File: Haha.webm (2.45 MB, 800x450)

2.45 MB WEBM

+++BRIEFING+++

NAME: "FLY BLACKBIRD"
OBJECTIVE: PACIFICATION OF [TARGET ALPHA] AND OTHER DISPLACED ASSET(S)
SITE: BIOLOGICAL CONTAINMENT FACILITY 13
EST. FLIGHT TIME: 2:00:00
FUEL ALLOC: 5:00:00
DEPARTURE: 23:10:00
WEATHER: FAIR
ROE: UNRESTRICTED

SUMMARY: As of 20:00:00, Central Command has lost contact with Biological Containment Facility 13 (BCF-13). Alerts received prior to communication backout suggest comprehensive breach of isolation cells on sublevel 5. Escape of anomalous entities beyond perimeter walls was confirmed by Recon Unit-IIIIIIII at 21:12:10, which proceeded to successfully engaged IIIIIIII, IIIIIIII, and IIIIIIII before being overwhelmed by [TARGET ALPHA], an amorphous superorganism resistant to small-arms fire.

Satellite images taken from 21:35:34 - 22:45:00 suggest that [TARGET ALPHA] has subsumed most of the biomass within in BCF-13 and has begun migrating towards IIIIIIII, a roadside town with ~1000 permanent residents. ETA ~7:30:00.

You are ordered to assist QRF-15 in the pacification of [TARGET ALPHA] and any other anomalous entities. No noncombatants are expected to be present in the AO; deployment of HE weapons has been authorized [See Addendum 13A].

+++GOOD HUNTING, PILOT+++
[Check the video and choose a loadout]
[FYI: Updates will be slow because of animations]

>>5286114
>before being overwhelmed by [TARGET ALPHA], an amorphous superorganism resistant to small-arms fire
Resistance to small-arms fire, so we should probably get the heaviest firepower we have access too.

>MAIN
2A13 40MM HEI
>AUX
6x HYDRA RKT-HEDP
1x AGS-12 MSL-THERM

One AGS-12 in case the 40mm Autogun isn't enough to take down [TARGET ALPHA], HYDRA rockets if we should need to engage smaller units that accompany [TARGET ALPHA].

>>5286114
I'm not /k/ enough to understand what I'm voting for, but will be here for the quest once it starts!!

>>5286123
Glad to have you! Sorry about the autism - I will write descriptions for the choices in the future so that they are less obtuse.

>>5286123
Yeah, same as anon here, so I'll just back >>5286118
Also, very cool visuals QM! Above and beyond. Giving me mild "Prototype" meets Cyberpunk pilot vibes.

>>5286114
>>5286118
I concur

>>5286118
>>5286114
support
looks cool

>>5286114
>MAIN
3A13 20MM AP
>AUX
6x HYDRA RKT-HEDP
1x AGS-12 MSL-THERM

20mm cannon will be bale to pierce its armor for sure.

AGS is away good to have, especially when fighting a "living force" as we call it.
hydras are always good to have, if we need them and don't have them then we are in trouble

using both 40mm HEI and AGS seems like an overkill, it would be btter to have a diverse armamanet.

as for the laser, Im not a huge fan of those (it depends how they function).

This is my first time doing something like this so keep that in mind. I didnt really visit tg before.

>>5286113
I've been looking forward to this quest.
>>5286114
>MAIN: LAS-G 20MW DISCHARGE
I like lasers. Plus, something tells me that the others won't be enough to damage [TARGET ALPHA].
>AUX: 6X HYDRA RKT-HEDP and 1X AGS-12 MSL-THERM
The rockets will be used just in case I'm wrong about the laser and the thermal missile should make for a nice "Plan B".

>>5286114
>>5286118
Support.

>>5286114
>2A13 40MM HEI
high-explosive incendiary
>6X HYDRA RKT-HEDP
and 6 dual-purpose rockets

>>5286282
you can pic two AUX weapons.

12 rockets maybe?

>>5286292
>12 rockets maybe?
Damn, I didn't think of that. Let's see if QM will allow it.

>>5286292
Yes. Otherwise 6 HEDP and 1 THERM.
t.>>5286282

Unless I miscounted, it seems like:

>MAIN
2A13 40mm HEI
>AUX
6x HYDRA RKT-HEDP
1x AGS-12 MSL-THERM

>>5286322
Yep, completely allowed. Weapon choices are also mission-specific, so you'll have a chance to try different loadouts if you get enough votes.

>>5286590
No rush, tho will another update come soon?

>>5286590
>Yep, completely allowed. Weapon choices are also mission-specific, so you'll have a chance to try different loadouts if you get enough votes.
Multiple missions? Nice.

>>5286596
In 2 hours or less ^_^

File: Haha1.webm (2.94 MB, 800x450)

2.94 MB WEBM

Pilot 17,

Just received your ordinance allocation forms a few minutes ago. Bird will be fueled up and ready to launch by the time you reach launch pad 12. One of my techs managed to fix a leaky hydraulic line on the starboard turbine armature; was probably causing the sluggishness you were talking about last time - not that you would remember.

You've got some good taste kid! I've been waiting for some flyboy to try those new AGS-12 thermobarics ever since we nicked the shipment from naval acquisitions. Feel free to send some declassified guncam footage over to me if you get a nice splash on something nasty.

Cheers.
-MB

File: Hud1.webm (2.86 MB, 800x450)

2.86 MB WEBM

+++OPERATION "FLY BLACKBIRD" TRANSCRIPT 001+++

23:20:15 QRF-15-ALPHA: Pilot comm check.

23:20:17 PILOT-11: Check.

23:41:19 PILOT-11: Passing Marker M-1.

23:41:23 QRF-15-ALPHA: Transport pilots are setting us down 1800 meters from the AO.

23:41:30 QRF-15-ALPHA: Will take a few minutes to dismount and set up our heavy weapons, so command has give you authorization to move ahead and engage. You can also wait for us to screen - up to you.

Options:

>Scout ahead and engage

>Wait and accompany QRF-15

>>5286736
>Scout ahead and engage
Let's see exactly what we and the ground forces are getting into first. Maybe we can soften things up for them, too.

>>5286118
I support this as well, there is no point in dual purpose or AP shells for this kind of threat.

It's biomass, not hard skin.

>>5286742
I would just scout ahead, but not engage for now. Considering that we are here, we should not engage by ourselves (Because why else would the QRF be here) and considering that we are here, we should scout ahead (Otherwise, why would we be here?).

>>5286747
All right. Maybe scout ahead first, relay what we see to the ground team, then determine the best course of action before executing it.

>>5286736
>>Wait and accompany QRF-15

It's just a few minutes, let's not split up already.

>>5286744
Who knows what it can be, you never know. I just felt like 2 HE weapons would be an overkill.

>>5286742
We are in the air, we can scout so lets do that. A little recon never killed anyone.

>>5286736
>>Wait and accompany QRF-15

(Lovely visuals, is this blender?)

File: Hud2.webm (2.98 MB, 720x480)

2.98 MB WEBM

+++OPERATION "FLY BLACKBIRD" TRANSCRIPT 002+++

23:41:35 QRF-15-ALPHA: Affirmative on the scouting run. Ping me when you have visual on [TARGET ALPHA].

23:44:19 QRF-15-ALPHA: Perimeter looks clear. Moving towards AO.

23:45:00 PILOT-17: Have visual. Relaying.

23:46:18 QRF-15-ALPHA: Received. ...Christ...I'm radioing to let command know that [TARGET ALPHA] has increased significantly in size since last contact. Not sure if the AT launchers we brought will cut it.

23:46:35 QRF-15-ALPHA: [Incomprehensible]

23:46:56 QRF-15-ALPHA: Original engagement orders still stand.

23:54:52 QRF-15-ALPHA: We've set up on a ridge overlooking the target, southern corner of the AO. 15-BETA will designate if you have any beamriding missiles. Engaging on your mark.

+++SELECT WEAPONS AND TARGET+++

"40MM + AGS-12 > TGT-01 (example)"

>>5286855
Yep. I can post assets if there is any interest.

>>5287192
Hydra Rockets are dumbfire and don't have to be designated or guided. The target is currently stationary and it's likely growing, getting stronger.

>HYDRA RKT-HEDP > TGT-ALPHA
We let the dust clear a bit and if it's still moving to letting out light, we start suppressing it
>2A13 40MM HEI > TGT-ALPHA
While this is happening, it would be good to let 15-Beta designate and QRF-15-ALPHA fire some AT munitions. If the thing is still moving and putting out light
>AGS-12 > > TGT-ALPHA

>>5287232
Seconding.

>>5286736
>Wait and accompany QRF-15

>>5287192
>AGS-12 MSL-THERM > > TGT-01
This will suppress it nicely. If it doesn't cut it, we can start using the main gun.
>2A13 40MM HEI > TGT-ALPHA

I cant really se what TGT-01 is but it looks like a large shapeless biomass. If it were to spilt due to our attacks we could use the Hydra rockets then. They are dumbfire but they cover an area when attacking, that's how they have been made to work. This will help out the ground team if they start having multiple targets to engage.

Kinda weird we only get 6 rockets. Usually Hydras come in packs of 19. If it was something stronger like a Hellfire I would understand the small amount. Im only saying this in case that Hydras are more powerful then I think.

File: Kiowa.png (569 KB, 640x425)

569 KB PNG

>>5287248
Missiles typically come in pylons of four, so I am under the impression we are very small and very nimble, like a Kiowa.

>>5287248
Sorry about that. I just called them Hydra rockets because they sounded cool - forgot that there's actual hydra rockets in US inventory.

The ones here are fat, 128mm rockets that are more similar to the soviet S-13 than the 70mm Hydra 70. This is why the mounting only holds six rockets.

>>5287252
Ah, now thats what I'm talking about!
I though you were thinking of those big rockets but the name confused me. Thanks for clarifying things!

I love S-13 rockets! Idk why Americans don't have an alternative.

>>5287192
>40MM + AGS-12 > TGT-01

>>5287232
+1, but without AGS
let's not waste the ONE heat seeking missile we have right off the start

>>5287518
>let's not waste the ONE heat seeking missile we have right off the start

This is literally our primary target. What else would we use the missile on?

Looks like we're hitting with rockets first.

Roll 1d20 for combat performance, best of 3.

Thresholds:

1-5 [Your rocket barrage scores glancing hits]

6-13 [Most of your rockets hit, damaging the target]

14-16 [All of your rockets hit, immobilizing the target]

17-20 [All of your rockets hit, devastating the target]

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>5287847
I said we would stop shooting if the thing stopped moving or glowing.

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>5287847

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>5287847
Let the violence commence.

>>5287848
Yea, I'm doing the combat phase-by-phase so that you'll stop shooting when the target stops moving. Did you mean something else here?
>>5287232

>>5287919
Talking about the person who said we would waste our missile.

File: Hud3.webm (2.86 MB, 650x366)

2.86 MB WEBM

>17

+++OPERATION "FLY BLACKBIRD" TRANSCRIPT 003+++

23:55:25 PILOT-17: Copy. Engaging with rockets first.

23:56:20 QRF-15-ALPHA: Good hits. Good effect on target.

23:56:35 QRF-15-ALPHA: [TARGET ALPHA] is losing structural cohesion. Main mass is breaking up.

23:56:40 QRF-15-ALPHA: Remaining tissue mass is...roughly car sized. Looks pretty passive, but we'll keep our launchers aimed at it just in case. I'll radio in central command to see if there's any interest in re containment. Stand by.

23:57:00 QRF-15-ALPHA: Containment team is en-route.

24:30:00 NBC-2: [TARGET ALPHA] has been secured in a temporary isolation chamber. QRF-15 will escort us back to base. PILOT-17, you are cleared to disengage.

24:30:47 PILOT-17: Copy. Returning to base.

File: Haha3.webm (2.83 MB, 800x450)

2.83 MB WEBM

Pilot 17,

Good work. [TARGET ALPHA] has been pacified and re-contained.

As of this debrief, you have reached your ten-year tolerance threshold for drug-induced amnesia. Further treatment cycles will risk permanent damage to core motor and cognitive functions.

Given this fact and your commendable service record, I have successfully filed an induction application on your behalf.

Your regular 30mg dose of Nepenthe-HCl has been rescinded. Reinstatement of select memory blocks will take roughly two weeks. A memnotropic cocktail is also available upon request if you choose to pursue a more aggressive recovery plan.

Welcome to the Bureau.

-RD

[Regular recovery plan] Play one more tutorial mission as a drug-deadened gunship pilot with no memory.

[Memnotropic cocktail] Recover your memory and begin the quest proper. This will also shift the writing to a more traditional narrative style, unless anyone has strong objections. Some document/transcript-style posts will remain though.

[FYI: Congratulations on completing the (semi) tutorial mission. Future encounters will become significantly more difficult.]

>>5288355
>[Memnotropic cocktail] Recover your memory and begin the quest proper. This will also shift the writing to a more traditional narrative style, unless anyone has strong objections. Some document/transcript-style posts will remain though.

>>5288355
>[Memnotropic cocktail] Recover your memory and begin the quest proper. This will also shift the writing to a more traditional narrative style, unless anyone has strong objections. Some document/transcript-style posts will remain though.
I think we've got the gist of what's going on. Let's get our memories back.

Well, the fact that I was right has totally went to my head.

I still feel a little smart for making a good call with the ordinance. I got a feeling the future is a harder time telling what to bring and what to use when we get there.

>>5288355
>Memnotropic cocktail] Recover your memory and begin the quest proper. This will also shift the writing to a more traditional narrative style, unless anyone has strong objections. Some document/transcript-style posts will remain though.
Time to wake up.

>[Memnotropic cocktail] Recover your memory and begin the quest proper. This will also shift the writing to a more traditional narrative style, unless anyone has strong objections. Some document/transcript-style posts will remain though.

>>5288355
>Memnotropic cocktail] Recover your memory and begin the quest proper. This will also shift the writing to a more traditional narrative style, unless anyone has strong objections. Some document/transcript-style posts will remain though.

>>5288355
>[Memnotropic cocktail]

(mind marking votes with greentext? it's pretty common practice to make them stand out better)

>>5288355
>[Regular recovery plan] Play one more tutorial mission as a drug-deadened gunship pilot with no memory.

Take it easy.

Pilot-17,

Memnotropic stimulant cocktail B administered. 5 days of on-site medical leave granted to assist recovery.

Ping medical if you experience complications.

-MD-4

++++++++++++++++++++++++

Morning again.

Waves of pain - dull and white - pound against your eyes through your temples. Your mouth is ash-dry, and you shift on a thin mattress already soaked in cold sweat.

As your consciousness slowly unpacks after months....perhaps years?...of drug-induced deadening, you realize that you still recall almost nothing. No name. No family. No home. Only...

Muffled turbines. The cloying wetness of congealed acceleration gel. A wet, gurgling roar that penetrates your armored cockpit, shaking your internal organs. Briefings, presented to you alone in a dark room. The face of a child. Your child? Your own face?

You're not quite sure, and the only thing that gives you optimism is - ironically - the knowledge that it would take at least three more days for this ordeal to end. Perhaps your brain would clear when it was all over.

But for now, you operate on autopilot. Your mind doesn't remember your routine, but your body does. After spending a few minute studying yourself in the mirror...

>You see a man you don't recognize

>You see a woman you don't recognize

...and throw on a oversized jumpsuit to leave your cramped room. Again, you navigate the grey corridors on instinct alone, taking several turns that lead you down a series of identical-looking hallways. Eventually, you find yourself walking along the upper level of a cavernous vehicle bay. Masked techs roam the open area below, performing last-minute maintenance checks and pre-flight fueling procedures on a soon-to-be-departing flight of transports.

Once you reach the end of the walkway, you knock twice on the door labeled "B413 - MAINT. CHIEF. 1"

You hear a groan and a clatter. The door swings open with a creak, revealing a bald, heavyset man in an ill-fitting uniform. He looks more than ready to chew you out.

'M....B?"

He grins, flashing you a surprisingly warm smile.

"Good to see you, kid. Heard rumors that RD was moving you up the ladder. Judging from your red eyes and new keycard, looks like they were true. Come in."

You enter his workspace, noticing the array of monitors propped up by his desk and a half-eaten box of peanut noodles laying next to his keyboard.

"It'll good to have another lucid one around here. Working with people hopped up on nepenthe is like staying in a ward full of Alzheimer's patients..." He says, sitting down at his desk and leaning forward. "Anyways, I'm guessing that you have some questions, so let me cut to the chase first. Not my first rodeo with freshies."

"Yes, we know each other. No, we're not married. You've been here for at least two years, possible longer if you were a transfer. This entire facility belongs to the Suppression Bureau - we're the branch that gets called in when shit really goes south. Not sure why you signed on, but you probably did so voluntarily."

You pause for a moment, trying your best to process that everything MB is telling you. "And...my memory?" you ask.

"Sections of it will probably come back. But they probably lied to you about the recovery rate. I've never had to take amensiatics myself, believe it or not, so I can't tell you what it'll feel like," replies MB, picking up his noodles.

"What have I been doing this whole time? Some of the things I remember..."

"Now that," he says gesturing with his chopsticks "is something that I do not know and cannot tell you even if I did. You're going to need to talk to RD directly."

He ponders for a second.

"Actually, you might need to wait on it. RD left a few days ago for central command, so the closest you can get is by talking to the research branch. You can probably go down there after getting some lunch. Walk over to break room 4 at 1pm or so. Ren always gets coffee there. She talks too much, but you probably need some of that now."

>>5289454
"Thanks?"

"Don't mention it, kid. You were pretty OK to talk to even when you weren't lucid. I also owe you a bit for the guncam footage I nicked from your bird."

You are about to ask him another question before a ping interrupts your train of thought.

"Welp, looks like I gotta run down there to do some troubleshooting with my own two hands" He turns back to you for a moment. "But before I go, wanted to remind you that today is requisition day. New weapons shipment soon. Look it over; should be straightforward enough."

"Thanks MB"

"As I said, don't mention it. Feel free to drop by later if you have the time."

"And the peanut noodles?"

He smiles. "Tuesday special. Better run to the mess quick if you want to grab whats left"

Twenty minutes later, you're back in your room, chewing on some (surprisingly good) peanut noodles you had retrieved from the mess hall. Setting aside some of the residual confusion you still felt from your conversation with MB, you open up his message.

++++++++++++++++++++++++

PILOT-17,

Good work on the last op, kid. Shame you didn't use the AGS-12, but seeing the rocket barrage you pulled off was more than a good trade.

As I was saying, latest round of weapon requisitions is up. I've got two items on my radar, and Ren sent me a third. Take a look below, and tell me which ones you want me to request.

P.S. Also posted video from weapon trials as an attachment. Enjoy.

Cheers.

-MB


[REQUISITION POINTS (RP) ARE USED TO BUY WEAPONS, VEHICLES, UPGRADES, HIRE PERSONNEL, ETC]

[YOU HAVE 5 RP CURRENTLY]

[All weapon upgrades are permanent unless stated otherwise. Buy once, and ammo restocks are free]

File: FLECH.webm (1.46 MB, 764x430)

1.46 MB WEBM

>"BYEKORF" 30x RKT-FLCH [2 RP]
One of the few nice things to come out of the North African counterinsurgency spat. Stuck with surplus 57mm rocket pods that were too inaccurate to hit point targets and too piddly to worry fortifications, ZPA rebels splayed the launch tubes and swapped the explosive charge for a flechette load. During the insurgency's heyday, rebel ambushers would use these to pincushion entire columns of government troops within seconds.

Armor-penetration is nonexistant and its potential for collateral damage is best left unmentioned. That said, I've heard surprisingly good things from teams who have carried these on termination missions. 30,000 flechettes is a lot for someone to handle, no matter what kind of unnatural bullshit they have up their sleeve.

-MB

File: INCEN.webm (1.39 MB, 764x430)

1.39 MB WEBM

> 2x AGS-9S MSL-SMK [2 RP]
Can you believe that some defense lab actually spent time concocting an incendiary mix more toxic than WP? That's right - so can I.

Don't buy the weapon designation. The AGS-9S is technically listed a smoke round for "marking and IR obfuscation," but I've seen the acquisition records myself. The weapon was designed as a persistent anti-organic incendiary and you should certainly use it as such.

To give the design team credit, they showed remarkable constraint by setting the main warhead to narrow-dispersion and mounting it on a precision-guided platform. As horrific as incendiaries are, pilots probably won't be splashing too many civilians with these one. Unless they intend to, of course.

-MB

File: LAS.webm (1.29 MB, 764x430)

1.29 MB WEBM

>"LANCER" 40MW LAS-POD (2-SHOT) [3 RP]
It is widely believed that advancements in solid-state laser technology have antiquated the chemically-driven emitters pursued during the early 21st century. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. The LANCER is a recent attempt to develop a high-yield laser weapon compatible with weapon mounts lacking the electrical infrastructure needed to support a standard solid-state unit. On some levels, the project was a success. Single pulses from the LANCER rival the peak energy output of some stationary air-defense units. Targeting is handled by an overbuilt, high-quality optics system capable of maintaining sub-centimeter targeting error at ranges exceeding one kilometer, with compatibility for optional mid-course interception PD software.

Unfortunately, the capacity issues limiting the weapon were never fully solved. Even the most recent prototypes consume reactant at a ferocious pace, depleting their internal halogen stores after only two or three shots. Limited use-cases, but supposedly effective at precision assassination/termination mission.

-Ren

>>5289451
>>You see a woman you don't recognize
Statistically, if there is one job a woman can do in the military, it's being a pilot.

>>5288381
Yep GJ! It will get harder though.

>>5288658
Yep, will do. Sorry I forgot about this in the last post

>>5289459
>>"BYEKORF" 30x RKT-FLCH
We don't have anything to handle a huge wave of small hostiles.

>>5289451
>You see a woman you don't recognize
Let's RP as the pilot lady from Aliens.
>>5289459
>>5289461
>>5289466
>"BYEKORF" 30x RKT-FLCH [2 RP]
> 2x AGS-9S MSL-SMK [2 RP]
I doubt we'll have to worry about civilians, so let's go with these. The flechettes will make short work of unarmored targets and incendiary stuff is always good to have. Unethical? Maybe. But we're dealing with anomalous entities. We can't take half measures. We'll have 1 RP left. Also, QM, do we still have our weapons from the tutorial mission?

>>5289491
Yep.

>>5289451 #

>You see a man you don't recognize

>>5289466 #
>"LANCER" 40MW LAS-POD (2-SHOT) [3 RP]
>"BYEKORF" 30x RKT-FLCH [2 RP]

We have AOE already, precision weaponry would be nice. Flechettes, as always, are nifty.

>>5289451
>>You see a woman you don't recognize
Foehammer reports in.

>>5289466
>"LANCER" 40MW LAS-POD (2-SHOT) [3 RP]
>"BYEKORF" 30x RKT-FLCH [2 RP]

>>5289451
>>You see a man you don't recognize
>>5289466
>"LANCER" 40MW LAS-POD (2-SHOT) [3 RP]
>"BYEKORF" 30x RKT-FLCH [2 RP]

Kinda want to RP as an ace combat protag.

>>5289451
>>You see a man you don't recognize
Buy these two
>>5289459
>>5289466

It seems to me that the BYEKORF is the least precise and the LANCER is the most precise, therefore it makes the most sense to buy the two together to be as versatile as possible.

>>5289459
>"BYEKORF" 30x RKT-FLCH [2 RP]
>>5289461
> 2x AGS-9S MSL-SMK [2 RP]

PILOT-17,

Order received. Rockets will be shipped over tomorrow afternoon, the laser pod maybe a few hours after that.

Cheers.
-MB

[YOU HAVE 0 RP CURRENTLY]

You meander down to the lower sublevels after finishing lunch. It was less familiar territory. The relatively narrow, slate-grey corridors in the upper section of the facility slowly gave way to bright-lit hallways that smelled vaguely of hospital disinfectant. Even relying on your motor memory, you make several wrong turns, running into clusters of black-armored guards that sternly point you back towards the central walkway.

By the time you key open the door of break room 4, it is already a quarter past one. In the corner of the room - next to an incongruously large coffee dispenser - you spot someone you assume to be Ren. She is hunched over her seat, nursing a steaming cup of coffee as she pecks away at her tablet.

"Ren? I was told to meet you in the break room"

She jumps up, brushing a strand of black hair behind her ears. She stares blankly at you for a few seconds.

"Umm....HELLO SIR. Good to meet you too," she exclaims, shaking your hand up and down with a tad more enthusiasm than you would expect.

"My name is Ren. I work for the Research and Development branch. Main focus is optical engineering, though I also do a bit of work with the hardware team. Look, I know that the last grant proposal that my team put in was a bit over departmental budget, but I would really appreciate it if you could reconsider. Some of the mixed-lattice crystals that we've been growing recently have been showing excellent gain characteristics, and we're only a few days away from testing..."

You cut her off. "..MB told me to meet you here"

"Oh...sorry about that"

"..."

"Follow me please? Maybe we can take a conference room"

>>5290773
As both of you sit down on some remarkably comfortable plush chairs, she starts again.

"Sorry, I got confused looking at your keycard. I swear that he always does this to me. Just because I have a half-day break on Tuesdays doesn't mean that he can just pile whatever work he wants on me. Looking at your eyes, I'm guessing that you just came off Nepenthe-HCl? Probably a week, judging from your mental state. Also some pupil dilation, so maybe you've been on a stimulant cocktail?"

"I...yes I have"

"Did you know that some of the psychotropic agents they put in those are Ames positive? Haven't heard about any assessments for true carcinogenicity, but I wouldn't be surprised if they were," she says, staring into your eyes with uncomfortable intensity.

"But I'm assuming that you want more general information. With the exception of my project, my security clearance isn't going to be too different from yours, so I can't tell you anything that you can't retrieve from the archives yourself. That said, I've been here long enough to get an impression of who runs each branch and they're like. No personal details of course. That might help you more than any project-specific information that I can pass along. Sounds good?"

Ask about [Choose 2 First]:

>Operations

>Archives

>Acquisitions

>Sanctioning

>Maintenance [You've already been here]

[Also, we need another vote to figure out if we're a dude or a girl. Next vote breaks the tie.]

>>5290774
>Operations
>Sanctioning

>>5290774
>Operations
>Archives

>>5290774
>You see a man you don't recognize

>>5290774
>Operations
>Archives

>>5290774
>Operations
>Acquisitions

>>5290774
>>You see a woman you don't recognize
>Operations
>Archives

[Operations]

"This is the group that actually runs this facility. All the research that gets done in my department doesn't change the fact that the Suppression Bureau was founded upon a singular objective: to terminate or incapacitate anything that can't be packaged into an isolation cell and shipped deep underground. Always helpful to remember that everything done here is in service of that goal. Day to day, ops is responsible for organizing QRFs, allocating them to hot-zones, and coordinating with the other facility heads.

Acting branch head is M. Ricker. I haven't interacted with her personally, but most of what I've heard substantiates the impression that she makes decisions by-the-book. Definitely a close adherent of information-security protocols; long-time colleague in medical informed me that the number of Nepenthe doses they were administering out doubled two years into her term and never went back down. Also favors written communication. Even if you work in ops, you won't be seeing much of her"

[Archives]

"No plan survives contact with enemy, but having a plan is a lot better than going in blind. Archives is our intelligence and information management branch. Their main stacks are in the climate-controlled vaults at the very end of the hallway outside; just take a right, and badge into their reception office.

Standard security clearance is enough to retrieve almost any document from the first two levels. Mostly sanitized secondary sources. Extremely helpful if you want to perform some of your own research on a cult that you plan to clear out, but nothing transcendental. The upper levels are another story. I'm not certain what clearance is required for regular access, but the security systems built into those levels are absolutely absurd. A few years ago, they filed a requisition form for some of the 30MW fixed-point emitters that my lab was prototyping. I can't tell you where they ended up, but I wouldn't consider trying anything in the high-security stacks unless you have vehicle-grade ablatives on-hand.

That said, there's no reason to. Baseline human or not, Kerisham is one of the nicest, most patient individuals I have met here. Always appears to have time for an appointment, and I have acquired a staggering amount of insight after a few brief chats with him. Makes great herbal tea. Doesn't use our internal messaging service. Correspondence is exclusively handwritten"

Options:

> Ask about the 3 remaining branches.

> Thank Ren and head back for some rest.

>>5291862
>Ask about the 3 remaining branches.

>>5291862
>> Ask about the 3 remaining branches.

>>5291862
>Ask about the 3 remaining branches.

>>5291862
> Ask about the 3 remaining branches

>>5291862
>Get back to shooting.

>Acquisitions

"These people know you better than you know yourself. Probably even before you began your first amnesiatic cycle.

In brief, the acquisitions branch is a headhunting agency. A facility like ours demands expertise from every profession - ranging from combat specialists like yourself to the more...esoteric roles you tend to find in sanctioning or archives. Acquisitions is responsible for handling all of these needs. From what I've heard, no two recruitment offers are identical. Most of us join for mundane rewards - money, academic interest, revenge, etc. Others, though, are kept by more substantial obligations. Oaths. Deep pacts. Matters that I'm simply not qualified to speak about. Ironically, I have it on good authority that the head of acquisitions himself was recruited through a contract of the second type.

As disconcerting as all this sounds, one of the only hard rules in acquisitions - besides for preserving their insular, elitist subculture - is an aversion to direct blackmail. Then again, their members no longer seem to need it. My interactions with their R&D ambassador over the past decade has taught me two lessons: anyone can be bought, and acquisitions always manages to buy at a premium. Contact to them only if you need to recruit personnel. Would recommend avoiding otherwise."

>Sanctioning

"The esoteric counterpart to our branch. Come to R&D if you want to destroy someone's body. Go to sanctioning if destroying the body isn't enough.

To elaborate, sanctioning is responsible for developing tools against esoteric and incorporeal threats. Most of their developments are tailored towards infantry weapons, but they've also branched out into vehicle-mounted ordinance on occasions when manpower and cost constraints are permissive.

Sanctioning is led Father Gregori. He walks and dresses like an elderly small-town minister - even volunteers to host Sunday mass twice a month, but I have no doubt that he has had a long and storied history in our organization. Commands far more respect from the other branch heads than you would expect. Don't trust the cane he carries. Aforementioned friend in medical just laughed at me when I asked if Gregori was getting infirm."

>Maintenance

"While I still resent MB for making me teach you about his department, I do know quite a bit given their close working relationship with R&D.

Maintenance used to be a runt-branch before they started receiving surplus vehicles like APCs and gunships. They still lack institutional power, but their influence has grown markedly after ops came to their senses and realized the benefits of integrated fire support. Ten extra megawatts - or a few dozen millimeters - makes all the difference against a second-rate abomination or punch-clock horror that shrugs off small arms fire.

Given that MB sent you here, you shouldn't be shocked to hear that the branch isn't organized - MB and "chiefs" like him are the closest you'll get to a department head. Makes sense, given the number of back-alley deals and pseudo-professional relationships they cultivate to get weapons and parts shipments. Official military sources, after all, keep us away from their best equipment to make sure that our organization stays dependent on the larger government apparatus.

++++++++++++++++++++

"And my department? As I said, I work in research. If you need specialty ordinance or a weapon modifications, we're the ones responsible. Most of our generic retrofit options get forwarded through to maintenance, so ask MB next time. Also feel free to ping us directly if you need something specific. You have the right now that you've been inducted as a formal operative."

"Got it." MB was right. She did talk a lot, but at least the information she had seemed helpful. "Any tips for recovering my memory?"

"Rest and hydrate. Your direct commander will likely call you in for a psych evaluation in a few days, then a briefing with most of the information I just told you." She glances at her tablet. "I wouldn't be surprised if an operation follows soon after that. I've been hearing rumors."

"Well then...I should probably get going. Thanks again, Ren."

"Good luck. And I should probably get to enjoying whatever is left of my half-day."

As you make the journey back to your room you decide to take her advice - at least for today. But tomorrow you would:

> Rest some more [Skip to Briefing, maybe remember a few more bits about your past]

> Visit one of the branches Ren introduced you to [Choose]

> Talk to a character [Choose]

> Write-In

>>5293173
>> Visit one of the branches Ren introduced you to [Choose]

Operations. See if we can get any information about our next mission.

>>5293173
>>> Visit one of the branches Ren introduced you to [Choose]

>>5293173
> Visit one of the branches Ren introduced you to [Sanctioning]

>>5293186
Wanna vote for which branch you would like to visit?

>>5293173
> Visit one of the branches Ren introduced you to [Sanctioning]
These fellas sound neat

>>5293173
> Visit one of the branches Ren introduced you to [Archives]
I want to see my documents and records, maybe find out something about who we are

>>5293173
>> Visit one of the branches Ren introduced you to [Archives]

>>5293708
Seconding.
>INB4 it's above our character's clearance level.

>>5293773
It is, and files with personal information are kept by the much-less-friendly people at acquisitions.

That said, you can still go to archives to find info - just not about yourself.

>>5293778
Damn, screw it then, we should focus on befriending cooperative high-ranking people and then pull favours to get info about ourselves.
>inb4 no one can help us even if they wanted

>>5293778
>>5293784
I think we ought to take Ren's advice and stay away from Acquisitions until we have to put a crew together. Snooping around in the domain of people who are openly described as being secretive and unfriendly to outsiders might bring us more trouble than we need. Archives may not have the juicy details about our past, but what's there may benefit us regardless.

File: unknown.png (1.55 MB, 960x1280)

1.55 MB PNG

>>5293769
>>5293708
>>5293773
>>5293809

Pending a more substantive update later tonight.

*Please ignore the one spelling error I made*

>>5293171
>A facility like ours demands expertise from every profession - ranging from combat specialists like yourself
Would we be able to find out if we used to be in the military or something?

>>5293173
> Rest some more [Skip to Briefing, maybe remember a few more bits about your past]

Morning again.

The pain was subsiding now but the confusion remains. After sitting up from bed, you take a swig of tepid water as you begin sorting through the memories your subconscious trawled up over the last eight hours.

Again, you remember the scream of turbines and the wet sensation of acceleration gel. A mission briefing held in a pitch-dark room.

But now there was something else. Two squads of marines moving through the nighttime desert, shining white-hot on your thermal display. The feeling of intense dread as they step past the threshold of yet another abandoned village. One of them steps on something, panicking over the radio. A mine?

No. Something worse. Hundreds of veins squirm beneath the sands, shooting upwards and merging into a red pillar. A wet roar penetrates your armored cockpit and you taste blood in your mouth. You think you see the sun - highlighted in all its golden, sensor-searing splendor - and soon after that, almost nothing at all.

You take another swig of water. Pseudo-retrograde recovery. That was the word that the doctor had used. Your old memories would resurface first, and your new memories after. No sense in rushing things along.

Or was there?

You glance over at handwritten letter laying on your desk. After hearing Ren's run-down yesterday, you had sent a tentative appointment request to A.L. Kerisham - head of archives - as you were walking back to your room. You still weren't sure how his letter had arrived at your desk before you did, but there it was.

Not only was an appointment scheduled, the man had already compiled a reading list for you. You suppose that was no point delaying.

+++++++++++++++++

Archives was surprisingly comfortable. From Ren's description, you had developed the mental image of a safehouse - a dull grey room filled to the brim with identical-looking boxes and guarded by glowing laser apertures. That impression couldn't be further from the truth.

From the reception hall onwards, the entire place looked like a high-class library. From the fine wooden bookshelves to the warm lamp-cones, it was clear that whoever - or whatever - had taken the time to draft the design had put a premium on comfort.

"That is indeed the case, good sir. Even before I was offered patronage, I was quite concerned about the atmosphere here. What's the point of a library if nobody wants to read in it?."

You stare at Kerashim as he bows before taking the chair across from you. An blank ivory mask covers his face. His hands are gloved.

"Please do not be alarmed. Most newcomers are surprised by our furnishings, so I was merely making a well-intentioned guess. My name is Kerashim - it is a pleasure to meet you, pilot."

"Pleasure is mine, sir" You reply, falling back into old mannerisms. "I was hoping to ask for your assistance in...helping me become more acquinted with my new position"

"Firstly, I would like to offer a sincere apology for my limited abilities. Like you, most newcomers ask about their memories, and that simply falls outside of my purview. Even if archives had access to personnel records, overstepping my authority would be unbecoming of me."

He gently places a stack of three books on the table.

"That said, I do know enough about your...situation to guide you to some answers, at least in an indirect manner."

He opens the first volume, showing you pencil sketch of something that inspires a familiar and deep-seated sense of unease. "Reading these three volumes will help. I would recommend starting with Illopoly. But before all that, I have enough time to least give you a primer."

Kerashim leans in slightly closer. You smell cloves and...something less pleasant. He sighs.

"Know that faith is the first and only true currency in our world. Know that some entities covet it more than others..."


Roll 1d20, best of 5:


1-5 [You learn nothing]

6-10 [You learn something about your memories]

11-16 [You begin to understand your memories]

17-20 [You remember exactly why you are here]

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>5294560
Let's get those memories back.

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>5294560

>>5293906
this is so pretty
how do I write like this

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>5294560

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>5294560

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>5294560

>>5294570
Be an architect is my best guess.
>>5294556
Does anyone else suspect our memory is constantly wiped to keep us from getting PTSD or something?

"...and so, the cult of seven-coiled spread - from its birthplace in the brackish waters of the great North to all other places where men could suffocate beneath the surface-calm. In freshwater lakes. In loose soil. Even in dry, shifting sands..."

Kerashim's mask looms over you and his mask shifts upwards slightly. A smile?

"You have been a wonderful and insightful student today, and I have no doubt that you will uncover your memories on your own time. Unfortunately, I must leave now - my commitments may be modest compared to yours, but I do have many of them"

[Goodwill with Kerashim +1]

He slides the books over to your side of the table.

"Thank you Kerashim. How long..."

"As long as you need. Thank you for visiting the archives, and please do take care of yourself."

Current goodwill:

[MB: 2]

[Ren: 1]

[RD: 1]

[Kerashim: 1]

++++++++++++

That night, you pour over Kerashim's books. You read, you sleep, and by the time sunlight creeps back into your room, you memory finally begins to unspool.


You were an Army gunship pilot, assigned to escort a humanitarian relief initiative during the MENA water crisis. Eight months of easy work. The mission was straightforward, the locals were relatively friendly, and the lodging was acceptable - if rustic. You had gotten along surprisingly well with the veteran security team you were embedded in, finding fast acquaintances and even a few friends.

But towards the tail end of the deployment, the infrastructure teams began to report discrepancies. Cement-filled wells. Broken Pumps. And eventually, missing technicians.

The work of local criminal gangs, your team figured. Smugglers thrived off of shortages, and the water crises was, without doubt, the biggest shortage in recent memory. It was no surprise that some parties would stoop to sabotage once their income was on the line.

Tempers running high, the ground team hit two nearby villages in rapid succession. They found nothing except for smouldering fires and empty houses.

Four more villages the next day. All empty, save for a carefully-penned note with the name of another village.

An ambush perhaps? "Fine!" you remember your team leader yelling. "We'll go. Get the bird into the air. Give the bastards a surprise once they pop out to hit us."

You did. You eagerly shadowed the ground team in a retrofitted gunship laden with rocket pods and cannon ammunition. All useless once the marines passed the threshold of the seventh village.

You now recognize the ritual they performed. Last night, you had pieced it together from the rambling diagrams of S. A. Weim. 77 men from 7 villages, all drowned beneath the shifting sands to summon a fragment of an erstwhile, 7-coiled patron. The bodies buried beneath the seventh village squirmed and shifted to form an avatar that towered over the desert sands. The ground team screamed in collective agony as their flesh began to follow.

You had radioed frantically for support as you stitched an unbroken stream of cannon fire into the serpentine mass. You kept radioing until a low-yield thermal warhead turned it - and most of the surrounding landscape - into a shallow bowl of molten glass.

Once your gunship limped back to base, your debrief was handled by a tall, thin man with an immaculately warm voice. He had offered you a choice. Return to a military branch that would vaporize you and your squad without a second thought, or dedicate a decade of your life to an institution with real answers and real purpose. In your shell-shocked state, the choice seemed obvious. He had you on your first dose of Nepenthe by end of the hour.

Every memory after this point remains curiously detached, and you feel around blank stretches that seem too abrupt to be natural. Regardless, you are still able to make a rough estimate of your service history. Two and a half years of flying, running two or three operations every month. Hundreds of targets terminated, many of which are difficult or...uncomfortable...to recall.

Plenty of real answers, but you had access to none of them. And purpose. That was more difficult. The Bureau had purpose, but did you?

> Vengeance? [You are here to destroy evil - no matter what form it might take]

> Altruism? [You are here protect others from horrors that you yourself have seen]

> Advancement? [You wish to advance further in the Bureau and seek answers]

> Survival? [Finish your ten years and leave. That's all that matters for now.]

> Shrug? [You like shooting monsters. That's all.]

> Write-In.

>>5295565
Not an architect, sorry.
>>5294570
Get 0.38mm Muji gel pens and write slowly at first. I'm sure you can do it!

>>5295683
>Advancement? [You wish to advance further in the Bureau and seek answers]
We've only scratched the surface.

>>5295683
> Advancement? [You wish to advance further in the Bureau and seek answers]

>>5295683
>> Altruism? [You are here protect others from horrors that you yourself have seen]

>>5295683
> Altruism? [You are here protect others from horrors that you yourself have seen]

Someone has to protect the world from all this shit. Might as well be us.

>>5295680
Had a suspicion we were military.
>low-yield thermal warhead turned it - and most of the surrounding landscape - into a shallow bowl of molten glass.
Quarter Ton Bomb or MOAB?
>>5295683
> Altruism? [You are here protect others from horrors that you yourself have seen]

You did.

Altruism. A curious motive. Some would consider it a foolish value to uphold in an organization as callous as the Suppression Bureau.

But you see no alternatives. The mission would always be there. You have experience, health, and a measure of sanity. You have already been exposed, so there is also less to preserve.

It is either going to be you, or someone else. It might as well be you...


+++++++++++++++++++++


Pilot-17,

Report to medical immediately for a comprehensive psychiatric/cognitive evaluation.

Central command has implicated a person-of-interest (POI) in the catastrophic breach of BCF-13. Special unit lambda-null-null will disable and extract the POI. You will be responsible for providing aerial support as needed.

Full mission briefing will be available by 24:00:00. Expect departure soon after.

-RD


[After completing your psych evaluation, you will have time for one more encounter]

>Rest [Skips encounter to Briefing/Loadout/Mission]

>Talk to one of your contacts [CHOOSE: MB, Ren, Kerashim]

>Meet Lambda-null-null

>Visit a branch you haven't been to before

>Write In?

>>5296737
>>Meet Lambda-null-null
Interested to see if these guys are nepenthe'd or not.

>>5296737
>Meet Lambda-null-null

>>5296737
>Meet Lambda-null-null

>Meet Lambda-null-null

Might be intresting to meet the ground branch

Apologies for the delay gents. Update tonight probably.

File: Haha(1).webm (2.56 MB, 800x450)

2.56 MB WEBM

The official briefing arrives later that night - only a few hours after you finish the colossal battery of Psych/Cog tests that medical ran you through. To be frank, you were amazed you passed. From your ongoing adventures in traumatic recollection to your newfound interest in occult readings, you figured that they would have found something wrong.

Evidently not. You open up the briefing on one frame of your tablet, an ordinance allocation form on the other.

+++BRIEFING+++

NAME: "UNFOUND JOY"
OBJECTIVE: CAPTURE AND SECURE PERSON OF INTEREST 1 (POE-1)
SITE: N/A
EST. FLIGHT TIME: 5:00:00
FUEL ALLOC: 12:00:00
DEPARTURE: 03:00:00
WEATHER: CLOUDY
ROE: RESTRICTION - LVL -1

SUMMARY: Based on analysis of satellite footage, central command has implicated PERSON-OF-INTEREST 1 (POE-1) in the catastrophic breach event that occurred last Monday at BCF-13. POE-1 is MARKUS |||||||||||, the acting leader of the ORDER OF HIS CRIMSON NAME, a small [15-25 Individual] and previously-unknown cult occupying an abandoned warehouse complex located in the rural outskirts of Crimson-Rock City UT. Motives remain unclear; ongoing analysis of movement patterns suggests that neither POE-1 nor his followers are aware of their role in instigating the facility breach event.

Regardless of intent, the ability of POE-1 and the ORDER OF HIS CRIMSON NAME to agitate entity 13-B-456A [TARGET-ALPHA] suggests considerable access to ritualistic talent, restricted knowledge, or both. The continued existence of such an organization poses a clear and present danger to both the Suppression Bureau and the nation-at-large.

Resistance is expected to be moderate. In addition to a limited supply of civilian-grade semiautomatic firearms, certain members of the cult may possess limited proficiency in psychokinetic/psychoserous/psychobiologic manipulation. As such, a special operations unit consisting of [5] lambda-null-null operatives has be tasked with breaching the compound and securing POE-1 for extraction.

Pilot-17, you are ordered to provide limited air-to-ground support. Neutralize any cult members outside of the facility, and assist lambda-null-null as necessary. POE-1 should ideally be taken alive; however, do not hesitate to engage and neutralize POE-1 if the ground team is unable to complete the extraction protocol.

Less than 5 noncombatants are expected to be present in the facility; deployment of HE and THERM weapons has been authorized with caution [See Addendum 15A].

+++GOOD HUNTING, PILOT+++
>[Check the video and choose a loadout]

Below the briefing, you also find a short message from MB.

PILOT-17,

Hey kid - heard that you're doing a bit better now. Now that you have your memory back and all, consider adding some flair back to your bird.

Just shoot me an attachment if you have anything in mind. Make sure it's not too detailed though - my techs can paint roundels, not miracles.

-MB
>If you want new nose art, post an image and vote on it. Particularly -tasteful- suggestions may add some kind of minor roll bonus [as judged by me].

Once you send in your allocation forms and enter the vehicle bay, you realize that your concerns about missing the ground-team in the pre-mission rush were completely unfounded.

Calling Lambda-null-null conspicuous would be an understatement. All five operatives are seated in a tight prayer circle right next to their VTOL transparent. They wear plate carriers inscribed with spooling lines of cursive text, holding carbines molded from composite polymer and vat-grown ivory. Their eyes are covered with satin blindfolds. And yet, all of them track you unerringly from the moment you leave the elevator.

Suddenly, the one closest to you steps forward. The symbol of the sanctioning branch - a flame above a blinded eye - is embossed on her shoulder patch. She turns her head towards you and places both of her hands on top of your shoulders. After shifting a few times, you realize that you are locked in place.

"Welcome brother. Have you come to join our holy communion?"

>Join
>Excuse
>Write-In

>>5300032
>Write-In
"If you're bestowing protection against psionic hazards I'll take it, but I'm not so sure about this communion thing."

Also what's Addendum 15A?

>>5300032
>Write-In
"If me not knowing how to do this doesn't hurt the communion, then yes."
Why not ? Low chance of anything bad happening, and it could give us an edge, be it better relations with sanctioning or something more...esoteric.
We just need to make sure they understand we're still an amnesic newbie and no a regular, but I believe they know this already. Blindness reinforces other senses, so that probably includes weird extrasensory stuff.

>>5300023
Both versions of the Las (Main and aux) for precision, and we should take something else if they summon a crazy monster or something.

File: ReadyForDuty-transparent-(...).png (449 KB, 1024x996)

449 KB PNG

>>5300023
>MAIN
LAS-G 20MW DISCHARGE
>AUX
6X HYDRA RKT-HEDP
1X 40MW LAS-POD (2-SHOT)
>>5300025
>If you want new nose art, post an image and vote on it. Particularly -tasteful- suggestions may add some kind of minor roll bonus [as judged by me].
How about some classic pin-up art?
>>5300032
>Join
We don't seem to be the religious/spiritual sort, but these people are joining us on the op. It would be wise to establish a working relationship with them early on.

>>5300023
>MAIN
LAS-G 20MW DISCHARGE
>AUX
30x RKT-FLCH
1X 40MW LAS-POD (2-SHOT)

A bunch of soft targets, with some degree of precision possibly required. That las-pod should be good for deleting any surprise hard targets. Flechettes because if the time comes to shred them, I want a lot of ammo to do it.

>>5300032
>Join
A strange ritual prior to hunting a cult able to summon/rouse horrific monstrosities? I am in.

>>5300023
Main
> Las-G 20MW DISCHARGE
Aux
> 2x 40MW LAS-POD 2-SHOT
I presume we can take the same aux weapon twice, please correct me if I'm wrong. If I am wrong then my vote is for one of the above and one 6x HYDRA RKT-HEDP

My reasoning is that we need to take out the other cultists without killing the POE, therefore we need to focus on precision weapons.

>>5300032
Ask them for more information about their "holy communion".

>>5300025
> Nose Art
Well since we're a supernatural supression unit why nt g9 for something with supernatural significance like eye of Horus?

>>5300025
nose art:
something that reminds us why we're here.

did the security team we were working with at >>5295680
have a symbol associated with them? could do something that evokes that, without being recognizable. simple geometric symbol with the same colors.

>>5300285
also kinda like the superstition angle, but gotta be something the character personally believes in.

>>5300023
Switching my aux weapons vote >>5300258 to 2x 40 MW LAS-POD 2-SHOT

>>5300023
A nice and precise weapon
>Main
LAS-G 20MW
>Aux
40MW LAS-POD
HYDRA RKT-HEDP

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627 KB PNG

>>5300023
>MAIN
LAS-G 20MW DISCHARGE
>AUX
6X HYDRA RKT-HEDP
1X 40MW LAS-POD (2-SHOT)

2 high power laser shots should be enough. The Hydras will be a nice back-up if RoE change and we need to blow up something.

>>5300025
picrel, for a nice, simple, classic Elder Sign. If the vote hasn't been called in a few hours, I may try mocking up a missile flying towards a chibi cthulhu or something.

>>5300032
>Join
What's the worst that could happen?

>>5300023
>30x RKT-FLCH
>1X 40MW LAS-POD 2-SHOT
>2A13 40MM HEI
The main weapon from last time was a hit so let's try that with our two new aux weapons.

File: 800px_COLOURBOX36209315.jpg (68 KB, 800x800)

68 KB JPG

[A few more votes on the nose art would be helpful. >>5300329 See picrel for the logo of our original security team]


"If you're bestowing protection against certain...hazards I'll take it, but I'm not so sure about this communion thing," you say with a degree of hesitation.

"They are one and the same."

"And I'm not sure what communion involves. If me not knowing..."

The grip on your shoulders tightens almost to the point of discomfort. "We were all initiates once. Come. We will lead you"

As soon as you finish seating yourself in the prayer circle, she reaches to take off her blindfold.

"We will begin. "

The blindfold falls to the ground, and you see light. Light pours from her hollow eye sockets, honey-gold in color and almost viscous in consistency. You cannot look away. You smell sun-baked earth and feel the gentle warmth of midsummer. There is stinging now. You see a hooded man holding a lantern that shines like a caged star. Tears dew at the corner of your eyes, yet you still cannot look away. A monstrous pupil gazes back at you, unblinking. You have a knife in your hand, and you use it to carve a deep trench through the first layer, then the second, and watch as the vitreous liquid contained within pours outward to expose a door glowing with golden...

The light stops, and you blink. The burning in your retina subsides to a dull ache, then a vague prickling. A vice-tight grip releases from your skull.

"You are very fortunate, brother. Our illuminated patron has chosen to grace you with a portion of his power. The good father will be pleased."

[Goodwill with Father Gregori +1]

As your vision finally swims back into focus, you notice...[Select one TEMPORARY perk]

> A burning incandescence. [+1 to all rolls with laser weapons]

> A thread of vitreous gold. [Getting the same number with two CONSECUTIVE rolls guarantees a critical success]

> A pulsating radiance [+1 Bonus RP on mission completion]

>>5301115
>> A pulsating radiance [+1 Bonus RP on mission completion]
This is the only temporary bonus that gives us a permanent advantage. The thread is a bit too finicky, and a +1 to a Bo3 d20 roll is meager at best..

>>5301115
>> A burning incandescence. [+1 to all rolls with laser weapons]

>>5301115
>> A burning incandescence. [+1 to all rolls with laser weapons]

>>5301115
>A pulsating radiance [+1 Bonus RP on mission completion]

>>5301115
>A pulsating radiance [+1 Bonus RP on mission completion]

>>5301115
>A pulsating radiance [+1 Bonus RP on mission completion]

>>5301115
> A pulsating radiance [+1 Bonus RP on mission completion]

>>5301115
> A thread of vitreous gold. [Getting the same number with two CONSECUTIVE rolls guarantees a critical success]

>>5301115
>> A pulsating radiance [+1 Bonus RP on mission completion]

File: Haha5.webm (2.74 MB, 800x450)

2.74 MB WEBM

...a pulsating radiance. The fog over your brain lifts slightly, and you feel your mind's eye sharpen.

As you step aside to regain your bearings, the lambda-null-null operatives complete their ritual amongst themselves. Honeyed light pours from empty-eye-socket to empty-eye-socket in a reciprocal exchange. None of them struggle like you do. A few of even smile.

Their communion finished, the operatives begin embarking their light VTOL transport with all the grace and economy-of-movement you would expect from elite infantry. If the blindfolds were any hindrance at all, they certainly do not show it.

One of them - the same individual who first intercepted you - pauses for a moment. She turns towards you.

"Null-Three," she says quietly.

"Is that a name or your callsign?"

"Both. Good hunting pilot."

+++++++++++++++++++++++

PILOT 17,

Ordinance forms received and filed; bird is ready on pad 12. Still not sure if you wanted a new paintjob, so my techs put a new logo on your canopy to replace the old corporate crap. If you don't like it, come whine at me after the mission is over and we'll swap it out.

Looks like you're putting on a real lightshow this time. Those laser pods are pretty nasty - they don't hit quite as hard as a big AP round, but they're much more reliable. Ever once in a while, you get a cut-rate psychic who can deflect bullets. But you need to be a real big shot to have any chance at bending light.

Anyways, same deal as always on the footage. Ren might even be interested this time.

Cheers,
MB.

+++++++++++++++++++++++

The next hour is hard to remember. You've been through the steps so many times the procedure is almost instinctual.

Perform a final spot check. Climb into the claustrophobic cockpit compartment; wait until the armored canopy lowers flush with the surface. Stay still as the cockpit fills with pressurized acceleration gel and check for proper optical compensation on the indirect-vision projectors.

As you test the vectoring armatures and begin throttling up both engines for takeoff, you feel something akin to relief - maybe even comfort. The armored coffin you're laying in is arguably more of a home than your cramped quarters or your fractured memories. You would have considered this depressing if you were the sentimental type.

The radio crackers.

"Noon Peak 2, interdictor one zero seven foxtrot, cleared for takeoff on pad twelve"

"Cleared for takeoff pad twelve, Noon Peak 3"

The engines spool up to a roaring scream, and your gunship climbs gently into the cool evening air. You settle in for a long journey.

>Talk to someone over comm?

>Stay silent.

[I will be super busy from now till Early August, but I will try my best to update as soon as I can. Sorry in advance for any delays.]

>>5304122
Understood, Fair.
>>5304122
>Talk to someone over comm?

>>5304122
>Still not sure if you wanted a new paintjob, so my techs put a new logo on your canopy to replace the old corporate crap. If you don't like it, come whine at me after the mission is over and we'll swap it out.
We should keep it. It actually looks really cool on our gunship, and the "all-seeing eye" motif is a good fit for the team we're a part of.
>Talk to someone over comm?
That being said, let's check in on the team.
>[I will be super busy from now till Early August, but I will try my best to update as soon as I can. Sorry in advance for any delays.]
Understood. Thanks for letting us know.

>>5304122
>>Stay silent.

>>5304122
>Talk to someone over comm?
Let's see what the lambda-null-null have to say

File: Hud8.webm (2.89 MB, 800x450)

2.89 MB WEBM

After hesitating once or twice, you click open a comm-channel to the ground team as your gunship sails over a stretch of rural highway populated by a few lonely cars.

"So...how are you all feeling about this mission?" you ask somewhat tentatively.

You hear static for a few seconds before receiving a reply. The speaker is male. His cadence is slightly more...normal than Null-3.

"Null-1 responding. Prepared, brother. But we are also concerned."

"That seems a bit uncharacteristic. Any particular reason?"

Another few seconds of hesitation. This time, you are confident that the delay has nothing to do with your comm connection.

"I am assuming that you also read the briefing....but it is never wise to assume ignorance. A cult capable of influencing entities over a hundred kilometers away does not evade detection by being careless."

"If not carelessness...then?"

"Assume competence. The cult is fully aware of that their ritual last week would attract attention. Attention translates to risk. The fact that they performed the ritual last week suggests one of two things. The first is that the risk can be mitigated."

"That sounds quite bad for us, given that we're the ones bringing the attention," you point out.

The comm crackles with something that approximates laughter. "Agreed, brother, but the alternative is far worse. The second possibility is that risk no longer matters to them. Perhaps their the bulk of their work is already done. Perhaps our facility was not their main target"

'Very astute. I see your point now.'

"In the name of our illuminated patron, we can only hope that the former is true."

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

An hour or so later, you enter a holding pattern as the ground team disembarks from their VTOL transport several kilometers away from the target building. Dust billows into the air as twin engines beat into the sandy earth, obscuring the operatives as they flow down the ramp and spread outwards.

Slowly, they begin advancing on the compound, blindfolded heads swiveling back and forth. The windows are still dark.

You also pan your optical suite over the area, maximizing the sensor-gain to sniff for ambient heat signatures.

>Roll 1d20+4 for collective perception, best of 5.

[+4] bonus for lambda-null-null unit.

Thresholds:

1-10 [You notice nothing]

6-13 [You notice enough for a brief advance warning]

14-17 [You notice enough for a thorough advance warning]

18+ [You notice enough to mount a first-strike ambush]

Rolled 6 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>5307513

Rolled 20 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>5307513

>>5307513

Rolled 10 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>5307513

Rolled 12 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>5307513

Rolled 17 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>5307513

Rolled 6 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>5307513

File: Hud9.webm (2.13 MB, 650x366)

2.13 MB WEBM

>>5307513
>>5307598

A false-color thermal overlay of the warehouse complex appears over your HUD. While some of the buildings are obviously empty, others fill with the characteristic yellow-red of heat output. Most of the sources are clustered behind windows and entry-points. Guards. Your targeting system marks them with scarlet diamonds.

A lonely sedan pulls into the main parking lot. Returning cult members, maybe? On your HUD, the sedan is bracketed and designated as a hostile vehicle.

Finally, you shift your attention the larger building to the North, where you notice a globular signature too broad and intense to receive a proper designation. You forward your video feed to the ground team.

"Null-1 responding. Image received. The northern warehouse is almost certainly the main ritual site."

"Because of the heat signature?"

"Correct. Practicing the invisible arts always comes at a cost. Some of it bleeds over as heat. Hold..."

You hear a peculiar clicking over the comm link followed by a quick burst of static.

"With the aid of our patron, Null-3 and Null-2 have perceived the location of our target. He is currently beneath the ritual site, likely under heavy guard. We will begin our infiltration by securing the three structures at the eastern edge of the complex. You are free to engage as soon as we cross the fence, brother."

[You are engaging a target in an ambush. Neither you nor the ground team will receive any fire during the first round of combat. +2 to all hit rolls]

As the ground team moves towards the fence, you prepare to attack the:

>Patrol north of the base. Perhaps you could create a diversion.

>The guards closest to the entry point. Help the ground team secure the first three structures.

>The large warehouse/ritual site. Try to soften up the main target before the ground team moves in. The target is underground anyways; he'll probably be fine.

>Write In.

Also, remember to specify:

>Which weapon(s) you want to use.

>>5310386
>The large warehouse/ritual site. Try to soften up the main target before the ground team moves in. The target is underground anyways; he'll probably be fine.
Use a Hydra rocket let's bury those fucks

>>5310386
>The guards closest to the entry point. Help the ground team secure the first three structures.
Let's use a rocket for this.

>>5310391
>>5310390
To clarify, just one rocket or a barrage (6)

>>5310398
I'd say just one. No need to use them all yet.

>>5310398
well I'd fire two, one in the center of the building the other a bit on the right side

>>5310530
Seconded

>>5310386
>>5310391
Support this

OP not to distract you from writing but what loadout do the ground guys have?

>>5310386
>The large warehouse/ritual site. Try to soften up the main target before the ground team moves in. The target is underground anyways; he'll probably be fine.

Snipe the guards using both of our laser weapons, don't use the rockets.

File: 3379583322f6ab1466027be90(...).jpg (67 KB, 640x989)

67 KB JPG

>>5310576
SMGs, breaching charges, and shortswords. A smattering of null grenades and a few magazines loaded with sanctified ammunition for dealing with supernatural threats.

Very good at finding and killing infantry of both the mundane and esoteric variety. Poorly suited for engaging armor or fortifications.

See picrel for a general idea.

>>5310809
Fingers cross that threats are not using body armor or are similar in constitution to bears.

Tied between hitting the the entry point and the main building, but I'll allow both since we're only allocating one or two rockets to each target.

>Roll 1d20+2 for attack, best of 5.

Thresholds:

1-5 [Miss]

6-13 [Successful Hit 1/2]

14-17 [Successful Hit 2/2]

18+ [Successful Hit 2/2 + Snipe a Few Guards]

Rolled 16 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>5311013

Rolled 14 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>5311013
Okay, I don't really like saying this, but you might want to consider bumping the roll difficulty up a tad. Bo5 is a lot of chances.

>>5311025
Yea that is fair. Kind of moot in this case because of >>5311016's roll, but I'll probably change to BO3 next time.

Rolled 17 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>5311013

Rolled 16 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>5311013

Rolled 7 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>5311013

File: Hud10.webm (2.67 MB, 650x336)

2.67 MB WEBM

Five minutes later, lambda-null-null crosses the fence.

Time to put the cultists down.

You squeeze the firing stud on your control stick, and your gunship's weapon systems roar to life. The chin-mounted pulse laser tracks and whines, playing a pair of converging beams over a trio of exposed guards. Their targeting indicators wink off on your HUD.

At the same time, you slew your rocket pod downward, putting one shot into one of the smaller occupied structures and another two into the larger warehouse. A massive shockwave sweeps through the complex, sending flaming debris into the air. Oily smoke billows upward as the ruined structures begin to burn.

For a brief moment, you check on the progress of the ground team. A firefight has broken out near their entry point, but they handle the situation with inhuman calm and terrifying accuracy. Shreds of conversation filter through your open comm link;

"...engaging...north window...'

"...down, null-3 blind survivors..."

Some kind of breaching grenade detonates with a blinding flash, and the last surviving guard collapses after taking nearly half a magazine to his chest. The operatives step over his dying body as they progress deeper into the facility, moving at a near-sprint.

Just as you prepare to ask ground team for an update, the doors to the main warehouse complex burst outward. A bright purple indicators appears on your HUD, flickering as your optical system tries and fails to get a hard fix on the target's exact position.

"...class II psychokinetic manipulator, prepare null grenades and load sanctioned ammunition...," you hear over the comm.

As if to accentuate this point, you see several of the cars in the parking lot buckle - and then lift upwards - as the psychokinetic moves towards the direction of the ground team, accompanied by a small squad of regular guards.

You prepare to attack:

>The psychokinetic. Clearly the biggest threat right now, and you have the heaviest weapons.

>The large warehouse/ritual site. It is damaged, but not quite destroyed. Best to level if before any other surprises show themselves.

>The guards. Although a chunk of their forces are already dead, there are still quite a few of them left. Once the patrol to the north returns to the compound, the ground team will be surrounded.

Also, remember to specify:

>Which weapon(s) you want to use and how many rounds.

>>5311392
>The psychokinetic. Clearly the biggest threat right now, and you have the heaviest weapons.
Let's melt this asshole with the 20MW

>>5311392
>The guards. Although a chunk of their forces are already dead, there are still quite a few of them left. Once the patrol to the north returns to the compound, the ground team will be surrounded.
I'm confident in the ground team's ability to deal with the psychic. Let's take care of the rest of the guards with the 20MW laser.

>>5311469

Seconded. Let's trust in them to handle what's in their sights and take care of the threats that can blindside them.

>>5311392
Use the 40MW laser against the psychokinetic (Use one shot first, if it still stands then use the second) and the 20 MW laser against the guards.

If that is not possible then I support this:
>>5311469

>>5311469
Thirded. We were warned that powerful ESPers can bend light, and this fucker is messing with our optical systems. I don't want to see one of our beams deflected to the ground team.

>>5311469
>>5311575
>>5311787

Roll me 3 sets of 2d20.

First roll:

1-5 [Successful Hit on Guards 1/5]
6-13 [Successful Hit on Guards 3/5]
14-17 [Successful Hit on Guards 4/5]
18+ [Successful Hit on Guards 5/5]

Second roll:

1-5 [Lambda-Null-Null fails to injure target, takes significant casualties]
5-14 [Lambda-Null-Null injures target, takes some casualties]
15-18 [Lambda-Null-Null injures target, no casualties]
19+ [Lambda-Null-Null terminates target, no casualties]

Rolled 6, 20 = 26 (2d20)

>>5312127
Pew pew

Rolled 4, 19 = 23 (2d20)

>>5312127

Rolled 15, 14 = 29 (2d20)

>>5312127

FYI I'm working on the next update, but the ass-reaming discussed in my last post starts today. I'll still try to update on occasion, but jut wanted to let everyone know about the slowdown.

Thanks for playing so far everyone, and I'll submit the thread for archiving in case it runs out before I post again.

>>5314601
And here's the archive link:
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2022/5286113/

>>5314601
just fyi, even if a thread drops off the board, it can still be archived until it 404s after the usual two-week archive