Gruppe Null

[AlphaWolf]

SPOILER: Click to show

The planet is a temperate planet, similar to Earth and Reach. The planet was settled due to its deposits of commonly used metals. The metals are mined, shipped to the capital, smelted into solid blocks, and then put in orbit, put aboard freighters, and shipped to manufacturing planets.





Most residents are of Eastern European and Russian descent. They're a hardy people. Most of them work in the mines or smelters, but a few make a living by scratching out farms. They don't like being controlled by the CAA, and many of them hold no love for the UEG/CAA/CMA/UNSC. Opposition to the anti-Innie effort is heavy.



The planet's cities tend to be very grimy and dirty--it's clearly a poorer, more blue-collar planet than anything else.  In the capital, Maslovo, there is one neighborhood, River Falls, that stands out as being clean and well-kept--it's where all the politicians and heavy money-makers live.  It's a fenced and gated community with guards provided by a small, local security company.  The Westside, which is industrial warehouses and factories, seems to be the heart of the Insurrection, as well as the surrounding suburbs of Riverside, Ostrov, and Kerva, all sleeper communities with minimal industry in their own communities.

Team Lead Mark Townsend

Awaiting Arrival

The Port District, Maslovo

New Russia

((G0 characters are in the conference room with Mark, ONI characters are aboard a shuttle, inbound to the spaceport, and Insurrection characters are wherever.))

Mark sat in the small conference room with his team, his feet up on the table.  They had a few minutes until they needed to be on the flight line to receive their "package"--three ONI types they were to escort around--and he intended to chat with his team until it happened.

"So remember guys, these three are very important people.  Yes sir and no sir them.  In T minus ten, they'll be dirtside.  We'll be beside the flight line waiting for them at T minus nine.  We'll drive out to the flightline and meet the shuttle, then board and introduce ourselves nicely.  We'll escort them off the shuttle, and then we'll shove their asses in the Bears as soon as they off the shuttle.  It's already conspicuous by having us meet them at the flight line, but we don't need any goddamn farmer with a rifle taking potshots at us with us in the open.  Once we get them in the Bear, we're going to get off the flightline and head for Downtown.  Once we pass through the checkpoints, we'll head for the apartments we're set up in and take them up.  Wear your full gear.  Stay frosty."

Mark took his feet off the table and started going over his gear, making sure he had a good load.  His team was two short than the usual, but he was alright with that since the ONI team had a "protection detail", but he wasn't entirely sure what that entailed.  They were only using two Bears, with two team members in each, and the ONI guys in the rear Bear.

[Guardian Cat of Yappa's]

Rhino-1 Luca Armrusch

Another Day of Being Shot At 

The Port District, Maslovo

New Motherf***ing Russia

Luca was standing off to the left of the door, he never liked sitting down, a habit he developed as an EOD for the 223rd CE. He was already irritated because of this planet, snow, snow, and more f***ing snow. Luca's attention turned from his own mental b***hing to Mark as he briefed the team. 

"So remember guys, these three are very important people. Yes sir and no sir them. In T minus ten, they'll be dirtside. We'll be beside the flight line waiting for them at T minus nine. We'll drive out to the flightline and meet the shuttle, then board and introduce ourselves nicely. We'll escort them off the shuttle, and then we'll shove their asses in the Bears as soon as they off the shuttle. It's already conspicuous by having us meet them at the flight line, but we don't need any goddamn farmer with a rifle taking potshots at us with us in the open. Once we get them in the Bear, we're going to get off the flightline and head for Downtown. Once we pass through the checkpoints, we'll head for the apartments we're set up in and take them up. Wear your full gear. Stay frosty."



Mark couldn't help but b***h a little bit about their "VIPs" that they were transporting. "Awe we get to escort the spooks on their trip through Innie Turf, well boys be prepared for stupid remarks and other such things from the idiots in black." Mark never liked ONI, they had gotten a few of his squad mates in the 223rd killed from reckless orders. Course his hands were already running over his gear, checking to make sure everything was set and ready to go. 

[Llau]

ONI Team Lead, Section III Field Operator, Lieutenant Commander Michelangelo Moretti
Inbound to the spaceport, Maslovo, New Russia
Innies...Innies everywhere
Tag(s): Faclan LaxKnight


They were sitting in the back of their transport, on their way to the Maslovo's spaceport to meet up with the PMC who were part of this joint-operation against Insurrectionists here on this shitty-looking planet. He sat quietly, wearing part of his ONI uniform, which he also was wearing a civilian jacket, while he kept his uniform jacket and armor in one bag, and his DMR in another, but had his service handgun secured in his thigh holster. Hyde and Vo knew what they were going to do first after reaching dirt-side. Meet up with GO, have their little meeting, and then they shall get this operation under way. He sighed, glancing down at his wrist-watch, before looking up at his good friend, who was here in case aliens were involved, but Moretti recommended him since he knew he could work well with the man, and Hyde could certainly hold his own now in a gunfight. Then there's Lani Vo, another Section III field agent, but she was also an Acquisition Specialist...who was also his relative. They were both Section III but he only worked with her once, but it was a very brief meeting with Vo. He also never had the chance to discuss with her how they were both relatives, in which he knew she didn't know, or she probably did. Who knows. 

He leaned over in his seat, and clasped his hands together to look over at the two agents who were in his charge. He was glad he didn't have to deal with Taylor, but then again, she was currently on another mission elsewhere, and that was his saving grace. 

"You two good? Need to brief one more time before we land, or no?" A pause. "Just know that after this mission is completed, that ONI wants to deny involvement here. Meaning, we weren't here at all, and if we're caught by the enemy, ONI will also deny knowing us. So, I'd very much would like the operation to run smoothly."

He smiled a little. "Capire?" He chuckled after a moment pause, and then explained, "That's...that's 'understand' in Italian..."

[LaxKnight]

ONI Section III, Acquisitions Operative, Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Lani Vo
Inbound to the spaceport, Maslovo, New Russia
A Team? What’s that?
Tag(s): Llau, Faclan

Three of them sat in the back of of the shuttle to their new mission. One, the leader of their group, was a man she met only once before but his status among the Section III community was almost legendary. A man of his track record was an excellent pick for this mission. The other was a long haired scientist who specializes in alien languages. An unusual choice given that they would be dealing with Insurrectionists but his true purpose probably had to deal more with companionship, brains, and access to Section I resources than anything else.

Then there was her. The Acquisitions Operative as ONI liked to call her. To everyone else however Lani Vo was the thief, the criminal who got caught and ‘decided’ it would be more fun to steal for the government than be stuck in a cell for the rest of her life. She was always admitted she was a thief, even to herself, and had no problems with it. The only difference between now and then is that she’s currently under management by the government. She was no killer or terrorist but given her background, she was a logical choice given her second role as a reconnaissance agent. She will be able to blend in much better than the rest of the team, especially now that ONI removed the big CLASSIFIED stamp on her criminal record so anyone who checked it would see she was the real deal.

She wore the black bodysuit that ONI issued her with her armor however instead of plates she wore normal clothes over it. She was clad a generic jacket with a pair of jeans and more normal boots that came with her suit. On her hands were black gloves and on her head was a grey beanie. Overall not she didn’t stand out much. Underneath her jacket were several gadgets and such like rope, lock pick set, taser, a civilian data pad, and a few other trinkets well hidden. Her armor, weapons, and other gear were stuffed in a backpack she carried. She was always packed light. She sat in the corner with the rest of her team.

Team. She can’t remember the last time she heard that word. She’s had partners but rarely a team. It was almost foreign to her. It made her uncomfortable. She was used to being solo, alone, with maybe someone to tag along and give information once in awhile but now she will be forced in an environment with not one other person, but a whole team. Chaos was bound to ensue, especially with her ‘habits’. She imagined these men, these PMCs, wouldn’t take so kindly to them. She wasn’t put in teams for a reason. ONI will find out real quick why. Like how the scientist will when he realizes his second pair of glasses are missing.

The team lead, Mike, asked them if they understood their current plan which she confirmed with a simple nod. She was used to the plausible deniability clause of ONI. Hook up with PMCs, drive to base, and probably have a team meet and greet session that she dreads. Simple.

[RiddL]

Halt Arratay

Rhino-3

Farmers, Vodka and Insurrectionists...

The Port District, Maslovo 

New Russia 

Halt stood quietly in the back corner sharpening his blades, his eyes never leaving mark as he gave the brief.

"So remember guys, these three are very important people. Yes sir and no sir them. In T minus ten, they'll be dirtside. We'll be beside the flight line waiting for them at T minus nine. We'll drive out to the flightline and meet the shuttle, then board and introduce ourselves nicely. We'll escort them off the shuttle, and then we'll shove their asses in the Bears as soon as they off the shuttle. It's already conspicuous by having us meet them at the flight line, but we don't need any goddamn farmer with a rifle taking potshots at us with us in the open. Once we get them in the Bear, we're going to get off the flightline and head for Downtown. Once we pass through the checkpoints, we'll head for the apartments we're set up in and take them up. Wear your full gear. Stay frosty."



His eyes swiveled over to Luca as he threw in his two cents worth and sighed as he leaned against the far wall.

"So do we flip a coin to see who the lucky winners are to be riding with the spooks?" He said half-jokingly as his eyes moved back to Marks face. He sheathed his blades rolled his shoulders, stretching the muscles and limbering up for more fun in the snow.

[Faclan]

(Lil sneak stealing glasses D: )

Chris Hyde - ONI Section I, Covenant language expert.
Shuttle on way to location.
Always a bridesmaid, never a bride.

It seemed to be a common theme these days with ONI and the missions he was being sent on that he was always just there 'in case'. In case the other Agents failed, in case aliens happened to show up, in case they needed to work an all nighter but the other Agents were too tired. Scratching his beard a little Chris just kept sitting in the chair, still sitting straight so his dull-drums weren't as visible as their ride continued toward the Innie hotspot of New Russia. Somtimes he wished he was just back in the sound labs being a sceintist like he was and not being out here as a Field Agent...But then again the reason he started doing Field Work was to not be bored. Cant win really.

Looking over at Mike as he asked if they were alright and what ONI's stance on this mission was he just nodded before rolling his eyes. "Yeah I got it, standard ONI stuff - and you speak Itilian so much Mike I can pick up most of what you are 'putting down dawg'. But we're looking for Innie intel and possibly their leader to 'deal with' if we get lucky. Sum it up well?"

Glancing down at his own appearance, a grey unbranded hoodie, jeans, and boots with just a simple belt to make himself not look like a ONI. It was times like this his appearance helped him as he didn't look like a military type with his big beard and long hair. "At least I'll look the part, just some guy you picked up on the way to carry both of your crap." He said with a bit of head wobble and tongue out before nudging his backpack with his broken down SMG, his loaded but safe pistol in a shoulder holster under his hoodie, and his built up data-pad in there as well. As well as a change of shirt and underwear, never know when you need them, and ammo for both weapons. And of course a spare pair of glasses, never know when his current pair may get broken or lost.

[BetaWülf]

John G. Lesly
Rhino-1
The Port District, Maslovo
New Russia

"So remember guys, these three are very important people. Yes sir and no sir them. In T minus ten, they'll be dirtside. We'll be beside the flight line waiting for them at T minus nine. We'll drive out to the flightline and meet the shuttle, then board and introduce ourselves nicely. We'll escort them off the shuttle, and then we'll shove their asses in the Bears as soon as they off the shuttle. It's already conspicuous by having us meet them at the flight line, but we don't need any goddamn farmer with a rifle taking potshots at us with us in the open. Once we get them in the Bear, we're going to get off the flightline and head for Downtown. Once we pass through the checkpoints, we'll head for the apartments we're set up in and take them up. Wear your full gear. Stay frosty."

John sat in a chair with his feet crossed and his hand behind his head, just smiling. He was imagining himself 'Staying frosty' with a mug of beer, chatting up his family while his brother kicked their Dads ass at pool. But no. He was here, escorting the oh so special ONI agents. More like Government hit men, killing anyone who didn't like the UNSC. His smile faded to a cold, hard frown, the usual look his comrades were familiar with. He chuckled at the others banter.

Pulling the straw out of his soda, he unsheathed one of his knives. "We could always pull straws to decide" he said with grin as he chopped the plastic tube into several pieces of different lengths. "But I'd be fine with... not me!" he said throwing his hand up into the air in a declaration of not wanting to do it. He quickly braced his elbow with the hand of his non-erect arm to solidify his claim and the upright pose of his arm.

[Remnant]

Syris Loktov
Innie HQ
Underground
Unexpected Arrivals

Syris walked into his own personal room, which was huge. He was currently within the Innie's underground Headquarters. His personal room held his own bed on the left side of the room, which was rather large. It had a Flatscreen TV situated on a wall opposite of the door, and it was also rather large. In the center of his room was a couch, that allowed him to view the TV from a distance, but not too far from it. Syris preferred actual TV's that could allow video call and such, rather than using holograms.

He even had a coffee table in front of the couch. Syris would put food and drinks there for when he wanted to have some RNR. Currently, there was a bowl of nachos covered in melted cheese. He made it 10 minutes earlier, but he had to use the restroom, so he never got the chance to eat it yet.

On the right side of the room, in the corner, was a sort of kitchen. Counters served as the frame of it, as well as the walls. There was a refrigerator, it's bottom part served as the actual refrigerator, while the top part served as a freezer. There was an oven as well, that Syris used to make dinner each night. A microwave was situated on one of the counters, to heat his food in case it was too cold.

There was a large cabinet, full of canned foods, dinner plates, glasses, cups, and stuff that shouldn't be in the refrigerator, such as peanut butter. And right outside the kitchen, was a dinner table that had four chairs. He didn't use it much, unless a few guests were coming over.

Casually, he walked over to the cabinet and got out a glass to drink from. It wasn't too large nor too small. He situated the glass on one of the counters, walked to the refrigerator, and got out a gallon of milk. He walked to the glass, took off the cap, and poured the milk into about halfway. He then put the cap back on, and put the milk back into the refrigerator. Grasping his glass of milk, he walked over to the couch, took a sip, and put it on the coffee table, right beside the nachos.

He then sat down, grabbed his remote, and switched the TV on. Not bothering to look at the channels, he switched video sources and attempted to establish a video call with Grey Beard. In the meantime, one of his advisors walked it.

"Sir, our spies have reported in. They wish to speak with you." He said, walking up to Syris and giving him a headset.

"What now? Syris said, after situated the headset onto his head.

"Sir, a shuttle just landed. Three people just came out, we don't recognize them. It seems they're being escorted."

"This can't be good...Tail them. And don't make a scene like last time, keep your damn guns holstered. If they become trouble, gun them down if necessary." Syris said, emphasizing the last two words. "I want all the intel you can get on them."

"Tail them and eavesdrop? As you wish." The spy finished.

Syris handed the advisor the headset, and the advisor walked out of the room. He slouched forward, and reached for the nacho bowl. Grabbing a nacho covered in cheese, he quickly ate it, savoring the delicious taste of melted cheese. He then laid back and looked at the TV, wanting to see if Grey Beard received the video call or not.

[AlphaWolf]

Team Lead Mark Townsend

Meeting Up

The Port District, Maslovo

New Russia

Mark sat and listened as his team bantered back and forth.  None of them particularly liked ONI, which was pretty common among Gruppe Null operators.  But they all liked money, which is why they were there.  That was the one thing universal among Gruppe Null operators.  Cash is second only to the cause.  As they discussed who was riding in what Bear, Mark nodded.

"I am driving the lead Bear.  Lesly is my front passenger.  Armrusch is driving the rear Bear.  Arratay is front passenger.  ONI gets in the rear Bear.  Front passengers, we're rolling full hot.  No stopping, no one gets close.  Fire to disable.  If we take fire, we flee.  If we get ambushed, we floor it.  Rear, you are the package.  You do not stop, regardless of what happens to the lead Bear.  Our route to the checkpoints will be Port Drive to Main Supply Route 3 northbound, then MSR 4 eastbound into downtown.  MSR 3 has been seeing a lot of action recently, so keep your eyes out.  Now, let's get out to the flight line."

Mark stood and headed out of the conference room for the two black Bears that sat outside.  Both bore no markings, and their number plates only read GRP-ZR.  Their windows were tinted a dark black, nearly impossible to see into.  All the tires were solid rubber, and the engine block and passenger compartment had been up-armored.  Walking to the driver's seat of the lead truck, Mark opened the door and got in, cranking it and waiting for the others.

[Guardian Cat of Yappa's]

Rhino-1 Luca Armrusch

Great Taxi Time

The Port District, Maslovo 

New Russia

Luca laughed after Halt joked around about flipping a coin, and shrugged at John when he started to cut his straw up. He leaned forward and stepped away from the wall, figuring they were gonna actually pull straws. His MA37 swung lightly on his side, rubbing against his thigh, just as Mark spoke up and ruined all the fun.

"I am driving the lead Bear. Lesly is my front passenger. Armrusch is driving the rear Bear. Arratay is front passenger. ONI gets in the rear Bear. Front passengers, we're rolling full hot. No stopping, no one gets close. Fire to disable. If we take fire, we flee. If we get ambushed, we floor it. Rear, you are the package. You do not stop, regardless of what happens to the lead Bear. Our route to the checkpoints will be Port Drive to Main Supply Route 3 northbound, then MSR 4 eastbound into downtown. MSR 3 has been seeing a lot of action recently, so keep your eyes out. Now, let's get out to the flight line."



"Fuck me, I got the dam spooks, atleast I got you Halt," a fist lightly tapping the operator's shoulder before Luca walked out the door. Luca stepped onto the asphalt of the driveway, luckily for the G0 operators, the Bears had an area to be parked right outside the conference room. As Mark jumped up into his Bear, Luca walked over to the other and climbed up into his. "Let's get this show on the road boys!"

[RiddL]

Halt Arratay
Rhino-3

Rolling thunder

Arratay gave a small sigh and walked to the rear vehicle, riding shotgun was fine and secretly, he wanted to rife with the spooks, it made the job more interesting and he had affiliated with ONI before leaving the UNSC.

He entered the Bear and placed his left foot against the dash for extra stability. He adjusted he grip on his rifle and sat in a relaxed position for easier shooting, should they be engaged.

"Come on, let's roll, Its cold and I'm hungry." He grumbled irritably, hiding his excitement.

[BetaWülf]

John G. Lesly
Rhino-1
The Port District, Maslovo
New Russia

John grinned from ear to ear, pumping his fist in the air at hearing he was passenger of the lead Bear. "Looks like I'm flying first class today ladies," he said to Armrusch and Arratay "hope you two enjoy riding with the self important, egotistical luggage, give 'em a kick for me" he said with a wink. He truly enjoyed giving people shit, in a humorous way.

He double checked his gear, before heading out with the rest of the Team. He hauled himself up into the passengers seat of the lead Bear, and readied his rifle. He had his Shotgun out too, seated next to him if he needed it on the go. He hummed a deep, low tune to himself, something personal and from back home.

"How's about I open you up a can of chili beans Arratay, we could play some musical fruit tunes on our way to the Spooks" he said with hearty laugh, before starting to hum his little tune again.

[Llau]

ONI Team Lead, Section III Field Operator, Lieutenant Commander Michelangelo Moretti
Spaceport, Maslovo, New Russia
This is going to be lovely...
Tag(s): Faclan, LaxKnight


He glanced at Vo, who simply nodded at him after he asked his question. He smirked a bit in amusement. She truly was a quiet person, but hopefully she can converse with him during the mission if he needs to talk to her. A little more than a few syllables would be nice. He then looked over at Hyde, who spoke back to him.

“Yes, good sir,” He nodded. “You certainly summed it up well enough.” While adding, “I do? Obviously not enough for you to speak Italian back. We could be Italian bros, you know.” He gave him a fake pout, and then chuckled at that.

“Hmm, now that's a great idea, Chris,” he exclaimed,”I always wanted someone to carry my crap around.” He smirked, laughing quietly, and shook his head. “Just kidding...” He then muttered, “Maybe.”

He then quietly rummaged around in his coat pocket for a small music player and placed ear buds into his ears, and started to listen to rap music that was loud enough for the two to hear what he was listening to. Soon enough, the shuttle landed in the spaceport, and once they stopped, he looked up at them. "We'll wait here until they board the shuttle to escort us out of here." Though, he talked a little louder since he still had the ear buds in his ears. He glanced over at a tray of snacks and drinks. "Have a little something while we wait if you want." 

[LaxKnight]

ONI Section III, Civilian Acquisitions Operative Expert Lani Vo
Inbound to the spaceport, Maslovo, New Russia
Waiting...
Tag(s):  Faclan, Llau

It seems the scientist has done this many times before with Mike from the way he responded. Lani wasn’t sure if he was trying to be funny but she didn’t find it too amusing. However at the mention of carrying their gear she subtly pulled hers a little closer to her. Always keep your gear on you, the words of her mentor echoing in her head. It took her moment to realize he was joking when their leader continued on with the joke in which she relaxed. She continued to remain silent as they continued to talk to each other until Mike got out his music player, leaving only the gentle sound of the engines to be heard. That was fine with her. She wasn’t a social person.

Lani felt the craft shudder as it landed. She didn’t make any move to leave for she would try to leave last. Just habit really. Then Mike looked at them and explained that the mercenaries were to meet them on the shuttle and they weren’t to move anywhere. When he looked over to mention the snacks, she saw an opportunity. She knew that he kept his sunglasses in the pocket closest to her. Using the distraction to her advantage, she used one hand to take out his sunglasses while the other gently put in a pair of aviators she acquired earlier in it’s place. She liked his sunglasses and figured he would like the aviators better. She quickly stuff her newly possessed sunglasses in her pocket, hopefully before anyone noticed.

Lani then waited patiently for the mercenaries to arrive, not bothering to make conversation with anyone.

[Faclan]

Tags; Llau, LaxKnight

Chris Hyde - ONI Section I, Covenant language expert.
Shuttle on way to location.
Oh hey snacks.

"You would like that wouldn't you Mike?" Chris said, rolling his eyes a bit as he noticed Lani scoot her gear closer to herself as he waved his hand a bit. "It was just a joke Lani, you can keep your stuff, and carry it too. I think we all have enough to carry already." Still unaware of the theft Hyde was doing his best to keep being friendly as they would all have to work together while investigating the Innie presence at this location. Still hadn't arrived yet, so Chris pulled out a notepad and a pencil and started flipping through the pages looking for where he left off last.

But he looked up as he responded, a bit out of order, to Mikes Italian bro comment as he shrugged with a finger marking his place. "Well I already pretty much know around four languages - dunno if I would have space for more but could always try...You Stronzo - probably butchered the pronunciation there." He smiled a bit before starting to write. This particular page on Sangheili customs that had been observed, Chris writing down what they knew on every other line and asking questions on the lines in between; the current three line section being.

They have communal upbringing so as to make it all equal and for individual skill
- What about those 'Swordsman' gene thing? That seems like it would make one better.
to be the deciding factor and for the strong to surpass the weak

But he looked up when he heard music being played and rolled his eyes a bit at Mike blaring that silly music. It was times like this he wished he remembered more from that ASL book so he could sign to Mike that he was gona go deaf if he kept that up. But instead he just went back to writing before snacks were mentioned. Chris finishing up his current thought, missing Lani snaking the sunglasses, before grabbing a little bag of chips and a water bottle. Slipping the water bottle into his backpacks bottle holder and opening the chips as he crunched and ate.

[MrKill]

Markus 'Grey Beard' McNamra

"I run a business here, not a charity!" Markus said over the phone, slamming home the device on the receiver. This may have been New Russia, the newest location for Mark's company headquarters, but it had been so for nearly five years. He, along with his company, were the topic of many news and gossip articles over in the past to reflect how 'bad' the UNSC had treated them. Before he had arrived on the planet the UNSC had confiscated and destroyed all of his navigation data - courtesy of some new protocol the UNSC made called 'The Cole Protocol' - and destroyed a significant number of his crewed freighters.

Not only did hundreds of people lose jobs, but Mark also lost millions of credits worth of profits each year. He only operated three freighters now, instead of his original fleet of nearly seventy. His 'expedited mining' company - known for the quick mining of resources for local population bodies - wasn't so 'ex[edited' anymore. Yes, his crews were good, but with only three freighters the range he could operate was significantly reduced.

Not to mention he couldn't get to Reach or Earth even if he wanted too. He was struck in a local range of colonies that his ship captains knew the locations to. He hadn't hired one yet that knew of Reach's or Earth's location, but he had collected a database large enough to still make profit. Since the UNSC were lurking in on the civilian ships, Mark had the Captains of his freighters to only use mental knowledge and never write down the location of any planet. His company would fail if the UNSC took his last three freighters. Though he was about to buy another one, indicating that his company still had a decent income, one freighter wouldn't cover the companies expenses.

"Sir, you have a video call on line nine." His secretary said.

"Thank you, Bart." Mark replied. Line nine was only designated for one person, the local insurrectionist leader. He picked up a remote and clicked the receive button. A face appeared in the holographic display, a code ran across the persons face and turned greenish - indicating the line was secure. Oh what money could buy you these days. The only reason the company would collapse from expenses with one freighter... was the fact Mark supplied the insurrectionist movement on New Russia.

"What do you need?" He asked, pouring himself a scotch.

[AlphaWolf]

Team Lead Mark Townsend

Meeting Up

The Port District, Maslovo

New Russia

Once the others had loaded up, Mark put the truck into drive and headed towards the flight line, his eyes scanning for the shuttle.  He spotted it on final approach, it's matte black color making it stand out against the grey and silver civilian shuttles around it.  As the shuttle touched down, he pulled his Bear just ahead of the ramp so the Bear that the spooks were going in could pull up even with it.

"You and Arratay hop out, look important.  Keep your eyes out for anything odd," he said as he stepped out of the Bear, his MA5 slung at the low-ready position.  Striding to the shuttle, he walked up the ramp, nodding at the two Gruppe Null security contractors at the top of the ramp.  He stepped inside, his HUDglasses depolarizing to adjust to the light level.  He glanced around at the three ONI spooks.  The bearded one was Hyde, the linguist, the female was Vo, the "acquisition specialist" and the other was Moretti, the team lead.

"I am Team Lead Mark Townsend, Gruppe Null contractor," he said.  "I'll be your point of contact throughout this contract.  Here is how this is going to go.  We are going to disembark, and you will be covered by the team.  Get into the backseat of the rear vehicle, and belt in.  We'll take off for the Downtown district and get through the Army checkpoints into the Safe Zone.  Once we're in the Safe Zone, we'll take y'all to our home base for the time being.  Under no circumstances are you to exit the vehicle until instructed by a team member.  Keep your heads down at all times.  This is not Earth or Reach.  This is the Outer Colonies, and shit is real.  No one goes anywhere without at least one team member.  No one leaves the Safe Zone without the team.  As far as operational security goes, you will listen to every word I say.  Gruppe Null is being paid to keep you alive, and I will not be the contractor that loses a lucrative contract for the company."

[Llau]

ONI Team Lead, Section III Field Operator, Lieutenant Commander Michelangelo Moretti
Spaceport, Maslovo, New Russia
Meeting with the Gruppe Null Team
Tag(s): AlphaWolf


When he looked toward the shuttle's entrance when the door opened, he watched as the Gruppe Null team lead entered. The Lt. Commander quickly turned off the music and returned the music player and the ear buds back inside his pocket. When he felt the aviation sunglasses instead of his own pair, his eyebrows furrowed and he glanced down at it to see that someone had switched him. His eyes darted over to Vo, sending her an accusing glare at her as he stood up to meet up with Townsend halfway in the shuttle.

"We are going to have a talk later, Lani..." He muttered to her as he walked passed the acquisition specialist, showing her the sunglasses she switched his with.

He slipped the aviators back inside his coat pocket, and then stood to listen to what the Gruppe Null team leader as he told him what they were going to do.

Nodding a little, he introduced himself and the team, "I'm Lieutenant Commander Mike Moretti, team lead, and that nerd over there is Chris, a Xeno-Linguist. He's here just in case aliens are involved, and the overly quiet person over there is Lani, the acquisition specialist,"

Next he replied to what Townsend said, "Not to sound like a dick, sir, but I've been to the Outer Colonies a lot and I've had plenty of missions dealing with the Insurrection. I know how it is, and so do the other two." He smiled a little. "And don't worry about losing your contract. If your group is as good as your files say you are...then we won't have to worry, now do we?" He asked, tilting his head a bit before going over to grab both of his bags and sling them over both of his shoulders.

He continued, "We're all capable of keeping ourselves alive, and with Gruppe Null, things will be even better if we work together." He stepped back over to him. "Because, if we work together as a team, then this operation will go smoothly. Agree?"

[LaxKnight]

ONI Section III, Civilian Acquisitions Operative Expert Lani Vo
Inbound to the spaceport, Maslovo, New Russia
Taxi Has Arrived
Tag(s):
 Llau, Faclan, AlphaWolf


Chris didn’t seem to see the theft or if he had he kept it to himself (she figured the former). Lani saw a man in camo trousers, most likely one of the PMCs that were supposed to meet them, and introduced himself as Mark Townsend, the leader of the group. He explained how he was getting them out of here. It was like she was about to go on a rollercoaster. He talked to them as if they were amatuer agents on their first field op off of Earth. Lani raised an eyebrow in annoyance and gave a sour frown.

Lani was not a woman of words but luckily Mike was there to dispense them. She watched Mike put away his player then pull out the aviators she left him. He gave her a accusatory look which she returned with a sly smirk as he walked by to talk to the lead PMC. He introduced them before stating his displeasure of being talked to like children. Lani gave a nod in agreement. Sure, she wasn’t a fighter but she would like to see the man steal sensitive information from the Covenant. Twice.

Sensing that they were about to leave soon, the thief stood up, swung her pack on her back, put on Mike’s sunglasses, adjusted her beanie so her hair color was difficult to see, then waited patiently for them to be on their way. She wore his glasses mainly so that any onlookers won’t see her eyes but also she held a small bit of joy in the thought of Mike seeing her with his glasses.

[RiddL]

Halt Arratay
Rhino-3
New Russia

Swivel

Halt stood at a comfortable distance and wished he could pull his mask up over his nose for the warmth it would provide. He hid a smirk as Mark talked to the Spooks. If these were experienced ONI operative, one of which he personally knew was from his ODST days, then they had experience with the Covenant and they were a shit tonne worse than the insurrection.

He kept looking around and raised his rifle as some of the locals came by for a closer look, scaring them off with the gesture. He slowly walked up and quietly spoke to the group, "We should hurry, the locals are getting nosey and I can almost feel the cross hairs lining up. The sooner we get rolling the better." He said, his eyes never stopping as he spoke, always looking for threats.

He took a step back and turned smartly, eyes swivelling to every face in the vicinity, any one if them could be a spy and he didn't want to stand out in the open any longer.

[Faclan]

Tags; Llau, LaxKnight, AlphaWolf

Chris Hyde - ONI Section I, Covenant language expert.
Shuttle on way to location.
Loadin' up.

Looking up from his notepad as the shuttle jerked a bit as it landed Chris shrugged and finished off his small chip back as he kept jotting down notes. If this was anything like the other dealings they had had with the Private Firms then it would be a few minutes while they searched for the right shuttle. Maybe they would bust into the wrong one and scare some poor women half to death for it. Or maybe they were at the wrong shuttle port entirely. He looked up however when the door did open and a official paramilitary looking fellow was approaching. Then he looked to the side when Mike told Lani they needed to talk about...his sunglasses? They looked like sunglasses to him, of course Chris didn't know they were the wrong pair as he never spent that much time looking at Mikes face unless it was in disgust - and there hadn't been that much disgust lately.

Slipping the note pad back into one of his large pockets with his pencil too as Townsend explained the situation and Mike responded, thankfully sticking up for the other ONI's here. But again he was reminded of his second fiddle nature as even Mike believed he was here 'just if aliens showed up'. It made Chris roll his eyes a bit as he stood up to grab his bags so they could get moving and get this whole operation started. Tossing them over his shoulder and under his arm he did his best to slump down and look dejected as he headed toward the door - probably not a super convincing disguise but you never knew what would help.

"Gotcha Mark, I'm sure once we are at the location we can talk more about the operation in its entirety." He replied as he moved past the Contractor and headed for the back Bear to get in, keeping his slumped and bored appearance up as best as he could. The Xeno-Linguist still completely unaware of the theft.

[AlphaWolf]

Team Lead Mark Townsend

Briefing

The Port District

Maslovo, New Russia

Mark nodded respectfully to each member of the team as Moretti introduced them.  The acquisitions specialist made some sense, she'd be good for gathering intelligence at least, but the xeno-linguist really didn't make sense.  There weren't any Covenant on New Russia...were there?  Was the UNSC holding something back from the planetary government? Mark wasn't sure, but he didn't particularly like it.


He nodded in agreement with the agent's statement.  "I was not made aware of the experience level of you or your team, Commander, so I was unaware as of what to expect.  I've worked with both ends of the spectrum--very new and very experienced operators--and the very new ones usually need a firm hand on some of the finer aspects of how to stay alive.  But since the three of you are experienced, I expect this will go smoothly.  I apologize if I offended you," Mark offered up.  "Now, if you three don't mind, we should go.  Once you depart the shuttle, do not stop.  Let's go," he said as he ducked out of the shuttle, his rifle at the low-ready position, scanning for targets as he ordered Arratay to get the back door of the Bear.  He walked towards the lead Bear, watching.

[Llau]

ONI Team Lead, Section III Field Operator, Lieutenant Commander Michelangelo Moretti
Spaceport, Maslovo, New Russia
Tag(s): AlphaWolf Faclan LaxKnight Guardian Cat of Yappa's RiddL BetaWülf


He nodded in understanding, raising a hand when the man apologized. He smiled somewhat. "It's okay," he said, "No need to apologize. That's ONI for not explaining too much about us. They could have at least told you guys that we're experienced, but...what can you do?"

He chuckled at that as he followed Townsend out of the shuttle quickly, his eyes automatically scanning his surroundings as well. After they departed from the shuttle, he glanced over to the lead Bear as he led the other two ONI agents over to the rear one, and quickly climbed in and buckled up in an empty seat in the vehicle.

Once he was situated and comfortable enough, he looked around for a moment at the others as he took out an earpiece and attached it around his ear to speak to Townsend.

"Oh, and Mark? No need to go all formal on me if you don't want to," Moretti said into the ear-piece. "I much prefer being called Mike or Moretti on operations like this. Whichever you prefer."