Mission 2: Intermission

[valor]

Chris smiled at Jakob's last few words. "T-Thank you, sir. That means a lot. Maybe we could help each other out during this battle." Chris said to the lieutenant. He toyed with his battle rifle a bit and then looked at the ODST's helmet. He wondered what it was like to be a helljumper, it looked a little more difficult than a marine.

Three out of the four member of fire team Charlie walked back towards their other teammate after collecting their plasma grenades. "Like we said, just calm down and try not to say anything offensive to him." James advised Valor.

[feral]

Captain Charlotte Evans System Gliese-876 Outer Limits

The Scylla emerged from slipspace, enough time for her to exit passed before the engines pulsed to brilliant life, sending the Destroyer arcing towards the task force's lead ship- the Illustrious.

As the lead vessel came into visual range, a flutter of motes appeared beside the Captain's chair- the figure of Skadi emerging from a wall of snow to proudly stand, spear and shield grasped in one hand. resting her other upon the pommel of her sheathed sword.

"Hmm.......Impressive." The AI managed with deliberate pause for thought, raising her eyebrows in an apparently genuine show of mild surprise, blowing an errant snowflake from her face with a small puff of misty breath.

"First of her class. I'll give her designers credit, it's pretty." Captain Evans managed, leaning in to view the new display of images coming from the Scylla's high-quality camera suite.

The Captain's vessel pushed forwards, closing in on the Illustrious as Charlotte continued to follow the camera feed, not removing her glance as she took in it's appearance. Flipping to a 3D interpretation of local space that was transferred to the larger projection system behind her, she raised herself with a graceful slow stand, stretching her arms as she pulled up a profile of the Illustrious' information after a quick glance at the projection platform's graphical interpretations.

Evans furrowed her brow, crossing her arms behind her back as she read their brief assignment outline between glances at the lead vessel's information, before frowning for a moment at something she'd read before resuming a more normal expression.

Skadi popped up in a wisp of spiralling air by the Captain again, peering curiously at what she was reading, despite the redundancy of the action as the AI already knew exactly what the Captain was reading via the almost paranoid number of interior cameras.

"Captain- the AI from Illustrious and the other escorts are beginning synchronisation of position and defensive data- we will be in position in one-hundred and nine seconds for optimal defense coverage." Skadi added, piquing an eyebrow. "The Illustrious' AI is rather.....chatty." She added again.

"Understood." Evans nodded slightly, continuing her read before looking back to the projection in front of her with a moment of interest before turning about to face the obervation window as the Scylla moved into position with the rest of the Task Force.

Smiling a little to herself, the Captain stared to the side, watching the enormity of the Illustrious as the vessels matched pace and together the accumulated ships formed an invisible defense screen around her.

"Lieutenant, give me a line to the Illustrious". The Captain made a few small tugs to parts of her uniform as she spoke, moving into position in front of the main screen- appearances must be maintained- especially when addressing a Commodore that was this close, rather than lightyears away as she was used to.

Standing straight as she looked with a slightly steely gaze at the screen as it was connected to the Illustrious by her communications officer, it initiated the connection and burst to life.

"This is Captain Charlotte Evans of the Scylla, we are in position with maximised defensive coverage, awaiting further orders at your discretion". Saluting the initially fuzzy appearance of the Commodore. Either it was her eyes or the usual glitch that had plagued her communications equipment since rearming- which Evans still considered to be far more abrupt than preferred.

[Jakob]

Lieutenant Jakob Zaborowski

Jakob nodded briefly at Chris and said,
"We are in the same army, we may wear different uniforms but we are still human, we watch out for each other no matter what... yeah, Alpha platoon gotcha back."
Jakob looked up and saw Chris's fire team walking over, he looked at them and when they got close enough he announced,
"You gotta a damn, fine Private here, don't waste him."
Jakob was about to walk away but then he turned,
"Eh kids, were is the rest of your squad?"

[l3rute]

Sean walked toward the new marine arrivals ready to welcome them. The new arrivals were policeing plasma grenades while another ODST spoke with one of their new guys. This seems under control. he thought when he saw them group up again. He was about to leave when Ryan pinged him. "What's up Ryan?"

"That ODST that you told me to tend to is a fucking idiot." he stated. "He tripped and activated an energy sword. It stabbed into his leg. "

"Well then, he's an idiot."

"I know."

"Okay, you can get comfy now." Sean said into the COM."Just make sure to be ready when they get the grav lift up and running."

Sean walked over to the ODST that was talking to the new squad and saluted after seeing the FoF tag mark him as a Lueitenant."Sir, Seargent Desavi reporting with Fireteam Foxfire." 
 
 

 

[serenissima]

The image of Saul appeared, clearly, on Charlotte's screen, and there was an initial look of shock on his face.

"Charlotte?! Ahem. I mean - Captain Charlotte Evans, correct? I haven't had time to go over the biographies yet, the disposition of the Task Force is constantly changing..."

Commodore Winters did his best to cover his surprise, and his previous knowledge of this woman, but didn't succeed.

Saul was not made for lying.

A sly grin threatened to overtake Charlotte's lips but was beaten into submission before it took too much hold. "That is correct- Commodore. The same Commodore Saul Winters I suspect to be equally correct in my memory?." She replied, her eyes narrowing a fraction- although it is not entirely clear whether it is a result of poor eyesight, the onset of mostly hidden anger- or possibly both.

"I suppose that would be so, yes. It's good to have the Scylla here. Two more MACs are always welcome." replied the Commodore, still slightly-off balance, metaphorically speaking despite being sat down in his command chair.

"The Scylla and I are glad to be here." Charlotte managed to turn the narrowed eyes to a more normal appearance, holding back a small smile.

"It's also a welcome sight to see you've come this far, Commodore. It's... been some time." She continued, trying her damndest to maintain her composure as her eyes began to feel rather warm. Reunions were never one of her strong points.

"Your AI is coordinating well with Leontia. Who probably remembers you, honestly..!" Winters said, tugging at his sleeve and swervingly trying to change the topic of conversation.

Managing a small grin, Charlotte nodded a few times slowly.
"I would hope that it doesn't take an AI to recognise me, Commodore. After all, with no memory, it would be a wonder you can find your own quarters". She let a proper, cheeky, grin escape - losing control of her composure a little as her cheeks became a soft pink.

"Well, I more meant that it's unusual in her! Unique design and all, that she's still active after all these years." Saul said, rapidly, relieved, faintly visibly, that the topic had changed a bit.

"Indeed..." she replied. "Her longevity is certainly... extended over other AIs." Charlotte noted, her mind in one small part dedicated to the present question of why, or rather how Leontia is still present and not a distant, rampant, memory.

"I cannot say the same for my own original AI, Lofn." She looked away, lost in the moment for a second before reaffirming her gaze on the screen.

"However, Skadi is a more than capable replacement....or successor, I should say." She finished, looking sideways to the now apparent AI that was pointedly watching the Captain with suspicion and eventually with a nod of approval at her comment, dissipated.

Commodore Winters cleared his throat briefly. "Anyway... I'm sure we'll talk at a later time..."

"Indeed. It's been a pleasure, Commodore. I'm sure we'll get more opportunities". Charlotte concluded, nodding.

Saul shut off the screen and looked at Leontia... who was visibly struggling to avoid saying something, looking both giggly and flustered at the same time. Leontia remembered Charlotte very well - the woman having been, in conjunction with Saul, her first field observation of organic courtship, romance, and mating procedures, many years ago. Made all the more notable by its illicit nature.

Charlotte watched the screen shut off, the afterimage of Saul burned into her eyes for several moments as she stood motionless.

"Saul...." She whispered quietly to herself, managing a neutral expression. Skadi watched from the rafters of the Captain's chair, a look of muted concern on her face.

On the Illustrious, Saul sighed once more. "Well... that was interesting..." He looked around the bridge, at the various officers who had covertly cocked their heads to listen and slipped headphones from their ears.

"What are you all doing, damn you?" Saul said, quietly enough for it to sound like a genuine threat. "Get back to your duties." There was a flurry of keypresses, donning of headsets, and other bustle quite immediately.

Setting herself down in the Captain's chair of the Scylla, Charlotte looked across at Skadi who remained looking neutral, looking to her with a quzzical expression eventually.

"History, Captain?" she asked, tilting her head.

"More than you know, Skadi..." Came the reply as she maintained her appearance by sitting rigidly in the seat, staring out from the viewport at the Illustrious - or rather into it...

[newblood]

"Sir, we are in range to communicate with the surface, would you like me to contact the base?" asked Inzerkov. Dray nodded,
"Get me the Lieutenant ASAP." he paused, his right hand instinctively rubbing the scar on his cheek, a habit he picked up after the battle wound healed fully, it calmed him somehow.

"When all pelicans are green, send them to the camp, they will need every man possible, that carrier will become a warzone or a blood bath." he waited silently as the ship hummed from the whirr of the giant engines that control such a mass of titanium A and weapons.

He stared at the inactive holo tank that housed the ships AI as a screen lit up in front of him, a face he rarely saw but was familiar with lit up his cheerfulness to see a vassal of his ship luckily still alive after being on the planet for almost an hour and a half. Dray stood quickly, saluting back to the Lieutenant "What is your status Lt?"

[hollowsaber]

Private Jake Furrow Fireteam Alpha, Nova Squad

A few minutes had passed and Jake felt like it was an eternity. He was go tired and sleepy, he felt that just a few minutes would be safe. Though, with that ship there, sleep was not an option. He sighed and tapped on his helmet occasionally to wake himself from the daze, even using his solid binoculars at times. Laying on the ground was warm, so it made it even harder to stay awake. Jake felt as if he was at home in a bed, the only thing different, was the wide open volcanic world instead of skyscrapers.

Jake was about to set his watch until he heard the distant rumbles of aircraft. It was the reminiscent sound of Pelicans, but there seemed to be more then one. Jake sat up and pulled his binoculars to his visor. He sighed and looked off into the distance but couldn't find anything. He thought he was already dreaming, but with the quick whip of two birds shooting just over his head, he was woken up completely.

Once the ships quieted down, Jake couldn't stand it. Either he would fall asleep without knowing, or he would with knowing. Gently, he fell down next to his sniper, set the alarm on his wrist and let his helmet rest. The others were distracted with the fresh troops again, so maybe he could sneak in a few minutes. Seconds passed, and dream world overtook reality.

[jaden1985]

Joel "Miles" Washington
Aboard UNSC Fenix- Armory
5 minutes before drop

Joel looked at the black glove of his right hand before giving it a firm grip. The Rabbit had been aboard the Fenix for some time now and when word broke about what was happening Joel made sure his fire team was assembled and ready.

Reaching on the metal table assorted with weapons, ammo, grenades; he picked up his helmet. He slipped on the helmet feeling the familiar cool climate controlled atmosphere across his face. He tapped it twice with his index finger to make sure it polarized accordingly before reaching for his weapons. He clipped the pistol to his side before slinging his rifle over his shoulder. Time to shine he thought to himself, as he looked at his squad who were preparing as well.

Sam was adjusting her shin guard, leg on a stool looking up at her she gave a nod before tightening it enough she looked at miles slinging her hear out of her face giving him a wink before she slipped on her helmet. Joel let off a smile in his helmet before turning his attention to Mike who was disassembling a DMR.

“All good Mike?” Joel asked curious as to what Mike was doing on the floor when so close to drop time.

“The damn time between the shots takes to much time, I’m trying to fix that.” He looked up at Joel. “Bah the hell with that Miles, between me, Sam and you we-” He was cut off “Miles…” PG called out. “Another time Miles…” Mike replied before turning his attention back on the ground to the DMR.

Joel proceeded over to PG. Who simply pointed at Turtle and Jay who were arguing over the war. The two continued arguing as Joel walked next to PG who shrugged. “Its like watching two kid, Sarge.” Joel stepped forward. “Enough!” he said grabbing the two’s attention. He tapped his helmet depolarizing it so they could see his face. “Grab your gear and get your game face, we don’t have time for your bullshit.”

“Apologies sir…” The two responded in sync and proceeded to finish preparing. "Fucking Turtles", Joel muttered to himself. He turned to look at Juice who was sitting on the bulk head in full gear. He was so large Joel often considered him the closest human to a Spartan. “You ready Juice?”

Juice stood up his huge figure overshadowing Miles “Always Miles…” His deep voice complimented his size.

“Good to hear it, Everyone fall in!” He said to the fire team as they all filed in line. “I expect you all to do what I know you can do. You have your orders, Team Kalulu.” “Fear the Rabbits!” they replied in sync, he had to admit it he enjoyed the thrill of fighting and although his team had their problems, he wouldn’t want to be at the head of any other team; once they had their game faces on it was a whole other story. The exited the armory heading toward the hanger where Pelicans were already deploying.

The hanger was massive filled with a number of different Fire teams were assembled. Joel had never gotten use to the size of Marathon-class hangers he felt like he was in an entirely different ship. His team went to the designated Pelican and loaded onto a Pelican. Joel always preferred sitting closest near the ramp. The ramp slowly closed and shut sealed. Within moments he heard a large clank and the Pelican detached freefalling before the engines roared and adjusted the ship toward the planet. As the pelican roared down to the planet below, Joel focused on getting his game face on, “Game time…” He whispered to himself as the pelican’s turbulence picked up…

[valor]

Fire Team Charlie

Chris looked back at the Corporal, but James just shrugged. "Uh, I've seem to have forgotten. They are..." Chris was interrupted. "Beta Squad. They're somewhere around here, or should be soon. We deployed earlier than we were supposed to. I don't care much for them though."James cutted in.

"Listen, I'm sorry about before. I just figured why help someone who insulted us. But, yeah..." Valor apologized.

[Jakob]

Lieutenant Jakob Zaborowski

Jakob looked at the kid and stared, standing like a statue, trying to size up the Marine, he stood for nearly a minute then he relaxed and put his hand out for a shake,
"No problem, I have gone through more hell then you could possibly think, all my family is dead and my home world was glassed, and trust me I have seen much more action then you think, if you filled that ship with the number of body bags I have seen, then it would be overflowing."
The Marine stood there for a few moments in a awkward silence and then Jakob spoke again,
"Sorry, I tend to ramble, Lieutenant Jakob Zaborowski of Alpha platoon, just landed with my Nova squad, you?"

Jakob took his own hand down as another ODST came over, Jakob sighed and put his index finger up to the marine saying "wait." When the ODST asked for orders he looked at him and acknowledged his question,
"At ease Sergeant, if you want you can pick up weapons or greet the newbies, help organize the troops."
Jakob let out a sigh and whispered, pointing at the ledge where the Private was positioned,
"Or you can just make sure my Private doesn't break his leg or fall asleep, he is a good kid, just want's to get into the fighting."
He looked back at the Marine and extended his hand again

[valor]

Fire Team Charlie

"Private First Class Jake 'Valor' Baxter of Fire Team Charlie. Uh, just landed with my fire team, I guess. I can't recall the platoon's name, but yeah. And wow about the bags, I'm sorry about your family. How long have you been in the army?" Valor shook Jakob's hand. James counted his fingers and tried to think of the platoon's name. He was in such a rush because the team was going to see some action.

"Uh, guys. Don't forget about me. Private First Class Amanda Nix." Amanda said as she fumbled with her magnum.

[Jakob]

Lieutenant Jakob Zaborowski

Jakob let out a sigh, trying to keep the sadness out of his voice, he looked at the Baxtor and spoke,
"I don't enjoy talking about my life but, I have been in the military for what? Eight years? Yeah that is about it, after my Father was killed I enlisted, I was sent from Madrigal to Green hills, when the Covenant attacked Green hills they glassed Madrigal, I was only a Private, and... and everything else, I tried to go back, I tried god damn it but they made me stay and defend that god damned planet, if... if I hadn't enlisted so soon... I... I could of told everyone I..."
Jakob stood there barely choking out the words and stopped, he took a deep breath and got his happy go lucky attitude back.

"He, he sorry to bore you, didn't mean to say that, tend to ramble like I said" Jakob stood there, feeling quite awkward after that.

[valor]

Fire Team Charlie

"No, no. It didn't bore me at all. I kind of know what you feel like. My mother was murdered right in front of me when I was five years old. A guy tried to mug her and bang! He shot her. When he was done, he grabbed me and carved this 'V' under my right eye. The mugger laughed for a second, so I shook him off and ran away. Besides, your lucky you enlisted. If you would have stayed, there was a good chance you would have been killed." Valor sat down next to Jakob and patted him on the back.

"Come on, lets give them some privacy." James whispered into Chris' and Amanda's ears. They walked away to go look at all of the dead bodies.

[Jakob]

Lieutenant Jakob Zaborowski

Jakob looked at the Private, shook off his hand, stood up and blurted,
"Yeah but I could of said I... you know what maybe we should get to work before we are noticed slacking, so shoo, just go Marine we have work to do."
Jakob rubbed the back of his neck and put his hands on his helmet, covering his view of everything, he looked back down at the Private,
"Now Private... eh, now."

[valor]

Fire Team Charlie

"I guess you're right. Action should be starting back up soon and James wanted to do a check before we started. So, if I die in battle and don't see you again. Farewell" Valor started walking away. He looked back and prayed that he saw that face again, wether it be dead or alive. He hoped for the best in this battle.

James met Valor's gaze and the team walked back over to him. "Everybody's weapons seem to be working. Check that you have ammo and your weapons are functioning correctly." the Corporal advised. Valor checked his M41 SSR MAV/AW and BR55HB SR Battle Rifle. Both were working, so he checked to make he had ammo for both weapons. Check!

[l3rute]

Sean glanced up towards the ledge that the Lieutenant was pointing to. He could see a figure up there hit the deck as two pelicans flew over him fast and low. Well this is just great. he thought as he zoomed in on the figure catching him setting a timer. He turned on TEAMCOM. "Mike, take Rizzo and Ryan to meet the recruits. Thomas, you're with me. "

"Just perfect." Ryan said with sarcasm dripping off his voice. "I have to greet the newbs while you and Thomas go off on some adventure.

"Can't you just go with Mike already?"

"Fine."

"Mike, make sure he doesn't choose to pick a fight alright? "

"I can't be 100% certain about that, but I'll try."

"Okay, just try."

He started a private COM with Thomas who had appeared next to him.

"Still have those grappling rounds for your BR?"

"Yes."

"Aim them at the bottom of that cliff and strap in."Thunk! Thunk! "We have a private to visit. "  

[hollowsaber]

Private Jake Furrow Fireteam Alpha; Nova squad

At the sound of two thuds below him, Jake slowly regained consciousness from his dreamland. He was having a good dream about his family, he just had to wake up didn't he? Groaning, he looked down at his watch, pulling the sleeve back a bit. The alarm was still set for another 6 minutes, only four minutes had passed... Then why was he awake now?! Sluggishly, Jake pulled up his binoculars to his eyes and sighted out to see what was going on. His Sergeant and other troopers were still getting tech, his Lieutenant had finished talking to the team he saw him with earlier, and the two black Pelicans were still there with the few others. Jake set his binoculars down and looked up to the Assault Carrier to see if anything had changed there. Nothing had changed, absolutely nothing.

Jake sighed and laid back down. He look at his watch, 5 minutes... Great he wasted a minute. Slowly, Jake closed his eyes lazily and tried to go back to sleep. Then he remembered the thunks. Jake slowly slid his hand down to rest next to his magnum and opened one eye. He could see two grapples attached to the cliff. The black claws were dug in deep to the cliff face and drawn tight. They didn't look covenant, from what he'd seen everything the Covenant used more fluorescent colors. Under that AC, and so close to a fight, he wouldn't take chances. Jake unclasped his magnum from his thigh and sat up a tiny bit, slowly sliding the gun just above the ground, he hid the pistol under his chest to hide it. Behind his visor anyone, or thing, looking in wouldn't be able to see his face, so he acted as if he was asleep. He crossed his arms under his head to make a pillow and got into a laying position. Though, he dug the toes of his feet in so he could push off the ground when whatever was attached to those grapples, came over. His eyes focused and his vision sharpened as he readied to fight if he needed to...

[masterchick]

Athena holstered her weapon and stretched her arms. "Where are we going?"

"Stop asking that." Cross sighed.

"I would if you would tell me" Cross looked back at her and she raised her brow. Neither of them said anything after that. Pyotr and Leo seemed to be arguing about something and falling behind, while Erik was still taking in all his surroundings.
"What's the matter with you?" Athena asked, looking at Erik.

Erik shrugged and let his gaze linger on one of the soldiers. Athena thought he might have opened a channel to him, but she wasn't sure. She pushed his head to the side playfully. "Don't wanna get left behind again, do you?"

"Fuck..."

"What now?"

"Nothing. Go back and bat your eyes at the Corporal."

"That was COMPLETELY out of line, Carson. I do outrank you. And even suggesting that... You're lucky no one else heard it."

"You wouldn't get me in trouble, you'd miss me too much."

"Wanna bet?"
This last comment seemed to stick with the thick-headed marine. He frowned and crossed over to a marine who seemed to be sleeping, and opened a COM, yelling "Rise and shine, sleeping beauty!"

Athena nudged Erik in the ribs hard. He looked at her with a puzzled expression.
"You stupid son of a bitch! Is there anyone you can't piss off?!"

[l3rute]

Climb, unnclasp, slide, clasp, climb. Sean and Thomas had been climbing for a minute when they reached the halfway point on the ledge. They waited for a minute there before resuming the climb. 

"Race you to the top Sarge!"

"Alright, but I always win!"

"You wish."

They both tensed on the ledge ready to climb as fast as they could. "Ready, set, go!" Sean yelled and started to speed climb with Thomas right on his heels. It took them ten seconds to get halfway between the top and halfway up the ledge. Sean poured on the speed. Five seconds later, he grabbed the top of the ridge, a second before Thomas. 

"Okay, let's get this private's brain out of dreamworld." He said as they hauled themselves over and onto the small ledge the soldier was asleep on.  

[hollowsaber]

Jake could hear the grapplers coming closer and closer. Jake continued to stay still, waiting to jump. A few seconds passed, which felt like hours, then the speed picked up. Jake slowly rolled back to his escape rope and waited a few moments. He listened for any stalling but hearing only the clicking and pulling, Jake gripped the rope and hung down over the cliff. He dangled for a second the hauled himself up half and inch, sliding his magnum up over the edge. He griped both the rope and the pistol tight, using his feet to keep himself against the wall.

A few more seconds passed and a pair of Troopers hopped over the edge, at the sight, Jake fell against the cliff. He waited a second to let his body relax and slipped his pistol away. Jake gripped the rope tightly with two hands and yanked him self up, grasping the ledge to get himself up. Jake stood and looked at the soldiers. Seeing that one of them was a Sergeant, he gave a crisp and quick salute.

"Like my spot Sir?" Jake said with a smirk.

[feral]

Captain Charlotte Evans System Gliese-876 Outer Limits

The Captain made of show of working, taking time to scrutinize the details of the Illustrious she had brought up earlier, reading through what history she could find while trying to focus properly on the task at hand as opposed to her conversation only shortly earlier with the Commodore.

Ever present, the large form of the Illustrious hung outside the observation window, taunting her with memories of Commodore Winters that had remained buried, perhaps only shallowly so, but forced to the back of her mind for quite some time nonetheless.

Finding herself unable to concentrate, Evans sighed to herself softly- fully aware that the bridge crew had taken the hint from her conversation before that idle chatter was a first-class ticked to an ear bashing, thus they had made industrious efforts to keep their heads down.

"Skadi..." The Captain said quietly, looking down to the projection unit on the chair.

"Yes, Captain?" Came the reply as the AI fluttered into existence, diplomatically trying to appear as approachable as possible- her weapons missing as well as her shield.

"Refresh my memory, how long has it been since the good Commodore left the Beaverbrook Military Academy?" Evans flickered her eyes to the Illustrious for a moment, almost guiltily.

"Twenty-Five years, Captain." The AI replied with no effort, but with a tone of curiosity.

"Twenty-Five damn years...." Evans muttered, looking back at the Illustrious again with narrowed eyes.

For years Evans and Winters had remained in contact after first he left the Beaverbrook Military Academy, then her. Their communications were patchy at best even when they did find ways of messaging one another. But after only those few years they had been apart, the messages eventually stopped.

Charlotte had followed the movements of Saul for as long as she could find it in herself to- initially with the forlorn hope he was just delayed, perhaps he'd forgotten it was his turn to reply? Realisation kicked in after the delay's time went from months, to years.

Finding that her jaw was locked rather strongly brought the Captain about from her daydream in time to look back to Skadi, almost looking upset for the Captain as Evans battled to remain composed.

Stoking her hair back absent mindedly, Evans couldn't help but look across the gulf of space to the Illustrious once more, reigning in her emotions as she reminded herself of her purpose, foremost as the Captain, everything else was second to that.

Resisting the urge to type out a message to the Commodore, Evans straightened herself in the chair, looking across to Lieutenant Cairo who had been halfheartedly working while attempting to not-so-subtly eavesdrop.

"Lieutenant Cairo, report on the status of our armaments." The Captain called to her.

"Our resupply has given us full rearmament, Captain. We are fully combat capable, all ammunition stocks are full." The Lieutenant rallied herself, knowing the pause between the Captain's chatter to Skadi should have been her cue to make more of an effort at appearing to not be eavesdropping.

"Excellent." Evans nodded, peering back at the AI. "How is the Task Force shaping up, Skadi? Is everyone in position?".

Nodding, the AI brought up a small illustration of the Fleet's relative positions with bubble overlays that overlapped around the Illustrious. "All forces are in position around the Carrier. Maximum coverage is being given to all defenses. The perimiter is secure." She concluded.

Steepling her fingers, Evans gave a small smile. "Good." She whispered, mostly to herself. Looking at the display that had only shortly ago shown Commodore Winters, the smile broadened, if only a little. Perhaps this reassignment to the Task Force wasn't so bad after all.

[inhert]

Red Wing

The members of Red Wing had each only gotten a short distance form Paula and Crash before Paula’s voice cut into their com sets. “Boys’ it looks like our job is done here.” The declaration stunned all the member of Red Wing. They were about to get ready for the assault on the Carrier, and now they were getting pulled out of the fight.

“That makes no sense.” Murph spoke for all of his comrades.

“Well it seems that the initial assault would be a death trap. And Crash and I can’t be risked in that.” Paula explained to the other ONI operators around her.

“That’s why we’re here.” Murph referred to himself and his four Red Wing members. But his argument fell flat with the stare form Paula, “Okay, then we can go in with the second wave.”

Paula shook her head out of shock, “You guys have been on planet-side for how long?” Murph began to refute but he was cut off by Paula, “The Higher ups want you guys to get some rest. Your all humans not SPARTANS, besides the ODSTs can handle the fight.”

Orders where orders the five members of Red Wing followed Crash and Paula as they boarded the Pelican Paula had moments ago came in on. Once the team was ready the Pelican lifted off and began its accent into space. The Pelican was once again an oddity carrying relatively combat ready troops away from what would be a fight but it was ONI, the other troops didn’t call them spooks for nothing.

[Dufflepud]

Major Domo K'tas Raedomai

K'tas limped back into his makeshift quarters and slumped down onto his floor mat after hanging up his carbine and his blades. He let out a loud moan as he inspected the wound on his leg. Only a few hours before a marine had hurled a frag grenade at his feet. Luckily, his shields had been at full charge, leaving him unscathed... almost.

He began to tear off his armor, and about five minuets later, there was a neat pile of large red plates next to his mat. He rested for a few hours, until the pain began to grow and he decided to douse it in water. He almost considered seeing a medic, but he then cursed himself under his breath for such a dishonorable thought. "How my battle brothers would laugh!" he muttered to himself.

He let out an audible gasp as the cool water came into contact with his burning skin. he lay there for a few moments longer, before checking his weapons, and readying his armor for the next battle that was sure to come. he slid back down on his mattress, determined to get a few more hours of rest before the second fight with the humans began.

[gemidifett]

Flight Officer control station-Illustrious
Caitlyn had quietly been sitting at her station when the Captain of the Scylla had patched through to the Illustrious. When Caitlyn saw the struggle to remain neutral flash on to the other captains face, she couldn't help slip her headset off to listen and take a glance at the Commodore. His face easily betrayed the same the shock as the Scylla's captain. Caitlyn heard the one comment on not being able to find his room and smiled. Her brown eyes darted across her blank screen, her hand brushing lightly across the controls.
Caitlyn listened to the exchange finely tuned in to the conversation, an eavesdropping technique she had learned in school.
Brushing a strand of brown hair from her face and putting it behind her ear.
The conversation between the two didn't last long and when she heard the quiet threat from Winters and felt a glare brush her back she winced slightly. She slipped her headset back on over her ears and stared at her scar,
Hidden history, I feel your pain Commodore. Caitlyn thought as she silently rubbed her wrist.

[hollowsaber]

Private Jake Furrow Fireteam Alpha, Nova Squad

Jake itched his head the the silence of the soldiers and sighed. He quickly gathered his things up, ignoring the eyes of the two quiet ODSTs. Since he couldn't get any rest around here, might as well go do something to keep himself awake. Jake packed up his sniper and picked up his binoculars to put away. They had become hot from just sitting there and the two lenses had some soot on them. Jake expected nothing less since he had put them lens down on a volcanic cliff edge.

Lazily, he dusted the binoculars off and tucked it in his pack. He hefted the bag onto his back and waved to the two soldiers. Jake picked up his sniper and slung it over his shoulder as he walked to his rope. He kneeled down and turned so his back was to the open air and he was facing the troopers. He was a bit afraid of heights so he was hesitant but once he had the rope in his hands and there was only the air beneath his feet, his adrenaline knocked his fear out the window.

Jake slipped down the rope quickly, letting his gloves take the burn as he fell. Once his boots hit the ground, a strong feeling of relief washed away the light feeling in his stomach that filled his gut as he fell. Jake tugged the rope hard and at an angle to break a few rocks, making the pin holding the rope come out. Jake calculated where it would land and moved away from the spot he was standing. The pike dropped and stabbed the ground, getting stuck in the rocks again. Jake whistled as he thought of what could have happened to him if he didn't move.

Now that he was on the ground again, he might as well get back to the DZ and help with the weapon gathering. Sadly, he coiled his rope and yanked the pin from the rocks, falling onto his butt from having a weak balance. He pulled off his pack, put the rope and pin away, then slung the pack onto his back again. Jake pulled his sniper into his hands and began his trek back to the DZ, the place he wanted to avoid.

[maxii1]

Sergeant Richard Reilly
95th Rifles, Feral Platoon


Rifleman Richard Reilly shook his head and sat down with a large, audible sigh “Give me a big enough gun and I’ll blast a way in for us” he growled, looking up at the sealed entrance to the Assault Carrier.

One of the other soldiers laughed at this “I think it would have to be a BFG 9000 for that”
The assembled platoon laughed at this, a few of the older men sat or lay on the hard ground whilst the younger men stood at ease with their weapons ready in their hands.

“Bloody Boiling on this sodding planet” grumbled Private Lee Mann, a reformed criminal, adding, “ almost reminds me of Arcadia”.
His sweat trailed down his face and sizzled on his uniform.

“Reminds me of Private Shaw’s hair” joked Corporal Glover. A scowl overcame the named privates face, “Yeah, like I haven’t heard that one before” he rolled his eyes dramatically.
“Think I’ll paint my room that colour, what is it Strawberry Blonde?” asked Private Loveridge.

“I’d love a strawberry blonde” grinned a tall, bulky soldier who sat beside Shaw.
“Thanks Fairfax, but I don’t go for men” Shaw smiled back.
The Gentle Giant smiled back and shook his head.

Reilly smiled at the friendly banter that was taking place, he could relax even in the presence of cold hearted killers, but they where his cold hearted killers and more importantly his friends.

[Jakob]

Lieutenant Jakob Zaborowski

Jakob looked around, his platoon was unorganized, scattered and doing nothing.
He spoke into his com "Atten-Hut! Let's go men I want you all organized on me!"
He looked as his men turned to him and started filing in front of him.

[masterchick]

Athena looked back at the motley crew that was her fireteam. And to think if I hadn't punched the other corporal in the face, I could have been leading these idiots. She mused. The four others seemed calm enough, talking about something she wasn't listening to. She put a hand to the side of her face, running her hand over the scarred, dead tissue, only to have her hand knocked back by her helmet. It was a bad habit she had, almost even got infected once because of it. A thought swept into her mind which made a wry smile creep across her face. Dad would be so pissed.

The rest of her fireteam had moved into the shade of a large rock now. Pyotr and Erik were chatting, competing about what sounded to Athena like who had the best scar. Well damn, if only they had asked her to join the argument. She saw Cross, keeping an eye on things and standing a few feet away from the two. Leo was nowhere to be found, until she felt a tap on her shoulder.

Twisting around quickly, she saw the big man and nodded to him. He usually used more gestures than he did words, which was why he got along well with Pyotr and Erik. They never shut up.
"Ready for a fight?" She asked, attempting to be less anti-social than usual.
"Sure." He responded simply, his gaze lingering somewhere behind her left shoulder. She glanced quickly behind her. He was staring across the battlefield to where Athena assumed the Covenant forces would be regrouping, though it was hardly visible from where she was standing. She knew the odds of them winning this. There had hardly been any victories over the Covenant ever, and those that were wins had cost the UNSC dearly. No one liked the odds here. She checked the extra clips on her battle rifle twice over. If she was going down, she'd take as many covie bastards along with her as she could.

[hollowsaber]

Private Jake Furrow Fireteam Alpha, Nova Squad

Jake sighed as he walked away from the cliff, and took a scenic look around the hot volcanic space. As he looked over towards a few boulders, he noticed another Jackal body alone against one of them. The alien's bird-like face was dented on one side, but Jake couldn‘t see the other side from so far away. Once he did get close, he saw that the other side of its skull had been smashed in. A weak weapon wouldn't even do that, unless the Covenant were killing each other. Though, there had been reports of the Covy's not liking each other, but there was always some sort of rift in the stories. Something was always off, and there was no reason behind the cannibalism between the races, unless it was a pack of Brutes ripping up the Grunts. Maybe it was over the size of the creatures, or strength, or just the brutality amongst them. If they hated each other so much, then there must be one very strong bond between the leaders or something.

As Jake crouched next to the frail, limp body, he took a slow scan over the body with his eyes, looking from the hairy crest on its head to the creatures wicked-looking feet. Several scratches up and down its legs and arms, dents from closed fists on its chest, and that blunted wound to the head showed that this guy was very unlucky, or he did something stupid. Jake shook his head and looked for anything that he could go back to the camp with. Either his Lieutenant was going to flip-shit, or some other jerk would.

As Jake glanced up at the Jackal’s wrist, he saw the shining energy shield generator thing that he also found earlier. Though, this time he was careful about the piece of equipment. He could tell what the activation switch was, so he kept from touching it. Yet, something attracted him to it… If the Jackal could hide behind it, why couldn’t he? Maybe keep it quiet from the ONI guys or something. He looked around to see if anyone was watching and moved behind to boulders to hide.

Gently, he slipped the gauntlet onto his arm and aimed the part where the shield would come out away from him. Carefully he tapped the button, prepared for the bright shield this time. With the push of the button, a golden shield shimmered into the smoke rising from the planet’s surface. Jake chuckled to himself then hit the shield again to turn it off. It had a nice look to it with the gold and all, but the question would be if it could protect him later. Jake took off the shield-generator and put it in his pack.

"Atten-Hut! Let's go men I want you all organized on me!" The Lieutenant called.

Peeked around the corner of the boulders and looked towards everyone else running towards another man. Well, he found his Lieutenant, Jake didn’t think it would be that easy to find him. Amongst all the black armor that formed lines, he quickly disappeared though. Jake took one last look towards the mauled Jackal and shook his head, if they were going to fight the guys who did this, Jake may have been better off fighting a bear except the bear knew how to use guns.

With silent movement, Jake turned from the boulders and jogged across the open volcanic plain. Swiftly hopping across a few dead corpses and around other marines as he ran. If he wanted to get into battle mode, walking wouldn’t be a luxury soon. Jake growled under his helmet as he breathed, taking a single deep breath as he fell in at the far back of the men.

[Jakob]

Lieutenant Jakob Zaborowski

Jakob nodded as his men filed, Aborn soon came to his side, his men saluted and stood there. Jakob whispered something into Aborn's ear, who quickly nodded, under his helmet smiling like there was no tomorrow.
Jakob looked at his men and counted, six-teen in all, he hopped on to a rock and turned off the com, making his words public.
"At ease!" Yelled Aborn.
Jakob climbed a rock and looked them over,
"Ladies, this is it, for some of you, this is your first mission under my command, for some, this may be your last, I will be frank, many of us will not survive, I might not, the Sarge might not, because up in that ship, it is the tigers den, but I must say, if we don't win, the Covenant will kill every single man woman and child in the entire Universe, those who survive, will be honored, those who die." He paused for dramatic effect. "Heroes."

He waited for the message to sync in then he nodded to Aborn.
"What we are trying to say, is that is has been a honor serving with 'yall, and not to be harsh but, DROP AND GIVE ME FIFTY NOW MAGGOTS!" For a second everyone was surprised then Aborn yelled again, "DID I STUTTER!? NOW!" He walked over and pulled one of them to the ground. The rest dropped and started doing the exercise.
Aborn walked back and Jakob whispered,
"Nice work." The platoons Drill-Sergeant smiled. Jakob scanned and saw something interesting in the second row and whispered to Aborn. He nodded, noticing it too, and yelled "Private Furrow get up here!"

Jake came and Jakob jumped down, he whispered so only the three could here, "What is that god damned thing on your wrist?"