Inchin: Planetfall

[joertexas]

[quote="The Bindoner" post_id=501083 time=1597095851 user_id=3051]Jess ID's the building, takes in the view ( checking for.. obvious watchers, like The Clown Patrol ), checks comms with a whispered If there's jammin' and I go off air, don't react. I'll make a fuss if they try to take me away though. Y'c'n jump then. walksover to the door and steps in with a conversational Door's open, guys. Good job I'm not a thief, eh?{/quote]



Be careful in there," Prerna replies. She turns to Easy. Launch your drone. Take it to five hundred meters and circle the building.

[Tiglath]

Prerna

Prerna and her team sits down and studies every map they can lay hands on. They begin with an overview of every place in the system they can run recon in, and then go in-depth, starting with their own location. The in-depth analysis includes likely targets, and attack points like the situation that occurred when they arrived.

Looking for vulnerable areas reveals, in the words of the song, “Everywhere and nowhere baby…” There is currently absolutely nothing on Inchin of value therefore, arguably, there is nothing worth defending.

The only obvious tactical “objective” is the Baron’s mansion (made into a strategic objective in that possession likely brings the Baron with it). Equally supplies of vital food and water are vulnerable as anywhere inherently so inhospitable would suffer acutely if besieged.

However, Prerna comes to the somewhat philosophical conclusion that if there is a strategic objective on planet it is the gestalt “soul” of the people on Inchin.

(OOC: Sorry hadn't forgotten this - it just got ... delayed! )

[joertexas]

Prerna

Prerna and her team sits down and studies every map they can lay hands on. They begin with an overview of every place in the system they can run recon in, and then go in-depth, starting with their own location. The in-depth analysis includes likely targets, and attack points like the situation that occurred when they arrived.

Looking for vulnerable areas reveals, in the words of the song, “Everywhere and nowhere baby…” There is currently absolutely nothing on Inchin of value therefore, arguably, there is nothing worth defending.

The only obvious tactical “objective” is the Baron’s mansion (made into a strategic objective in that possession likely brings the Baron with it). Equally supplies of vital food and water are vulnerable as anywhere inherently so inhospitable would suffer acutely if besieged.

However, Prerna comes to the somewhat philosophical conclusion that if there is a strategic objective on planet it is the gestalt “soul” of the people on Inchin.

(OOC: Sorry hadn't forgotten this - it just got ... delayed! )

Prerna maps out possible hostile scenarios based on what the diplomatic team will be doing in the system, and goes over their roles and responsibilities.

[Tiglath]

Jess and Prerna

Jess (and Prerna’s team) both spot the Baronial Guard G carrier loitering in starport air space. They know the Guard mount a standing aerial patrol so this is likely it. The crew don’t appear to be paying any attention to either of their locations.

In the dawn it's cool enough for Jess to belt her CES around her waist and just "wear" the bottom half of it.

“It’s a fine morning to be on Inchin” the male voice greets Jess as she enters the dark interior of the warehouse. As her eyes adjust to the gloom she’s aware of three figures within, their features are obscured by filter masks and the ubiquitous shemaghs and workers’ hoods. On a positive note Jess sees all are unarmed but two carry staves then she recalls the restrictive local law level while noting that each carries a hammer, hatchet or similar that would serve ably as melee weapons.

The voice declares “We are the Union representing the Workers on Inchin. If you wish us and the Militants to hear your voice then speak. If you mean us harm leave now and be done”.

The speaker holds a cheap civvy comm towards Jess.

[Tiglath]

Jakob

Jakob nodded as Frank talked. "I'll go find Perron, it'll give me a chance to meet more of them. Let me do that now, and I'll let you know what comes of it."

Jakob will present himself as one of the unit trainers, and he'd appreciate the chance to learn from local expertise. His team is ready whenever the Col can fit them into his schedule.

Recon-1, Int-C [2d6+3] = 8+3 = 11

Jakob gets held up at the door intercom to the Guard quarters - they are hardly welcoming.

When it opens an NCO informs him that he can bring his squad on a joint patrol with the Guard at dawn. Through the open door he sees that the Guard accommodation mirrors that of the mercs (although theirs looks more lived in and they have a sauna/gym in one of their forward bays rather than a flight hangar).

[Tiglath]

Prerna

Prerna maps out possible hostile scenarios based on what the diplomatic team will be doing in the system, and goes over their roles and responsibilities.

I'll defer an answer on this beyond saying you simply don't really have enough info to operate with. If the Diplomatic team were briefing you in you might - but they're currently not. Having back burnered a response I'll bear in mind the approach should something shake loose that will gain you some traction on working the problem.

You are aware (or will be once Frank and Jakob share) that the Imperials have additional space borne assets in system which they are currently keeping in reserve. However, again, you don't have an insight into their top level decision making.

[joertexas]

Prerna

Prerna maps out possible hostile scenarios based on what the diplomatic team will be doing in the system, and goes over their roles and responsibilities.

I'll defer an answer on this beyond saying you simply don't really have enough info to operate with. If the Diplomatic team were briefing you in you might - but they're currently not. Having back burnered a response I'll bear in mind the approach should something shake loose that will gain you some traction on working the problem.

You are aware (or will be once Frank and Jakob share) that the Imperials have additional space borne assets in system which they are currently keeping in reserve. However, again, you don't have an insight into their top level decision making.

Prerna operates from the assumption that the operations would center on worthwhile targets, and plan around those locations. Their immediate surroundings are the most likely combat zones, so she focuses on that for the time being.

[The Bindoner]

Jess and Prerna

Jess (and Prerna’s team) both spot the Baronial Guard G carrier loitering in starport air space. They know the Guard mount a standing aerial patrol so this is likely it. The crew don’t appear to be paying any attention to either of their locations.

In the dawn it's cool enough for Jess to belt her CES around her waist and just "wear" the bottom half of it.

“It’s a fine morning to be on Inchin” the male voice greets Jess as she enters the dark interior of the warehouse. As her eyes adjust to the gloom she’s aware of three figures within, their features are obscured by filter masks and the ubiquitous shemaghs and workers’ hoods. On a positive note Jess sees all are unarmed but two carry staves then she recalls the restrictive local law level while noting that each carries a hammer, hatchet or similar that would serve ably as melee weapons.

The voice declares “We are the Union representing the Workers on Inchin. If you wish us and the Militants to hear your voice then speak. If you mean us harm leave now and be done”.

The speaker holds a cheap civvy comm towards Jess.

Jess affects nonchalant unconcern as she enters the building.

Every mornin' yer see's a good mornin', Inchin or not.

After the spokesman says his piece Jess comments:

Came here alone, with empty hands, think that tells yer somethin'. Meant yer harm, wouldn't be dodgin' the guard to get here.

First thing, we're not here to take sides. Not goin' to fight yer, 'less ya make us. We're security for the fine gentlefolk who paid us to watch 'em while they talk. Don't hit them, we're golden. Let me be clear, we're not paid be Rowri, we don't fight for him. Fact is, we'd prefer not to fight at all. Quiet ticket, no ammo bill. Jess smiles, indicating a grim joke.

Me, personally, I'm not so neutral. That water raid when we touched down, eye opener. Been there. Hope ya thought it was worth the price. Not sure I do.

Jess puts her bag down and steps away from it.

Said the first drink was on me. Put what we could spare in there. Not goin' ta spook yer by takin' it out meself, not 'til yer trust me.

as they take the water:

Me boss were pretty unamused I'd reached out to you. Didn't ask. Just did. Personal, as I say. Told him it was a chance to find out how ta stop things like that happenin' again. See what we can do without guns involved. He sees the sense in that.

The pitch of Jess's of voice changes, she's reached the offer, and is eager to present it:

Now, here's an opportunity for yer. People we're here to look after, they've got pull. Rowri needs 'em,to keep the project goin', they want somethin' 'ere. and we've got their ear.


I'm not offerin' ta change things overnight, an' we're not fightin' for yer. But I can hear yer, and I can tell people what I hear. Theat'll put yer words in the ears of the folk decidin' things here.

[joertexas]

Prerna glances up at the G-carrier. Baker, keep a close watch on that G-carrier. If it does anything odd, sing out. Prerna uses her CES's internal cameras to watch Jess, including a thermal overlay to detect people she can't see.

[Leitz]

Jakob

Jakob will let his mind catalog the view into the Guard's quarters; the state of readiness, usage sounds from the gym. If people are lounging around or drilling, or whatever. Afterwards, he'll let Frank know about the plan, and then sit down with Beau to plan some tactical exercises where Beau is the trainer and Jakob acts as a rifleman. Beau picks who is the "NCO" for each exercise.

[Tiglath]

Jess

When one of the Union man’s minders opens Jess’ bag he gleefully exclaims “Water – litres of it!!!” The Union men are universally impressed by the gift.

Their spokesman says “Well, the Union has its argument with Rowri and the people on Inchin have argument with his Guard. Your position seems fair enough. I’ll let the people know about you but you have to understand there are those who won’t know … and those that don’t care”.

“My comrade refers to me I think?” says a male voice from the comm “I am a spokesperson for the Militants – those who are forced to take action when the abuse of a tyrannical regime becomes too much. The rash young man killed during your landing was one such example. He would be gratified that his action benefitted his people - even if indirectly. A regrettable occurrence but oppression causes inevitable reaction. It is those reactions that put our words into the ears of tyrants who otherwise refuse to listen”.

The Union man retorts “Urvash you should have stopped him – they listen to you!”

The voice on the comm pauses for but a moment before continuing urbanely “Since we have just been introduced you have me at a disadvantage, mercenary. However, as you seem to be an unusually perceptive soldier for hire, perhaps we could reach an understanding that would prove to be both mutually beneficial and also maintain the fragile peace?”

[Tiglath]

Prerna

Baker shifts position slightly to better observe the aerial aspect.

Prerna gets a read off her thermal (image) enhancement gear and with the aid of Inchin's lingering pre dawn chill counts two or three IR signatures in the building with Jess.

(OOC: Recon (skill and interpretation so +2) Roll(2d6)+2: 4,4,+2 Total:10 Success!)

[Tiglath]

Jakob

Jakob hears relaxing music emanating from the gym and mentally re-categorises it as a "spa". The vibe he picks up from the interior is "comfortable".

He briefs Frank in and works with Beau.

When dawn comes around his squad are kitted up and ready waiting outside the Guards' hatch. They wait a while...

Eventually they are admitted and join a squad of Guard to make up a full (two squad) infantry compliment for a G carrier. The Guard wear just their belt kit as opposed to the mercs' full combat loadout. It seems the Guard have a Carrier bay identical to yours. A G carrier mounting a missile rack and an autocannon is ready within and you climb aboard.

Shortly you are airborne over startown and able to see the "blueprint" for the starport etched into the sulfur desert floor below.

[joertexas]

Prerna

Baker shifts position slightly to better observe the aerial aspect.

Prerna gets a read off her thermal (image) enhancement gear and with the aid of Inchin's lingering pre dawn chill counts two or three IR signatures in the building with Jess.

(OOC: Recon (skill and interpretation so +2) Roll(2d6)+2: 4,4,+2 Total:10 Success!)

Prerna keys her comm. Jess, there are two, maybe three, people in there with you. Everything is good out here.

[Tiglath]

Frank

There is much (well some) rejoicing as the Spinward Star emerges from disrupted comms in the asteroid belt to re-enter Inchin orbit and resume her “high guard” position over the starport.

Captain Cabral returns in person with the Grey Goose and grabs Frank (literally) and demands somewhere they can speak.

The usually smartly turned out Cabral looks like a man who has been standing double sensor watches for three days in an asteroid belt - and then standing his watch as ship's Captain. He seems more than a little manic. “So the man who commanded SDBs from the luxury of his downport command post didn’t believe me, eh?”

He steers Frank into studying a display of what appears to be a “dump” of about three days’ sensor data - it doesn't make much sense to Frank.

He declares “Look at the data! See - there’s nothing here!”

He continues relentlessly “Nothing - but watch along the track of this vector. They’re running in cold but they have to warm their power plant for a course correction to head into the gravity well. If I’m right then you’d expect a faint neutrino bloom … here … and there it is!!!”

Driven by his conviction he continues on “These people are not only exceptionally skilled they are exceptionally careful. They slipped past both the fighter escort and the Star and I found only their footprints after the fact!”

Then Cabral laughs near hysterically “Of course - there might be something else! They are either very lucky that we were tasked to the asteroid belt or they have good information because if they had to pass us at short range at high guard over the starport we’d surely have detected even a stealth craft – visually if nothing else!"

[Tiglath]

All

Just for reference:

Everyone is now back in the same time (and nearly same place): Dawn Day Three.

[Tiglath]

Prerna and Jess

Prerna (and Jess) will be aware that Jakob's squad are in the G Carrier above pulling a joint op with the Guard.

[shaidar]

Frank and Captain Cabral

Frank ushers the Captain into the Pursers Office and gets him a drink of whatever he wants, including alcohol if asked. He then asks Voss to ensure that they are not disturbed, before closing the door.

"Captain, please, calm down. I'm glad you and the ship survived your ice collecting mission" Frank drops his voice low "I believe you, I do. Some information has come my way since we last spoke that backs up your claim. I know very little, the Deputy Minister is playing his cards close to his chest, but I have other sources. You must promise not to let wind of this to anybody else"

Assuming the captain agrees to the promise, Frank continues

"My understanding is that there is a hidden resource in the area, one that we do not have to worry about as being a threat. It seems obvious that you were sent to the asteroid belt so you wouldn't detect it, and as your sensors are linked to the Baron's systems, so he wouldn't either. You say that it's slipped into orbit?"

[joertexas]

Prerna and Jess

Prerna (and Jess) will be aware that Jakob's squad are in the G Carrier above pulling a joint op with the Guard.

Prerna doesn't share that info with her team - she wants them to practice watching their backs. Her standing orders are that they are weapons tight unless someone fires on them.

[The Bindoner]

Jess really wants to respond to the theory on the efficacy of political violence espoused by the Provo, and it's cost/effect ratio, from a professional perspective, but restrains herself. Instead she tells him I'm Jess, Jess Henker. from Mirage. 'f that means anythin' to yer. The aitch-two's not compo for that poor sod, it''s my way of stoppin' you sendin' more kids to die shootin' at us ter no purpose. You shoot at the people guardin' the offworld delegation, all they hear is "dangerous rabble". Pick yer targets better. We're not yer enemy. Waste of lives, waste of ammo.

Peace's what we're here for. Spent half me life tryin' various ways of acheivin' that, should be able ter help. C;n tell what doesn't work, 'least.

Mutually beneficial, well, I'm already on salary. Don't want anythin' off yer. Lit'rally. Only thing youse c'n offer me is nothin' ter do. This isn't 'bout me gettin' paid. Offerin' you somethin'. Really getting yer voice heard. Through the people Rowri'll listen to, 'cos he needs 'em. That's yer lev'rage. All he needs off you's yer labour. Our employers, he needs all sorts of things of 'em. Belters control shippin', fer example. Imps got politics and the Navy, SuSag's got more money'n the Emperor. You c'n work out the rest.

So, we're on the same page here?