>>1648049
>>Maybe you should ask Bradford what that was all about? You don’t want to step on any toes going forward, after all.

FIRST POST?

>>1648049
>#3

>>1648049
>Perhaps silence is a virtue this time around, clearly whatever is between Bradford and Rook is personal.

>>1648049
>>Perhaps silence is a virtue this time around, clearly whatever is between Bradford and Rook is personal.

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>>1648059
Crap!

>>1648049
>Maybe you should ask Bradford what that was all about? You don’t want to step on any toes going forward, after all.

>>1648049
>Perhaps silence is a virtue this time around, clearly whatever is between Bradford and Rook is personal.
We live long enough were bound to learn.

>>1648049
>>Perhaps silence is a virtue this time around, clearly whatever is between Bradford and Rook is personal.
Time for X-COM!

>>1648049
>>Perhaps silence is a virtue this time around, clearly whatever is between Bradford and Rook is personal.

>>1648049
>>Perhaps silence is a virtue this time around, clearly whatever is between Bradford and Rook is personal.

Did we decide last thread what our class was gonna be?

>>1648150
All the options are just gonna be different names for Assault class anyways.

>>1648150
I believe we decided when we chose shotgun in that first thread. The rip and tear at the end only seems to support that choice

>>1648049
>Perhaps silence is a virtue this time around, clearly whatever is between Bradford and Rook is personal.

Stay professional. And we can ask Rook another time.

>>1648049
>>Perhaps silence is a virtue this time around, clearly whatever is between Bradford and Rook is personal.

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You shoot a look to Rachel. You know what she’s thinking but you make your intent clear. Don’t. Ask.

Rachel merely sighs and nods, but she definitely has her curiosity piqued with what just happened. Hopefully she doesn’t ask around and get both of you into trouble. You begin to follow Bradford in earnest as the three of you make your way to Mission Control. As you pass by the still hard to believe sight of the Hologlobe, the both of you keep your mouths shut as Bradford leads you through the expansive room and up a flight of stairs.

“You’ve both certainly made a name for yourselves.” Bradford says as you stop as the sweatered man begins to a locked door in your way, presenting a keycard and the like.

“We’re just doing our best, sir.” Rachel says, and you feel a bit of relief as she keeps to her word.

“That you are.” Bradford answers neutrally. “Usually I handle dealing with Privates such as yourself, but it seems the Commander has taken a distinct interest with the two of you. Just keep your head on straight and follow orders… and accept her hospitality and you’ll do fine.”

The both of you affirm, and note that it is a bit odd that the Commander who runs this massive organization is taking her time out of her busy schedule to deal with both of you. Whatever the case may be, the door opens and you find yourself in a room with a massive monitor displaying a map of the globe. To the sides of the large monitor there appears to be a list of 16 different countries, with several bars filled in by some amount below each of them. At the bottom of the monitor there is a constant ticker feed of news information, all pertaining to the various disappearances of oddities that have been caused by the aliens.

You think you know what this is, after reading up from before. You think this is the Situation Room.

Standing in the center of said room is the Commander, staring intently at the large monitor. Her arms clasped behind her back as she studies the map, she seems to be quietly talking to herself as she does so.

“Unease rising in Europe and Asia, more slips ups… just a matter of time before the news is leaked… idiots can’t help themselves.” The Commander murmurs to herself, distinctly annoyed before Bradford clears his throat, announcing your presence to her. The Commander, just as quickly upon hearing Bradford, spins around and has composed herself, smiling warmly to you.

“Ah, welcome back you two! Congratulations on your first operation!” The Commander says happily.

“T-thanks.” Rachel says still not completely sure how to respond with how personable the Commander is.
“How are both feeling? The first time is always the most difficult, I would say.” The Commander asks you both.

>Say the word and we’re ready for the next operation.
>Relieved more than anything else that nobody got hurt.
>You could really use a drink right now.
>Other

>>1648273
>>Relieved more than anything else that nobody got hurt.
We may be a killing machine, but it's to protect our own.

>>1648273
>>Relieved more than anything else that nobody got hurt.
Considering how close it was at some points

>>1648273
>Relieved more than anything else that nobody got hurt.

>>1648273
>Relieved more than anything else that nobody got hurt.

>>1648273
>Relieved more than anything else that nobody got hurt.
We didn't plan for that grenade deal to happen, it's just how things worked out.

>>1648273
>>Relieved more than anything else that nobody got hurt.
Kinda got lucky there with the Outsider.

Hi Pixel. Finally managed to catch a thread. Loved your art for a long time, and really liking the story so far!

>>1648273
>Relieved more than anything else that nobody got hurt.
>... And we could really use a drink right now.

Bet you that the reason for Rook's animosity towards Bradford was Operation Devil's Moon. (The Tutorial Mission)

>>1648294
That was my assumption. Isn't the meme that Bradford was running that mission and royally fucked it up?

>>1648273
>>Relieved more than anything else that nobody got hurt.

Assaults have quite the short lifespans in XCOM--their job's one of the most dangerous. Gotta cherish every day.

ALl that being said if we decide to go Assault

>>1648322

Pretty much--that anyone got out of that shitmess alive was a miracle.

>>1648273
>>Relieved more than anything else that nobody got hurt.

>>1648322
Considering how he welcomes you, the commander, to the base after it happens, it's not the shakiest theory out there.
Not to mention how he's the one giving all of the orders in it.

>>1648322
>>1648333
>>1648341
They couldn't have anticipated the Mind Control, but that Mission was still a complete mess.

With Rook as the Sole Survivor to boot.

>>1648273
>You could really use a drink right now.

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So since we're on the ground handling all the tactical shit on missions, is anyone else curious how the Commander is handling the base management side of things? I just hope we're rushing Beam weapons--if we're following Long War tech trees, we're gonna need it by next month, if not sooner if the Supply Barge of Early Game Pain is coming along.

Also--when the fuck are pic related going to show up?

>>1648400
Give it a few months in-game time.

>>1648273
>>Relieved more than anything else that nobody got hurt.

>>1648400
I'm pretty sure we're not in any position to be critiquing the Commander's base management, and I really hope some other sods are assigned to that Dark Omens mission.

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You state it simply, there was a lot of things that could’ve gone wrong in that mission. Especially with how the Aliens had opted to switch tactics on the squad, you’re just glad everyone’s alright.

“Yeah, and it’s all thanks to this guy right here.” Rachel says, grinning and nodding to you. “Stared that glow-in-the-dark lamp in the face and didn’t give shi-- er-- did not care at all ma’am.”

You can sense Bradford’s disapproval behind you at how Rachel is speaking to the Commander, but she merely chuckles as well.

“That it was! You continue to surprise me.” The Commander says smiling at you. “But, yes it is a bit disconcerting the sudden switch in tactics, but I suppose it’s to be expected. We can’t get complacent after all.”

“It’s probably an outlier, in the over a dozen or so missions the aliens have shown a fairly predictable pattern.” Bradford says, adjusting his sweater’s cuffs.

“Maybe, but we’ll adapt whatever the case may be. Anyways!” The Commander claps her hands, almost forgetting something, before beckoning you to follow her. “There is something much more important to discuss, come with me!”

You and Rachel begin to follow her, with Bradford in tow before the Commander stops, looking back over with the same cheery smile to her second in command.

“Not you, Bradford. You are dismissed.” The Commander says simply, giving a wink to him. Bradford straightens up stiffly at her command, snapping a salute and making an a rather quick exit from the room. He nearly bumps into the door in his haste as he does so, which makes Rachel nearly burst out in laughing at the sudden slapstick nature of Bradford’s exit...

(Part 1 / 2)

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>>1648473
The three of you make your way to an office overlooking the Situation Room and one thing is clear as you enter the room, it’s the Commander’s Office. Initially you expect a rather spartan and well organized office, befitting the leader of XCOM. Instead… it feels as if you’re back home at your parent’s house. The Office is cozy and inviting, with a soft rug and comfy looking seats. A well looked after potted plant sits in a corner, giving the room a bit of life. What stands out the most is a little kitchen off to the side near her work desk that includes a small oven and coffee maker. A Canadian Flag is hung in the back wall, denoting the Commander’s origin.

You quickly realize how little you know of the Commander as you look at the sight, though Rachel is quick to make herself comfortable accepting it happily.

“This is nice!” Rachel says with a low whistle before elbowing you as she plops down on one of the seats. “Cozy and inviting! The Cap should take notes eh?”

You merely nod, not really sure how to act as the Commander motions for you to make yourself comfortable. You do so.

“I knew I could count on you both the moment I saw what you did when we found the two of you. And sure enough, you’ve completed your trial by fire as Rookies with flying colors.” The Commander starts, Rachel puffing a bit with pride at the Commander’s motherly praise. “Now, it is time to decide your true role as a soldier in the XCOM project. Your specialization!”

You sit up in your seat as she says it. The Commander pulls out a folder and opens it with a document pertaining information on the various specializations of XCOM trooper within.

“Normally Bradford handles this and chooses your specialization for you based on mission performance, but I believe you’ve both earned your own choice in the matter! Please, take your time.” The Commander says, as she begins to pour coffee for you both. Rachel is already leaning forward, pouring over the information with glee.

The first order of business is it seems, the eight specializations are divided up into four categories… best to start there you suppose.

>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.
>Weapons: The division who specializes in the biggest and most powerful weapons in XCOM. The Division for Gunners and Rocketeers.
>Scout-Sniper: It’s what it says on the tin, your specialists in recon and precise killing. The Division for Scouts and Snipers.
>Support: The guys and gals who make everyone better. The Division for Engineers and Medics.

>>1648484
>>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.

Assault!

>>1648484
>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.

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>>1648484

OH FUCK IT IS LONG WAR CLASSES

>Weapons: The division who specializes in the biggest and most powerful weapons in XCOM. The Division for Gunners and Rocketeers.

Time to become a Bullet Wizard, boys!

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>Weapons: The division who specializes in the biggest and most powerful weapons in XCOM. The Division for Gunners and Rocketeers.

>>1648484
>>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.
Search and Destroy

>>1648484
>>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.
Huh. The Commander's a leaf. JTF-2?

>>1648484
>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.

>>1648484
>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.
It's what we've done in every mission thus far.

>>1648484
>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.

>>1648493
Yep. We Long War nao.

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>>1648484
Forgot to add, given how important these next two choices are. I'll be making it be the maximum time for votes!

>>1648484
>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.
>a fucking leaf

>>1648484
>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.
I want to protect that smile

>>1648484
>>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.

>>1648484
>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.

>>1648484
>>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.

>>1648484
>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.

>>1648484
>Tactical: The front line and backbone of any XCOM Squad. The Division for Assaults and Infantry.

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So it's been awhile since I've brushed up on Long War tactics and strategy, bu tit looks like we're gonna go for either Assault/Infantry.

The great thing about Assaults is that you can tank. Lord above, can you tank damage. And Close Encounters, combined with the versatility of Run and Gun and Close Combat Specialist and the hardiness of Extra Conditioning and Resilience, means that you can, if placed correctly, shotgun multiple enemies at close range and only spend a single action moving into position, all the while being safe from being critted ourselves.

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The initial decision choice to narrow it down is rather quick. You’re not as fast or as accurate to place yourself as a Scout or a Sniper, nor are you as proficient at wielding large weaponry, opting to be a bit more versatile. You don’t even want to think about how you would do as a Medic as well. The answer is simple as you decide to go for Tactical.

“Hmmm… errhmm…” Rachel considers for a long moment, furrowing her brow and considering the options, before tapping on her choice instantly. “...Support obviously!”

The Commander merely giggles off to the side as she places two steaming mugs of delicious smelling coffee on her desk for you both on coasters you didn’t even see her place.

Well the division narrowed down, there’s only two specializations left to chose… What do you choose?

>Infantry: One of the most common and versatile specializations. Armed with Assault Rifles but also given access to the powerful Battle Rifle variant, Infantry entrench themselves in positions and provide focus or covering fire on enemies.
>Assault: The experts in attacking enemies. High risk and high reward, Assaults close the distance, charging or flanking enemies before they can even react. Assaults specialize almost exclusively with Shotguns.

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>>1648626
Infantry, on the other hand, are a little more complicated. Typically, there are two "correct" ways to build Infantry in Long War--Critfantry or Overwatchers. Critfantry, as the name suggests, have high chances to crit on every shot. This makes Infantry crack damage dealers that, when combined with a Bullet Wizard-built Gunner and a Shredder-providing Rocketeer, means that an Infantry trooper can quickly and consistently smack an enemy's shit. Overwatchers, in comparison, are built to provide multiple Overwatch shots against any enemies that may come at the squad. That one Thin Man about to nail your Assault? Covering Fire makes sure his ass is put down before he can hurt you. Those pesky Floaters popping into view on your flank? Deadeye, Opportunist, and Sentinel have you covered. Overwatch Infantry builds can dominate the game until the later stages, when the ayys start having very high DR and innate Defense stats that can negate a lot of damage dealt.

>>1648634
...How the hell did I fail that greentext? Oops!

>>1648634
>>Assault: The experts in attacking enemies. High risk and high reward, Assaults close the distance, charging or flanking enemies before they can even react. Assaults specialize almost exclusively with Shotguns.

This is what we were born for.

>>1648626
Or, and hear me out here, or, we can just use way more explosives than is recommended, necessary, or even possible. Heck, aliurms can't take muh dang cattle if there ain't no planert.

>>1648635
>>1648634
>>Assault: The experts in attacking enemies. High risk and high reward, Assaults close the distance, charging or flanking enemies before they can even react. Assaults specialize almost exclusively with Shotguns.

All that being said, I recommend we become a Tank for the squad--the rock upon which our squad will be built.

>>1648634
>Assault: The experts in attacking enemies. High risk and high reward, Assaults close the distance, charging or flanking enemies before they can even react. Assaults specialize almost exclusively with Shotguns.
C'mon you apes, do you want to live forever?

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>>1648649
No.

>>1648634
>>Assault: The experts in attacking enemies. High risk and high reward, Assaults close the distance, charging or flanking enemies before they can even react. Assaults specialize almost exclusively with Shotguns.

>>1648634
>Assault: The experts in attacking enemies. High risk and high reward, Assaults close the distance, charging or flanking enemies before they can even react. Assaults specialize almost exclusively with Shotguns.

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>>1648634
>>Assault: The experts in attacking enemies. High risk and high reward, Assaults close the distance, charging or flanking enemies before they can even react. Assaults specialize almost exclusively with Shotguns.

>>1648634
>Assault: The experts in attacking enemies. High risk and high reward, Assaults close the distance, charging or flanking enemies before they can even react. Assaults specialize almost exclusively with Shotguns.

Face first into danger.

>>1648634
>>Assault: The experts in attacking enemies. High risk and high reward, Assaults close the distance, charging or flanking enemies before they can even react. Assaults specialize almost exclusively with Shotguns.

>>1648634
>Assault: The experts in attacking enemies. High risk and high reward, Assaults close the distance, charging or flanking enemies before they can even react. Assaults specialize almost exclusively with Shotguns.

>>1648634
>>Infantry: One of the most common and versatile specializations. Armed with Assault Rifles but also given access to the powerful Battle Rifle variant, Infantry entrench themselves in positions and provide focus or covering fire on enemies.

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>>1648634
>Infantry: One of the most common and versatile specializations. Armed with Assault Rifles but also given access to the powerful Battle Rifle variant, Infantry entrench themselves in positions and provide focus or covering fire on enemies

>>1648634
>>Assault: The experts in attacking enemies. High risk and high reward, Assaults close the distance, charging or flanking enemies before they can even react. Assaults specialize almost exclusively with Shotguns.
Also the only assault class with lightning reflexes to dodge reaction shots while running and charging, and run+shoot in the same turn. combine this with double tap and you've got a priority-target killing machine.

>>1648634
>Assault: The experts in attacking enemies. High risk and high reward, Assaults close the distance, charging or flanking enemies before they can even react. Assaults specialize almost exclusively with Shotguns.

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>>1648634
Seems the vote is going heavily in assault, so all aboard

>Assault

The Commander herself will carry us to Valhalla, shiny and chrome.

Just a heads up, I have to go and cook dinner. So I'll be back in a bit!

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Since it's official now: how do you guys wanna build this? Do you wanna tank, or do you wanna Run and Gun and be a flanker?

>>1648735
Run and Gun. We tend to rip and tear.

>>1648735
Tank, draw all the fire. ALL OF IT. Sectopods eat your heart out.

>>1648735
A mixture, I'd think.

How about:
Tactical Sense
Lightning Reflexes

Rapid Fire
Bring em On
Killer Instinct

Tactical Sense and Lightning Reflexes are the most directly defensive perks we get, while Resilience can be replicated with some combat stims. Close Quarters Specialist might be worth switching for Bring em On but that damages the crit synergy with Killer Instinct.

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>>1648827

That would work, except we're not working with vanilla EW's ability tree.

This is the full ability tree for Assaults in Long War:

http://ufopaedia.org/index.php/Assault_(Long_War)

As you can see, there's a lot more variety and things have been switched up. Assaults don't get Lightning Reflexes until the last tier, and at that point depending on what you're building Extra Conditioning might be the better pick for the extra health and will.

>>1648847
>Long war has an entirely different paradigm
Damn it. So much for that.

Sorry about the delay, working on the next update as we speak!

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You do not even hesitate as you decide. It’s the one specialization you had trained for in your previous carrier and prided yourself on. You always had an affinity for the shotgun after all. Your decision with Assault lines itself up perfectly to your capabilities.

“My, I suppose with how easy it was for you to decide, there clearly was no need for the whole process!” The Commanders laughs, pleased with your decision. “I am sure you will do very well as an Assault, it takes a special soldier to be brave enough to charge forward, after all!”

“Oh yeah, he’s a freaking surgeon with a shotgun.” Rachel adds with a nod before deciding on her own choice. “I think Engineer is my jam. I don’t want to hog all the glory for myself after all!”

“Splendid. I think you two will do just fine. Seeing as you already have a good rapport with Strike One, I will be assigning both of you to the squad. Ranger and Loki will oversee you in training for your specializations. I’m sure they won’t mind.” The Commander smiles. Rachel is quite pleased before a realization dawns on her at hearing who the ‘teachers’ are.

“Wait… Loki?” Rachel blinks.

“Mhm, she is Strike One’s first Engineer. I am sure the both of you will become fast friends!” The Commander claps, her smile seemingly either oblivious or believing that that is the case.

Rachel is only just able to keep herself from frowning. You hope Rachel and Loki will get along. On the upside, you already are on reasonable acquaintance with Harita so at the very least your own training should go smoothly. If need be you should be able to reign Rachel in if her disagreements with Loki escalates.

“Now, I believe that should be it. I’ll have Bradford handle the rest of the paperwork and all of the boring stuff, so unless you have anything else you wish to add, you are dismissed. Congratulations again!” The Commander says, standing up. You finish your coffee, not even realizing you were drinking it the entire time. Probably because you were so absorbed with picking your specialization or something. Rachel stands up as well, thoughtful of the coming days.

Was there anything else you wanted to speak with the Commander?

>>You recall your strange dream after you were first picked up by XCOM, the strange intruder in your mind… maybe you should bring that up?
>>There’s clearly a lot of mystery surrounding the Commander, you’d like to get to know her a bit better.
>>You don’t think there’s anything important to add.
>>Other

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>>1648960
>>>There’s clearly a lot of mystery surrounding the Commander, you’d like to get to know her a bit better.

>>1648960
>>>Other
>Flirt playfully with Commander

>>1648960
>There’s clearly a lot of mystery surrounding the Commander, you’d like to get to know her a bit better.

Sharing our Dream sounds a little too sudden.

>>1648960
>>>>You recall your strange dream after you were first picked up by XCOM, the strange intruder in your mind… maybe you should bring that up?
Phrase it in an indirect way, though. Are there any known side effects of mind control attempts? The AARs are a bit vague on that point.

>>1648960
>>>You recall your strange dream after you were first picked up by XCOM, the strange intruder in your mind… maybe you should bring that up?

>>1648960
>>>You recall your strange dream after you were first picked up by XCOM, the strange intruder in your mind… maybe you should bring that up?

>>1648971
Why? We already have aliens mind controlling people, nothing can be discounted.

>>1648960
>You recall your strange dream after you were first picked up by XCOM, the strange intruder in your mind… maybe you should bring that up?

>>1648960
>>You recall your strange dream after you were first picked up by XCOM, the strange intruder in your mind… maybe you should bring that up?
Yeah and there was one word that stuck in my mind after that:

"Ethereal."

>>1648960
>>There’s clearly a lot of mystery surrounding the Commander, you’d like to get to know her a bit better.

>>1648960
>>>There’s clearly a lot of mystery surrounding the Commander, you’d like to get to know her a bit better.

>>1648960
>>>You recall your strange dream after you were first picked up by XCOM, the strange intruder in your mind… maybe you should bring that up?
Muh psionic dreams!

>>1648960
>>You recall your strange dream after you were first picked up by XCOM, the strange intruder in your mind… maybe you should bring that up


Tank path also boosts will a shit ton.

>>1648960
>You recall your strange dream after you were first picked up by XCOM, the strange intruder in your mind… maybe you should bring that up?

>>1648960
>You recall your strange dream after you were first picked up by XCOM, the strange intruder in your mind… maybe you should bring that up?
Maybe the brain hijackers with the brain powers tried to do stuff to our brain.

>>1648960
>>>You recall your strange dream after you were first picked up by XCOM, the strange intruder in your mind… maybe you should bring that up?

>>1648988
I know I wouldn't share a weird dream with my CO out of the blue.

>tfw no one suspects the commander is a mind-controlling alien infiltrator

It's why whenever she puts out food or drink MC unconsciously starts to go HAM on the stuff. You guys don't shadowrun hard enough.

>>1649023
Sure, in a normal world it would be odd. In the world our character is in though? Also, think like the character, not yourself. We encounter Aliens that fuck with brains, then we have a strange vision of an otherworldly creature.

>>1649034
And it appears you shadowrun too much.

>>1649023
If we were a normal soldier in a normal war, yes. But when we're fighting mind-controlling aliums? I'd be plenty worried about seeing them in my dreams.

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Still a bit uneasy even after spending the last few days trying to discard the thought, you decide to bring up the rather odd… dream you had, being quick to point ask if there is any lingering after effects after facing Sectoids and their psionic abilities.

To your own relief, the Commander doesn’t find the question odd in the slightest, clearly fully accepting practically anything can happen against the alien threat. Even Rachel perks up with some concern as you bring up the intruder in your mind. It sounds uneasy to talk about to yourself, but you make it clear this is not some joke.

“Hm… it has been a unique case by case basis on the after effects of being under psionic control, but I do not think anything like you have described has ever been brought up by anyone before. Were you under the control of the Sectoids at any point during that operation?” The Commander asks you.

You shake your head.

“I see. Well, given just how unknown our enemy is, I will not discredit that. If you have any further dreams or visions, let the base psychiatrist or myself be informed. Hopefully you haven’t had any lingering unique side effects on missions or Moira will… ah it’s probably nothing like that!” The Commander dismisses smiling reassuringly at you, you feel relieved having brought it up but for some reason felt a chill go down your spine as the Commander mentioned whoever ‘Moira’ is.

“If he starts flailing around in his sleep, I’ll drag him over myself don’t worry.” Rachel says shooting you a thumbs up. Seems like Rachel believes you as well, thankfully. As you turn to leave however, an idea comes to Rachel’s mind.

“Say, would XCOM happen to have some sort of Riot Shield of some kind?” Rachel asks the Commander who raises a curious eyebrow and shakes her head, a glint of realization appearing in the Commander’s eyes.

“No, but it sounds like something that would be helpful with how the Aliens are changing their tactics. Check up with Chief Engineer Shen down in Engineering when he’s free. Tell him you have my OK if he or his team can spare up some time to fabricate something for you.” The Commander says, which makes Rachel break out into a huge grin in satisfaction, you almost feel bad for the Chief Engineer, knowing how persistent Rachel can be with her love for shields.

The both of you salute and make your leave.

“I’ll be honest, I kinda want to say hi to Shen...” Rachel says to you sheepishly. A part of you also admittedly wants to get a closer inspection of the finely craft beast that is XCOM’s shotgun. Though, the rest of the squad is waiting at the barracks…

>>Take a bit of a detour, the Squad would understand if you both are a bit later than expected.
>>Head back to the Barracks. The Squad is waiting for the two of you.
>>Other

>>1649107
>>>Take a bit of a detour, the Squad would understand if you both are a bit later than expected.
Shen!

>>1649107
>>>Head back to the Barracks. The Squad is waiting for the two of you.

>>1649042
>>1649063
The Dream vote won anyway.

>>1649107
>Head back to the Barracks. The Squad is waiting for the two of you.

>>1649107
>>>Take a bit of a detour, the Squad would understand if you both are a bit later than expected.
Hell yes for the Upgrades-man!

>>1649107
>>>Take a bit of a detour, the Squad would understand if you both are a bit later than expected.

>>1649107
>Take a bit of a detour, the Squad would understand if you both are a bit later than expected.
ALWAYS cosie up to the guy's who make your guns, armor, etc.

>>1649107
>>Take a bit of a detour, the Squad would understand if you both are a bit later than expected.
There is always time for Asian Santa Claus.

>>1649107
>>Head back to the Barracks. The Squad is waiting for the two of you.
SOCIAL LINKS. there will be time foe weapons later

>>1649107
>>>Head back to the Barracks. The Squad is waiting for the two of you.

>>1649107
>>>Take a bit of a detour, the Squad would understand if you both are a bit later than expected.

>>1649107
>>>Head back to the Barracks. The Squad is waiting for the two of you.
As much as I love Shen...

>>1649107
>>>Head back to the Barracks. The Squad is waiting for the two of you.
We can check out the kit later

>>1649107
We Assault now.
>>Head back to the Barracks. The Squad is waiting for the two of you.

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You are conflicted for a moment, the Siren’s call for both high-tech equipment and a hard drink at the end of the mission clashing in your mind as the two of you make your way out of the Situation Room. What tips the scale however is the puppy dog looking eyes Rachel jokingly does in trying to insist on visiting the Chief Engineer. Eh, it’s probably only going to take ten twenty minutes tops, sure.

“Sweet!” Rachel says, excited like a kid finding out she’s going to get fancy new toys. You can’t blame her, you have been looking forward to getting accustomed to the XCOM Shotgun.

You make your way to the main elevator system in XCOM HQ, carefully taking a slightly longer route that takes you around the main way to the Barracks. Boarding the elevator, you both make your way down a level towards Engineering. You pass by Delta Section, one of the main sections of the base, before entering the Engineering Bay proper.

You are surprised by how vast and teeming with activity Engineering is, as engineers dart to and fro, carefully managing the high-tech pieces of equipment that line the room, working around the clock to make whatever next-generation equipment they are making. Rachel flags down one of the engineers, quickly intercepting and cornering him like a lioness stalking her prey and quickly gathers the information needed to find out where Shen is.

Heading to the back of the bay, you spot an elderly Asian man by a workbench, speaking with a pair XCOM soldiers, one of them being a short Asian woman and the other being a Caucasian male. You try and guess what their nationalities are, but without the convenient flag on the back of their armor it’s difficult. Rachel is already walking over to say hello to Shen and the other soldiers.

(Part 1 / 2)

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“Good evening, it seems I am quite popular with the troops tonight.” Shen says, turning to greet the two of you. You look over to see Shen finalizing some sort of maintenance with a rather impressive looking rocket launcher before handing the weapon system over to the Asian woman, who slings it over her shoulder casually.

“Thanks, you are always popular with the troops, Chief.” The asian woman says with a smirk, giving a casual wave to the two of you as she shoulders the massive rocket launcher on her with ease. “Hi, don’t think I recognize you two. Rookies?”

“Not anymore, we just got our specializations.” Rachel says with pride.

“Nice.” She says. The other trooper a rather… extremely mellow looking soldier merely nods slowly to the both of you as he takes a puff with a cigarette in his mouth. You return the greeting. His casual nature seems a bit… odd.

“So, who are you two? What squad are you from?” Rachel says, seeing Shen momentarily turn back to his work, calibrating some sort spherical device… a battle scanner you believe.
“Name’s Naru. Or Tanuki, I’m fine with either.” Naru says casually as you both exchange your own greetings, before glancing over at her companion. “This here is Burnout, he’s… well uh, Chill.”

“...She prefers Naru, she hates her nickname.” Burnout says after a moment, his words considerate and slow. His voice has a distinct french accent.

“Hey! Don’t tell the others or they’ll never shut up about it!” Naru frowns before shaking her head as she idly adjusts the strap on her rocket launcher. “Anyways, we’re from Strike One, we just got back from a temporary deployment, guess that’s why we haven’t met yet.”

“No way, we just got assigned to Strike One, what a coincidence!” Rachel says in surprise, as she quickly begins to hit it off with Naru and Burnout. Shen meanwhile is finishing up his work before pausing and shaking his head with a an amused smile at the upbeat conversation Rachel is having.

>>Get to know Shen a bit more. He’s why you both came down here after all.
>>Get to know your two other Squad mates. You guess they just came back from XCOM Asia while you were still on the mission.
>>Other.

>>1649286
>>>Get to know Shen a bit more. He’s why you both came down here after all.
Talk to me Boss!

>>1649286
>>Get to know Shen a bit more. He’s why you both came down here after all.

We came for Shen. Also best if we don't mention computer games.

>>1649286
>>>Get to know your two other Squad mates. You guess they just came back from XCOM Asia while you were still on the mission.

>>1649286
>>Get to know Shen a bit more. He’s why you both came down here after all.

>>1649286
>Get to know your two other Squad mates. You guess they just came back from XCOM Asia while you were still on the mission.

>>1649286
>Get to know Shen a bit more. He’s why you both came down here after all.

>>1649286
>>>Get to know Shen a bit more. He’s why you both came down here after all.

I suppose Vahlen will be the next stop in this little meet-and-greet tour?

>>1649286
>Get to know Shen a bit more. He’s why you both came down here after all.

>>1649286
>>>>Get to know Shen a bit more. He’s why you both came down here after all.

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Wait a second.

> You guess they just came back from XCOM Asia while you were still on the mission.
>XCOM Asia

Ohhh, so we're in XCOM North America right now, then? Does that mean that each of the different regions of the world present in XCOM have a different Commander?

>>1649371
Doubt it. Pixel is mixing Oldcom, Newcom and Longwar up so I think the Commander is the only Commander but their might be Sub-Commanders for each base or something.

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You find it amusing just how easy it is for Rachel to chum it up with others, so much so she has completely forgotten what she came here for in the first place. You get a few i tidbits like how Naru is Japanese and Burnout is never seen without a cigarette before turning your attention to Shen, who is waiting patiently for them to finish.

You greet him again and explain why you and Rachel had visited hear in the first place, the elderly man patiently and understandingly listening to you. Much like the Commander it seems that XCOM’s head staff are surprisingly friendly to mere grunts such as yourselves.

“Interesting, we never considered something as straightforward such as a mere shield. We initially have basic prototypes under revision for improved armor using the alien materials, but making a Riot Shield would be much simpler to fabricate and give to you all instead of the more complex equipment we have in mind. Clever.” Shen says approvingly of Rachel’s suggestion. You imagine Rachel would be thrilled but is still currently distracted with Naru and Burnout. Shen continues, setting down the battlescanner carefully onto a holding cradle.

“I believe we have a couple of spare shotguns here in Engineering that are still in the process of being retrofitted to sawn-offs, I can show you them.” Shen says, motioning you to follow him. You both make your way over to a weapons rack, letting your Squad be for now. Sure enough, several of the deadly looking Shotguns are found resting on the rack, alongside modified sawn-offs of them, still equally intimidating in comparison to conventional equipment. You gingerly take one of the weapons in hand, getting a feel for the weight of it.

“The XCOM Shotgun is one of the first pieces of technology my team and I had designed prior to the XCOM project fully coming into operation. Specifically designed to deal as much damage in as close of a range as possible, the weapon itself is chambered for tungsten shell ammunition to pack that extra punch with the capability for more using more specialized rounds should we develop more.” Shen explains thoroughly as you personally examine the weapon for yourself.

>Roll 1d20.

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>1649398

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>1649398

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>1649398

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>1649398
RNGSUS GUIDE MY DICE

>>1649407
We now know every nook and cranny of this weapon, and can assemble it under a minute. We also know of any 'quirks' from sight.

File: That's XCOM.png (308 KB, 558x649)

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>>1649407
Oh nice! Would you guys like to save that Crit for later?

>>1649418
N

>>1649418
Nope

>>1649418
>N

>>1649418
no best to impress shen with how easily we understand it

>>1649418
N

>>1649418
>N
Nope. Gimme gun skillz and points with Shen plz. I'd LOVE to know more about the guy that makes my gear. Maybe become prototyper?

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In the light of our first encounters with the aliens, are there any chances that Shen and Vahlen could come up with Toxiguns at this point, or would that be too much of a gamechanger / too outlandish technology (comes after disruptors and shitload of autopsies after all)

>>1649418
>N

Pixel you alive?

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You take the weapon in hand and silently make your way over to an empty workspace and set it down. Shen follows you curiously before stopping to watch you as you begin to quickly disassemble the weapon. Shen remains silent as you effectively lay the weapon out bare onto the table as if you’ve done so dozens of times before from memory.

For an 8-Gauge shotgun, you are not surprised at how hefty the weapon is, but you can plainly see that it is much more destructive than anything you’ve ever used before, while at the same time remaining rather simple of design. Understandably, you can see there has been several recessions made to pack as much firepower in the weapon, such as an extremely lacking ammunition capacity of only four in the tube and how abysmal of a range it has. Still, each round can deal catastrophic damage to anyone non-armored, which when dealing with the Sectoids is just the right amount of overkill at point blank.

You compliment Shen on most of the design facets as you carefully lay out each piece onto the table with the precision of one of one of the machines in the room and the gentle care of a mother would to her child. You begin to list off as well several improvements to the design of the weapon, listing off in quick but informative quips to Shen, such as perhaps removing the built in loops on the stock, or at least changing the material for it, citing that it can throw off the aim of a shooter.

Shen is already taking notes on a PDA, clearly taking your words as a soldier who use this weapon with respect and high regard as you begin to deftly reassemble the weapon once again, in probably record time you set the whole Shotgun back onto the table. You take a step back for a moment considering your thoughts before realizing you’ve caused a small scene as a crowd of engineers have stopped what they are doing to watch and listen intently to you. Not only did you bring some of the engineering staff over to your impromptu display, but it seems your squad mates are listening as well, interested at what you have to say next.

“You clearly had the makings of an engineer in some other life. This information will help us greatly in improving our Shotguns.” Shen says, clearly impressed pats as he pats you on the shoulder. “In fact, we’ve been developing a new line of weapons and I believe you may be helpful in testing some of the prototypes down the line, if you wish to help once again.

“Damn.” Naru says blinking, holding her rocket launcher’s strap like one would a simple purse.. “Nobody has impressed the Chief so much to make him want you to try some of his work in progress toys, good job.”

“It’s not as if I am denying it from you all on purpose. They are still in very early development.” Shen says sheepishly. “In fact I can show you some of our early prototypes…”

>>You would love to see what else Shen has in store.
>>You’ve probably lingered a bit too long, the others might be wondering where you are.
>>Other

>>1649528
>You would love to see what else Shen has in store.

>>1649528
>>>You’ve probably lingered a bit too long, the others might be wondering where you are.

>>1649528
>other

Tell me more about the shotgun.

>>1649528
>You’ve probably lingered a bit too long, the others might be wondering where you are.

>>1649528
>>>You’ve probably lingered a bit too long, the others might be wondering where you are.

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>>1649528
>8-Gauge

>>1649528
>>>You’ve probably lingered a bit too long, the others might be wondering where you are.
But we would love to come by later! We do kind of live here now, after all.

>>1649528
>>You’ve probably lingered a bit too long, the others might be wondering where you are but you'll take up that offer on a later date.

>>1649528
Oh damn, the dilemma... Maybe it will be more okay to stick around with Shen if Rachel goes ahead and excuses us?

Even so, it goes kinda against the reason why we've chosen to take the rookie baptism in the first place...

>>1649528
>You’ve probably lingered a bit too long, the others might be wondering where you are.

>>1649528
>>You’ve probably lingered a bit too long, the others might be wondering where you are.

>>1649539
>>1649528
Supporting the write in

>>1649543
They will understand if we tell them about Rachels riot shield and tell them the reason we wanted to get it done now was so it can for sure be done by the time we have to go on a mission again.

>>1649528
>>>You would love to see what else Shen has in store.
Gib prototypes!

>>1649528
>>>You’ve probably lingered a bit too long, the others might be wondering where you are.
Would be kind of a dick move to leave 'em completely hanging.

It would however be rude to delay any further as we will have downtime we can spend with shen whereas we have promised to meet up with them now

Well, here I am back to this. And I just have to say: Now I'm having doubts about hitting on Vahlen now.

>>You’ve probably lingered a bit too long, the others might be wondering where you are.

Would love to come back later though

>>1649596
Do you want to hit on Shen instead?

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As much as you’d love to stay, you and the others have some prior arrangements. Though, you would be more than happy to chip in your part in helping the RnD process.

“That is fine, some other time then.” Shen nods. As you place the Shotgun back on the rack and get ready to leave with the other squad mates in tow, Rachel only then realizes why they had came here in the first place.

“Oh shoot before I forget--!” Rachel stammers quickly before Shen holds up a hand to stop her, an amused look on his face.

“Don’t worry, your friend has already told me of your suggestion. We can get a prototype for you ready before your next operation.” Shen says. Rachel can barely contain her enthusiasm at that, clearly very happy she will be back using a proper shield once again. Naru and Burnout look at each other and nod. It seems they are fine with the both of you, with Rachel’s friendly attitude breaking the ice combined with your expertise to show you can both handle yourselves. It seems you have both given a first impression.

Detour complete, the four of you make your way back over to the Barracks. Hopefully you and Rachel did not keep the others waiting for too long.

“Ah, bloody hell, there they are!” Babbler calls over from the bar, practically waving you all down as you enter. “Where the hell were you two?! We’re you trying to avoid our good hospitality or something?”

Most of the squad is present sitting around and chatting at the bar alongside a new person, a large Black man, who you assume is also another squad member already with drinks in hand. You don’t see Harita but is probably nearby somewhere. Rook gives you a friendly nod before going back to typing away on a PDA on the bar counter top.

“Well we got our Specializations from the Commander and then uh--” Rachel starts warily, not really sure how to broach the subject before Naru quickly interjects.

“The Commander told them we were in Engineering and went to pick us up, you know how it is with my rocket launcher and Burnout’s kit after all.” Naru covers for you both, shooting you a wink.

“See? Told you not to worry about them, Babbler! They’re just being team players. No way they’d be sick of you so quickly.” The Black man chuckles, raising his glass in greeting as you all walk over, the man is quick to firmly and vigorously shake both of Rachel and your hands. “Name’s Sweet, Jacob Sweet. But you can just call me Sweet. It’s nice to meet more Americans, the pleasure’s all mine.”

(Part 1 / 2)

>>1649618
Do you not want to hit on old man Shen?

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>>1649623
“Sweet is our squad’s medic and resident henmother, a real ‘sweet’heart.” Loki says smoothly, with an amused look on her face at her own pun as you struggle for a moment to free your hand from Sweet’s iron grip. Rachel audibly groans at the pun.

“Damn straight!” Sweet chuckles again, heartily as he finally relents his grip on your own. “We were just about to go on a manhunt for you both! God help you if you sent Babbler on the warpath for denying him his booze.”

“I still don’t see why we can’t just drink a bit now before we--” Loki is interrupted by a sound you can only assume is vehement disagreement from Babbler.

“No you loon! We drink as a squad dammit! Now we just have to wait for Harita to drag her from her lair…!” Babbler slams his fist on the countertop, but it’s clear he himself was wavering after being so close to all the expensive alcohol. The four of you wander over and take a seat, Naru in particular having a bit of trouble to hop up on one of the stools with the large Rocket Launcher on her person.

“Hey uh, could you hold this for a sec?” Naru asks you with a friendly smile, pointing to her Rocket Launcher.

“Don’t do it. She’s trying to make you carry it instead of her.” Burnout says disinterestedly, slowly taking a seat and lighting another cigarette.

“Screw you!” Naru quips back, trying to smack him in the back of the head but Burnout, with almost lightning reflexes, is able to duck out of the way with ease without even looking. “Don’t mind him, what do you say? Friends help each other out!”

>>Sure why not. She did cover you both.
>>Uh, no thanks. That looks like a mighty big inconvenience.
>>Other.

(Goddamn endless Captchas!)

>>1649624
He's out of our league, truly.

Also, I want to waifu Rachel until she inevitably gets killed on a basic mission by a stroke of XCOM, BABY

>>1649630
>>>Uh, no thanks. That looks like a mighty big inconvenience.

>>1649630
>>Sure why not. She did cover you both
But also make some witty comment about Burnout and Naru's dynamic, because I sure as shit can't think of anything witty.

>>1649630

>>Sure why not. She did cover you both.

>>1649630
>>>Sure why not. She did cover you both.
lol we ain't no bitch we can casually carry a rocket launcher no problem right

>>1649630
>Sure why not. She did cover you both.

>>1649630
>>>Uh, no thanks. That looks like a mighty big inconvenience.
Nah, make her carry it. It'll build character.

>>1649630
>>Other
carry naru piggyback with the launcher

>>1649630
>Sure why not

>>1649630
>>Sure why not. She did cover you both.

>>1649630
>>>Sure why not. She did cover you both.

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>>1649630
>>1649640
Naru is made for suffering.

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>>1649630
>Sure why not. She did cover you both.

>black medic with sweet as his last name
Was the Italian demo expert too well known

>>1649630
>>>Sure why not. She did cover you both.

>>1649630
>>>Sure why not. She did cover you both.
she helped us we help her

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Sure, you hold up a hand to take the weapon. She did cover both you and Rachel’s asses just now, it seems only fair to return the favor. Naru’s eyes light up like stars as she begins to grin madly, extremely happy you are doing so. Burnout merely sighs and shakes his head as the short Japanese woman hands you her rocket launcher. You don’t see what the big deal is, how heavy can it be anyways?

>Roll 1d20.

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>1649678

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>1649678

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>1649678

>>1649680
FUCK

>>1649680
It must be pretty heavy.

>>1649680
That's XCOM, baby!

>>1649680
As it turns out, it's pretty fucking heavy. Or we just held a stick of butter for ten minutes.

>Gun wizard, fucking invincible, berserker, incapable of holding objects

>>1649680
At least it wasn't during combat.

These are great character building antics

>>1649694
>inb4 we end up recovering in the Medbay for 3 Days.

>>1649718
>broken foot

>>1649718
>TFW the worst injuries comes from your own teammates
Who needs enemies when you've got friends like these?

>>1649723
>>1649725
>The higher ups decide that this is the perfect opportunity to turn us into a Mech unit

>>1649730
We're on month three man, they don't have mechs yet. We get Vahlen forcibly fusing our foot back together.

>>1649730
>"Sir, he pulled out a hangnail."
>"AMPUTATION ASAP WE NEED TO TRANSFER HIM TO THE MEC UNIT!"

>>1649678
>how heavy can it be anyways?
nice jinx op

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You grasp the strap of the Rocket Launcher, not noticing until too late at the sudden hush among the squad as Naru hands you her weapon. The moment she lets go, you quickly realize that overconfidence is a not only a slow and insidious killer but a rather immediate one as well. Your hand quickly shoots down, the rocket launcher swinging downwards and hitting the bar stool’s wooden leg. Before you can react, the chair, rocket launcher, and yourself hit the floor like a bag of potatoes with a loud thud, your back landing on the weapon itself. You lay there groaning, your arm and back sore thanks to Naru’s rocket launcher.

“Woah! Christ, you alright man!?” Rachel gasps in surprise, hopping out of her seat to help you up. Meanwhile most of the squad bursts into laughter as Burnout’s distinct sigh is heard again.

“Don’t say I didn’t warn you…” Burnout grumbles quietly, puffing on his cigarette. Naru is distinctly not looking down at you, contentedly swirling the glass in her hand.

As Rachel manages to pull you up, the both of you struggling awkwardly for a moment to prop the Rocket Launcher on the counter, you hear Babbler stop laughing and whoop joyfully. You glance up, brushing stray wood chips to see Harita coming down from the staircase leading up to the bunks with a woman in tow. The new woman is rather beautiful, with long straight platinum blonde hair as she makes her way down the steps, a clear air of presence coming her.

Mostly however, you can see there is a clear face of disgust and annoyance of having been brought down from her room.

“There’s our Princess Peppermint! Thank you for gracing us with your presence!” Babbler says with a relieved look on his face, holding up a glass of what vodka with her name on it. Literally, it looks like someone wrote her nickname down on permanant marker. ‘Princess Peppermint’ recoils in absolute disgust at the nickname and glares daggers at Babbler.

“Let us get this over with. I am only here for the alcohol.” Peppermint says in a Russian Accent, walking. You and Rachel exchange a glance, disbelieving someone can actually have a personality like that in real life. Peppermint walks over and takes a seat at an empty seat, taking one look at the both of you and shaking her head.

“Americans.” Peppermint mutters.

“...Really?” Is all that Rachel can say at that.

(Part 1 / 2)

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“Alright alright, everyone settle in as it’s time to get to it!” Babbler says decisively, handing you both drinks, and motioning to both yourself and Rachel. “To the rest of Strike One who have been elsewhere, missing my sonorous voice, these two here have not only joined our special snowflake paramilitary organization, but passed the Rookie phase with one hell of a show!”
There’s nods and affirmations of approval from most of the squad at that.

“Now, like before, I think it’s time for our brave Squad Leader to say a few words.” Babbler says attempting to ‘toss the mic’ over to Rook.

“Do I really have to keep doing it? You are much better at it than I am, Babbler.” Rook sighs.

“Tradition is tradition, Rook! You started it after all, man!” Sweet says giving him a somewhat apologetic look. The other squad members chime in, insisting he does so before Rook finally relents and nods, standing up with his glass on hand.

“Somewhere out there in the starry sky, invaders loom overhead, planning and scheming to do away with humanity in whatever they see fit. The world doesn’t realize it, but they’ve already abducted and killed many, and it doesn’t look like they are stopping any time soon…” Rook starts, the squad getting sombre for a moment at that, all of them glancing over at a small memorial of sorts to the side. “...But, even with the odds stacked against us, they have proven themselves to not fight for just their country and beliefs or fame, but for humanity as a whole. These two have shown they have tenacity and courage to join us on the frontlines and to be part of the the first and last line of defense against the alien threat.”

Rook nods to you both before raising his glass to the both of you. “Vigilo Confido!”

“Vigilo Confido!” The rest of the squad says, raising their own glasses to you both. Rachel beams back and raises her own glass as well, shouting out XCOM’s motto in unison with the others.

With the toast of sorts complete, you and the rest of the squad down your drinks. Your true induction into XCOM and Strike One complete. There’s cheers all around and an emotional breakdown of relief as Babbler savors his drink, and by savor has already down his and is moving onto his next.

You can’t help but grin yourself as you refill your own drink and properly get to know your squad, the lingering thoughts of the long war ahead of you against the aliens placed aside as you enjoy the company of your new buddies…

>And with that, we'll call it here for now! Your reputation is quickly spreading and you haven't even gotten a callsign yet! Until then...

Thanks for playing!

>>1649751
Thanks for the run. And at least it wasn't in combat where we got the 1.

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Oh shoot, I forgot to show off Peppermint! Whoops here it is!

>>1649751
Thanks for the thread OP!

>>1649749
Well the good news is we aren't a noodley-armed loser or have greasy hands. We're just an idiot who let a likely expensive and heavy piece of hardware swing and morningstar our stool's leg off.

Probably still noodley-armed.

See you all next friday. Have a nice week errybody.

>>1649751
Cheers boss, see you next week

So since we're mostly in agreement that Bandit is going to be waifu for laifu does anyone want to start taking bets on when Pixy's going to XCOM BABY her into a fine red paste?

>>1649882
So far we have 6 potential waifus.
>Rachel
>Loki
>Ranger
>Naru
>Peppermint
>the Commander
And by "potential" I mean "options if we weren't already bound to Rachel tighter than whatever relevant lewd innuendo I was going to come up with :^)

>>1649755
Is the thing with Sectoids and cocaine gonna be discovered by XCOM at some point, or is it just a one-time thing in-story but something happening behind the scenes that only we the players know?

>>1650034
Depends how often they roll nAYYtural 1's.

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Council mission when?

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>>1650034

But anon, you forget a waifu we haven't gotten around to meeting yet

>>1650107
>So far we have 6 potential waifus.
>So far
That's why I didn't include her. We're still going for Rachel, aren't we? At least until she dies in such a way that it scars our character for life, because that's XCOM baby. If there ever was any setting that has the potential to fuck up "first girl wins" hard, it would be XCOM.

>Embarrassed ourselves in front of our squad
>Amazed the hell out of Shen
I'm okay with this spread of luck.

>>1650034
While I wouldn't want it to be a plot point, it would definitely be interesting if coke was quietly picked up by sectoids.

>>1650153
It's just hazing, it's in good fun.
Not like we rolled 3 nat 1's while drinking, got plastered on tap water and woke up cuddling a viper in the containment chamber

>>1649882
Personally I don't like bandit for waifu. She's first girling so hard it's not funny.

>>1650498
The other squadmates aren't really doing anything for me and The Great Commandy One seems more like a mamafu than a waifu.
I wanna lay my head on her lap while she strokes my hair and sings lullabyes after a log day of xeno purging.

>>1650659
>not wanting that while she gives us a nursing handhob
Plebeian

>>1650663
>Wanting her to play favourites
>Not wanting her to read a bedtime story to Strike One before naptime
>I could scarcely imagine a mind so impure.

>>1649882
Pretty sure when that happens The Mc earns Doomslayer as his callsign when he grabs the offending Sectopod's legs, rips them off and beats the rest of the aliens to death with them.

>>1650712
The red mist descends and never lifts again.
He isn't commanded so much as he is aimed.

>>1650659
We haven't even talked to them yet for the most part. Not fair to say they aren't doing anything when you haven't interacted.

Plus I'm sure the great commandy one has more than just being a momma.

>>1650755
Well until the others start getting more fleshed out it'd make the most sense in character for the waifu to be the girl we have history with.
Besides I have a massive weakness for the "tomboy, long term friend" archetype.

>>1650901
Where are you getting tomboy from? She doesn't act like a dude.

>>1650911
She's not exactly girly either.

>>1650916
That doesn't make her a tomboy. By that logic, Naru is a tomboy. Hell, the only one that has exhibited objectively feminine traits is the commander. Being a bitch isn't feminine. Flirting isn't feminine. Is every woman in XCOM a tomboy? All I'm saying is she chums around in a military unit and acts normally, that doesn't make her a tomboy. Now, once she starts sitting around spread eagle and shitting with the door open then yeah, tomboy.

>>1650963
My definition of tomboy must be broader than most people's then.

>>1650911
She doesn't play it up, but she's obviously a long way from effeminate girly-girl.

I'm quite fond of Rachel, but as >>1650755 said, we haven't really interacted that much with the others yet.
But it makes sense from story perspective, we're only just getting acquainted with the place and the people and it's natural our old friend would be closest at hand.

>>1650971
>tfw people think any girl who doesn't spend an hour every day doing their hair is a tomboy

GG, terminology, you've been killed.

>>1650901
Not really. Waifu implies a lot more than long term friend. Rachel really seems more like a fighting buddy to me. Plus if we have it your way we'll never spend any time with the rest of the squad.

>>1651079
There's no avoiding them during/after missions.
And even if I did want to snub the rest of the squad (I don't, they seem interesting) Rachel's too outgoing and friendly to spend time with just us.

>>1651087
During/after missions isn't the time for getting to know people in Xcom. That'll get you dead or talked to when you're distracting from AAR.

Doesn't matter what Rachel does. If it's Rachel hanging out with someone else then it'll be us and Rachel hanging out with someone else. Which I hate.

Plus it's thread four. Way to soon to waifu lock.

>>1651108
we have to wait till AT LEAST thread 6

>>1650749
Rend and flay, until there is none...

>>1653875
>MC turns into a chryssalid
>but remains loyal to XCOM for some reason

>>1654364
I always preferred the "it bites you, you explode into a mass of SPIDERS" version. Not that cocoon stuff.

>>1654404
Man, fuck Chryssalids.

>>1654439
If there's ever a mission where we're going to Newfoundland, are we going to metagame it as hard as we possibly can or treat it like a normal mission?

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>>1654475

>>1654476
Maybe a healthy balance.
It'd be hard not to subconsciously metagame, considering how fucked that mission is.

>>1654475
>Squaddie Anon panics

>>1654487
Maybe Newfoundland will masquerade as somewhere else and by the time we realize what the mission is, it will already be FUBAR.
DESU I'm totally down to RP the massive fuckitude hat is Newfoundland in this campaign.

>>1654476
>>1654879
Is that the chryssalids eating a town mission?

>>1654888
Any involving them is bad anon. Fuck. Chryssalids.

>>1654892
Please don't let them reproduce. No fucking the chryssalids.

>>1654476
You cannot do anything but metagame the shit out of Newfoundland, especially in Long War.

>>1655579
I have just started my first LW campaign. I have turned on various easyfying options, but hordes of 5 HP Thin Men and 47% hit chances on snipers are already getting to me. I used to train rookies on Council missions dammit!
I dread to imagine what they did with Newfoundland.

>>1656114
You are not prepared.

But if you want to be: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAIctku3O0s

>>1655522
>Chryssy waifu confirmed.

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>>1656130
It's more likely than you think.

>>1656130
NO. On every level.

>>1656127
I've just finished Newfoundland.
I was not prepared. Thank heavens for Cinematic Mode.

>>1657173
So, how many operatives did the Chryssalids eat?

>>1658601
None. I took two rocketeers along.
Though I almost lost one trooper to acid because I didn't know how it works.

>>1658609
Ah, and my SHIV almost got eaten.

>>1658611
Ah yes, the rocketeer. For when bullets aren't enough.