince shot again with his Plasmacaster, he was struck by Valentine's lightning. It has saved the team from a calamity. The plasma shot flight above the APC and hit the rocks above. However, the shot has damaged the integrity of a rock mass. And one of them was about to fell on the team. Considering the distance between two objects, no one would survive its crash. The Hunter himself, being electrocuted, has lost the balance moving amidst the rocks. Afterward, he fell, hitting his head over a boulder. Even his thick skull didn't help him as the Prince got knocked out for an unspecified amount of time. That gives the rescue team a time window to move into Pods. With a rock near-to-fall above their heads, it was more than a good reason to get inside the facility.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Alessia Starfurr on December 29, 2019, 11:43:33 PM
Krystel could sense Valentine about to explode and did her best to attempt a sort of Vulcan neck pinch to painlessly and quickly bring her unconscious, then closed her eyes to think... "Ori I need Lithian to meet me at the computer hub later, i will not be at the meeting, if they ask tell them I was KIA or something to keep them off me. I'm gonna be doing some covert  operations... Be Safe, something stinks here."
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Sohdakin on December 30, 2019, 07:14:05 AM
Thankfully before Valentine began to melt down everything around her, Sohdakin had got his kit re-attached and began to exit the slagged APC and began to fire at the direction the Yautja was last known to be.  He watched in mild horror at Valentine's power as it arched out from the small raccoon's paws to strike the rock face in the distance.  Chunks of rock and other debri exploded out in a magnificent display of leathal lightning energy.  The Rohkah had barely time to realize that Ori was speaking to him and all he heard was something about Viktor and some blasted meeting "Little busy for a meeting right now, BOSS" he growled, the last word said dripping with venom and contempt as it seemed Ori wasn't paying attention to the fact that they were under attack and was ordering them around like they were just chilling in the APC twiddling their thumbs.

Sohdakin saw a bolt of plasma go wide, high above their heads from the rock face. Instead of watching the plasmabolt he, instead, unloaded his heavy pulse rifle towards where the shot came from.  The explosive rounds blowing apart the rock face along with Valentine's lightning blasts and tracked a falling object as it fell down the cliff.  He could not tell if he hit the target or if it fell to its death and did not care.  He looked back to Krystel and Valentine when the Racoon's force lightning ceased. "Go Spartan, I will take care of Valentine and Minthe" he said and scooped up Valentine's small frame, holding it against him using his shield arm as he made room for Krystel to leave and go do what she needed to do.  With Valentine in his arm and his shield up, the Rohkah charged across the open terrain towards the nearest entrance, sparks erupted from under the armored Rohkah's armored feet when he skidded into the wall next to the door as he needed to maintain speed and not try to slow himself down and give whoever was out there a chance to snipe him, Valentine or Minthe. 

Slamming the makeshift shield down into the concrete next to the door to help shield them as they got the door open, Sohdakin set Valentine down gently before he began to work the controls to the door and once the door was open he picked her up and motioned for Minthe to follow, shutting the doors behind them and locking them "Ori, we are inside and safe" he grumbled, "Valentine is out by the way, out but alive" he huffed and then shut the com off so he could check their surroundings, not trusting this place at all or these so called 'survivors.' He checked his hud and looked through the maps that Lithian had given them and hoped he picked the right room that Ori was wanting the team to meet in and felt that a meeting right now was a tad silly.  Something was out there trying to kill them and sitting around discussing it was not on his list of things needing to be done, alas, orders were orders.  Sohdakin went back to check on Valentine, placing a talon on her head then pulled out a small medkit to clean up the blood on her nose and ears and lips.  He checked her medical records...or what were provided to see what sedatives could be administered to help Valentine.  Once she was stabilized he picked her up again and carried her to the meeting location....hopefully without incident.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on December 31, 2019, 10:19:42 AM
"Are you KIDDING me!? Now Vi- you-" Lithian was lost for words. He couldn't quite process everything that had just gone on, though he did appreciate being called 'sir'. "WHAT!? N-no! I'm not waiting in some room so that we can deliberate on useless company affairs! Something needs to be done now- he gripped his head, letting out a frustrated sigh, "FINE! Fine! I'll go. If it gets my questions answered and the situation fixed. Hey wai- ah forget it! I'll ask when we get there." Lithian turned to head towards the briefing room, keeping his gun close to his chest for more than just aliens now. Where the heck did they bring Viktor to where there was a convict? Why did they even have prisoners on a science outpost? Yeah, Ori said that Weyland hired from a less than reputable pool of people, but seriously? All of this just kept adding to the pile of suspicious circumstances and even in some cases evidence.

Having heard the tail-end of Ori's transmission, Lithian made a detour, opting not to head directly towards the meeting room. Instead, he took a longer route in order to approach it from an odd angle where he wasn't visible to anyone inside the room. He took out his motion detector and tried to see if it picked up anything. He didn't expect much even if it was an ambush. People tend to stay still while waiting to attack someone. Still, he might glean something of value.

"A second one of you better not die, or you'll just prove to me your captain got what he deserved with the training he gave you," Lithian said into the comms. That was in poor taste, but Lithian really wasn't in the mindset to realize or care about that. Not that it seemed like Ori cared either, or were they just trained to be emotionless husks?
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Rayleonarde on December 31, 2019, 12:51:14 PM
Valentine’s pain was overwhelming, her rage an unbridled storm. Her singular goal; destroy the Hunter. As she moved to dismount the smoldering remnants of the APC, she raised a paw. In her mind, a single arc of lightning would glass the area in front of her, reducing her target to carbonized ash. But then, Krystel’s gauntlet made contact.
An almighty whoomp tore through the air, the smell of ozone crinkling every nose, as Valentine lost consciousness. She collapsed like wet paper, nearly folding over herself, stopped only by Sohda’s frame. Despite the crimson stains, the small raccooness looked at peace, like someone who hadn’t slept in days finally succumbed to slumber’s embrace. Valentine would come to as Sohda carried her to the rendezvous point, saying nothing for the time being. Due to her helmet covering her eyes, and the way she was positioned, it wasn’t possible to determine if the Mongdrigan was awake.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on January 08, 2020, 01:08:07 AM
*** Elsewhere in the Pods ***

Viktor continued his trek through the pods. After silencing a pair of guards, he managed to secure himself a pistol and a couple magazines of ammo. But he knew that wasn't gonna last him - he needed his gear. He moved around the pods, and caught a little cross-talk, but nothing he could use. He caught a few mentions of an "Operation: Savior", but he had no idea what the hell that was. Regardless, he came across a locker room area, and hid until the occupants were out, then moved inside. he opened each locker, looking for anything he could use. One of them had a journal datapad with an entry still on the screen:

Quote
"That ice wolf captain was a scary one. The General keeps calling him his 'old nemesis'. Said he was a creature that couldn't die. I could hear the malice in his voice. No idea why he'd dress the guy up as a convict laborer - it was hard enough getting a shirt that was his size - but I figure the General wants some payback. Wants him to suffer. Something about Korari."

There it was again - the name Korari. Viktor was certain whatever happened there was at the root of all this. But what was it? He'd racked his brain over it ever since the beginning of the op, but could not remember--

Viktor heard voices and footsteps. He'd been there too long. He snagged the M41-A Pulse Rifle in that locker and the mags, then quietly exited the room. The guards coming into the locker room would find all the lockers open, but chalk it up to the local prankster, who was defensive about it, claiming he could not have done this. By the time they realized the Pulse Rifle was missing, Viktor was long gone.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Weaver on January 08, 2020, 09:24:43 AM
It was at this point Lithian was unceremoniously attacked and killed from behind by yet another Predalien. Oops.
Title: Re: Coalition Operations III: Deception of the Iron Bear
Post by: Romulan_Furry on January 08, 2020, 04:58:16 PM
(Mods, lock this topic please. Gonna move on with the series due to a meltdown that happened last night that resulted in two major people leaving.)