Chapter 1 - It Begins

Sep 13, 2023 2:16 pm
The year is 2000. The world has been ravaged by nuclear war. You and your fellow survivors are on a convoy headed for Głuchołazy, a small town in Poland that is rumored to have a safe way to get out of the country.

Your convoy is traveling along a dusty road just south of Lublin. The sun is setting, and the sky is ablaze with fire. The air is thick with the smell of smoke and death. Suddenly, the sound of explosions fills the air. In an instant, you hear a loud bang, feel yourself being thrown, and then everything goes black.

Moments later, you wake with the sounds of bullets and shrapnel whizzing overhead. You can hear the screams of the wounded and dying.

Remarkably you do not have more than a few scrapes and bruises, and although your ears are ringing you feel capable of taking action.

Next to you are the other travelers that were in your convoy (the other player characters) and a boy around age 13. In front of you is the HMMWV you were traveling in. It currently is providing cover from the battle that’s raging.

Just to the east of you is a another HMMWV that appears intact and empty. You could all easily run to it and get inside, but that would expose you to the firefight. Just south of you is a densely wooded area. You should be able to make it to that area without drawing fire. Finally west of you, in the open, is a still intact backpack. Two dead men dressed in soviet military uniforms lie dead next to it.

https://i.imgur.com/I9bkYpr.png
Sep 16, 2023 8:34 pm
OOC:
This is where it all begins. You are all next to the HMMWV. You can hear shots going overhead, but they don’t seem to be directed at you at the moment. You all instinctively know you shouldn’t stay in this spot for long.

What do you do?
Sep 16, 2023 9:36 pm
OOC:
I'm assuming that unless one has a score next to "Driving" on the skills table, that one doesn't know how to drive one of the HMMVVs. If I'm wrong, I guess you can delete this post.
Lt Cunningham says loud enough over the gunfire to the group assembled, "Anybody here know how to drive an HMMVV?"
Sep 16, 2023 11:07 pm
OOC:

Driving Skill
All characters are assumed to be able to drive cars, trucks, motorcycles, and even tracked vehicles under normal circumstances.

If you don’t have the driving skill, you can still attempt to drive under non-normal circumstances, but you would only roll the 1 die associated with your agility score.

In this instance failing the roll could result in a delayed get-away or even getting the vehicle stuck.

Knowing is half the battle!
[ +- ] Video Clip
Sep 16, 2023 11:18 pm
"Y-yep! I'm like Jesus behind the wheel!"

If the boy wasn't there, Tedic would not have been able to shoot his goofy grin, tooth gap and all. But Tedic's an adult, even if he doesn't feel like it, so he has to be cooler than a cucumber.
OOC:
B rank in Driving, baby!

Anyways, here's a plan I thought of.
1. The whole group goes south into the woods (perhaps some people stay behind to loot the tipped over humvee).
2. Then, one brave soul breaks off east for a bit until they have the intact humvee between them and the gunfire, then go straight to the intact humvee and board it. The idea is to the use the woods and the intact humvee for cover.
3. The brave soul does a U turn to the west, picking up the rest of the group using the tipped over humvee as cover.
4. Proceed to the west, where one of the group can swipe up the pack and loot the soldiers, time permitting.
[ +- ] da schmovement
Sep 17, 2023 3:13 am
Master Sergeant Baker is up against the overturned vehicle, checking his rifle as he looks to the other survivors. "Everyone alright?" he asks cooly, taking his M21 off safe. "I'm gonna see who it is that's out there, and if they're concerned with lookin' this way. Stand by on that SAW, Private."
OOC:
Taking a quick peek, trying to locate and ID and enemy forces. And also -- what's the scale? What's the distance to the backpack and the HMMVV?
Sep 17, 2023 12:36 pm
Baker surveys the surrounding.
OOC:
Here is what he can see without performing a RECON roll. 1 hex is roughly 10 meters.
- Every white hex is simply open grassland or dirt.
- Yellow diamonds are enemies.
- You're all currently represented by the green diamond.
- The black circle is the backpack.
https://i.imgur.com/95sobm7.png

The attackers before you present a hodgepodge of attire, largely comprised of Soviet military uniforms. However, their ranks also feature individuals clad in civilian hunting gear, as well as a few donning Polish military attire. Despite their eclectic appearances, they exhibit a certain level of tactical proficiency. A nearby civilian van to the east bears grim testament to their deadly efficiency, as its occupants have already met their demise. It appears, though, that their organization is somewhat lacking, or perhaps this attack was hastily devised, as a more strategic approach would have involved a coordinated ambush from both the northern rocky terrain and the southern forest cover.
Sep 17, 2023 12:38 pm
The attackers don't seem to be focused on the HMMWVs. Baker can't see any logical reason why this is.
Sep 17, 2023 3:39 pm
OOC:
Humvees. >Smacks self in forehead<

Is it one enemy combatant per yellow diamond? Or are those groups?
After Baker relays what he sees to the group, he says to Reed. "I think you're going to expose yourself to more fire if you run into the woods and then back out. If we lay down cover fire to the bogeys on the left, you can get to the humvee while the group on the right is preoccupied with picking off the civilians. Or we can stay here and slug it out."
OOC:
We should wait for Dmbrainiac and Knighthawke to chime in.
Sep 17, 2023 6:14 pm
"Soviets, maybe some irregulars or militia too," Sheepdog says after he takes his brief look. "I made four to the left and four to the right, focused on the civie truck and van."

Looking at the Lieutenant, he adds, "They don't look like they're in a take-prisoners kind of mood. Shot the hell outa that people-mover. And that's just what I got peekin', there's more of them for sure. I can try to get a longer look, but that risks lettin' them know we're here."
OOC:
If the Lt gives the word Baker will take a longer long.
Sep 17, 2023 6:57 pm
ForeverDED says:
Is it one enemy combatant per yellow diamond? Or are those groups?

OOC:
One individual combatant per diamond. I’m still working out the token and map situation to help keep things clear.
Sep 18, 2023 7:57 am
Chase had hit her head a bit harder than her squadmates, so it had taken her a few moments longer to regain situational awareness. Soon enough, though, she comes around and takes stock of the mess they have found themselves in. She nods in agreement with Daniel's plan.

"I agree with Lieutenant Cunningham. We lay down covering fire and get to that Humvee ASAP. We're sitting ducks out here. We need to move."

She gives the kid that is with them a sympathetic look. "You're gonna want to keep your head down, son. What's your name?"
Sep 18, 2023 12:38 pm
Boy
The young boy is visibly shaken, his wide eyes brimming with tears. In a trembling voice, he utters in Polish, "Nie chcę umrzeć. Nie chcę umrzeć." It's clear that the child is overwhelmed by fear and desperation, grappling with a situation far beyond his capacity to comprehend or manage.
Sep 18, 2023 1:26 pm
Chase puts a comforting hand on the boy's shoulder. She doesn't speak his language, but she hopes the calming gesture will help put him at ease. "Hey. You're going to be okay. We're gonna get you out of here, okay?"

Rolls

Empathy + Command, -1 - (d10, d8)

d10 : (5) = 5

d8 : (7) = 7

Sep 18, 2023 1:47 pm
Boy
Chase's reassuring touch on the boy's shoulder prompts an immediate reaction. The child's trembling gradually subsides, and he turns his tearful gaze toward her. His expression, once filled with terror, now carries a glimmer of hope.
Sep 18, 2023 3:06 pm
After Lt. Hunter agree with his plan, Lt. Cunningham says, "Alright then. On three, we lay down cover fire at the group on the left for Reed to high tail it to the humvee. Once he gets to us, we switch to the group on the right. Ready? 1... 2... 3!"
OOC:
I'll hold off on dice rolls in case someone counters his plan.
Sep 18, 2023 5:40 pm
Tedic's not too sure about drawing attention to their location, but he hands his LMG to Sheepdog anyways. Surely the higher ranked people know better, right? He then dashes off at the signal.
OOC:
Shouldn't the cover fire be to the right, to suppress the enemies there?
Sep 18, 2023 5:48 pm
OOC:
Well, when I was looking at the map, all the enemy combatants on the right are pointed at the civilian van and the humvee is between us and them. The guys on the left (1 & 8 anyway) would have a clear shot at Reed once he leaves the cover of the overturned humvee to reach the upright one.

This is the sort of conversation I wanted to have before we acted. :)
Last edited September 18, 2023 5:49 pm
Sep 18, 2023 6:56 pm
OOC:
I will consider the first die roll to be the action that starts the chain of events. It looks like that’s going to be either Tedic starting the Humvee or someone shooting at the enemies.

Details about this plan of action…

The initial actions can all happen simultaneously. Once it’s started, I’ll roll initiative for everyone involved.

While providing covering fire, let me know which target you aim at (if you are aiming), and state the weapon you’re firing if you have more than one.

Tedic’s M249 is usually fired from a BIPOD. It can be fired when carried with a -2 modifier. It’s fired with the HEAVY WEAPONS skill.

The range listed on your weapons is for short range (number of hexes). Up to twice short range is medium range. Up to twice medium range is long range and so on. Penalties are added the farther you shoot.

— Firing at medium range, -1 modifier.
— Firing at long range, -2 modifier.

Modifiers downgrade the highest die to the next lower tier: d12 to d10 for example. You can’t go lower than a single d6.

Tedic needs to successfully make a driving skill check to get the vehicle started. Failure will result in him not getting the vehicle started and he loses a turn. He will automatically get the vehicle started his next turn.

Once it’s started, let me know where you drive to next.

Don’t forget about the boy. Three characters have a moral code to help those in need. If the group doesn’t take care of him, those three characters will suffer a point of stress damage.
Sep 18, 2023 8:29 pm
Putting his rifle back on safe and shouldering it, Baker takes the SAW from Reed and nods as Hunter gets the kid calmed down. "Yeah, we’re gonna attract a hell of a lot of attention once we start shooting. How about we split our fire, coordinate to get them all ducking, then Reed can make the run…
OOC:
We’ll definitely want to leverage the overwatch and suppression rules there, trying to force some of the enemy to go to ground when they take fire. Looks like we have to pick a hex to fire at / suppress? Baker will do what he’s ordered to, but at this stage that’s probably open fire on the left. Thinking his turn will be Fast Action - Move from Full to Partial Cover, Slow Action - Fire the M249, Free Action - Move from Partial to Full Cover if there are bogeys looking his way. #1 would be the target unless Normal can spread the hire across hexes.

Oh — and what’s the group Morale score? Sorry if I missed that.
Last edited September 18, 2023 8:31 pm
Sep 18, 2023 8:42 pm
Cunningham nods as Baker relates his professional assessment of their situation. "All I've got is this pistol. Looks the same for Hunter. Odds are against me hitting anything at this range, but maybe we don't have to. Do you think we can send Reed out there without any cover fire? If stealth is the better option, I'll take it. We've lost enough people today."
OOC:
Do we know what Kowalski's armed with?
Sep 18, 2023 9:03 pm
OOC:
[ +- ] Overwatch Rule Summary
[ +- ] Combat Example
[ +- ] Kowalski’s Weapons
Unit Morale is C
Sep 18, 2023 9:19 pm
OOC:
It’s a crunchy game!

I’m trying to only introduce elements as they come up or if questions are asked.
[ +- ] Aiming
[ +- ] Hitting Multiple Enemies
Sep 18, 2023 10:40 pm
"Lieutenant Cunningham, take the SAW, I’ve still got my rifle," Baker says to one of the two LTs in what passes for a squad. He also nods at the idea of keeping quiet at first. "I like it, sir — we can provide overwatch in both directions when the Private goes. If one of them makes him, we can call it out and open up. Maybe me and Kowalski on the left, you on the right with the LMG?"
OOC:
So peek out and provide overwatch on the eight troops Normal already saw while Reed sneaks. If he blows it and they spot him (or they spot us), then we open up?
Sep 18, 2023 11:58 pm
Tedic bounces on his heels as he squats, nervous as all hell.

"Just give me the signal, I'll be like greased lightning!"

Once the signal is give, Tedic goes for a low sprint off towards the humvee, hopping in through the passenger door and scrambling into the driver's seat. Then, he takes a U-turn back towards the rest of the group so that they can board.
OOC:
Rolling for starting the humvee.
Last edited September 18, 2023 11:59 pm

Rolls

DRIVAN - (1d12, 1d10)

1d12 : (6) = 6

1d10 : (2) = 2

Sep 19, 2023 12:09 am
"Sounds like a plan, Sergeant." He takes the SAW and lies prone, facing the enemy to the east (#7). Once everyone is in position, Cunningham says, "Go!"
Sep 19, 2023 1:43 am
OOC:
While Reed goes, Baker peeks out to aim his rifle and provide overwatch on #1, which he quietly calls out to Kowalski.
Sep 19, 2023 1:52 am
OOC:
This is how I understand the positions of everyone as the action starts. We can make corrections later if need be.

- Reed is going to drive the Humvee right next to the group.
- Sheepdog overwatching enemy number 1 to the east.
- Cunningham overwatching enemy number 7 to the west.
- Hunter is next to the vehicle keeping the boy calm.
- Kowalski is faded into the background because we haven't heard from knighthawke.
Reed moves with remarkable agility and discretion as he approaches the Humvee. Without a moment's hesitation, he leaps into the driver's seat, igniting the engine with practiced ease. Reed's finesse with the Humvee is so skillful that the hostile combatants initially fail to notice its movement.

Upon reaching the group, the soviet soldier positioned to the east (number 1) suddenly becomes aware of the moved vehicle and begins to shout.
OOC:
Because he's in overwatch, Sheepdog can open fire before 1 finishes his sentence. He can also use this action to run to the Humvee.

There's no ranged attack penalty because it's a short distance with the M21, and I'm assuming he's aiming.
It's only a matter of seconds before another enemy (number 6) to the east joins in, his alarmed voice adding to the mounting tension in the chaotic scene. As 6 shouts, number 7 starts running towards the van for cover.
OOC:
Because he's also in overwatch, Cunningham can open fire on 7 before he reaches the van. He can also instead use this action to run to the Humvee.

I count the distance to 7 as medium range, so -1 modifier for shooting.
Sep 19, 2023 2:00 am
OOC:
Rolling initiative for everyone. Lowest number goes first.

You can describe your turn before your initiative order, but I won't resolve the actions until it's your turn.

Because Sheepdog and Cunningham are waiting and expecting for the combatants, they can take a bonus turn before the initiative takes effect.

Rolls

Hunter initiative - (1d1000)

(129) = 129

Cunningham initiative - (1d1000)

(765) = 765

Sheepdog initiative - (1d1000)

(885) = 885

Reed initiative - (1d1000)

(342) = 342

Sep 19, 2023 2:03 am
OOC:
Rolling initiative for enemy npcs.

Rolls

Enemy initiative - (1d1000)

(912) = 912

Sep 19, 2023 2:04 am
OOC:
Turns play out in this order:

1. Sheepdog and Cunningham (because of overwatch)
2. Hunter
3. Reed
4. Cunningham
5. Sheepdog
6. Enemy NPCs

Reed can delay his turn until after Sheepdog. I'm assuming they'll all load up and then Reed will drive away.
Sep 19, 2023 2:30 am
Cunningham takes advantage of Reed's success to get into the humvee.
OOC:
It looks like if we do this right, we can hit the road before the enemy can get get a turn in.
Sep 19, 2023 3:38 am
OOC:
Looks to me like Sheepdog can fire in the surprise round, then get in the Humvee and be ready to roll by swapping initiatives with Reed. Yeah? There's not formally a 'delay' is there, RAW?
Sep 19, 2023 3:50 am
Harrigan says:
OOC:
Looks to me like Sheepdog can fire in the surprise round, then get in the Humvee and be ready to roll by swapping initiatives with Reed. Yeah?
Yes that’s correct.
Harrigan says:
OOC:
There's not formally a 'delay' is there, RAW?
That’s also true.
[ +- ] Initiative Swap
Sep 19, 2023 4:37 am
"Lieutenant," Master Sergeant Baker says to Lt. Hunter when the Russians begin yelling and scrambling, "now's the time!"

Drawing a bead on the man shouting and pointing at the Humvee, Sheepdog opens up with his .308, trying to silence the soldier.
OOC:
Agility d10, Ranged Combat d10, +1 for Sniper with the M21, +1 Ammo die for using RoF1.

Not 100% sure, but I think that's two successes, for 3+1 = 4 damage. And a crit since the rifle's crit rating is 3. 5 rounds are spent. Yeah?
Last edited September 19, 2023 4:42 am

Rolls

Firing the M21 + 1 Ammo Die - (1d12, 1d10, 1d6)

1d12 : (12) = 12

1d10 : (5) = 5

1d6 : (5) = 5

Sep 19, 2023 7:54 am
Chase nods to Baker. "10-4. Move! Move! Move!" She keeps a firm grip on the Polish boy's arm, guiding him with her as they scramble into the Humvee!
Sep 19, 2023 12:36 pm
--Cunningham's Turn--
OOC:
Making a quick update for narrative sense.
Cunningham takes advantage of Reed's success rushes over to the dazed Kowalski and gets himself and Kowalski into the Humvee.

--Sheepdog's Turn--
With unwavering focus, Sheepdog unleashes a rapid succession of shots.
OOC:
4 damage, critical hit, 5 ammo spent

Rolls

Hit Location (1 legs, 2-4 Torso, 5 Arm, 6 Head) - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Sep 19, 2023 12:46 pm
His rounds strike the soldier's chest with brutal force, easily breaking ribs upon impact. The soldier manages to cling to life, although his injuries are severe.

-- Hunter's Turn --
Hunter leads the boy urgently as they scramble into the Humvee. Remarkably, the boy offers no resistance, a testament to Chase's prior efforts in soothing his fears.

-- Sheepdog's Turn --
OOC:
I'm assuming Reed and Sheepdog are swapping turns

@Harrigan go ahead and describe Sheepdog's actions.
Sep 19, 2023 1:44 pm
OOC:
Didn't know initiative swapping was a thing. Good to know.
Sep 19, 2023 1:57 pm
ForeverDED says:
OOC:
Didn't know initiative swapping was a thing. Good to know.
OOC:
Yeah, I'm trying to introduce elements as needed and give your characters the benefit of the doubt. I'll try and suggest utilizing specific rules when it’s beneficial to your character.
Sep 19, 2023 3:46 pm
OOC:
Things to think about as your turns come up.

Where is everyone sitting in the Vehicle? It holds 5, but the boy is small enough to sit on someone’s lap. That person won’t be able to do much for actions.
[ +- ] Cunningham
[ +- ] Reed, Driving that vehicle
Sep 20, 2023 2:13 am
OOC:
How far do we need to go before we don't need to worry about the enemies attacking us?
Sep 20, 2023 2:35 am
saevikas says:
OOC:
How far do we need to go before we don't need to worry about the enemies attacking us?
OOC:
If you drive straight left off the map, the enemies will stop pursuing you. Number 4 will take a final shot at you as you leave.
Sep 20, 2023 5:11 am
With everyone else already hustling for the vehicle, and Reed ready to gun it and get the hell out of there, Sergeant Baker high-tails it towards the Humvee before the Russian he shot is still on the ground. "Go go go!" he says the to driver as he piles in last, putting his rifle on safe and drawing his pistol in case he needs to return fire from inside the HMMVV.
OOC:
Two fast actions to get to the vehicle and get in, I imagine. Sheepdog is last to the truck, so he's probably behind the driver, or ran around to get in the front seat if it was free. Put him wherever it makes sense!
Sep 20, 2023 8:29 am
OOC:
Chase will sit in the backseat driver's side with the boy in her lap.
Sep 20, 2023 12:18 pm
Seating Arrangement
Driver - Reed
Passenger - Cunningham
Behind Driver - Hunter
Behind Middle - Kowalski
Behind Passenger - Sheepdog

The M998 Humvee has a left-hand drive steering wheel, regardless of where it is deployed.

-- Reed's Turn? --
OOC:
The next turn is Cunningham's. However, if he swaps with Reed and the vehicle drives straight east, the Humvee will be directly in front of enemy 4. Cunnhingham could take a shot at 4 with his pistol before the enemy turn.

@saevikas I say that you go ahead and take your turn.

@ForeverDED if you have a different plan for Cunnhingham and saevikas posts before you, we can still resolve Cunningham's actions post facto.
Sep 20, 2023 3:04 pm
Cunningham will take a shot with his pistol at #4 as they drive past.
OOC:
So initially, that's a d6 & a d10, but because of the range, it's going to be d6 & d6, correct?
Sep 20, 2023 3:27 pm
Tedic drives somewhat straight east, but will try and drive right next to the backpack unless it allows other enemies other than #4 to shoot at them. The idea is that someone on the left side of the vehicle could try and snag it really quick while the vehicle is moving.
Sep 20, 2023 3:28 pm
ForeverDED says:
Cunningham will take a shot with his pistol at #4 as they drive past.
OOC:
So initially, that's a d6 & a d10, but because of the range, it's going to be d6 & d6, correct?
OOC:
You’re also firing from a moving vehicle, so there is an additional -2. It’s a tough shot.

You only get to roll 1d6 to hit.

The full ROF for the M9 is 2, so you can roll 2d6 ammo dice. Even if you miss, rolling a 6 on either ammo die forces the enemy to pass a CUF check or become suppressed.
Sep 20, 2023 3:35 pm
saevikas says:
Tedic drives somewhat straight east, but will try and drive right next to the backpack unless it allows other enemies other than #4 to shoot at them. The idea is that someone on the left side of the vehicle could try and snag it really quick while the vehicle is moving.
OOC:
Because everyone else has already done their action this turn, @ForeverDED I’m giving you the choice:

- Grab the backpack on your turn as you drive by it by making a successful MOBILITY roll.

OR

- Shoot at #4.
Sep 20, 2023 3:43 pm
OOC:
@saevikas are you going to attempt to drive further than the normal movement?
Sep 20, 2023 3:47 pm
OOC:
More interested in getting away with our lives at this point.
Cunningham fires off two shots from his pistol, hoping to discourage the enemy from risking exposure to shoot back at them.

Rolls

Firing two suppressing shots - (d6, d6)

d6 : (6) = 6

d6 : (3) = 3

Sep 20, 2023 4:10 pm
OOC:
Sure, Tedic's stats are about as good as they get in that regard.
Tedic makes sure to go as fast as possible, without getting stuck.
OOC:
I think I remember reading somewhere that 10+ is 2 successes, might want to adjust the dice code for that.
Last edited September 20, 2023 4:11 pm

Rolls

GASSEN - (1d12, 1d10)

1d12 : (11) = 11

1d10 : (6) = 6

Sep 20, 2023 4:30 pm
saevikas says:
OOC:
I think I remember reading somewhere that 10+ is 2 successes, might want to adjust the dice code for that.
OOC:
It is multiple successes. I'll look into updating the code.
Sep 20, 2023 4:40 pm
OOC:
I didn't do a great job explaining ranged combat. However, it worked out, so I'm rolling with it. Ranged combat is BASE dice (your to hit) + Ammo dice (your ammo spent)

I'm using the first roll as the BASE and the second roll as AMMO.

1 damage, 3 ammo spent.
Reed slams the gas pedal to the floor, and the Humvee surges forward with an audacious burst of speed, hurtling past the enemy combatants. Most would struggle to maintain control, but Reed remains eerily composed, humming to himself as he navigates the terrain.

As they streak past the combatants, Cunningham leans out of the window, his pistol aimed, and fires a burst of three shots. One of the bullets finds its mark, striking the shouting Soviet soldier squarely in the arm. The impact elicits a torrent of colorful Russian curses.

Inside the Humvee, the occupants can distinctly hear the cacophony of shouting and gunfire behind them as they rapidly distance themselves from the chaotic scene.
Sep 20, 2023 4:54 pm
[ +- ] T2K4 Travel Maps
https://i.imgur.com/L9dCFQY.jpg
OOC:
You are currently at the circled spot in the top right-hand corner of the map. You want to get to the circled spot in the bottom left-hand corner.
Info On Travelilng
[ +- ] shifts
[ +- ] Tasks



--Night Shift, Clear Sky--
[ +- ] Humvee Info
The sun, which had been setting during their escape, has now surrendered to the encroaching darkness of night. Reed brings the Humvee to a halt when they collectively sense they have put enough distance between themselves and their earlier peril. The vehicle comes to a stop near a cluster of gnarled oak trees in an open field, their twisted branches stretching skyward like clawed fingers. Despite the shroud of night, the surrounding area is still visible to all within the Humvee, thanks to the sparse, moonlit terrain. Tall grass envelops the vehicle, providing a modicum of cover.
OOC:
As a group you need to decide on your plan of action. Then everyone individually needs to decide what they do during this shift.

Discuss amongst yourselves. Don't hesitate to ask me for more details or info on anything be it rules, maps, the situation, or the game world
Sep 20, 2023 5:01 pm
Reed gives a nervous laugh, now that they're out of immediate trouble. His fingers almost creak as he finally lets go of the steering wheel.

"S-see? Like Jesus. So what's the plan now?"
Sep 20, 2023 6:28 pm
Cunningham pats Reed on the shoulder. "Great driving, Reed. You got a career in NASCAR awaiting you when we get home."
OOC:
I put a 3 under spent ammo.

So we went east instead of west, which means that we have to find a way around that ambush location or hope that they've moved on, correct?
Sep 20, 2023 6:31 pm
ForeverDED says:
So we went east instead of west
OOC:
Nope, that's my mistake. You all went west. I kept typing east while thinking west.
Sep 20, 2023 6:34 pm
"Yes, good work, Private," Chase says to Reed. She makes sure the boy on her lap is doing okay.

"Anybody speak Polish?" she asks the others.
Sep 20, 2023 6:49 pm
SpiritualSock511 says:
ForeverDED says:
So we went east instead of west
OOC:
Nope, that's my mistake. You all went west. I kept typing east while thinking west.
OOC:
Phew! That's a relief.
To Reed: "Working on that now. Unless someone's got nightvision gear, it's not safe to travel at night. We could run into another ambush. So we'll have to make camp and set up a watch detail."

To Hunter: "Sorry Lieutenant. I wish I did."
OOC:
Do we have any intel about Krasnik?
Last edited September 20, 2023 6:50 pm
Sep 20, 2023 7:16 pm
[ +- ] Krasnik
Sep 20, 2023 9:13 pm
Jed groaned and shook his head to clear his blurry vision. While he got his bell rung, and he was sore all over, he was sure that he was fortunate to not have any more serious injuries.

"What the frack??? What the heck happened.... where are we??"
Sep 21, 2023 1:45 am
Tedic pats Jed's helmeted head with solemnity.

"You died. You're in hell, just like the rest of us."
Last edited September 21, 2023 1:45 am
Sep 21, 2023 2:23 am
Cunningham brings Kowalski up to speed, then he asks, "You don't speak Polish, by chance, do you Kowalski?"
Sep 21, 2023 3:02 am
saevikas says:
Tedic pats Jed's helmeted head with solemnity.

"You died. You're in hell, just like the rest of us."
Jed flinched and frowned as he stretched his neck, b]"Damn. And here I thought we’d end up in Valhalla. Was hoping to see hot Valkyries, not your ugly mugs…"[/b]
ForeverDED says:
Cunningham brings Kowalski up to speed, then he asks, "You don't speak Polish, by chance, do you Kowalski?"
"if you ask my Babcia and Dziadziuś they would disagree because I have a bit of an accent when I do, but that’s intentional for them. The feel more wanted when they can correct me and tease me." He smiled. " Więc tak, mówię biegle po polsku." Pausing a moment, he translated. "So, yes I was raised speaking Polish. Why?"
OOC:
"Babcia and Dziadziuś" = Grandma and Grandpa

All Polish courtesy of Google Translate, I have enough trouble with English at times…. LoL
Last edited September 21, 2023 3:02 am
Sep 21, 2023 4:13 am
"No ma'am," Baker says to Lt. Hunter when she asks if anyone speaks Polish. He smiles when Kowalski finally wakes up from having his bell rung and starts right in with the Polish. As they discuss whether to press on or make camp, Sheepdog pulls on his NVGs and scopes out the surrounding terrain.

"Nice drivin', Reed," he says to the private, inspecting the trees all around them. "You figure we've got enough fuel to make it to Głuchołazy, or are we gonna need to find ourselves a Shell station?"

If it was up to the Master Sergeant, he'd press ahead right now, get while the gettin's good, but he's not one to question a commissioned officer. When Cunningham mentions watches, Sheepdog nods his head. "Ayuh, I got first watch, sir."
OOC:
Fastest one post a day game in the west!
Sep 21, 2023 12:12 pm
OOC:
Quick Check-in

It looks like the group is leaning towards sleeping for the night. Setting up a camp takes a whole shift and is typically done in the evening. Since it's already nighttime now, you can instead choose to sleep on the Bare Ground (or in the Humvee). Everyone sleeping would make a SURVIVAL roll to find a good spot to sleep. Failure means that your character doesn't sleep and risks becoming sleep deprived.

Sheepdog says that he'll keep watch this shift. He'll need to make a RECON roll to see if he spots anything (if there is anything to spot). He'll need to find a different shift to sleep. Luckily, he can sleep in a moving Humvee.

@Knighthawke there is a 13-year-old boy in your group who only speaks polish. I imagine that at some point he'll interact with Kowalski. I'll need a short descriptor of how Kowalski would handle this. (i.e. gruff, friendly, friendly but bad with kids, disinterested etc...)

Also, typically all characters can sleep in the moving Humvee. I'm ruling that since the Humvee can't comfortably sit six, the person that has the kid on their lap can't do anything that shift of driving (i.e. sleep or keep watch)
Sep 21, 2023 4:43 pm
Knighthawke says:
"If you ask my Babcia and Dziadziuś they would disagree because I have a bit of an accent when I do, but that’s intentional for them. The feel more wanted when they can correct me and tease me." He smiled. " Więc tak, mówię biegle po polsku." Pausing a moment, he translated. "So, yes I was raised speaking Polish. Why?"
"You're hired. We've got a little boy who survived the ambush with us. Lieutenant Hunter needs your help with translation. Hopefully, he can provide us with some intel beyond what we have, but the main thing is that we keep him from panicking and that he knows to stay quiet when we need him to be."

When he notices Baker putting on the NVGs, he says, "If we had more of those, I'd say we take our chances at night. Mind sharing them with whoever's on watch? I'll take next watch."
OOC:
Cunningham's got a radio. Is he supposed to check in with command at any point? If so, he'll try to call someone now or at first light.
Considering how late it is and how close they are from their recent ambush, Cunningham opts not to set up camp.

Rolls

To Sleep (Survival) - (d6)

(1) = 1

To Sleep (Intelligence) - (d12)

(7) = 7

Sep 21, 2023 5:33 pm
Tedic looks at the fuel gauge.

"About 160 kilometers of fuel, so halfway. Hopefully."
OOC:
Oh no, Tedic might be too dumb to sleep.
Since Tedic will likely be driving tomorrow, he does his best to get a good night's rest.

Rolls

Intelligence - (d8)

(3) = 3

Sep 21, 2023 5:57 pm
OOC:
@ForeverDED
There isn’t anyone to check in with. Since the last known nuke was dropped, Cunningham has come to believe that HQ abandoned him and all other NATO troops in Poland. Theories as to why that’s happened range from the Soviet forces gaining full control of Poland to rumors that the governments in all allied nations have collapsed.

He can still use the radio to try and contact someone or he can try to find a frequency to listen to.

@saevikas
You can push the roll if you want.
[ +- ] Pushing
Sep 21, 2023 7:40 pm
Chase does her best to find a place to sleep.
OOC:
Failed first roll, I'll try to push. No luck it seems.
Last edited September 21, 2023 7:44 pm

Rolls

Intelligence + Survival - (d8, d8)

d8 : (2) = 2

d8 : (4) = 4

Push - (d8, d8)

d8 : (5) = 5

d8 : (4) = 4

Sep 21, 2023 9:28 pm
OOC:
What sort of penalties come with not passing a sleep roll?
Sep 21, 2023 9:58 pm
saevikas says:
OOC:
What sort of penalties come with not passing a sleep roll?
OOC:
If you don’t sleep for a full shift in 24 hours you will become sleep deprived:

- You cannot heal stress.
- You take 1 point of stress each day.
- If incapacitated by stress, you collapse and sleep for at least one shift, and are impossible to wake up during that time.


You still have the morning, day, and evening shifts before that happens.
Sep 22, 2023 5:33 am
"You know it, sir," Baker says when Cunningham asks about sharing the night vision goggles. "These things are worth their weight in gold out here."

While the others try to get some sleep, Sheepdog quietly patrols, watches, and checks on things, keeping a sharp lookout.
OOC:
Suspect there would otherwise be darkness penalties, but not with the NVG?

Rolling for Recon. Edit: Success!
Last edited September 22, 2023 5:33 am

Rolls

INT (d10) and Recon (d8) - (1d10, 1d8)

1d10 : (1) = 1

1d8 : (6) = 6

Sep 22, 2023 1:36 pm
OOC:
Harrigan says:
Suspect there would otherwise be darkness penalties, but not with the NVG?
That's correct. You would have had -2 modifier because you're watching in moonlight and a maximum distance of 15 hexes.

Also, the NVG use a battery. It has 4 shifts worth of uses, and it can be fully charged by plugging it into a running vehicle or generator for 1 shift. 
Sep 22, 2023 1:47 pm
--Morning Shift, Cloudy Sky–
The night passes without incident. Of the group, only Cunningham and Kowalski got any decent sleep.
OOC:
What is the plan for this shift?

If you plan on driving I need this information…
[ +- ] driving info needed
I'm temporarily, taking over for the basic actions of Kowalski.
[ +- ] He learns about Polish boy
[ +- ] sleep roll

**Edit: The hex you’re currently in has a road which allows you to drive faster and not get lost. (No SURVIVAL roll as long as you follow the road), it does however increase the chance of running into patrols and other groups.

Rolls

Kowalski SLEEP: Intelligence (d8) - (d8)

(6) = 6

Kowalski SLEEP: Survival (d6) - (d6)

(5) = 5

Sep 22, 2023 2:35 pm
Cunningham explains his plan for the day, looking for feedback from the others. "Krasnik is on the way, roughly 30 klicks down the road. I believe we should see about reuniting Jakob with his grandparents. The boy belongs with family. Agreed?"

After the group voices their opinions and some kind of consensus is reached, he brings out the map.

"At Krasnik we'll have to decide which road to take. We've got a river to cross. So we'll either have to take the bridge here or there." He points them out on the map. "I think there's a good chance that there will be a checkpoint at one or both of these bridges, and either road provides an opportunity for another ambush. Maybe we can get some intel from Jakob's grandparents or the locals."

Since he was lucky enough to sleep, Cunningham feels that he should sit up front to keep watch. He'll make sure that Baker's NVG gets recharged. Who knows how long we'll have this humvee for.
OOC:
Does Kowalski have driving skill like Reed? If so, maybe he can drive to give Reed a chance to sleep.
Sep 22, 2023 3:29 pm
ForeverDED says:
Does Kowalski have driving skill like Reed?
OOC:
Agility B, Driving, D.

However, he would only need to roll if he’s driving in a stressful situation or doing something that requires skill. Everyone automatically succeeds with basic travel driving.
Sep 23, 2023 3:25 am
Baker plans to get a little shuteye in the back of the humvee after being up on watch half the night. He settles into the seat behind the passenger, and won't complain if the kid rests on top of him.
OOC:
Adding the battery tracking to Baker's sheet for the NVGs. If we get through this next shift, they will be back to 100%. Currently at 75%.
Sep 23, 2023 1:03 pm
OOC:
Looks like this is the plan: drop Jakub off at his grandparents' house in Krasnik with this driving setup. Can I get 2 people to confirm?

Driving - Kowalski
Keeping Watch - Cunningham
Sleeping - Reed
Sleeping - Hunter
Unable to Sleep - Sheepdog (Because of kid on his lap)
Sep 23, 2023 1:05 pm
OOC:
Yes, that looks good to me.
Sep 23, 2023 3:15 pm
Tedic opts to sleep in the seat behind the driver.

"Good night Kowalski, don't fuck it up."
OOC:
Sounds good to me.

By the way, I added Sheepdog as Tedic's Buddy now that I've gotten a sense of how the characters act. Do I still roll for sleep, or does the soothing vibrations of the humvee lull Tedic to sleep?
Last edited September 23, 2023 3:15 pm
Sep 23, 2023 3:16 pm
OOC:
Looks good. Sheepdog will have to get some proper shuteye in the next shift. :)
Sep 23, 2023 4:05 pm
OOC:
No roll for sleep needed while driving. (Free League must feel that the moving car gives you a bonus)
—Day shift Cloudy Weather—
No encounters on the way.

–Jakub’s Grandparents’ House–
As you draw nearer to Krasnik, Jakub becomes your guide, directing you to his grandparents' modest townhouse in Dąbrowa-Kolonia, a suburb situated about 7 kilometers to the east of Krasnik's city center. The unmistakable signs of Soviet military presence saturate the area, but there are no visible patrols as you drive through.

The locals' sentiments towards the Soviets remain unclear. However, your presence in a US Humvee doesn't go unnoticed; many passersby do double takes or pause to point and stare.

Upon arriving at Jakub's grandparents' home, the atmosphere is heavy with sorrow. They welcome Jakub with gratitude but are crushed to learn of the loss of the rest of his family.

Tearfully, they implore you to take the boy to America, convinced that it offers the promise of a brighter future. In their eyes, America is a place where dreams come true, and they firmly believe Jakub will have a far better life there.

Jakub, caught in the midst of this emotional turmoil, is scared and tearful. His says he want to be with his grandparents, but their somber warnings about life in Poland are clearly scaring him.
OOC:
The moral obligation here is not clear, so those who have a moral code to help people in need will not suffer stress on the decision made.


I’m going to nudge you for two decisions.
1. What do you do with Jakob.
2. Where do you travel next?
Sep 23, 2023 5:39 pm
1. Cunningham knows that there's no room in the humvee to bring the grandparents, but maybe they'll be ok. He feels that the kid should be with family, but can't argue that the kid wouldn't be better off in the USA, assuming that enough of it is still intact. Bringing the grandparents would require a bigger or a second vehicle. Is that even an option? Or would it just be a repeat of the ambush they endured yesterday? Cunningham will agree to bring the kid if the others are ok with it.

2. We need to ask the grandparents if they know anything about checkpoints along that river or Janow Lubelski. He'll show them the map. Ask them which is the safer route across. He won't tell them their final destination in case they get questioned. If they don't know, maybe they have friends/neighbors they trust.
Sep 23, 2023 7:02 pm
ForeverDED says:
Is that even an option?.
OOC:
If you can dream it and it's reasonable, I don't have a problem with making it happen. I do agree that it makes things more difficult and your group a bigger target.

The Grandparents' own a 1995 Volkswagen Passat.
[ +- ] Passat Image

ForeverDED says:
Ask them which is the safer route across.
The Grandparents point out a couple of known checkpoints along the road, and then say that the Soviets have been capturing NATO troops and executing them in public spaces. They also warn you that their neighbors may have already informed the Soviet military of your presence.

They don't know of a safe route, but they warn you to stay off the roads.
Sep 24, 2023 2:01 am
OOC:
How bad do things look for the people who are living here?
Sep 24, 2023 2:39 am
saevikas says:
OOC:
How bad do things look for the people who are living here?
The area bears the harsh scars of war – buildings damaged, services scarce, luxuries nonexistent. However, people aren't starving, and water is accessible. The Soviet presence, while providing some stability, expects allegiance and compliance, granting a degree of freedom.
Sep 24, 2023 5:42 am
The moment it becomes clear the neighbors may have reported their presence to the remnants of whatever Red units were in the area, Sheepdog beats a relentless drum.

"We can't stay, Lieutenants. We gotta go and we gotta go now." Patting the boy on the shoulder, the soldier adds, "Let's take the kid. There's not much for him here anymore."

Moving to the window, his rifle ready to fire, Baker checks their surroundings, their path to the Humvee. "And we should stay off the roads, from the sounds of it."
Sep 24, 2023 4:46 pm
Tedic nods in agreement about bringing the boy.

"Are Jakub's grandparents going to be fine? I'm sure the neighbors can put one and one together about what we just talked about."
Sep 24, 2023 5:33 pm
Harrigan says:
"We can't stay, Lieutenants. We gotta go and we gotta go now."
"Agreed."
Harrigan says:
Patting the boy on the shoulder, the soldier adds, "Let's take the kid. There's not much for him here anymore."
"Kowalski, let the kid know that now's the time to say goodbye to his grandparents."
saevikas says:
"Are Jakub's grandparents going to be fine? I'm sure the neighbors can put one and one together about what we just talked about."
"Let's hope so."
Harrigan says:
Moving to the window, his rifle ready to fire, Baker checks their surroundings, their path to the Humvee. "And we should stay off the roads, from the sounds of it."
"That means we take the west road instead of the south road. If we were to head south, it's all forest once we get past Lubelski."
Last edited September 24, 2023 5:35 pm
Sep 24, 2023 7:04 pm
OOC:
I believe I understand the plan, but I want to confirm, and I have a follow-up question.

You all plan on continuing the trip with Jakob. The plan is to drive west staying off the main road until you reach the river. Once you reach the river you all…

1. Attempt to cross at the known crossing as indicated by the main road?
2. Attempt to find a lesser known crossing to drive across?
3. Cross some other way (boat or swim)?

This will all take place during the same day shift, so I will keep the driving configuration the same as before. It will be evening shift once you reach the river.
Sep 24, 2023 8:50 pm
OOC:
Right now, I'd say that it depends on what the situation is at the bridge. I'd recommend stopping far enough away to assess the bridge situation with binoculars. That's my vote. Like to know what the rest of the group thinks.
Sep 25, 2023 2:29 am
Giving Reed a half-smile and nod, Baker says, "We can't bring everyone, Private. Wish we could."

As they get ready the discussion turns to how they might cross the river, and Sheepdog pipes up again. "Any chance grams and gramps here know a less-used crossing, some place where the river is low this time of year?"
OOC:
If we don't hear anything from the locals, agree, go west, but stop short of the bridge and recon it on foot after pulling off the road / hiding the vehicle. We're about to start a new Shift, right? Sheepdog still needs sleep.
Sep 25, 2023 3:33 am
Harrigan says:
OOC:
Any chance grams and gramps here know a less-used crossing?
They don't know of any less-used crossings at the river, only a couple of road checkpoints along the way that you can easily bypass.
Harrigan says:
OOC:
If we don't hear anything from the locals
Only the grandparents are willing to speak with you and only because you've taken care of Jakub.
Harrigan says:
OOC:
We're about to start a new Shift
It didn't take long to get to Kraśnik or talk with the parents. The next shift would start by the time you got to the river. (If you go that route)


This is the main crossing west.
[ +- ] Map
Sep 25, 2023 12:10 pm
Chase frowns at the state of the village, but she knows there's nothing the group can do for them. At least they might be able to give Jakub a chance at a better life. She agrees with the proposed plan to bring the kid with them.

"Let's go recon that bridge. With luck, we'll be able to cross before the Soviets catch up to us," Lieutenant Hunter says.
Sep 29, 2023 4:09 pm
Jed nodded. "With the luck we've had so far though, we may be eating Borcht and drinking Vodka before long. Do we have any other choice though? What about cutting south across country and cross at the bridge there?"
Last edited September 29, 2023 4:13 pm
Sep 30, 2023 1:16 am
"We'll use a lot more fuel that way," Sheepdog says, looking at the map. "And two river crossings instead of one... still. Hard to know if any of these bridges are clear or even intact without having a look. We just don't have the intel."
Sep 30, 2023 1:06 pm
OOC:
Should I set up the next 'Scene' as Sheepdog scouts out the bridge?

fyi, the group doesn't have Binoculars, but Sheepdog's M21 rifle has a scope.
Sep 30, 2023 3:26 pm
OOC:
That sounds good to me, gives us something to bite into when people get back.
Sep 30, 2023 4:03 pm
--Evening Shift, Clear Sky--
Well before reaching the bridge, Sheepdog disembarks from the Humvee and proceeds cautiously on foot. After some time, he reaches an elevated position that grants him an advantageous overlook of both the bridge and the road leading to it.

The road itself presents a grim tableau of destruction. Frozen car wrecks are scattered about, some reduced to charred skeletons, while others have been blown apart, bearing the unmistakable scars of artillery strikes. The few remaining vehicles show signs of having fallen victim to a napalm attack, their fiery demise having likely occurred weeks, if not months, in the past. The wreckage is beyond salvage, and the sight of lifeless forms within some of the cars casts a haunting pall over the scene.
OOC:
The charred corpses in the vehicles are so depressing that Sheepdog immediately take 1 point of stress damage.
The bridge, in stark contrast, remains structurally intact and appears to have once served as a conduit for routine traffic. However, on your side of the river, a hasty barricade has been erected. Four men dressed in Soviet uniforms stand vigil around it, each armed with AK-47 rifles. One among them holds a radio.
OOC:
Anyone that comes with Sheepdog and sees the corpses suffers 1 stress. Anyone who comes here in the future and sees them will also suffer stress.

I'm presuming Sheepdog would go back with this intel, but if you all think it plays out differently let me know.

I'll provide a tactical map if you decide to engage in combat. I'll also provide more info in the Humvee's fuel then.
Oct 1, 2023 6:38 am
OOC:
Stress marked. What time of day is it again?
After witnessing the grim scene, and making note of where the military assets were on the map so he could point them out, Baker scans the other side of the bridge with his scope, then heads back to inform everyone else what he's found.

"Not good. Whole junkyard full of vehicles... half of them filled with the poor bastards that were driving them when the got got. Soviets down there, at least four with a radio."
Oct 1, 2023 11:56 am
OOC:
It's the start of the evening shift. Sheepdog will become sleep deprived at the start of the next shift.
Oct 1, 2023 7:15 pm
After hearing Sheepdog's report, Cunningham asks him, "How probable do you think we can take them out at distance? Sniper the radio guy, while the rest of us move in closer and slug it out with the remainder?"
Oct 1, 2023 7:46 pm
"Or maybe just drive through really fast? Do they have barricades in place?"
Oct 1, 2023 10:11 pm
saevikas says:
"Or maybe just drive through really fast?
OOC:
I like Tedic 😂
Oct 1, 2023 11:25 pm
OOC:
Were there barricades before, on, or after the bridge?
Oct 2, 2023 1:38 am
OOC:
The barricades are positioned directly at the entrance to the bridge. They consist of portable metal barriers reinforced with sandbags. Their placement appears hastily executed, and the intention seems to be not to entirely halt traffic but to impede it. The arrangement forces drivers to veer left around the first barricade and then execute a sharp right turn to pass the second, effectively slowing down any approaching vehicles.
[ +- ] Example Metal Barrier
[ +- ] Driving around them
Oct 2, 2023 2:49 am
"Light barriers. Nothing we couldn't drive around, or through," Baker responds to Reed, then he answers Cunningham's original question.

"Could definitely do that, I could get him from a ways out. The gunfire might brings others runnin' though, and one of the others might get on that radio quick enough."
Oct 2, 2023 3:16 am
"We do have the M249 if everyone needs to go at once."
OOC:
How many bullets is it per ammo belt again?
Oct 2, 2023 3:41 am
OOC:
Usually 200, but it does also take M16 / M4 mags.
Oct 2, 2023 12:15 pm
saevikas says:
OOC:
How many bullets is it per ammo belt again?
OOC:
Confirming what Harrigan already said: 200.
[ +- ] Battle Map of Area
OOC:
It's not pretty, but it should get the job done. All 4 enemies are represented by the 1 diamond.
Oct 2, 2023 2:51 pm
OOC:
Plenty pretty! And we’re currently up north, up the road / off the map? Confirming, these hexes are 10m across, right?

These three Xs are all positions Baker would point to where he could make the shot from. Figure he’d go around the back side of the hill on foot, approaching from the east.

https://i.imgur.com/I01RH4S.jpg

-Or- we could set up the LMB behind the rocks north of the bridge, and have Sheepdog pick the soldiers off after they took cover from a flanking position — see the blue text:

https://i.imgur.com/ccyCAgY.jpg

Just ideas. And I enjoy this part of the game, angling to get a tactical advantage. If others don’t by all means we can skip discussion and get get to the action.
Oct 2, 2023 3:05 pm
Harrigan says:
OOC:
And we’re currently up north, up the road / off the map? Confirming, these hexes are 10m across, right?
OOC:
Yes, both statements are correct. You are currently north up the road off of the map. The hexes are 10m across.
Oct 2, 2023 3:11 pm
OOC:
It might be difficult getting to the north rocks without being spotted, so the first plan seems safer to me. Also, a reminder for the GM that Chase has Historian, so she knows if any sites she comes across have historical significance.
Oct 2, 2023 3:15 pm
OOC:
I'm good with planning these things out. Always a good idea to me.

This looks like it could be a good flanking maneuver. Sheepdog at one of the X. Reed at M21. The Humvee drives down the road, gets the guards' attention, then veers off to LMB rock and parks behind it. Kowalski, Hunter, and Cunningham exit the Humvee and start shooting to draw out the guards, then Sheepdog snipes radio guy and Reed strafes the rest so they can't get to radio. This assumes that radio guy doesn't automatically call in reinforcements.

Is this what you're thinking of, Harrigan?
Oct 2, 2023 3:26 pm
Dmbrainiac says:
OOC:
Chase has Historian
OOC:
Thanks for the reminder. I'll make sure to give you updates when you enter new areas. When possible, I'll try to point out gameplay advantages that the information could provide.
Hunter knows about this bridge.
[ +- ] Annopol Bridge
Oct 3, 2023 4:47 am
Quote:
OOC:
Is this what you're thinking of, Harrigan?
OOC:
Close enough. Though maybe Baker gets eyes-on the radio guy even before the hummer comes down the road. The M21 (that's Sheepdog's rifle) position, and the Xs -- those could be Baker with the sniper rifle and Reed with the SAW. But does that leave any long arms with the humvee crew? If Reed and Baker go on foot, it'll be around the back of that hill, then up and on top of it, with the NVG.
Oct 3, 2023 1:17 pm
Harrigan says:
OOC:
But does that leave any long arms with the humvee crew?
OOC:
Kowalski has a M4A1 Carbine with a M203 attachment. Not long range, but better than the pistols the officers both have.
Oct 3, 2023 5:25 pm
Harrigan says:
Close enough. Though maybe Baker gets eyes-on the radio guy even before the hummer comes down the road. The M21 (that's Sheepdog's rifle) position, and the Xs -- those could be Baker with the sniper rifle and Reed with the SAW. But does that leave any long arms with the humvee crew? If Reed and Baker go on foot, it'll be around the back of that hill, then up and on top of it, with the NVG.
OOC:
Oh sorry, my bad on the specific spots. So Sheepdog and Baker on the right with Kowalski, Hunter, and Cunningham in the Humvee heading toward the rock? While the range ain't great for our pistols, the flanking angle seems better to me than driving the Humvee up to the ruined vehicles. Do we have consensus?
Oct 4, 2023 3:47 am
OOC:
Sounds good to me.

It might be better to have Reed do the driving, and someone else do the machine gunning. Besides a decent score in AGI/STR, Reed isn't actually better at shooting the gun than anyone else.
Oct 4, 2023 4:52 am
OOC:
Sheepdog is Baker. :)

We have a bunch of positions we could try to get to, though frankly most of them are a lot closer than I'd like. See below -- if Reed is driving, who is going where with what armament?
https://i.imgur.com/tXHrd70.jpg
Oct 4, 2023 1:24 pm
OOC:
Your line of sight is impeded in position 3 with the hill to the left and leaning right will put a car between you and the enemies. Positions 1 and 2 are more open and would require a successful RECON roll to get to position.

Tentative plan sounds like one person at 4 and one 5 (with the M249 and M21). The rest of the group drives from the north and parks behind the rock at position 1 and they open fire.

Sequence of events is?
1. M21 takes shot at the radio guy
2. M249 opens fire at the rest of the group.
3. Humvee drives to cover
4. Roll initiate and the battle begins

Does that sound correct? If there is anything I can do to help facilitate the plan, don't hesitate to speak up.
Oct 4, 2023 7:40 pm
Harrigan says:
OOC:
Sheepdog is Baker. :)
OOC:
{Smacks self in forehead.} I knew that. Really.

I guess we just have to decide who's going with Baker.

@Dmbrainiac, any thoughts?
Oct 4, 2023 7:58 pm
OOC:
Sorry, I don’t have much of a head for tactics, despite my character’s rank! Chase is good at ranged combat but not heavy weapons, so she will go wherever she has the best angle and range to use her skills.
Oct 4, 2023 8:02 pm
OOC:
@Knighthawke you should weigh in too.
Oct 5, 2023 4:33 am
OOC:
We need someone with some HW skills! :)

And yeah, I see some LOS issues here and there from many of those positions, though being up high might solve some of that.

I think the M21/M249/Humvee rollout works, provided we all get into position.
Oct 5, 2023 2:01 pm
[ +- ] Updated Battle Map
OOC:
I put Sheepdog at rock south of the map. Cunningham is hiding in the trees. LOS is not impeded for either. (They are elevated, and rules state you can see through 3 hexes of forest).

I will start the chain of events when Sheepdog rolls for ranged attacked. Cunnigham with M249 can roll for heavy weapon attack ahead of time, but I'll resolve it after Sheepdog. The rest of the group will drive to the rock and get out. (Or does Reed want to drive through the enemies?) Then I'll roll for initiative.

I'll take over for @Knighthawke. If we continue to not hear from him, I'll reach out to @Pedrop to see if he's still interested in jumping in.

Plans can change until shots are fired. Then we're locked in.
Oct 6, 2023 2:42 am
OOC:
Checking in with the team before executing -- all sound good? Trying to hit the commander with the radio, ideally.

Prepping for this shot, see if I have the mods right:

Agility d10, Ranged Combat d10.
10 hexes away -- that's the range of the M21.
It's too far for the NVG to be effective, so -2 from darkness -- I figure Moonlight or Starlight, so d8/d8.
Elevated Firing Position +1 for d10/d8.
Sniper Aim action -- prone and using a telescopic sight for +2, so the final accounting is d12/d10.

Yeah?
Oct 6, 2023 12:03 pm
OOC:
Plan sounds good to me.
Oct 6, 2023 1:53 pm
Harrigan says:
OOC:
I figure Moonlight or Starlight
OOC:
It's the start of the evening shift, so I would say dusk. Only a -1 modifier. Final comes to d12/d12

Calculations for everyone else for your convenience.
[ +- ] Cunningham
[ +- ] Hunter
[ +- ] Reed
[ +- ] Throwing Grenades
Never hesitate to ask questions for clarification. You can always just tell me what you want to do on your turn, and I can provide you with the rolls required.

It's a lot of moving parts, so if you notice something wrong with my calculations, call me out! - I always lean towards giving the player the benefit of the doubt.

Edit: Trying to not throw a wall of text at you. Created a reference thread here
Oct 6, 2023 2:02 pm
OOC:
The first turn for Reed and Hunter will just be getting into position. Calculations for above will be for the following turn.
Oct 6, 2023 5:12 pm
OOC:
Sounds good to me.
Oct 7, 2023 3:08 am
OOC:
Sounds good to me as well.
Once Cunningham and Sheepdog are in place, Reed quickly and quietly drives the rest of the group behind the rock. He makes sure Jakob has his head down inside the Humvee before hopping out and getting his pistol ready.
OOC:
I'll go for the partial cover in exchange for more accuracy. Rolling now so that I don't forget to later.

I'm not sure how to calculate ammo used since I didn't use any ammo dice. Also, where's the hit location table?
Last edited October 7, 2023 3:11 am

Rolls

PISTOLL - (1d8, 1d6)

1d8 : (8) = 8

1d6 : (4) = 4

Oct 7, 2023 3:54 am
OOC:
Hit Location
If you want, you can roll a 1d6 and write "Hit Location" as the reason and the result will show the location. I’ve included the table below for reference.
[ +- ] Hit Location Table
Ammo Dice
If you don’t use ammo dice, you fire 1 bullet.
Oct 7, 2023 4:55 am
OOC:
Nice, I feel like a sniper.

Rolls

Hit Location - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Oct 7, 2023 5:16 am
OOC:
So Cunningham and Baker don't need to roll Recon or Mobility to get into position? Also forgot baker has Sniper, so that would be a further +1 -- and might cancel some of the tree cover we didn't include... perhaps because he's shooting over it.

Let me know on getting into position and I'll make that roll, or take the first shot.
Oct 7, 2023 5:18 am
OOC:
Oh, and actually -- rather than waste the +1... I'll call the shot. Head shot, -2 -- so I think Baker would be rolling d12/d10, yeah?
Oct 7, 2023 12:49 pm
OOC:
Harrigan says:
So Cunningham and Baker don't need to roll Recon or Mobility to get into position?
That's right. I'm basing this on the rather hastily way the guards have set things up, his earlier success with RECON, and the position they are going to.
Harrigan says:
Also forgot baker has Sniper, so that would be a further +1
Good catch. I'm making a point to write down everyone's specialties for reference. I also missed Hunter's Historian specialty.
Harrigan says:
might cancel some of the tree cover we didn't include... perhaps because he's shooting over it.
Yep, I'm assuming he can see and shoot over the tree cover.
Harrigan says:
d12/d10
Looks good to me.
Oct 7, 2023 2:27 pm
Master Sergeant Baker and Lieutenant Cunningham head east and then south in the twilight, approaching their agreed positions from behind the hill they hope to provide fire from.

Minutes after splitting up, Sheepdog settles into his prone firing position, getting comfortable, taking his time and putting his sights on the unsuspecting Soviet with the radio. Controlling his breathing, he takes the shot and starts the attack.

Baker curses as his gun reports and the shot falls short, sparking against a barricade in front of his target. He sends more rounds downrange to hopefully scatter the soldiers, but doesn't land any hits.
OOC:
By the table in the book, I had a 4% chance of missing if I pushed!

Looks like my weapon's reliability goes down by 1, and he spends either 5, 4, or 9 ammo. Do you add them together if you push?
Last edited October 7, 2023 2:36 pm

Rolls

Headshot from the M21, Including 2d6 from RoF - (1d12, 1d10, 1d6, 1d6)

1d12 : (3) = 3

1d10 : (3) = 3

1d6 : (2) = 2

1d6 : (3) = 3

Pushed Attack - (1d12, 1d10, 1d6, 1d6)

1d12 : (4) = 4

1d10 : (2) = 2

1d6 : (1) = 1

1d6 : (3) = 3

Oct 7, 2023 2:59 pm
OOC:
Harrigan says:
4% chance of missing if I pushed!
Bad luck!
Harrigan says:
he spends either 5, 4, or 9 ammo
Use the new total of 4.
Oct 7, 2023 3:04 pm
OOC:
@ForeverDED go ahead and roll for Cunningham. His action is next.

Rolling initiative for everyone.

Will show initiative after Cunningham's action

Rolls

Cunningham - (1d1000)

(438) = 438

Reed - (1d1000)

(361) = 361

Sheepdog (COMBAT AWARENESS) - (1d1000, 1d1000)

1d1000 : (223) = 223

1d1000 : (591) = 591

Hunter - (1d1000)

(432) = 432

Enemies - (1d1000)

(149) = 149

Enemies CUF - (1d8)

(3) = 3

Oct 7, 2023 5:56 pm
It had been a while since Cunningham fired an M249. Probably not since BT. He ran through his head what he'd been taught while getting set up with the bipod mount. When the signal was given, he opened fire.
OOC:
Using the d8 as instructed earlier.

Rolls

Hit targets - (1d8)

(3) = 3

Damage, if successful - (6d6)

(623665) = 28

Oct 7, 2023 8:00 pm
Sheepdog shoots 4 rounds from his M21 all miss. His M21 loses 1 reliability.

Then Cunningham opens fire with the M249 unleashing 28 rounds. All miss, but still force the enemies to make a CUF check because of the 6s on the ammo dice.

Immediately Reed drives down with the Humvee and parks behind the rock. Hunter and him jump out and get into position.

The 4 Soviets fail CUF and are now suppressed. They all drop prone, take 1 stress damage. All lose fast/slow actions during their first turn. The one with the radio uses a free action to speak into it.

Within seconds an artillery shell hits the area far north of Sheepdog. It clearly did not have good coordinates for accuracy.

Artillery shells will continue to hit every enemy turn.

Initiative
1. Enemies
2. Sheepdog
3. Reed
4. Hunter
5. Cunningham

Sheepdog you’re up
Because of combat awareness. I rolled initiative for you twice. You can go now or go last.
Oct 8, 2023 2:24 am
Adjusting his aim, adjusting for the windage and elevation, Sheepdog fires again, still trying to take out the leader.
OOC:
Fast Action - Aim (not Sniper Aim, which is a Slow Action), Slow Action - Shoot Firearm.

Agility d10, Ranged Combat d10
Sniper offers +1, so d12/d10
10 hexes away -- that's the range of the M21
It's too far for the NVG to be effective, so -1 from twilight for d10/d10.
Elevated Firing Position +1 for d12/d10.
Aim action -- prevents -2 penalty

Rolling d12/d10, using RoF 1.

Looks like a hit with two successes, so 3+1 damage. Crit rating of the rifle is 3, checking hit location now. 8, Torso. Unless the target has armor or hard cover, I think that means Torn Intestines. Poor bastard got gut-shot.

Five rounds expended. Hoping I did all this correctly!
Last edited October 8, 2023 2:31 am

Rolls

M21 Shot at Leader - (1d12, 1d10, 1d6)

1d12 : (4) = 4

1d10 : (10) = 10

1d6 : (5) = 5

Hit Location - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Torso Location - (1d10)

(8) = 8

Oct 8, 2023 1:48 pm
Sheepdog fires another 5 rounds. Critical Hit! Enemy 1 with the radio takes 4 damage and has torn intestines. He now has -1 to STAMINA. (Fast Action: Aim | Slow Action: Shoot)

Reed takes partial cover behind the rock, aims at Enemy 1, and then shoots a single round into his leg dealing 1 dmg. (Fast Action: Aim | Slow Action: Shoot)

Enemy 1 becomes incapacitated by his wounds and collapses unconscious. There are 3 remaining enemies lying prone on the bridge.

Hunter you're up
Some suggestions: Attempt to make the difficult shot or move closer.
[ +- ] Example Shooting Turn
[ +- ] Example Moving Turn
Oct 8, 2023 1:51 pm
OOC:
Updated Ranged Combat Player Aids in the reference thread.

Keeping track of basic PC stats on this page.
Oct 9, 2023 2:27 pm
Seeing an opening, Chase dashes forward and drops down to take cover in some bushes closer to the enemy position.
OOC:
Taking GM’s suggestion to move 2 hexes closer and drop prone.
Oct 9, 2023 2:44 pm
Cunningham chides himself for not hitting any of the Reds, but at least he got their attention. He aims again and fires more conservatively this time. Gotta conserve ammo.
OOC:
Going with half the ammo dice this time.
Last edited October 9, 2023 2:45 pm

Rolls

Hit targets - (1d8)

(5) = 5

Damage, if successful - (3d6)

(224) = 8

Oct 9, 2023 3:51 pm
Hunter swiftly advances toward a cluster of dense brush seizing the chance while the enemies are momentarily caught off guard. (Fast Action: Move | Fast Action: Move)

Cunningham continues firing with the M249, but still doesn’t hit. 8 rounds spent. (Fast Action: Aim | Slow Action: Shoot)
OOC:
[ +- ] GM Sidebar for Cunningham
The enemy combatants recover from suppression and get up from prone. Two run for cover to the vehicles ahead. The third rushes to the radio and picks it up and gives coordinates to aim. The artillery strike misses, but it's much closer this time.
[ +- ] Enemy Action Details
https://i.imgur.com/eWAnUL9.png

Rolls

Artillery target: 1 Reed, 2 Hunter, 3 Sheepdog, 4 Cunningham - (1d4)

(1) = 1

Enemy 3 aim artillery (INT + HW) - (1d6+1d0)

(3) + (0) = 3

Oct 9, 2023 4:12 pm
[ +- ] Updated Battle Map
Sheepdog you're up.
Oct 10, 2023 6:13 am
Sheepdog instinctively hunkers down further when the arty comes in, and he swears to himself when a round lands no terribly far from the humvee. They're correcting!

Quickly, he takes aim on the soldier that picked up the radio and tries to take him out.
OOC:
Fast Action - Aim (not Sniper Aim, which is a Slow Action), Slow Action - Shoot Firearm.

Agility d10, Ranged Combat d10
Sniper offers +1, so d12/d10
7-8 hexes away -- that's within M21 range
Still too far for the NVG to be effective, so -1 from twilight for d10/d10.
Elevated Firing Position +1 for d12/d10.
Aim action -- prevents -2 penalty

Rolling d12/d10, using RoF 1...

Hit with two successes for 4 damage. I'd like to use the Ammo Die hit to also strike soldier #2 if that's possible -- if they are in the same hex?

Rolling a crit for Soldier 3: Another gutshot!

Let me know if I can strike that second target -- feel free to roll crits if I can to keep things moving. Marking off 6 ammo.
Last edited October 10, 2023 6:20 am

Rolls

Firing with 1 RoF - (1d12, 1d10, 1d6)

1d12 : (7) = 7

1d10 : (7) = 7

1d6 : (6) = 6

Hit Location - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Torso Location - (1d10)

(8) = 8

Oct 10, 2023 12:43 pm
OOC:
Unfortunately, Enemies 2 & 3 moved out of the hex on their last turn. It would have been cool to split up fire to hurt multiple.

https://i.imgur.com/OXirHFQ.png

Sheepdog fires 6 rounds that tear through the Soviet's intestines. Another Critical Hit! Enemy 4 who currently has the radio takes 5 damage and collapses unconscious from his wounds. (Fast Action: Aim | Slow Action: Shoot)

There are only 2 enemies remaining.

Reed you're up!
Oct 11, 2023 5:06 am
Seeing the artillery get closer, Reed makes a snap decision, hopping back in the Humvee and driving it north to take it out of combat. Hopefully the others wrap things up soon.
Last edited October 11, 2023 5:06 am
Oct 11, 2023 1:23 pm
Reed sprints towards the Humvee, leaping into the driver's seat. With the engine roaring to life, he pushes the accelerator to the floor, and the vehicle surges forward, hurtling away to the north at breakneck speed, escaping the incoming artillery fire.

Cunningham you're up!
[ +- ] Shooting Info
Oct 11, 2023 2:58 pm
OOC:
It sounds like it might be prudent to stay put rather than move.
Cunningham catches a glimpse of the Humvee taking off, presumably to get out of range. That last artillery round was too close for comfort for them. He doesn't know if Hunter moved got into the Humvee, too, so he assumes she doesn't and opts to provide some cover for her. He takes aim and fires.

Rolls

Hit targets - (1d10)

(10) = 10

Ammo - (6d6)

(242436) = 21

Oct 11, 2023 3:09 pm
Cunningham fires 21 rounds from the M249 dealing 4 damage. Critical hit! The rounds rip through the soviet's torso causing internal bleeding. The enemy falls down and drops his weapon. He can no longer walk just crawl.

The unharmed Soviet, his eyes wide with panic and his morale shattered by the critical injuries of his comrades, will make an attempt to flee on his next turn.

Hunter you’re up!
You can shoot the enemy that looks like he will flee or just let him go.
[ +- ] Example Shooting Info

Rolls

Hit Location - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Critical Hit Details - (1d10)

(9) = 9

Oct 11, 2023 4:57 pm
Chase aims and takes the shot before the soldier can flee.

Rolls

Shoot - (d6, d8)

d6 : (3) = 3

d8 : (6) = 6

Oct 11, 2023 5:04 pm
OOC:
@Dmbrainiac do you want to roll 2d6 ammo dice for your roll? You'll shoot more rounds, but you'll have a chance of doing more damage and a critical hit.
Oct 11, 2023 5:35 pm
OOC:
Sure I'll give it a shot, pun intended.

Well, that sucked. :D
Last edited October 11, 2023 5:36 pm

Rolls

Ammo - (2d6)

(11) = 2

Oct 11, 2023 6:23 pm
Hunter fires two rounds at enemy 2, the one with panic in his eyes, dealing 1 damage.

Enemy 2 leaving his critically wounded ally behind runs as fast as possible west towards the bridge trying to escape. He makes it 5 hexes from his current location so roughly halfway on the bridge.

Last Combat Turn
Sheepdog can take 1 final turn to try and hit the runner with his sniper rifle, or he can let him go.
[ +- ] Example Shot
For all intents and purposes combat is done. Enemy 3 is suffering from internal bleeding and crawling away. Enemy 2 is on the bridge running. The morale of the group increases by 1 due to the successful combat without any injuries. Unit Moral Goes from C to B.

Rolls

Running (AGL) - (1d10)

(2) = 2

Running (AGL) Push - (1d10)

(7) = 7

Oct 11, 2023 6:45 pm
After Sheepdog's decision, please continue in this thread. The artillery fire is random, but fairly localized. I am assuming that the group would regroup just out of artillery range and make their next move.
Oct 12, 2023 5:12 am
Sheepdog fires again, trying to take down the fleeing soldier. They don't need him reporting their numbers, positions, and armaments to anyone...
OOC:
Roll d8/d10

Base d10/d10
Sniper +1 for d12/d10
Elevated Firing Position +1 for d12/d12
Medium Range -1 for d12/d10
Dim Light - 1 for d10/1d0
Moving Target - 1 for d10/d8

Edit: Pushing. I think I have to leave the ammo die as-is, and it will hurt the reliability of the weapon... hit on the Push, with the potential for a critical, depending on location / armor. (Don't know his arm armor, so letting the GM take care of the crit if there is one.)
Last edited October 12, 2023 5:15 am

Rolls

Firing with RoF 1 - (1d10, 1d8, 1d6)

1d10 : (2) = 2

1d8 : (5) = 5

1d6 : (1) = 1

Push - (1d10, 1d8)

1d10 : (7) = 7

1d8 : (3) = 3

Hit Location - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Oct 12, 2023 12:17 pm
Sheepdog fires 1 round dealing 3 damage. Critical Hit! Weapon reliability - 1.

The bullet tears through the enemy's shoulder, severing his arm from his body. The force of the impact is so intense that he stumbles and flips over the side of the bridge, his severed arm flying through the air.

Rolls

Critical Hit - (1d10)

(10) = 10

Thread locked