Roll-call, everypeoples!
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11. @see317 Playing the part of Martha Kohler: Martha Kohler! (Likewise, I really have no idea what to do with your name.)
My screen name is just my initials and birthday, because I'm really creative when it comes to thinking up names.
If I may suggest: "Sierra Echo", it works well enough when I need a fake name to sign up for something.
And if I could get whichever one of full face covering helmets you feel like slapping on my dome.
@sarukun I only have one request and that be a hat and a headset. Shades if that option is there (don't have access to my comp otherwise I'd look up the exact #)
I'm sure Umufi will do a fine job with Emeka Mubu. God speed.
There's a beanie/headset/snow-goggles? option.
The other hat/headset options have no glasses to speak of. You may also have regular ball cap or backwards ballcap.
can i go ahead and !Sign Up now even though the current spots are taken? i mean, this is practically a meat grinder so there should be an open spot in like a day!
also damn i've been meaning to play the XCOM expansion and haven't gotten round to it.
You should, Enemy Within adds a lot of fun stuff to the game, and now apparently there's this "Long War" mod which I am actually starting to regret I didn't find out about until after I posted this.
sarukun I only have one request and that be a hat and a headset. Shades if that option is there (don't have access to my comp otherwise I'd look up the exact #)
I'm sure Umufi will do a fine job with Emeka Mubu. God speed.
There's a beanie/headset/snow-goggles? option.
The other hat/headset options have no glasses to speak of. You may also have regular ball cap or backwards ballcap.
Edit: 23 it is!
Gracias!
diablo III - beardsnbeer#1508 Mechwarrior Online - Rusty Bock
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Caulk Bite 6One of the multitude of Dans infesting this placeRegistered Userregular
edited April 2014
Even though it's probably cursed, I'd like Blythe VI to wear the skull face helmet (#36) again.
And if you're doing power ranger colour schemes, purple would be great.
Roll-call, everypeoples!
...
11. @see317 Playing the part of Martha Kohler: Martha Kohler! (Likewise, I really have no idea what to do with your name.)
My screen name is just my initials and birthday, because I'm really creative when it comes to thinking up names.
If I may suggest: "Sierra Echo", it works well enough when I need a fake name to sign up for something.
And if I could get whichever one of full face covering helmets you feel like slapping on my dome.
How about Sierra Widerhallen
Widerhallen being the apparent German word for "echo".
Edit: Now I'm off to play Team Fortess! When I get back, I hope to see a whole bunch more customization options, because as we all know, the best part of any XCOM game is painstakingly tweaking your soldiers so you can weep bitter tears when they die on their first mission!
For the record, here is the sign-up list as I have it to this moment.
1. SanderJK
2. Calamity Jane
3. darleysam
4. Halos Nach Tariff
5. fightinfilipino
6. 101
7. Taskman
8. Wandering Hero
9. Sir Fabulous
If/when the other people I reached out to who died last game decide they want to play, I'm going to throw them to the front of the line (I think it's 5 people? Karl, Sticks, Gatsby, Mulletude, and Yaya), so you may get bumped a bit, but it's been over a week since I made the OP, so I think it's unlikely that they're interested at this point.
Roll-call, everypeoples!
...
11. @see317 Playing the part of Martha Kohler: Martha Kohler! (Likewise, I really have no idea what to do with your name.)
My screen name is just my initials and birthday, because I'm really creative when it comes to thinking up names.
If I may suggest: "Sierra Echo", it works well enough when I need a fake name to sign up for something.
And if I could get whichever one of full face covering helmets you feel like slapping on my dome.
How about Sierra Widerhallen
Widerhallen being the apparent German word for "echo".
Sounds good to me, let the horrible streams of burning plasma commence.
@sarukun Rk. Semyenova and I should get along just fine, Commander!
As far as customization goes, I'd like to request #12 for Hair/Helmet, and #15 for Hair Color.
And I like the name, but can we go with Ruminka de Rând instead? If Google Translate can be believed, de rând can be translated as "vulgar," and I'm nothing if not vulgar.
[IMG][/img]
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scherbchenAsgard (it is dead)Registered Userregular
Tschüss, Mutti, I'm off to kill the [redacted]!
I also have no clever ideas about my name. for what it is worth it translates as "tiny shard".
@sarukun Yes indeed my handle is a near anagram of Lucifer. Nice catch! I like the name.
I genuinely thought it was Latin for something, but half a second on the internet brought up a song in which Feriluce is a stand in for Lucifer, and nothing else seemed remotely plausible. Glad you like the name!
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SnicketysnickThe Greatest Hype Man inWesterosRegistered Userregular
Lord_AsmodeusgoeticSobriquet:Here is your magical cryptic riddle-tumour: I AM A TIME MACHINERegistered Userregular
So I would like the helmet option number 19 (beret and shades) and a red armor tint (the most fire/demony tint they have, assuming multiple options for red)
Capital is only the fruit of labor, and could never have existed if Labor had not first existed. Labor is superior to capital, and deserves much the higher consideration. - Lincoln
you had 23 Goddamned kills and lived for like 80% of the game.
The purpose of the "pre-sign-up" list was to give poor schlubs who did like 2 missions before taking their dirt naps another chance to shine, not welcome god-warriors to Valhalla.
That said, the sign ups remain open until the game ends: you never know how many poor souls the meat grinder will need.
But the spinning gold rims on your Valkyrie chariot don't hold any sway in here, honored dead. You'll have to wait in line.
Ladies. Gentlemen. Guten Morgen. Enjoyed your flight? I hope you got some rest and read the provided materials, because we hit the ground running around here.
Welcome to the Geoscape. Our friends at CERN decided that you would benefit from a constant, larger-than-life reminder of what it is you will be fighting for out there. I highly recommend you take as good and long a look as you can before you receive your first deployment orders; there won't be time to take it all in while you're marching through on your way to the hangar.
Now, I hope you're feeling good and welcomed to our little subterranean family, because those are all the pleasantries I've scheduled time for. From now until the moment that extra-terrestrial life no longer threatens this planet, or you die defending it, you will be on high alert. In addition, I would like to make one thing very clear: this is not the Army, Marines, or Air Force of whatever Nation you call "motherland". As of 0000 this morning, you are no longer bound by the Geneva Convention. You have immunity from any and all forms of War Crime. You no longer answer to the Powers that Be in this world. You do, however, answer to me.
I am Central Officer Bradford. I facilitate everything that goes on here at XCOM Central. There is not a thing happening on this site that I do not know about: the cockroaches in the mess hall do not fart without my permission, and neither will you. When the Commander has orders for you, you will get them from me. When new equipment becomes available, you will submit a requisition through me. When you return from the field covered from head to toe in alien offal, begging your deity of choice for a hot shower, you will first be debriefed by me. I am your new mother, father, and wet nurse. You do not wipe your ass without authorization from me. Keep this in mind at all times, and we won't have any problems.
Let's have a look at the packet, shall we?
Any questions?
Good. Bring up Dr. Vahlen on the screen, would you, Sanders? Hello? Dr. Vahlen?
Ah yes, thank you, Central Officer. Guten tag, ladies and gentlemen. The Central Officer has asked me to introduce myself, so here I am. You may call me Dr. Vahlen; I serve as the Department Head for Research and Development here at XCOM Central. We have received all your medical histories and biometrics. The majority of the facility will be open to you, however the research labs will be off limits unless your presence is required by one of the staff. We ask you not to discuss any of the projects you may be privy to over the course our time together, even with your fellow soldiers. I don't know what rumors you may have heard, but the aliens have technology far beyond ours in almost every area of scientific research that exists. Our researchers will need your willing participation for more than simple weapons tests. You have all signed waivers and non-disclosure agreements; you may be asked to sign more in the months to come. If you have questions, concerns, or require counseling at any time, please tender the appropriate request through Central Officer Bradford.
Now, then, if there are no questions, allow me to transfer you to my colleague, Dr. Shen.
Thank you, Dr. Vahlen. I am Head of Engineering. You will call me Dr. Shen. All equipment you use in the field is provided by my engineering staff. We are also responsible for maintenance and additions to XCOM Central. If you have any problems with the facilities, you will submit a requisition order through Central Officer Bradford. As with the research labs, engineering will be largely off-limits without special permission. If we have need of you, your biometrics will allow you access: otherwise, you will be denied without an escort from the engineering staff. There will be no tours, and, as Dr. Vahlen should have explained, you may be asked to sign waivers and NDAs beyond those you have already submitted. Are there any questions? Then I shall turn it back over to CO Bradford.
Thank you, Doctor.
Before I dismiss you today, I want to reiterate that, while you will be granted unprecedented latitude in the field, you will be held to a higher standard than any other armed force in the world. There will be a great deal of day-to-day red tape. This will be an added stress and inconvenience over the unique nature of what we are asking you to do: neutralize xenomorphic targets fielding superior equipment. We have done our best to provide you with all of the support you will need, both in terms of load-outs and a comfortable living environment, but your every action will be monitored and scrutinized, both here and in the field. We have a responsibility to the nations funding this en devour to give them a return on their investment, and to the people of the world to be the heroes they need.
If any of you feel like you might need a drink, the cantina can be found on deck P4.
Which brings me to the final page of your packet.
If there are no further questions, I recommend you unpack your duffles and settle in. You are all on call as of this moment. Your sleeping schedules will be posted in the barracks; it is in your best interest to try and adjust as soon as possible.
Welcome to XCOM.
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FeriluceAdrift on the morning star.Aberdeen, WARegistered Userregular
May I please !Signup too? I died rather firmly in the last game and I'd like another shot at taking shots. Full face helm please, but all else is yours to command.
Memorandum: Central Chatter Transcript for 03/03/15
Physical Fitness Center- Time Index 0836 Bogestrom: I can do 15 miles like this, easy. Blythe: Oh yeah? Well, I can do 20 miles. Bogestrom: That'd be impressive if I didn't do 25 just yesterday.
Bogestrom: Oh, Jesus, Blythe, did you just break wind? The CO's gonna have your ass for that, man! Blythe: Assumin' he doesn't thank me for improving the smell of the gym. Bogestrom: Hah! Blythe: Hey... Paul? Bogestrom: Yeah? Blythe: Are you... are you ready to do this, man? It's been over a decade. Bogestrom: And I ain't forgot a minute we spent out there on the streets of... well, you remember. Blythe: How could I forget. Bogestrom: When they came and found me, they asked me a lot of questions about that night. Told me I had 'unique experience' and that I would be getting the chance to put it to good use. Blythe: That's what they told me, too. Even gave me the option to opt out once they dropped the bomb on me that I'd be hunting those gray, bug-eyed mothers again. Bogestrom: Yeah, same. Good luck with your squad out there, man. Blythe: You too, brother. You, too.
Cantina- Time Index 1437
Shoumin: So what'd you guys think of Dr. Vahlen? Petrova: Dr. Frankenstein's estranged daughter? What's with you, old man, that's the third time you've asked about her in two days. You developing a little crush on the good doctor? Shoumin: What? No, I just... I thought... she just seemed like a real professional, you know? Haddad: Enough about the doctor, I wanna hear more about what was in the brief. Shoumin: Oh, I guess it's been, what... over ten years? Served with Paul and Culkin in the National Guard like it said in the brief. Lost a good man out there. I know he comes off looking like a bit of an ass in the transcripts, but he was a decent guy.
Haddad: And what of the X-rays? What can you tell us about them? Shoumin: Well, I mean, the brief had pretty much all the information I would have wanted to see that night before we ran into the fuckers. I envy you guys the chance to at least have some idea of what you're gonna face out there. Petrova: Yes, but their movement, their tactics.... What do you remember? Shoumin: Most of that was in the brief, too. They seem to like to have a point man and a support, but really they just hunkered down and traded potshots with us. That's how we were able to flank them so easily, and why grenades were so effective; they mostly stayed put. Haddad: Well... I guess we will see if they have changed their tactics in the last decade. Shoumin: Yeah. Good luck to you ladies when the time comes. Petrova: I hope the time comes soon. It's only been a day, but I can tell everyone in this place is on edge.
OFFICIAL MISSION TRANSCRIPT-04/03/15 OPERATION LOST GAZE- TIME INDEX 0000 Sanders: Sir, we've got a report coming in... no, make that... make that three reports. Bradford: Showtime, people! Hit the alarm, pipe it down to the Personnel Decks, and bring it up on the Geoscape.
Sanders: Bringing them up now sir. It looks like there's confirmed activity in... Mexico, Egypt, and India.
Bradford: I want a panic-level assessment for those areas immediately. Sanders: Yes, sir, bringing it up. It looks like... Mexico is sitting at Green-1, along with the rest of North America. Egypt and India are both at Green-2, however. Local news suggests a higher concentration of Uniform activity over the skies in these areas over the past few days. Bradford: They've been scouting us. Get Dr. Shen on the line, we're going to have another discussion about the state of our satellite network. And get me Squad Leader Blythe. I want his team on this. Sanders: Paging them now, sir. But... only one squad, Central Officer? Bradford: We aren't equipped to handle multiple simultaneous abductions yet, Sanders. We do this by the numbers. We pick the highest value target and the one that least afford an increase in panic. Maybe when we're all grown up and mommy and daddy increase our allowance we can send multiple teams: for now we focus on doing one thing right, or I guarantee this is going to be a real short war. Now show me India. Sanders: Understood, but... India, sir? You don't want Officer Vyakwi-- Bradford: Did I fucking stutter, Petty Officer? I want India on the Geoscape, and I want Blythe's Squad prepping for launch. See to it. Vyakwi's too green to see his own people melted down for... whatever they use that green shit for. Sanders: I'm sorry sir, I didn't copy that last order. Bradford: I said see to the launch, Pretty Officer, nothing more. Sanders: Yes, sir.
MAIN HANGAR BAY- TIME INDEX 0012 Bradford: Squad Leader Blythe, there is not much we can tell you now. Bradford: We know that this is an Abduction Event, and we know that it has been coordinated to occur simultaneously with two other Alfas. Rookies Sion and Petrova, you are on the buddy system for this one. If Squad Leader Blythe or Squaddie Shoumin tell you to jump, you will immediately provide a detailed analysis of the battlefield indicating the optimal points for maximum jump heights as well as biometrics report indicating your maximum reachable altitude, along with an assurance that you will exceed that maximum if the squad requires. I am not particular about how you divvy up the buddies, but you are not, under any circumstances, to leave your buddy's side, unless specifically ordered to do so by your Squad Leader.
You have been equipped with microphones and head-sets. You will be transmitting location data, audio, and video at all times. We will see and hear everything you say or do out there. Do not, however, allow yourself to get comfortable. You will be alone out there, except for your squad mates. For the time being, we have exactly one airbus. The airbus will bug out if you cannot make it back to the LZ for any reason. Do not expect back up: there are only seven other soldiers in that barracks, and a whole lot of world to defend. You get exactly one shot at this. Make me proud. Make your countries proud. Make our world a safer place.
Squad Leader, you are authorized to initiate Operation Lost Gaze. You will receive additional instructions en route.
Blythe: You heard the Central Officer, squad! Pack it up and move it out!
sarukun on
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Caulk Bite 6One of the multitude of Dans infesting this placeRegistered Userregular
so, how long did you wait to get a picture of bogstrom and blythe on the tread mills together in the anthill?
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Caulk Bite 6One of the multitude of Dans infesting this placeRegistered Userregular
I also want to note that the downtime angle for telling the story is pretty cool.
OFFICIAL MISSION TRANSCRIPT-04/03/15 (cont.)
OPERATION LOST GAZE- TIME INDEX 0037
Bradford: The Landing Zone will be a local plaza. Apparently there's a local historical celebration going on in a few days, and some of the project staff were prepping the site. Per satellite recon, we do not expect you will encounter civilians in a recoverable state; orders are to terminate any hostiles and recover all artifacts.
Blythe: Understood sir. You ready for this, squad? Shoumin: You know I'm with you, Blythe. Petrova: The honor is mine, Squad Leader. Sìon: Ready to terminate Xrays on your orders, Squad Leader. Blythe: Good. Touchdown should be right around 1 am. Stay ready.
OPERATION LOST GAZE- TIME INDEX 0100
Blythe: This is it, team. They're gonna know we're here, the airbus isn't known for its subtle entrances. We sweep the area in pairs. Don't lose track of your buddy. Squad:Yes, sir. [aircraft touchdown] Blythe:Move, move, move, move.
Shoumin: Uh, Blythe...? Squad Leader? Are we... sure they're still here?
Shoumin: I mean, this doesn't look anything like the Burger Belle. Where are all the bodies? Where's that green-- Blythe: Relax, Nick. Rookie Sìon, move up to that statue, see what you can see. I'll be right behind you. Sìon: Aye, Squad Leader, moving-- Oh, jeez, I think I found Shoumin's green shit. There's a... vaguely man-shaped pile of it over here by the statue. Blythe: See, Nick, the CO wouldn't steer you wrong. Now, Sìon, I want-- Sìon: Ah, shite, Blythe, we are hot! Got a pair of Xrays on the move, here!
Blythe: Keep your head, Rookie, where are they at? Sìon: Nice and cozy behind that big planter, past the fountain, sir. Blythe: Cozy, you say? Both of 'em, all snuggled up next to each other? Sìon: Sir. Blythe: Well, all right then. Stand clear, Petrova. Daddy's gonna bag him two Tangos.
Shoumin: Jesus, Blythe, the rocket launcher? Dr. Vahlen isn't gonna like-- Blythe: Well maybe when Dr. Frankenstein is out here in the field, she can give the orders on what ordinance to use. Rocket's away. [conventional explosive detonation]
Sìon: Hit looks clean sir! Blythe: Visual confirmation on Tangos? Sìon: I saw two bodies, limp and wee, doin' a few pirouettes before they fell back down into the smoke. Blythe: Good enough for me. Glad they haven't figured out how to deal with a little shock and awe in the last fifteen years. Shoumin, take Petrova around left. I want to be back to Central in time for the 0530 breakfast trays. Shoumin: Copy, Squad Leader, switching to head-set comms. Come on, Petrova. Petrova: Right behind you, buddy.
Shoumin: Okay, Squad Leader, it looks like we've got us another one of those orange canisters full of... MELD, I think Dr. Vahlen called it. Keep your eyes peeled and your weapon ready, Petrova. After the Squad Leader's little stunt, they're liable to start coming out of the-- Petrova: I've got two more Xrays, Squad Leader, ten o'clock!
Blythe: Weapons free means weapons free, soldiers! Give it to 'em! Shoumin and Petrova:Sir. [conventional weapons fire]
Blythe: Give me good news, Nick. Shoumin Negative, Squad Leader, Xray is still up. I don't think we even hit it. Blythe: Gotta do everything myself around here. Moving up. Sìon, get behind that planter, see if you can get a good look.
Sìon: Not the worst firing solution I've ever seen. Shall I go ahead, Squad Leader? Petrova: Nyet, Squad Leader, I can flank this Xray. Blythe: All right, Sìon, give that Xray something to think about. Petrova, get into position and make sure our Xray doesn't walk away. We can see about getting the good Doctors some of that MELD after the area's secure. Petrova: Confirmed, Squad Leader, moving to firing position. Sìon:Taking my shot. [conventional weapons fire]
Sìon:Dammit, shot's wide. Petrova: Do not worry, Sìon, I have him in my sights.
Petrova: Yes, that's right, hello, my little gray friend. Look this way. [conventional weapons fire]
Blythe: What's the good word, Petrova? Petrova: The word is "clean", Squad Leader. Direct hit. Blythe: Shoumin? Nick, can you confirm? Shoumin: I have no visual on the Xray, Squad Leader, but there's an awful lot of yellow gibblets where the Xray used to be.
Shoumin: I'm calling that a confirmation. Gonna move to flank the remaining Tango. Blythe: Copy that, Squaddie. Petrova, you keep an eye on your buddy. Petrova: Sir.
Shoumin:Whew! Well, I had to book it, and he definitely knows I'm here, but he didn't pop off any shots. Should be no problem, Squad Leader. Firing. [conventional weapons fire]
Shoumin: Holy Christ on a Ritz cracker, this thing kicks like a fucking mule. Blythe: Niiiick...? Shoumin: I'm, uh... embarrassed to report that the Xray is still up, Squad Leader. My fire arm got the better of me. Scared the piss out of our little gray friend, though.
Blythe: What's the situation, Shoumin, Petrova?
Petrova: Our Xray is hunkered down behind a mail truck. My firing solution is not so good. Shoumin: I can get a clean shot, but I'll have to expose myself. Blythe: I seem to recall you having a similar problem back on the Guard. Shoumin: Dammit, Blythe, you are such a cock bite. Blythe: That's Squad Leader Cock Bite to you, soldier. Petrova, I want you to see about recovering that MELD canister. Can you cover Shoumin from that position? Petrova: I do not foresee any difficulties, Squad Leader. Blythe: All right, you're free to engage, Squad. Don't miss this time, Nick. Shoumin:Sir. Petrova: Moving to cover. Shoumin: Moving to firing position.
Shoumin: Dodge this, you slippery little-- [conventional weapons fire]
Shoumin: Hah! Xray down, Squad Leader, though I near about sent him into orbit with that shot! Blythe: Good news, Shoumin, I'd hate for that pretty skin of yours to get blemished by radioactive plasma fire. Petrova, where are we at with the MELD?
Petrova: MELD substance collected, Squad Leader. No active Tangos visible. Blythe: Sweet music to my ears. Sìon, let's continue our sweep, shall we? Move up to the fountain, here, and I'll bring up the rear. Sìon Sir.
Blythe: Now then, let's-- whoa, here we go.
Blythe: And just like that, they're gone again. Shoumin: Let me guess, Squad Leader; you've got two more Xrays? Blythe: Just like old times, right, Nicky? Petrova, I want you covering the left side with your buddy. Make sure we don't get pinched here. Sìon, give 'em a wide berth- move up to that park bench and be ready to fire if ET pokes his head out. I'm gonna book it for that wall and introduce them to the full auto setting on this bad boy. Sìon Aye, Squad Leader.
Blythe: Oh, excellent, I've got visual on another MELD canister. It's Dr. Frankenstein's lucky day. Shoumin: You know she's gonna see a transcript of all this if she isn't watching right now, right, Blythe? Blythe: Easy there, white knight. If the Doctor has a problem with her nickname, then I'm sure I'll hear about it from Bradford after the mission wraps up. Anyway-- [unknown weapons fire]
Blythe: Ho! SìonMotherfucker. Blythe: Jesus, Sìon, are you all right? Sìon Aye, Squad Leader, just... fucking Christ, this shite hurts. Blythe: That's my bad, Sìon. Too busy chatting it up with my war buddy to pay attention to the Tangos. Sìon It's my own fault, Squad Leader, I was ready to fire but didn't see him in time. Blythe: Well, he won't get a second chance.
Blythe: Fingers in your ears, Squad, I'm ending this now. Shoumin: Another explosive, Blythe? Blythe: If the CO has a problem with it, I'm sure I'll hear all about it when we make it back to HQ, Nicky. Frag's out. [conventional explosive detonation]
Blythe: And there we go. Two Tangos, most of that bush and... huh. Petrova: Is everything all right Squad Leader? Blythe: Yeah, just... toughest fuckin' lamppost I've ever seen. [unknown explosive detonation] SìonWhat the hell was that? Blythe: Easy, rookie. Looks like our last MELD canister committed suicide. I'll have to send my condolensces to Dr. Vahlen.
Blythe: Airbus, this is Squad Leader. We're finishing our sweep, but if prior experience is any indication, we're about done here. Prepare to receive casualties and artifacts. We're bugging out within the next half hour. That bacon and eggs is calling my name.
[Recording Ends- Time Index 0209]
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Caulk Bite 6One of the multitude of Dans infesting this placeRegistered Userregular
edited April 2014
"That's Squad Leader Cock Bite to you, soldier."
Excellent.
also, I'm not too proud to admit that I initially skipped to the end to see if anyone died.
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scherbchenAsgard (it is dead)Registered Userregular
woohoo! go me! taking plasma to the face like a boss and living to tell the tale!
DEBRIEFING-04/03/15
OPERATION LOST GAZE- TIME INDEX 0315
Bradford: A solid first outing, Squad Leader Blythe. Blythe: Thank you, sir. I trust the recordings will demonstrate that my team performed admirably. My only regret is the casualty sustained by Rookie Sìon. I could have been a little more careful, sir. Bradford: Always have to break a few eggs, Squad Leader. She'll be back on active duty in about two weeks; Dr. Vahlen wants to keep her for extended observation, make sure her wound heals properly. I wanted to tell you that the Commander and I were particularly impressed with Rookie Petrova's performance. Unless you have any recommendations to the contrary, we're going to promote her to Officer and give her a specialization. Blythe: Quite the opposite, sir, Rookie Petrova kept a cool head and got the drop on one of the XRays. She provided back up for Officer Shoumin and recovered the MELD canister without issue or complaint. Bradford: We were thinking she might make a good Sniper. Blythe: You'd have to take that up with Officer Petrova herself, sir. All I know is she's got a good eye and a steady arm.
Bradford: That'll be all, Squad Leader. Word is the Indian government is sending us some of their best and brightest in appreciation for your efforts. Why don't you go down to Personnel and give Rookie Vyakwi the good news? Blythe: Capital idea, sir. Bradford: Dismissed.
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scherbchenAsgard (it is dead)Registered Userregular
XCOM CENTRAL- COMMANDER [redacted]'S OFFICE
COMMANDER [redacted]'S PERSONAL RECORDINGS- SECURITY CLEARANCE XC/SCI REQUIRED- TIME INDEX 0700
Bradford: Commander? [redacted]: Hang on a minute, Bradford, I'm in the john. Bradford: Oh, I'm... sorry sir. I can come back. [redacted]: Nonsense, nonsense, I'm just.... zipping.... up.... there we go. [sloshing water] [redacted]: Now then. Operation Lost Gaze. Bradford: I'm calling it a success, sir. A single minor casualty on the squad, minimal collateral damage, acceptable recovery of artifacts. [redacted]: Excellent. I'm sure all the details are in your report. What about the soldiers? Bradford: In good spirits, sir. They don't seem particularly unnerved by their experience. They're soldiers, sir. They'll serve. [redacted]: I hope their resolve keeps up; this is only the beginning. Anything from the Council?
Bradford: This is our latest status report from the Council, sir. Things are starting to look a little shaky in the Americas. [redacted]: So they are. Didn't make any friends in Egypt either, it seems. Africa is our back yard; we'd better make sure we keep them happy. Keep me posted. Is Dr. Shen ready to go into full production on our satellites?
Bradford: The Council was able to engineer a little generosity from the Indian Government on our behalf thanks to our intervention there. With the new Engineers they have provided us with, Dr. Shen indicates that we will be able to expand the Engineering Facilities in addition to starting full production of the satellite network. [redacted]: Excellent. Have him build us a couple; I want to put his pipelines to the test.
Bradford: Yes, sir. May I add, however, that Dr. Shen has been complaining about our bandwidth limitations, sir. He was insistent that our network would only be able to handle one additional satellite before becoming over worked. I don't think he'll agree to adding a third satellite uplink. I should also note that, although the additional labor will help us save some time and money on production, building two satellites will deplete most of our operating capital. [redacted]: Tell the good doctor to keep his pants on, we aren't launching anything yet. We're just putting his pipelines through their paces. When I'm ready to launch, we'll launch, not before. And let me worry about the budget. Bradford: Understood, sir. Is there anything else you require? [redacted]: Yes, can you give me an update on Dr. Vahlen's project?
Bradford: You'll recall that Dr. Vahlen expressed frustration with the state of the cadavers provided to us by the United States Government. [redacted]: Quite clearly, yes. Bradford: I would describe her current attitude as... delighted, sir. After reviewing some of the footage from Lost Gaze and taking a cursory look at the fresh cadavers, she indicated that her current research project should only take an additional five days to complete. Apparently Squad Leader Blythe was able to provide some of the "missing links" in her research. [redacted]: Sounds like she didn't even mind her new nickname. Bradford: I highly doubt she listened to any of the officer's chatter at all, sir. [redacted]: Good. I'd like to keep things as friendly as possible around here. Bad enough some of us haven't seen the sun in over a year. That's all, Bradford, thank you for your time. Dismissed. Bradford: Very good, sir.
Posts
If I may suggest: "Sierra Echo", it works well enough when I need a fake name to sign up for something.
And if I could get whichever one of full face covering helmets you feel like slapping on my dome.
There's a beanie/headset/snow-goggles? option.
The other hat/headset options have no glasses to speak of. You may also have regular ball cap or backwards ballcap.
Edit: 23 it is!
You should, Enemy Within adds a lot of fun stuff to the game, and now apparently there's this "Long War" mod which I am actually starting to regret I didn't find out about until after I posted this.
And yes, of course you may sign up.
Gracias!
And if you're doing power ranger colour schemes, purple would be great.
How about Sierra Widerhallen
Widerhallen being the apparent German word for "echo".
Edit: Now I'm off to play Team Fortess! When I get back, I hope to see a whole bunch more customization options, because as we all know, the best part of any XCOM game is painstakingly tweaking your soldiers so you can weep bitter tears when they die on their first mission!
For the record, here is the sign-up list as I have it to this moment.
1. SanderJK
2. Calamity Jane
3. darleysam
4. Halos Nach Tariff
5. fightinfilipino
6. 101
7. Taskman
8. Wandering Hero
9. Sir Fabulous
If/when the other people I reached out to who died last game decide they want to play, I'm going to throw them to the front of the line (I think it's 5 people? Karl, Sticks, Gatsby, Mulletude, and Yaya), so you may get bumped a bit, but it's been over a week since I made the OP, so I think it's unlikely that they're interested at this point.
As far as customization goes, I'd like to request #12 for Hair/Helmet, and #15 for Hair Color.
And I like the name, but can we go with Ruminka de Rând instead? If Google Translate can be believed, de rând can be translated as "vulgar," and I'm nothing if not vulgar.
I also have no clever ideas about my name. for what it is worth it translates as "tiny shard".
Steam: Feriluce
Battle.net: Feriluce#1995
I genuinely thought it was Latin for something, but half a second on the internet brought up a song in which Feriluce is a stand in for Lucifer, and nothing else seemed remotely plausible. Glad you like the name!
Had a quick rummage and facial hair 14 looks pretty alright to me.
D3 Steam #TeamTangent STO
Yeah that Starbuck guy was like, the best ever.
on a completely un-related note, !Signup
(if it's not too late?)
e: I missed those posts calling me out, so I honestly don't mind being down the list as I'm a little late to the party.
you had 23 Goddamned kills and lived for like 80% of the game.
The purpose of the "pre-sign-up" list was to give poor schlubs who did like 2 missions before taking their dirt naps another chance to shine, not welcome god-warriors to Valhalla.
That said, the sign ups remain open until the game ends: you never know how many poor souls the meat grinder will need.
But the spinning gold rims on your Valkyrie chariot don't hold any sway in here, honored dead.
I don't think I'll be waiting too long
@sarukun If it's not too late, can I get #25 for Armor Tint?
In the unlikely event that I can't shoot the xenos, at the very least I can at least terrify them with my fluorescent pink digs.
Welcome to the Geoscape. Our friends at CERN decided that you would benefit from a constant, larger-than-life reminder of what it is you will be fighting for out there. I highly recommend you take as good and long a look as you can before you receive your first deployment orders; there won't be time to take it all in while you're marching through on your way to the hangar.
Now, I hope you're feeling good and welcomed to our little subterranean family, because those are all the pleasantries I've scheduled time for. From now until the moment that extra-terrestrial life no longer threatens this planet, or you die defending it, you will be on high alert. In addition, I would like to make one thing very clear: this is not the Army, Marines, or Air Force of whatever Nation you call "motherland". As of 0000 this morning, you are no longer bound by the Geneva Convention. You have immunity from any and all forms of War Crime. You no longer answer to the Powers that Be in this world. You do, however, answer to me.
I am Central Officer Bradford. I facilitate everything that goes on here at XCOM Central. There is not a thing happening on this site that I do not know about: the cockroaches in the mess hall do not fart without my permission, and neither will you. When the Commander has orders for you, you will get them from me. When new equipment becomes available, you will submit a requisition through me. When you return from the field covered from head to toe in alien offal, begging your deity of choice for a hot shower, you will first be debriefed by me. I am your new mother, father, and wet nurse. You do not wipe your ass without authorization from me. Keep this in mind at all times, and we won't have any problems.
Let's have a look at the packet, shall we?
Any questions?
Good. Bring up Dr. Vahlen on the screen, would you, Sanders? Hello? Dr. Vahlen?
Ah yes, thank you, Central Officer. Guten tag, ladies and gentlemen. The Central Officer has asked me to introduce myself, so here I am. You may call me Dr. Vahlen; I serve as the Department Head for Research and Development here at XCOM Central. We have received all your medical histories and biometrics. The majority of the facility will be open to you, however the research labs will be off limits unless your presence is required by one of the staff. We ask you not to discuss any of the projects you may be privy to over the course our time together, even with your fellow soldiers. I don't know what rumors you may have heard, but the aliens have technology far beyond ours in almost every area of scientific research that exists. Our researchers will need your willing participation for more than simple weapons tests. You have all signed waivers and non-disclosure agreements; you may be asked to sign more in the months to come. If you have questions, concerns, or require counseling at any time, please tender the appropriate request through Central Officer Bradford.
Now, then, if there are no questions, allow me to transfer you to my colleague, Dr. Shen.
Thank you, Dr. Vahlen. I am Head of Engineering. You will call me Dr. Shen. All equipment you use in the field is provided by my engineering staff. We are also responsible for maintenance and additions to XCOM Central. If you have any problems with the facilities, you will submit a requisition order through Central Officer Bradford. As with the research labs, engineering will be largely off-limits without special permission. If we have need of you, your biometrics will allow you access: otherwise, you will be denied without an escort from the engineering staff. There will be no tours, and, as Dr. Vahlen should have explained, you may be asked to sign waivers and NDAs beyond those you have already submitted. Are there any questions? Then I shall turn it back over to CO Bradford.
Thank you, Doctor.
Before I dismiss you today, I want to reiterate that, while you will be granted unprecedented latitude in the field, you will be held to a higher standard than any other armed force in the world. There will be a great deal of day-to-day red tape. This will be an added stress and inconvenience over the unique nature of what we are asking you to do: neutralize xenomorphic targets fielding superior equipment. We have done our best to provide you with all of the support you will need, both in terms of load-outs and a comfortable living environment, but your every action will be monitored and scrutinized, both here and in the field. We have a responsibility to the nations funding this en devour to give them a return on their investment, and to the people of the world to be the heroes they need.
If any of you feel like you might need a drink, the cantina can be found on deck P4.
Which brings me to the final page of your packet.
If there are no further questions, I recommend you unpack your duffles and settle in. You are all on call as of this moment. Your sleeping schedules will be posted in the barracks; it is in your best interest to try and adjust as soon as possible.
Welcome to XCOM.
Steam: Feriluce
Battle.net: Feriluce#1995
You're excited.
You're... not going to stay that way for long.
Why I fear the ocean.
D3 Steam #TeamTangent STO
Physical Fitness Center- Time Index 0836
Bogestrom: I can do 15 miles like this, easy.
Blythe: Oh yeah? Well, I can do 20 miles.
Bogestrom: That'd be impressive if I didn't do 25 just yesterday.
Bogestrom: Oh, Jesus, Blythe, did you just break wind? The CO's gonna have your ass for that, man!
Blythe: Assumin' he doesn't thank me for improving the smell of the gym.
Bogestrom: Hah!
Blythe: Hey... Paul?
Bogestrom: Yeah?
Blythe: Are you... are you ready to do this, man? It's been over a decade.
Bogestrom: And I ain't forgot a minute we spent out there on the streets of... well, you remember.
Blythe: How could I forget.
Bogestrom: When they came and found me, they asked me a lot of questions about that night. Told me I had 'unique experience' and that I would be getting the chance to put it to good use.
Blythe: That's what they told me, too. Even gave me the option to opt out once they dropped the bomb on me that I'd be hunting those gray, bug-eyed mothers again.
Bogestrom: Yeah, same. Good luck with your squad out there, man.
Blythe: You too, brother. You, too.
Cantina- Time Index 1437
Shoumin: So what'd you guys think of Dr. Vahlen?
Petrova: Dr. Frankenstein's estranged daughter? What's with you, old man, that's the third time you've asked about her in two days. You developing a little crush on the good doctor?
Shoumin: What? No, I just... I thought... she just seemed like a real professional, you know?
Haddad: Enough about the doctor, I wanna hear more about what was in the brief.
Shoumin: Oh, I guess it's been, what... over ten years? Served with Paul and Culkin in the National Guard like it said in the brief. Lost a good man out there. I know he comes off looking like a bit of an ass in the transcripts, but he was a decent guy.
Haddad: And what of the X-rays? What can you tell us about them?
Shoumin: Well, I mean, the brief had pretty much all the information I would have wanted to see that night before we ran into the fuckers. I envy you guys the chance to at least have some idea of what you're gonna face out there.
Petrova: Yes, but their movement, their tactics.... What do you remember?
Shoumin: Most of that was in the brief, too. They seem to like to have a point man and a support, but really they just hunkered down and traded potshots with us. That's how we were able to flank them so easily, and why grenades were so effective; they mostly stayed put.
Haddad: Well... I guess we will see if they have changed their tactics in the last decade.
Shoumin: Yeah. Good luck to you ladies when the time comes.
Petrova: I hope the time comes soon. It's only been a day, but I can tell everyone in this place is on edge.
OFFICIAL MISSION TRANSCRIPT-04/03/15
OPERATION LOST GAZE- TIME INDEX 0000
Sanders: Sir, we've got a report coming in... no, make that... make that three reports.
Bradford: Showtime, people! Hit the alarm, pipe it down to the Personnel Decks, and bring it up on the Geoscape.
Sanders: Bringing them up now sir. It looks like there's confirmed activity in... Mexico, Egypt, and India.
Bradford: I want a panic-level assessment for those areas immediately.
Sanders: Yes, sir, bringing it up. It looks like... Mexico is sitting at Green-1, along with the rest of North America. Egypt and India are both at Green-2, however. Local news suggests a higher concentration of Uniform activity over the skies in these areas over the past few days.
Bradford: They've been scouting us. Get Dr. Shen on the line, we're going to have another discussion about the state of our satellite network. And get me Squad Leader Blythe. I want his team on this.
Sanders: Paging them now, sir. But... only one squad, Central Officer?
Bradford: We aren't equipped to handle multiple simultaneous abductions yet, Sanders. We do this by the numbers. We pick the highest value target and the one that least afford an increase in panic. Maybe when we're all grown up and mommy and daddy increase our allowance we can send multiple teams: for now we focus on doing one thing right, or I guarantee this is going to be a real short war. Now show me India.
Sanders: Understood, but... India, sir? You don't want Officer Vyakwi--
Bradford: Did I fucking stutter, Petty Officer? I want India on the Geoscape, and I want Blythe's Squad prepping for launch. See to it. Vyakwi's too green to see his own people melted down for... whatever they use that green shit for.
Sanders: I'm sorry sir, I didn't copy that last order.
Bradford: I said see to the launch, Pretty Officer, nothing more.
Sanders: Yes, sir.
MAIN HANGAR BAY- TIME INDEX 0012
Bradford: Squad Leader Blythe, there is not much we can tell you now.
Bradford: We know that this is an Abduction Event, and we know that it has been coordinated to occur simultaneously with two other Alfas. Rookies Sion and Petrova, you are on the buddy system for this one. If Squad Leader Blythe or Squaddie Shoumin tell you to jump, you will immediately provide a detailed analysis of the battlefield indicating the optimal points for maximum jump heights as well as biometrics report indicating your maximum reachable altitude, along with an assurance that you will exceed that maximum if the squad requires. I am not particular about how you divvy up the buddies, but you are not, under any circumstances, to leave your buddy's side, unless specifically ordered to do so by your Squad Leader.
You have been equipped with microphones and head-sets. You will be transmitting location data, audio, and video at all times. We will see and hear everything you say or do out there. Do not, however, allow yourself to get comfortable. You will be alone out there, except for your squad mates. For the time being, we have exactly one airbus. The airbus will bug out if you cannot make it back to the LZ for any reason. Do not expect back up: there are only seven other soldiers in that barracks, and a whole lot of world to defend. You get exactly one shot at this. Make me proud. Make your countries proud. Make our world a safer place.
Squad Leader, you are authorized to initiate Operation Lost Gaze. You will receive additional instructions en route.
Blythe: You heard the Central Officer, squad! Pack it up and move it out!
steam | Dokkan: 868846562
OPERATION LOST GAZE- TIME INDEX 0037
Bradford: The Landing Zone will be a local plaza. Apparently there's a local historical celebration going on in a few days, and some of the project staff were prepping the site. Per satellite recon, we do not expect you will encounter civilians in a recoverable state; orders are to terminate any hostiles and recover all artifacts.
Blythe: Understood sir. You ready for this, squad?
Shoumin: You know I'm with you, Blythe.
Petrova: The honor is mine, Squad Leader.
Sìon: Ready to terminate Xrays on your orders, Squad Leader.
Blythe: Good. Touchdown should be right around 1 am. Stay ready.
OPERATION LOST GAZE- TIME INDEX 0100
Blythe: This is it, team. They're gonna know we're here, the airbus isn't known for its subtle entrances. We sweep the area in pairs. Don't lose track of your buddy.
Squad: Yes, sir.
[aircraft touchdown]
Blythe: Move, move, move, move.
Shoumin: Uh, Blythe...? Squad Leader? Are we... sure they're still here?
Shoumin: I mean, this doesn't look anything like the Burger Belle. Where are all the bodies? Where's that green--
Blythe: Relax, Nick. Rookie Sìon, move up to that statue, see what you can see. I'll be right behind you.
Sìon: Aye, Squad Leader, moving-- Oh, jeez, I think I found Shoumin's green shit. There's a... vaguely man-shaped pile of it over here by the statue.
Blythe: See, Nick, the CO wouldn't steer you wrong. Now, Sìon, I want--
Sìon: Ah, shite, Blythe, we are hot! Got a pair of Xrays on the move, here!
Blythe: Keep your head, Rookie, where are they at?
Sìon: Nice and cozy behind that big planter, past the fountain, sir.
Blythe: Cozy, you say? Both of 'em, all snuggled up next to each other?
Sìon: Sir.
Blythe: Well, all right then. Stand clear, Petrova. Daddy's gonna bag him two Tangos.
Shoumin: Jesus, Blythe, the rocket launcher? Dr. Vahlen isn't gonna like--
Blythe: Well maybe when Dr. Frankenstein is out here in the field, she can give the orders on what ordinance to use. Rocket's away.
[conventional explosive detonation]
Sìon: Hit looks clean sir!
Blythe: Visual confirmation on Tangos?
Sìon: I saw two bodies, limp and wee, doin' a few pirouettes before they fell back down into the smoke.
Blythe: Good enough for me. Glad they haven't figured out how to deal with a little shock and awe in the last fifteen years. Shoumin, take Petrova around left. I want to be back to Central in time for the 0530 breakfast trays.
Shoumin: Copy, Squad Leader, switching to head-set comms. Come on, Petrova.
Petrova: Right behind you, buddy.
Shoumin: Okay, Squad Leader, it looks like we've got us another one of those orange canisters full of... MELD, I think Dr. Vahlen called it. Keep your eyes peeled and your weapon ready, Petrova. After the Squad Leader's little stunt, they're liable to start coming out of the--
Petrova: I've got two more Xrays, Squad Leader, ten o'clock!
Blythe: Weapons free means weapons free, soldiers! Give it to 'em!
Shoumin and Petrova: Sir.
[conventional weapons fire]
Blythe: Give me good news, Nick.
Shoumin Negative, Squad Leader, Xray is still up. I don't think we even hit it.
Blythe: Gotta do everything myself around here. Moving up. Sìon, get behind that planter, see if you can get a good look.
Sìon: Not the worst firing solution I've ever seen. Shall I go ahead, Squad Leader?
Petrova: Nyet, Squad Leader, I can flank this Xray.
Blythe: All right, Sìon, give that Xray something to think about. Petrova, get into position and make sure our Xray doesn't walk away. We can see about getting the good Doctors some of that MELD after the area's secure.
Petrova: Confirmed, Squad Leader, moving to firing position.
Sìon: Taking my shot.
[conventional weapons fire]
Sìon: Dammit, shot's wide.
Petrova: Do not worry, Sìon, I have him in my sights.
Petrova: Yes, that's right, hello, my little gray friend. Look this way.
[conventional weapons fire]
Blythe: What's the good word, Petrova?
Petrova: The word is "clean", Squad Leader. Direct hit.
Blythe: Shoumin? Nick, can you confirm?
Shoumin: I have no visual on the Xray, Squad Leader, but there's an awful lot of yellow gibblets where the Xray used to be.
Shoumin: I'm calling that a confirmation. Gonna move to flank the remaining Tango.
Blythe: Copy that, Squaddie. Petrova, you keep an eye on your buddy.
Petrova: Sir.
Shoumin:Whew! Well, I had to book it, and he definitely knows I'm here, but he didn't pop off any shots. Should be no problem, Squad Leader. Firing.
[conventional weapons fire]
Shoumin: Holy Christ on a Ritz cracker, this thing kicks like a fucking mule.
Blythe: Niiiick...?
Shoumin: I'm, uh... embarrassed to report that the Xray is still up, Squad Leader. My fire arm got the better of me. Scared the piss out of our little gray friend, though.
Blythe: What's the situation, Shoumin, Petrova?
Petrova: Our Xray is hunkered down behind a mail truck. My firing solution is not so good.
Shoumin: I can get a clean shot, but I'll have to expose myself.
Blythe: I seem to recall you having a similar problem back on the Guard.
Shoumin: Dammit, Blythe, you are such a cock bite.
Blythe: That's Squad Leader Cock Bite to you, soldier. Petrova, I want you to see about recovering that MELD canister. Can you cover Shoumin from that position?
Petrova: I do not foresee any difficulties, Squad Leader.
Blythe: All right, you're free to engage, Squad. Don't miss this time, Nick.
Shoumin: Sir.
Petrova: Moving to cover.
Shoumin: Moving to firing position.
Shoumin: Dodge this, you slippery little--
[conventional weapons fire]
Shoumin: Hah! Xray down, Squad Leader, though I near about sent him into orbit with that shot!
Blythe: Good news, Shoumin, I'd hate for that pretty skin of yours to get blemished by radioactive plasma fire. Petrova, where are we at with the MELD?
Petrova: MELD substance collected, Squad Leader. No active Tangos visible.
Blythe: Sweet music to my ears. Sìon, let's continue our sweep, shall we? Move up to the fountain, here, and I'll bring up the rear.
Sìon Sir.
Blythe: Now then, let's-- whoa, here we go.
Blythe: And just like that, they're gone again.
Shoumin: Let me guess, Squad Leader; you've got two more Xrays?
Blythe: Just like old times, right, Nicky? Petrova, I want you covering the left side with your buddy. Make sure we don't get pinched here. Sìon, give 'em a wide berth- move up to that park bench and be ready to fire if ET pokes his head out. I'm gonna book it for that wall and introduce them to the full auto setting on this bad boy.
Sìon Aye, Squad Leader.
Blythe: Oh, excellent, I've got visual on another MELD canister. It's Dr. Frankenstein's lucky day.
Shoumin: You know she's gonna see a transcript of all this if she isn't watching right now, right, Blythe?
Blythe: Easy there, white knight. If the Doctor has a problem with her nickname, then I'm sure I'll hear about it from Bradford after the mission wraps up. Anyway--
[unknown weapons fire]
Blythe: Ho!
Sìon Motherfucker.
Blythe: Jesus, Sìon, are you all right?
Sìon Aye, Squad Leader, just... fucking Christ, this shite hurts.
Blythe: That's my bad, Sìon. Too busy chatting it up with my war buddy to pay attention to the Tangos.
Sìon It's my own fault, Squad Leader, I was ready to fire but didn't see him in time.
Blythe: Well, he won't get a second chance.
Blythe: Fingers in your ears, Squad, I'm ending this now.
Shoumin: Another explosive, Blythe?
Blythe: If the CO has a problem with it, I'm sure I'll hear all about it when we make it back to HQ, Nicky. Frag's out.
[conventional explosive detonation]
Blythe: And there we go. Two Tangos, most of that bush and... huh.
Petrova: Is everything all right Squad Leader?
Blythe: Yeah, just... toughest fuckin' lamppost I've ever seen.
[unknown explosive detonation]
Sìon What the hell was that?
Blythe: Easy, rookie. Looks like our last MELD canister committed suicide. I'll have to send my condolensces to Dr. Vahlen.
Blythe: Airbus, this is Squad Leader. We're finishing our sweep, but if prior experience is any indication, we're about done here. Prepare to receive casualties and artifacts. We're bugging out within the next half hour. That bacon and eggs is calling my name.
[Recording Ends- Time Index 0209]
Excellent.
also, I'm not too proud to admit that I initially skipped to the end to see if anyone died.
OPERATION LOST GAZE- TIME INDEX 0315
Bradford: A solid first outing, Squad Leader Blythe.
Blythe: Thank you, sir. I trust the recordings will demonstrate that my team performed admirably. My only regret is the casualty sustained by Rookie Sìon. I could have been a little more careful, sir.
Bradford: Always have to break a few eggs, Squad Leader. She'll be back on active duty in about two weeks; Dr. Vahlen wants to keep her for extended observation, make sure her wound heals properly. I wanted to tell you that the Commander and I were particularly impressed with Rookie Petrova's performance. Unless you have any recommendations to the contrary, we're going to promote her to Officer and give her a specialization.
Blythe: Quite the opposite, sir, Rookie Petrova kept a cool head and got the drop on one of the XRays. She provided back up for Officer Shoumin and recovered the MELD canister without issue or complaint.
Bradford: We were thinking she might make a good Sniper.
Blythe: You'd have to take that up with Officer Petrova herself, sir. All I know is she's got a good eye and a steady arm.
Bradford: That'll be all, Squad Leader. Word is the Indian government is sending us some of their best and brightest in appreciation for your efforts. Why don't you go down to Personnel and give Rookie Vyakwi the good news?
Blythe: Capital idea, sir.
Bradford: Dismissed.
'twas but a fleshwound, commander. let me at 'em!
also that German chick gives me the creeps.
12 days...
do we get HBO?
Or I'd like to go into queue if I can. No way in hell am I missing this.
COMMANDER [redacted]'S PERSONAL RECORDINGS- SECURITY CLEARANCE XC/SCI REQUIRED- TIME INDEX 0700
Bradford: Commander?
[redacted]: Hang on a minute, Bradford, I'm in the john.
Bradford: Oh, I'm... sorry sir. I can come back.
[redacted]: Nonsense, nonsense, I'm just.... zipping.... up.... there we go.
[sloshing water]
[redacted]: Now then. Operation Lost Gaze.
Bradford: I'm calling it a success, sir. A single minor casualty on the squad, minimal collateral damage, acceptable recovery of artifacts.
[redacted]: Excellent. I'm sure all the details are in your report. What about the soldiers?
Bradford: In good spirits, sir. They don't seem particularly unnerved by their experience. They're soldiers, sir. They'll serve.
[redacted]: I hope their resolve keeps up; this is only the beginning. Anything from the Council?
Bradford: This is our latest status report from the Council, sir. Things are starting to look a little shaky in the Americas.
[redacted]: So they are. Didn't make any friends in Egypt either, it seems. Africa is our back yard; we'd better make sure we keep them happy. Keep me posted. Is Dr. Shen ready to go into full production on our satellites?
Bradford: The Council was able to engineer a little generosity from the Indian Government on our behalf thanks to our intervention there. With the new Engineers they have provided us with, Dr. Shen indicates that we will be able to expand the Engineering Facilities in addition to starting full production of the satellite network.
[redacted]: Excellent. Have him build us a couple; I want to put his pipelines to the test.
Bradford: Yes, sir. May I add, however, that Dr. Shen has been complaining about our bandwidth limitations, sir. He was insistent that our network would only be able to handle one additional satellite before becoming over worked. I don't think he'll agree to adding a third satellite uplink. I should also note that, although the additional labor will help us save some time and money on production, building two satellites will deplete most of our operating capital.
[redacted]: Tell the good doctor to keep his pants on, we aren't launching anything yet. We're just putting his pipelines through their paces. When I'm ready to launch, we'll launch, not before. And let me worry about the budget.
Bradford: Understood, sir. Is there anything else you require?
[redacted]: Yes, can you give me an update on Dr. Vahlen's project?
Bradford: You'll recall that Dr. Vahlen expressed frustration with the state of the cadavers provided to us by the United States Government.
[redacted]: Quite clearly, yes.
Bradford: I would describe her current attitude as... delighted, sir. After reviewing some of the footage from Lost Gaze and taking a cursory look at the fresh cadavers, she indicated that her current research project should only take an additional five days to complete. Apparently Squad Leader Blythe was able to provide some of the "missing links" in her research.
[redacted]: Sounds like she didn't even mind her new nickname.
Bradford: I highly doubt she listened to any of the officer's chatter at all, sir.
[redacted]: Good. I'd like to keep things as friendly as possible around here. Bad enough some of us haven't seen the sun in over a year. That's all, Bradford, thank you for your time. Dismissed.
Bradford: Very good, sir.
[Recording Ends- Time Index 0725]