TheRPGSite

Hello folks I'm looking to start a Cold City/Microlite20 (Modern) game right here. I love the Cold City setting but do not care for the system (sorry Malcom). So I am using the Microlite 20, "Modern" rules. The microlite spring collection rules can be found here (http://www.retroroleplaying.com/content/microlite20-rpg-collection). (The microlite spring collection has all you need and way more.) Now its not required to have the Cold City book. But if you do it would fill in a lot of background info. Plus its a really sweet setting/book.

A quick synopsis of Cold City is this.

As the Cold War rages in the full glare of the world media. The Underground
War is fought in ruined bunkers, dank tunnels, building sites, and bombed
out apartment blocks.
In the divided city of Berlin, the Reserve Police Agency hunts down monsters
left over from sinister experiments and twisted technology. Things from
beyond our space and time, strange creatures altered by bizarre machines,
the decayed corpses of undead soldiers, things that hide in the darkness.
But the Reserve Police Agency itself is riven by suspicion, mistrust and
political ambition. The four occupying powers of Britain, France, the USA
and the USSR all see the need for the RPA, all contribute personnel, all have
their own agendas.
The great battles may be over, but the war carries on.

I'm looking for three to four players. You are welcome to post when ever your able. As will I. I will be online for certain 7-9pm eastern standard time (UTC−05 for our outside of North America friends)  Mon-Wed.

A couple of rules notes. Flame throwers are considered automatic only weapons. Targets also burn for one normal damage die less each round after a successful hit. So for example an RPA agent hoses a shambling thing with a  flame thrower. This does damage as per normal. The next round the target takes another 2d6, the round after that it takes 1d6. Then the round after it is extingushed and does no damage. Another note, some of my weapons damages on the firearms chart are listed as 1d6/1d8. Simply explained instead of say the weapon doing 2d8. Its does 1d6+18=damage. (simple right?:))

So generate some characters. As per the rules. Include what your country of origin is. If you wanted to include a background about a paragraph long that would be super.
 
All characters start with the same equipment kit,
Backpack
Combat Webbing
Entrenchment Tool (Small usually folding shovel)
First Aid kit
Pocket knife
Binoculars
Compass
Field Radio (US issue "Walkie Talkie")
Flares
Phrase Book
Holster
Pistol of choice (You dont need to pick one from your country of origin either. If a russian wants to carry a 1911 so be it.)

(Note, I've included my Firearms chart PDF. These are the wepaon stats we will be using.)

So feel free to post your charcters here. Looking forward to running a game for you folks.

Oh I almost forgot we will be using Invisible castle for die rolls.

Aloha Ronin...am interested! Will be looking to make and post my character in the next few days. Seems like a neat setting ! :)

Welcome aboard Skofflox! I look forward to checking out your character.:D

While I'm thinking of it I missed one item on the standard equipment kit, a flashlight.

going over the chargen. brought some questions to mind.

are we using all the bonuses from the basic and modern rules?
ie..humans +1 to all skill rolls, fighters +3 to phys., hero types (strong,cunning etc.)

was thinking a young cunning hero (hunting as a youth) with athletic background (football in HS) in the fighter class (backwoods MMA baby!) who volunteered for the service (mostly from boredom), from a farm in Kentucky...

any homebrew rule amendments to add?

:)

Quote from: Ronin;405971Hello folks I'm looking to start a Cold City/Microlite20 (Modern) game right here. I love the Cold City setting but do not care for the system (sorry Malcom). So I am using the Microlite 20, "Modern" rules. The microlite spring collection rules can be found here (http://www.retroroleplaying.com/content/microlite20-rpg-collection). (The microlite spring collection has all you need and way more.) Now its not required to have the Cold City book. But if you do it would fill in a lot of background info. Plus its a really sweet setting/book.

Hah, no worries. As long as you're enjoying the game in some aspect, whether it be setting or system, then that's cool by me. If anyone who's registered an interest in this game (i.e.: you've posted to this thread and intend to take part), drop me a PM and I'll make sure you get a download of the game. That should help people understand the setting a little more.

Cheers
Malcolm

Quote from: skofflox;406228going over the chargen. brought some questions to mind.

are we using all the bonuses from the basic and modern rules?
ie..humans +1 to all skill rolls, fighters +3 to phys., hero types (strong,cunning etc.) Dont forget about the professions.

was thinking a young cunning hero (hunting as a youth) with athletic background (football in HS) in the fighter class (backwoods MMA baby!) who volunteered for the service (mostly from boredom), from a farm in Kentucky...

any homebrew rule amendments to add?

:)

I'll allow the human +1 skill rolls. But no fighter class. Only the modern classes (strong,cunning, and etc). But I like your background so far.:D Was your character involved in WWII? Or did he join after the war?
As to homebrew amendments. I cant really think of any besides what I've already posted. If any crop up we'll discuss them and implement them as we "all" see fit.:)

Quote from: Malcolm Craig;406238Hah, no worries. As long as you're enjoying the game in some aspect, whether it be setting or system, then that's cool by me. If anyone who's registered an interest in this game (i.e.: you've posted to this thread and intend to take part), drop me a PM and I'll make sure you get a download of the game. That should help people understand the setting a little more.

Cheers
Malcolm

Thanks for the support Malcom! There you go folks the writer of the setting/game is willing to provide a copy to you. So you really dont have an excuse not to play right?;) Thanks again Malcom, your a gentleman and a scholar.

OK no fighter class (as I suspected).
He would have been in the conflict (could he be Army Ranger!) so I don't know if background means before the war or during or what...military background would obviously apply.

Am thinking from Mississippi instead of Kentucky and a gator' wrangler to boot. Age 22 redish hair, light blue eyes, 6' 200 lbs. or so

I will PM Malcom in regards to the rules...totaly cool!:)

Sounds great. Tell me your going to use an accent and folksy down home sayings! If so you have just applied for the internet win!:)

Oh and a Ranger background would be totally appropriate.:)

cool will post finished character soon!...not to worry,ahl do my best to illustrate the finer points of southern culture for ahl them yankees!
:)

http://invisiblecastle.com/search/?search=Addison+Tanner

Ready to throw down!

Addison Tanner  US Army Ranger 22, Redhair, Blue eyes, 6'-190 lbs. Born and raised in the Mississippi backwoods where he learned to hunt and make moonshine with his Father and Uncle. Played football for the HS.Being only mediocre in sports he excelled in his studies and even joined the chess class. This brought him to the attention of the ROTC recruiter and he gave it a try and found it to his liking. He volunteered for the Army when he turned 18 near the wars start, hoping to get to college after VE day.
Lvl: 1
HP: 12  
AP: 5
AC: 11
           
STR: 8   +0
DEX: 13  +1.5
MND: 11  +.5

cunning hero w/Military background (w/o additional +1 for human)
PHYS: 3
SUBT: 2
KNWL: 1
COMM: 1

All standared equipment and a 1911 .45
prefers to wear tanker boots and Eisenhower jacket.

Looks good Skoff. One little picky point. Cold City takes place in occupied Berlin in 1950. Each of the allied powers occuping a zone. With the soviets (East Germans) controlling all around it. So he might have put off college a couple years.:)

he is starting to think about making the service a career...

OK well Skofflox and I are starting this game monday night. If anyone is interested in joining in progress. I'm not opposed to that. Just shoot me a PM and we'll figure out a good place to slip you into the mix.

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bb/Berlin_kammergericht.jpg)
The Kammergericht, former home of the Prussian Supreme court, and the current home of the Berlin Air Safety Center. Less known is the fact, that it is the home of the Reserve Police Agency. Nestled in an unused corner of the giant building, the RPA carries out its work collecting and destroying the remnants of twisted technology developed by the Nazis.

You (Addison Tanner) and Nikolai Prokhov are the remnants of Easy and Fox teams. Reconstituted as the new Charlie team, you have been summoned to the office of the Hon. Myles Wright. One of the four members of the RPA Directorate Committee, the heads of the RPA.

As you arrive at the door to Wrights office, you notice a large obviously Russian man approaching you down the hall. He bellows out, "Hello tovarich!"

Tanner goes from mid-knock to pushing his cap back , letting out a whistle and looking to Nikolai drawls "Big som'bitch...friend of yours?"

Planting my hands on hips I size up the Russkie as he approaches...keeping a friendly demeanor...


Question: What is my rank?
cool pic.

Good to see you Nikolai! This must be your new team mate. Addison isnt it? He says with a grin showing off a mouth full of gold teeth. Holding out his hand in expectation of a friendly hand shake.

Thanks, I hope to insert a bunch of pics like that one to give flavor and a feel for where you are. As to rank I think some flavor of sergent thru lieutenant would be fine.

I take the proffered hand in a firm grasp, trying not to stare at his golden choppers! " Sgt. Addison Tanner, US Army Rangers by way of Mississippi...seems you have the advantage on me...." as I look to Nikolia while raising an eyebrow then back to the stranger while giving his arm a few good pumps.

 "Where I come from a man likes to know who he's jaw'n with.Whats your handle buddy?".

Oh yes excuse me, please allow me to introduce myself. I am Yuriy Lavrentiy, newest member of Able team. Nikolai and myself participated in the great patriotic defense of Stalingrad together.
"Keep your eye on this one commrade Tanner." He says pointing at Nikolai. "Hes a wild man. I watched him charge a machinegun nest with nothing more than a hand grenade and a shovel."

"You do me to much credit Yuriy." Nikolai says with a sheepish smile.

"Non-sense, as you Americans say he has a pair of brass ones. Damn look at the time." He says peering down at his wrist watch.
"I must go, I'll be damned if I'm late to my first meeting. In a day or two we should all go out for drinks. It would be good time."

Oh and before I forget Nikolai.
Полковник Казаков сказал Есть быть не более винт ИБП нравится то, что произошло с командой Фокс. Или их будут последствия. Вы понимаете?

(Nikolai responds)
Да, скажи полковник, я понимаю.

Good, now excuse me. I will you see you fellas later.

"I'll look Forward to the drinks Yuriy. A pleasure to meet you." I look to Nikolai as Yuriy walks off,shaking my head as I put my hand on Nikolai's shoulder "Well now thats a story I've gotta hear...a handgranade and a SHOVEL!? Man how much vodka do they give you guys..."

and with a grin..."Lets not be late to our meeting with the Hon.Mr. Wright" as I knock on the door.

The knock is met with a quick, "Enter", spoken in a heavy english accent. You open the door to be met by a well appointed office. Oak paneled walls covered with Oxford Diplomas and pictures from around the world. (Photos of the Honorable Wright with diplomats, military officails and what looks like a tiger hunt in India) In the center of the room lies a great Oak desk with several overstuffed leather chairs. Next to the desk is this man,
(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/90/Chamberlain.jpg)
The Hon. Myles Wright, a dilettante, landed gentry, born bureaucrat, and Oxford twit as the boys in the regiment refer to him. Pouring several cups of tea into a fine set of Royal Worcester china.
"Good show old boys. I like fellows that are on time. Please have a seat. Make yourselves comfortable."

I walk into the room and stop a few feet from the desk,coming to attention and firing of a snappy salute "Sgt. Tanner, Charlie team, reporting sir." I wait a moment for Nikolai to do his gig then (giving him a quick wink) I make a show of extending my hand to the chairs and deferring to Nikolai to make his choice of seats.

I take the other seat and carefully take up a cup of the tea.."Thanks for the hospitality your Honor,makes a guy feel at home." (I shoot a grin at Nikolai as I reach for the sugar).

(First off sorry I havent posted in a bit. Crazy weekend that spilled over into monday. Now on with the game)

"Yes, Commrade Wright thank you." Nikolai says settling down into his chair with a cup of tea. "I usually prefer mine a bit stronger. But this is good."

Wright sitting down behind his desk begins to speak."Alright Chaps as I'm sure you know I've called you here to speak with you about a new case."
At 4 o' clock this morn I was made aware of a happening that may require our investigation. In the American sector their was a murder. Normally that wouldn't merit our attention. But, it seems this was particularly brutal. Seems a family was murdered in their own grocery store. I want you fellows to pop over and give it a good looking over. Heres the file. Its admittedly lite, but with the limited information available its the best we can do."
He hands you a manila folder.
(The folder contains the address and limited info on the family)
Now before you go after your current task. I want to talk to about care of your equipment loaned by the agency to you. I'll not have a rotten foul up like with able team again. A jeep obliterated and four rifles smashed? I don't care that they killed that thing. The cost is unacceptable! It costs the crown a pretty penny to provide this kit. Besides I'll be damned if I have to listen to a lecture from that bloody American in the armory, about the care our agents give the equipment. Now unless you have any other questions. You chaps should be on your way.

I quaff a bit of tea with raised eyebrow waiting to see if my partner has any questions.
(if not)
I stand and salute sharp (trying to keep the disgust from showing on my face) with a "Yes sir,preservation of surplus equipments will be a priority sir. Would it be possible to requisition a camera and forensic personel with equipment for documentation purposes if needs be sir?" as I go to an 'at rest' stance...

Well as you know old boy. Personnel is at a premium as of late. So theres no one we can send along to catalog things. But you can see about requisitioning a camera from the American in the armory. But be damned careful with it. Sorry, I hate to harp on the monetary aspect. But I'll be damned if we aren't horribly over budget.

(To this Nikolai gives a muffed snort and holds his hand up so Wright cant see him roll his eyes.)

"Yes, Commissar we understand." followed by a muffled "Вы чертовски мало жаба Оксфорде."

" Very good sir. I shall fill out the proper forms and do my utmost to bring the Camera back in working order. Now if my esteemed colleague has no further questions..." as I look to Nikolai tucking the file undder my arm " Best to strike while the irons hot sir.!" as I fire off another sharp salute then push my chair back in, turn sharply and stride for the door...

Nikolai quickly follows you out the door. As soon as the door closes to the Honorable Wrights office, Nikolai begins to speak.
That man infuriates me. He is a reminder of why we the proletariat dissolved the nobility in Russia. Self righteous bastard. Monetary aspect, my ass comrade. He sips earl grey tea and expects us to drink tap water. Money is not important. The end result, is what is important. Rotten Oxford bureaucrat piece of слизистый мусора шляхты.

As you speak a slender woman with brown hair and eyes approaches from down the hall.

We have a new player joining us by the way.
Heres his (or her rather) character.

Solange Valois
French, ex-Resistance
age 28, 5'6", slender, black hair, brown eyes

Strength: 10
Dexterity: 12 +1
Mind: 12 +1
[rolls: http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/search/706497]

Cunning Hero, +1 Subterfuge
Starting Occupation: Investigative (Journalist) +1 Knowledge, +2 Communication

Physical: 1
Subterfuge: 2
Knowledge: 2
Communication: 2

Weapon: Walther PPK (stolen from a dead Gestapo  )

Background: Solange was a student at the Sorbonne when the Germans invaded. She joined the Resistance about a year later, mostly in the underground press and propaganda efforts, then as a messenger and smuggler. She was captured by the Nazis in early spring of 1944 and subjected to...things she prefers not to speak of, but managed to escape thanks to an air raid and stealing a gun. By the time of the Normandy invasion she was a cell commander (and a damn good one); she was a fierce yet pragmatic leader and got the job done, though perhaps with too many losses that still haunt her. Post-war life turned out to be rather dull, especially with limited opportunities due to sexism. She took a job as a foreign correspondent and uncovered a plot to use a mutated horror against the rebels in Algeria. She was then "persuaded" by French government agents to join the RPA....

Solange has a sarcastic wit and a somewhat distant and abrasive manner. Having seen so many comrades die, she does not easily warm to people and tells herself she does not need them. As for politics, she was sometimes affiliated with Communist groups during the war, mostly due to their effectiveness, but she is more of a democratic leftist and is troubled by evidence of Soviet oppression. Oh and of course her romantic life is a mess...she's had a string of mostly married men (to avoid permanent attachments) and it's possible even her commander might be among her ex's (if so, hopefully it was amicable!).

keeping my eye on the lady I put my hand on Nikolais shoulder saying "Damned rear echelon types are all the same Nikolai. More concerned with the bottom line than the front line boys and Civi's.Now here's a looker..." I take my cap off and whistle approvingly as she approaches.

Solange smirks at Tanner as he whistles.  She lights a cigarette and exhales smoke as she regards the red-headed American.   "I suppose no one told you I will be joining zis operation?"  She looks Tanner in the eye and also glances somewhat coldly at Nikolai.  "Solange Valois.  Perhaps Captaine Valois to you, n'est-ce pas?"

She follows the two men through the building, finishing her cigarette and lighting another.  She is wearing a midnight blue skirt suit and somewhat impractical high heels.  "It is good to finally be off suspension.  You know, ze Boche was former SS.  Zey found his blood type tattoo at hospital."  She flashes a wicked grin, then turns serious.  "So...a dead family.  And a bit...messy, so I hear."

Da, we don't have many details, but that would seem to be the case. The ебля Commissar did not have much information. Forgetting to tell us about you as well. To busy ебля berating us on the care of tools.

Solange smiles knowingly, all too familiar with the RPA's budget--or lack thereof.  "Speaking of tools, I suppose zis means you do not have ze plastique and detonator I asked for?"  There is a certain gleam in her eyes when mentioning the explosives.  "We do not know what we will face, no?"

"Sorry маленькая леди we do not have explosives. Perhaps you could requisition some. (Mumbles quickly and softly) Женщина уже хочет взорвать дерьмо, ебать."
Turning to Tanner,
"You did want to see about a camera, did you not? Perhaps we should see this American in the armory?"

Hello Wyldcat! Glad to have another player on-board! Just to clarify, we had already left Wrights office and saw your approach in the hall outside his door...

Wiping the grin from his mug and bringing his gaze back to eye level Tanner interjects "Thats correct si...ahh ...Cpt. Solange. Wright failed to inform us of your intention to join our merry group but I for one find it a pleasant surprise." Remembering protocol I snap off a salute with "Sgt. Addison Tanner US army Rangers at your service."
"Info is scetchy to say the least though definitely a messy scene. As far as explosives go,well, sounds like a real hoot to me! Lets go to supply and see what y'all can dig up,we can look at the file as we go." As I proffer the manila folder and sweep the other towrds the far doors.

Noticed and edited...sorry to get off to a bad start, but happy to join the team.  :o

"Ah, an Army Ranger.  I have much respect for all of ze American servicemen but you are a cut above, no?"  Solange winks.  "Did you serve near Cherbourg by any chance?"

"Oh, and what means zis 'y'all'?"

"Well Cpt.,not so sure Rangers are a cut above anything 'cept the un-lucky bastards we left in the ground. Seems us Ranger boys are just a bit more crazy than some...Cherbourg by way of Point Du Hoc. Not many of the original gang made it through the War." as we exit the Building and make our way to the jeep...

"Pardon my rural roots,y'all is just my way of say'n you and Nikolai here. Ah here we are just where we left it." As I clamor behind the wheel after nudging Nikolai away "Now you heard his Honor. If I let you drive this old horse will surely be scrap in no time and I dont take to another lecture from Wright. Now be a sport and let the Cpt. sit here in front." as I pat the dust from the ragged passenger seat.

As Nikolai jumps in the back,
"Bah, I drive a thousand times with out problem. I drive truck through wall once, and I'm a menace. I killed the ебля bastards didnt I?"

Solange chuckles a bit at Nikolai's story about the truck mishap.  "It is one way to do it, mon ami...and I am sure it was a surprise."

Glancing at Addison as he drives, she says, "I am sorry for zis 'captaine' business.  My rank did not carry over, after ze war, but...sometimes, men do not consider...."  She shrugs, choosing to leave unsaid the frustration she had felt from such disrespect.  

She says a bit more quietly, after a moment.  "It is sad most of your 'original gang' did not survive, Sgt. Tanner.  I must say...almost none of mine did."  After a moment she adds, "but enough about so long ago.  Let us hunt well tonight."

As you drive through the American sector chatting as you go. You cant help but notice the rebuilding. The new and refurbished buildings. But there are the reminders that the war wasn't long ago. A burnt out building here, a bullet pocked building there. Places where Nazi symbols and iconography have been cleansed. But the the scar is still there. Reminding you all of the dark times, and villainy that ate this country like a ravenous cancer.

You pull up in front of the Fairlawn grocery.
(http://www.mtn-top-hs.org/images/Abod's%20Store%201950.jpg)
Out front stand two American MP's. One looks to be a veteran, at ease. Stomping his feet and moving his torso back and forth keeping warm in the cool autumn morning. The other is a different story. Standing stone still. Looking to be just a kid. Late for the war just in time for the hurry up stop world of the post war. His face is white as a sheet. You all know the look. The first exposure to a horror, that stabs the soul of a man or woman. That thing that you hope you never become hardened to. But if you survive the horror long enough, its because you have.

Ronin. Did we have a chance to stop by the Armory before heading out? just wondering if we have explosives and camera at this point.

I murmer "Amen to that." to Solanges last remark as I pull the jeep over and give the area a once over. I glance at Nikolai and give a slight nod towards the sentries with a quik grin.

Looking to Solange as I unsnap the safety strap of my holstered .45 and draw it out."Well darl'n, if it's no longer Cptn., how would you like to be addressed."
keeping the pistol low and pointed towards the floorboards I eject and check the magazine.

Since you folks went immediately to the jeep I assumed that you bypassed the armory at HQ.

Nikolai rolls out from the back of the jeep. Slapping Tanner on the shoulder. "You should check you weapon before you strap it on in the morning. Besides put it away before you scare the MP's. The boy does not look so well."

Did not know armory was in the HQ. Roger that!

"I check this baby morn'n,noon and night comrade.Hell, I field strip it in my dreams." as I slap the mag. home,chamber a round,engage the safety and holster it leaving the strap loose.

I wink at Solange before saying...as I look around perplexed."Don't tell me you left your lucky entrenching equipment at base!"

I was wondering about the Armory as well, thanks for clarifying.

Think I'll drop the z's as they're becoming a bit tiresome...


Solange answers Addison, "I suppose you can just call me Solange, if we are to rely on each other we should be friendly, no?"  She does regret her initial coldness, now that she has a bit more of a feel for these men.

She watches Addison adjust his pistol and his conversation with Nikolai about it with a bit of amusement...men and their guns!  "It is best to be prepared.  I for one try not to dream about weapons, but, to each his own."  

"We should see to the young MP.  I know that look far too well...."

Sorry, I guess I should have more specific.:o

Nikolai flashing a wicked smile,
"Never leave home without it."
Opening his great coat to reveal an entrenchment tool on his belt along with a Russian F1 hand grenade.

As you folks disembark from the jeep the older veteran MP approaches. As he walks up he tips his hat to Solange, and to Tanner gives a quick salute and extends his hand. (Completely snubbing Nikolai)
"Specialist Melvin Rathbone, damn glad to see you guys. Its a goddamn mess in there." Giving a slight chuckle, "Then theres where the rookie didn't puke."

The rookie mumbles out, "Thats not funny Melvin."

Solange smiles kindly at the rookie, saying, "It is normal to find it so...horrifying."  At least at first.

She can almost smell the vomit already, knowing of course that is impossible.  Somehow it disturbs her more than the likely condition of the bodies.  She forces out of her mind how ill she had been when the Gestapo had shown her what was left of one of her comrades.  And then he had opened his eyes, tried to scream...

Turning back to the rookie, Solange says, "For now, put it out of your mind.  Of course we will need your report, but, perhaps not yet."

Smiling to myself as I remember that same scared and confused feeling going into combat on D-Day. Better than the 'stare' though...and damned if this new posting doesn't make me feel that way again sometimes.

"Alright then,Solange it is and friendly is fine by me so Addi will do.Nikolai don't put much stock in formality either...ain't that right comrade!?" as I climb out of the jeep...keeping my eyes panning the area,looking for any incongruity as that cold feeling creeps into my gut.

Giving a perfunctory salute and ignoring the comments and hand "Morn'n gentlemen,I'm assuming you followed procedures and kept the integrity of this scene intact.Have you noticed any unusual activity or persons in the area?"

Ronin,what is Nikolais rank?

Nikolai is a Младший сержант. (Junior Sergeant, the first step up from the Private ranks.)

The Private nods his head to Solanges comforting words.

The Veteran responds to Tanner.
"We didn't touch a thing. As soon as we found the body and Billy stopped yarf'n. We hightailed it out of there and called it in. Only people we've seen is a couple locals passing by on their personal business."

At the veteran's comment about 'locals' passing by, Solange scoffs a bit and says, "Do not underestimate Boche going about their 'business'.  It is killing, and I do not know if all have yet learned a new trade."  

She tries to peer inside through a window, but there's too much of reflection in the morning light.  The advertisement for raw beef in its vivid red-pink becomes a bit surreal as she considers the sight likely to await them.

Turning to address Tanner and Nikolai, she says, "So, which of us shall 'take point', as you say."

Tanner takes a small vial of peppermint oil out of his blouse pocket and rubs some under his nose. "Cuts the worst of it." as he offers it to Solange.

Putting my hand on the rookies shoulder and looking him in the eyes "Good work men.Stay alert out here." I salute then grab my field bag from the jeep (checking to make sure the flashlight works) and take one more good look at the surrounding area .

Taking a few deep breaths as I approach the entry and looking to my companions "We know the routine.Lets get this done shall we." I push the door open and enter the building...

Solange grins at Tanner and dabs the peppermint oil under her nose as well. "Merci. I see, Addison, that you come prepared..."

She retrieves her bag from the jeep as well, and leaves her high heels to zip into a pair of boots far more practical for the mission.  She draws her Walther PPK from a shoulder holster beneath her jacket and disengages the safety.  The gun, a wartime trophy, has shiny spot where something has been filed off and seven notches cut into the handle.  She then takes out her flashlight and follows Tanner into the grocery, leaving Nikolai to take the rear.  

Blinking in the darkness inside, she keeps her pistol aimed at the beam of her flashlight as it scans the room.  "Mon Dieu," she gasps under her breath as the scene comes to light....

Nikolai tabs a bit of the oil beneath his nose and cues up in the rear.

You enter the Fairveiw Grocery. Despite the peppermint oil, you still catch an occasional whiff of puke, and that all to familiar stench of human decay. Before you lays a familiar sight. It could be any grocery in any town across the free west. Shelves stocked with canned, dry goods, and sundrys of various sorts. In the back is a counter, atop of it is the register. Behind the counter lies a door to the back. To the side where one goes behind the counter is what looks like the rookies breakfast. But puddled next to it is an unmistakable thing. A pool of blood.

Ronin. What is the lighting situation in the store?
How long are the shelves and are they orientated so we can see down them?
Is the door behind the counter open?
Do we have a system of hand signals to convey basic proceedures or do we rely on verbal orders?

Wyldcat9/Ronin. How shall we handle tactical situations in regards to 'chain of command' (is there one?). Who gives the orders? ( I am a bit unsure of all our actual ranks in the organization etc.)

I propose...
Tanner makes eye contact with Solange and then motions to the counter/door saying "cover".

Addison motions Nikolai to make a circuit round the far end of the shelves while I cover him from the opposite end.(depending on orientation) I kneel close to each end-cap and quick glance round the shelves before advancing.

I am wanting us to end up at the counter having given all the rows a once over while Solange covers the counter/door area. Pistol is drawn and safety off. Flash light in left hand (if required).

Skofflox - I'm assuming we're equals, and I'm sure the RPA has some kind of signaling system.

Ronin - Is the cash register open and/or tampered with?


Solange nods to Tanner and takes her position covering the door behind the counter, which apparently leads to the crime scene.  She holds her pistol steady despite being a bit jumpy.  She is standing in front of the counter, ready to use it for cover should anyone -- or anything -- emerge from the back room.

The store is only lit by the early morning sun coming through the windows in the front. Dim in some places, but you are able to see easily.

There are three main shelves five foot tall, that run from the front to the back. The walls have shelves that reach nearly to the ceiling.

The door behind the counter is ajar, halfway open.

Being that the RPA is composed of former and current military/para-military personnel. You are all familiar with most verbal, and non-verbal cues/communication.

Basically all squad members as far as rank goes are equal. Regardless of their former or current rank. As to chain of command and whose in charge thats really up to Wyldcat and you. Nikolai will do what he thinks needs to be done. But follows most orders. (Just like a good Communist:p) Ive kind of thought you've pretty much been the "leader". As long as Wyld has no problem with that, and it doesn't cut her/him (obviously your character is female, but I'm not sure if you are.) out of the spotlight/time to shine/fun. I think thats OK. But again thats up to you folks.

The cash register is closed and appears unmolested.

As Solange covers the door Tanner and Nikolai move from end cap to end cap scanning the store front to back. Everything seems normal with nothing amiss. You all proceed forward keeping zones of fire. Finally reaching the back counter.
Nikolai leans over and takes a look quickly recoiling, "Святый Боже!, I haven't seen anything like that since Stalingrad."
You you both take a look over the counter. You see a grisly sight. The body of the shop keep. Blood is everywhere. I looks like chunks have been ripped and possibly bitten out of him. Almost like a pack of wild animals had attacked him.

I was assuming Tanner was the leader as well - many IC reasons but also he was here first. :)
Oh and female IRL, not that it matters much on teh interwebs :rolleyes:

"Merde!"  Solange looks down at the mutilated corpse, coughing to suppress a gag that rose in her throat.  "It is...unspeakable," she says at last.  "I do not want to imagine Stalingrad, Nikolai, but sometimes the Boche....used dogs, to run us to ground or...this."  She shudders, then something hardens in her eyes.  "We should find the rest, such as are left."

Wyldcat9/Ronin.
I posed the question merely to maintain verisimilitude. Since we are all combat veterans may I suggest a 'round robin' approach to the group tactical duties? Addison will follow as long as I feel it is a safe plan given the setting and my characters experience. (as I am sure others will do so if my plans seem faulty):)

Even though Tanner is a veteran of many a desperate combat he feels his gore rise a bit at the sight of the mutilated shopkeep (conversely, he surpresses a nervous laugh at the blood smeared 'day old' pastry display on the counter). Swallowing hard he glances to Solange, keeping his pistol trained on the open door...

A "round robin" approach sounds good.

Nikolai speaks,
"Well as you Americans say, No guts no glory."
With that Nikolai jumps the counter and approaches the door. With his tokarev in one hand and his crooked neck flash light in the other. He approaches the door. With the lot of you covering him, he kicks open the door. Quickly scanning the back room, he hollers "Clear!"

Cool.

Tanner says (with unabashed sarcasm)"Well,that was about as subtle as a T-34." as he pushes his cap back and lets out a long sighing breath.
He walks around the counter to the open door avoiding the congealed blood and pans his light around,looking for any bloody footprints or drag marks.

Solange chuckles softly at Tanner's remark. "It was enough 'to wake the dead' as you say," however as she glances down at the corpse again her mirth fades.  She had seen enough, and heard of more, to not entirely discount the possibility of the mangled body rising to some twisted form of life.  But that was of course utter madness...

"What do you see," she asks Addison as she stands just behind him and slightly to his left, ready to follow him into the back room.

Quote from: wyldcat9;411484*snip*
"What do you see," she asks Addison as she stands just behind him and slightly to his left, ready to follow him into the back room.

awaiting description from Ronin before proceeding...  :)

Quote from: skofflox;411523awaiting description from Ronin before proceeding...  :)

Of course...  :)

Sorry I havent posted in couple days. Real life stepped in. anyways back to the game.

From the blood and gore surrounding the corpse, their are several sets of bloody footprints leading to the back room. One of the tracks looks familiar to all of you. It looks like the print of a hobnailed jackboot. There also seems to be a lot of cast off, blood droplets. The attackers must have been covered with their victims blood.

After a quick whistle "Quite a blood trail here. See the hobnail pattern..."as I squat and pan my light on the tracks and follow them into the backroom with the beam. "Must have been one mad S.O.B to do this." as I motion to the splatter pattern.

I feel a drip of sweat run down my neck as I look into my companions faces,  gauging thier mettle as the thought hits...this mother doesn't even try to be stealthy...

and find myself stating the obvious,hoping my voice doesn't betray my fear..."We need to see where these tracks lead,might be stairs back there."

Ronin. Could you provide more detail on the backroom and the lighting/field of vision in there?

No problem Ronin, I totally understand. :)

Solange nods grimly to Tanner.  "And it appears perhaps a Nazi fils de salope has not even changed his boots."  She flashes a wicked grin, and lights a cigarette while they consider tactics.

"Perhaps stairs.  Obviously some means of escape.  We would use the sewers and even the catacombs sometimes...perhaps it connects to a bunker of some kind?"  

(Waiting for Addison to make a crack about fightin' in a basement. ;) )

Quote from: wyldcat9;411745*snip*
(Waiting for Addison to make a crack about fightin' in a basement. ;) )

Nikolai might have some choice things to say about that...being a hero of Stalingrad (with a shovel!?) and all!

and yeah,fully understand how life can come a call'n Ronin. No problem.

:)

OK, first off because I cant resist,

Lt. Aldo Raine: You didn't say the goddamn rendezvous was in a fuckin' basement.
Lt. Archie Hicox: I didn't know.
Lt. Aldo Raine: You said it was in a tavern.
Lt. Archie Hicox: It is a tavern.
Lt. Aldo Raine: Yeah, in a basement. You know, fightin' in a basement offers a lot of difficulties. Number one being, you're fightin' in a basement!

then,

Sgt. Donny Donowitz: Speaking of Frau von Hammersmark, whose idea was it for the death trap rendezvous?
Lt. Archie Hicox: She chose the spot.
Sgt. Donny Donowitz: Well, isn't that just dandy.
Lt. Archie Hicox: Look, she's not a military strategist. She's just an actress.
Lt. Aldo Raine: Well, you don't got to be Stonewall Jackson to know you don't want to fight in a basement.

:p Now back to your regularly scheduled game.

The back room very dimly lit by the dawning sun, obfuscated by the curtains of a lone central window. The room seems a collage of dark shadows and boxes of stock. To the right, in the gloomy dark appears to be a stacked set of stair cases. One leading upward presumably to the living quarters above the store. The other leads down to the basement. The bloody prints leading from the body in a gory path toward the basement stairs.

Nikolai begins to speak.
"This is bad comrades. Reminds me of Stalingrad. To what the Huns called Rat Krieg. We battled in the sewers, avoiding the open land cursed with snipers and artillery. Thinking back to it. I'm not sure what was worse. 88 shells bursting above head, or проклятую germans SMG's in the filthy tunnels."

ah-ha! not a big fan of that one,funny dialogue though.

Wyldcat9.Waiting to see if you would like to proffer some tactical scheme for going down the stairs...
:)

Funny, I was waiting for the same thing from you Skofflox.... ;)

Solange nods to Nikolai.  "It is not a good situation.  A basement, and potentially multiple foes."  She examines the bloody tracks more closely, trying to determine how many individuals they seem to belong to, and whether they all seem to be human.

She sighs.  "If only I had a sten gun and some plastique...."

:o

Tanner Whispers (slaughtering the attempted French with his southern drawl) "Yeah,le petit grognards here will have to suffice."as he claps his comrade Nikolai on the shoulder and smiles wanly at Solange's comment.

Bending close to the blood to try and discern how long it has been since the massacre,noting color and viscocity by probing with a bit of detritus from the wreckage of the store goods.

Ronin; Shall I roll a Knw check for the attempt?
The hunting background as noted in my char. desc. might help here. :)

Yeah give me a knowledge roll. Its an average difficulty (10)

http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2745978/
rolled a 6...including +1 for knw. and +1 for being human ( does that apply?)

Yeah, I figured we would use the +1 thing

Its hard for you to get a read on the bloody prints and gore. You can tell shopkeep was killed sometime in the night. But not when or how many attackers there might have been.

After scratching his head a bit..."Can't make heads nor tails of these bloody tracks. I'm guess'n our man here was aired out last night...no secret thar."

Tanner looks to Solange and Nikolai "Any Ideas?" as his light gyres around randomly over the gory scene as he rises from his squat,knees popping,and takes a few tentative steps into the storage room,.45 at the ready.

Sorry I havent been around. Real life has been interesting to say the least.:)

So how do you folks proceed?

No problemo boss,I hope interesting in a good way!
I am waiting for Sol./Nik. to make some suggestions...:)

Tanner goes deeper into the room,slowly, w/.45 @ the ready...

Nikolai speaks,
So Comrades, do we go up or down? The blood leads to the basement. But didnt this shop keep have family? Where are they? Do you think that they are hiding upstairs? They maybe frightened out of their wits. Imagine listening to the carnage in the store.

Real life has gotten interesting for me as well.  Sorry for not moving this along.

Nikolai's comment makes Solange break off from staring at the bloody footprints.  She hadn't realized she'd gotten fixated like that.

"Of course.  We should search for survivors.  We can always hope..."  She takes a drag from her cigarette and exhales slowly.  "Perhaps I should go first.  Especially if there are children."  She had her doubts about her ability to calm them, but she had done it enough during the war and just after.  It was not a matter of what to say; sometimes the orphans just needed someone to hold them.  

From what she had heard, though, it was highly possible that even the children were casualties.  If that was the case, the RPA had better not expect her to bring in any suspects alive.

No problem Wyld...life can do that!

"Good idea.All right then,lets secure the top floor before going downstairs. Solange goes first, we cover. If anything comes at you try to drop low or get to a side quickly." as I pan my light towards the stairs."If there are any kids up there we need to get them out ASAP and as quiet as possible. Be ready for movement so check your targets before firing." The last part as I look directly at Nikolai.

I start to move into a position to cover the stairs...checking my corners as I advance...

Da Commrade you do the same. says Nikolai as he takes his posistion in the advancing order. The stairs creek as your lot climbs them. Bring you to a windowless wooden door.

I believe Wyld. is in point position....

Addison has his .45 half raised w/finger resting on trigger guard,focusing on keeping his breathing smooth and shoulders etc. relaxed.

Solange carefully approaches the door, creeping on tiptoe.  She pauses for a moment just before it, checking if any sounds or tell-tale odors come through.  She glances back at Addison and Nikolai who have taken their positions below.

Giving a quick nod, she leans against the door to listen for a moment, one hand on the doorknob and the other with her PPK at ready.

Ronin, shall I should make a roll at this point?  ;)

Make a Subterfuge roll to see if you can hear anything on the other side of the door. Average difficulty (10)

Here you go.
1d20+2 → [13,2] = (15)
 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2761566/)

Listening at the door you here the sound of boots dragging across the wooden floor. Seemingly pacing, in a slow clumsy fashion.

Solange takes a quiet step back from the door and whispers to her comrades, "Someone is inside.  Bootsteps, pacing, and stumbling it seems.  It could be a person who is wounded, or perhaps...changed."  

Like all agents of the RPA, she has heard of the macabre experiments of the Nazis and the...creatures some of them yielded.  She checks her pistol again to make sure that a round is chambered.

Ronin,
Is there a landing atop the stairwell ?
How much room do we have ?
Does the door open towards us or inwards?

Addison glances to his comrades and checks the safety on his .45 making sure it is off,nodding his head as Solange's comment registers...

There is a small landing. 5ft wide and 4ft deep. The door opens inward.

Ronin, can we tell if the other room is dark or lit...is there any light visible coming from between the bottom of the door and the floor?

There is a little light peaking form under the door. If you were to guess its probably about as well lit as the store front. From sunlight through the front windows

Tanner secures his flashlight,turns his fatigue cap around so the bill is in back and motions for Solange and Nikolai to cover the door.

approaching with caution, the lessons in stealth his Uncle gave when hunting coming to the fore... he reaches out to try the knob with his left hand as he brings the .45 up in the right, keeping his breath even and steady.

(If the door opens easily Tanner will flatten along the hinge. side of the door away from the opening,training the .45 into the room. If the door is locked/stuck kick it near the jam next to the handle then flatten...)

Ronin, shall I roll for stealth?

Solange takes position on the landing behind Tanner, while keeping her PPK covering him.  She takes the hinge side of the door, planning to flatten against the wall as Tanner will with the door.  She glances at Nikolai to see what he does, hoping he will not bull his way in as he seems inclined to.

Tanner looks to Nikolai as well, to verify his position before trying the handle.

Nikolai stands to the right a few steps down. Using the steps/floor as partial cover. Aiming his tokarev straight at the door. But as not to have either of you in his field of fire. Giving you both the ready signal.

Give me an Stealth roll Tanner. Tough difficulty (15)

http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2771897/
total...9 roll:6 Sub:+2 Hum:+1

after nodding to Nikolai Addi. grasps the knob and turns it...

You open the door to see
(http://cache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/9/2009/03/zombie2.jpg)
An ST (Spezialeinsatztruppen) or as Old bill from Able teams calls them, a God Damn Nazi Zombie.
The ST turns and charges the door.
It is approximately 20 feet from the door. Everybody should roll initiative.

Initiative: 1d20+1 → [11,1] = (12)
 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2775890/)

Solange turns somewhat pale as she levels her pistol at the ST. "Meurs encore, Boche con!"

Waiting for initiative of course...

http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2776658/
Yikes!
NICE visual Ronin :)
Init. 8...

Tanner gasps at the horrific sight and (S>L>O>W>L>Y>) raises his .45 at the approaching fiend,time moving in that strange way...Solanges words reverberating as if from some great depth...

Nikolais Int roll  1d20+1=4 Stupid code! he rolled a 4

The ST's roll 1d20=2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2777402/)

So heres the order Solange, Tanner, Nikolai, then the ST. So what do you do Solange?

Quote from: Ronin;419403*snip*
So heres the order Solange, Tanner, Nikolai, then the ST. So what do you do Solange?[/B]

Yeah! (w/clenched fist & tucked chin):)

Okay time to "nut up or shut up" ;)

Solange struggles to stay calm as the ST charges towards the door.  She takes careful aim with her PPK, steadying it with both hands and trying to stop them from shaking.  She fires at the ST's head, using its insanely glowing red eyes to pick it out in the dim light.

1d20+2 → [6,2] = (8)
 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2777443/)

If I have time, I'll take a few steps back down the stairs - not sure how long the rounds last.

Your shot zings past the ST shattering the window behind it.

You can move next turn if you want. You get one action per turn.
Tanner your up.

Quote from: Ronin;419106You open the door to see
(http://cache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/9/2009/03/zombie2.jpg)
An ST (Spezialeinsatztruppen) or as Old bill from Able teams calls them, a God Damn Nazi Zombie.
The ST turns and charges the door.
It is approximately 20 feet from the door. .

Shots echo as I aim towards the creatures chest....and squeeze the trigger while exhaling...http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2778697/
(18+2=20!)

Your shot hits the ST square in the chest, dead center of mass.

Roll damage. 1911 damage is 1d6+1d8

11 total! :)
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2780986/

The ST stumbles as the .45 round carves a massive hole through it.

From behind you Nikolai Tokarev barks.
1d20+2=20 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2781945/)

Striking punching a hole just below the .45's,
2d6=7 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2781951/)
Digging another furrow through the thing.

The ST stumbles and falls. Lying silent and still before you.

Solange lowers her pistol once the thing appears to be dead at last.  "A corpse, still fighting the war."  She shakes her head and shrugs, pretending to be less rattled by the ST than she is.  Taking the pack of cigarettes from her pocket she finds it empty and scowls as she crushes the empty pack.

She glances inside the room to see if there's anything of interest besides the zombie's remains, sweeping through with her flashlight and PPK in synch.

yeah! one more "Natzi goon" out of commision! Nice shooting Nikolai!

Tanner enters the room in a shuffling bent knee stance,eyes and .45 syncing around the room searching for more targets...or survivors! The surge of adrenalin keeping him sharp in light of the un-dead horror just dispatched.

You come to a grizzly sight. The torn and mangled corpses of a woman and two children. Blood and gore slung across the room.

"Merde!"  At the sight of the dead woman and especially the children's bodies, Solange leans against the wall, bent double and gagging.  The wave passes and she eventually makes her way across the room towards them.  "It is...unspeakable."

I glance over the corpses,feeling that sick sensation in the gut as I motion for Nikolai to check the room as I come close to the body of the ST trooper...45 still chambered and out at the ready...

I kneel next to the body and look it over for anything that stands out...nothing in particuler just anything that jumps out.Trying not to gag at the stench of the gore crusted uniform...and of the other bodies.

Sorry for not posting. Life got interesting again, and yes in a good way. But back to the game.

The STs looks like any other. A half rotted corpse, with strange tubes and electrical devices sewn into its neck. Nothing out the ordinary. At least not for an ST.

Nikolai scans the room. Giving the all clear sign. Pointing at a closed door at the back of the room.

Nodding to Nikolai I look to Solange and motion for us to cover the door then give Nikolai the "you open" signal as I take a few steps closer,aiming the .45 dead center of the door as I take a firing stance.

Solange snaps out of her melancholy contemplation of the murdered mother and children and takes position covering the door.  She aims her PPK towards the door, making sure to keep a clear line of fire.  She nods to Addison and Nikolai, then focuses on the doorway and her gunsights with a look of grim precision.

Nikolai slides to the door. Slowly grabbing the handle. He jerks it open in a single motion. Revealing what looks to be a darkened bedroom. It exudes stillness, the room draped in shadows, and black.

Advancing a few steps as I bring my flashlight into play in my left hand I pan the light around the other room as I keep my .45 panning in sync.

Your flashlight reveals a room empty of presence, other than your own.

Lowering my .45 I push my cap back and wipe my forehead with my shirt sleeve..."Whew,nice work people.Maybe we can find something to cover these folks up,a bit o respect for the dead yeah?" as I indicate the bodies."I wanna complete sweep of this floor before we go into the basement!" as I stride into the other room....45 still in hand though held low.

Nikolai opens up cabinets till he finds one with linens. Producing several sheets and a table cloth. He stands with the linen. A sad look in his eye.

Ronin, what are the ages and genders of the kids?

Solange nods sadly to Nikolai and approaches the bodies once more.  She crouches beside the younger child and covers the corpse with the table cloth.  Before covering the face, she very gently closes the child's eerie dead eyes.

I would assume I'd need to roll if it's shall we say not quite dead? Not to give you even more evil ideas....

Little girl, about 5 the boy about 8. The are unfortunately very dead.

Yes that is unfortunate.  I was just picturing them springing to unlife and us having to fight them.  Maybe it's just Walking Dead withdrawal ;)

waiting with bowed head for Nikolai to finish...then quietly "Works not done here people. Lets go check for a basement."

"You are correct.  And we...owe it to them, to stop these....creatures."  Solange leaves the bodies and heads for the stairs, waiting for Addison and Nikolai to join her.  "Perhaps the basement joins into tunnels of some kind."

nodding towards Solange I follow her down the stairs after a last look at the ST zombie...