May 24 17:31:23 109 PA - Escorting Secret Cargo to the Caribbean
From Chronicles
LANDING STRIP
Out at the landing strip, it's roughly two hours before sunrise. Thankfully, the weather seems to be cooperating to everyone's benefit, with clear skies and soft winds out of the northwest. Otherwise, the strip is as busy and noisy as it would be found on any day at this hour.
In ages past there were novel things called tow trucks. Mechanics in big trucks capable of fixing your ride or towing it to where it could be fixed. Today the novelty is not wholly lost, just much more of a novelty. Such saviors to one's livelihood were expensive in ages past and are still today. Except for Alex. The robot mechanic is aiming to reform the industry. Offering on-call repairs anywhere in the city's vicinity for a fraction of the cost any other mechanic would charge. Within limitation of what the robot can fix anyway. And if it cannot fix it the robot will tow it to someone who can at no charge. Thus the machine is returning to the landing strip, a compact car in tow with a front tire just completely shredded.
St. James clad in her full armor, the woman pulls into the parking area, and gets out. Slinging her rifle over one shoulder by the strap, helmet under her right arm, she gets out and begins running a check on her equipment, humming brightly as she does so. Fighting she knows! She begins running camo paint on the armor, apparently working to prepare herself.
Jokin arrives on the airfield, his regular "Civvie" clothes having been replaced by a suit of cyborg armor, the hint of some sort of undergarment visible on his torso, and out onto one of the arms, due to the suit not being environmentally sealed. Other then that, where the armor ends, metal continues. He's checked out a couple heavy cases from the storage lockers which he's carrying out onto the field with him, as well as a bulging pack over his shoulders.
Tek strolls out of Uncommon Mechanics in a set of Triax cyclops armor, though the faceplate is open for the time being, A UTI Zapper Gun is strapped across his back, an energy pistol and two-pound sledge hammer hang from a utility belt. He wanders over to the gathering crowd, "Hello everyone. what a lovely day for a drive wouldn't you agree?"
The unarmed tattooed man, Sithik, happens by the Landing Strip from parts unknown to places unknown, though roughly in the direction of the shop of Uncommon Mechanics. Reptilian tagging along closely due to the traffic that frequents the area. Recognizing someone within the group of gathered people he heads on over to offer a slight bow of his head to Tek in greeting, "Hello Tek. Is this your gathering for Arcadia?"
Alex pulls the mangled car alongside one of the mechanic's shops. Its grappling arm disengaging to leave the vehicle in their capable hands so the robot may consider its next task. A quick scan shows the usual business of the landing strip as well as a small gathering. The gathering on the machine's way back into town Alex starts to hover in that direction with idle curiosity.
Aya walks onto the landing field dressed for travel and conflict. She wears a common suit of body armor in a flat gray and carries a longer, more convoluted staff-like weapon in place of her usual stave. A baton rests at each hip, dangling from a utility belt.
St. James inclines her head to Tek, setting aside her brush for a moment, then leaning to look in the mirror while she works. Finishing up on her helmet, she plops it on her head and then puts her supplies away. "Lovely day. Can't wait, sirs. Can't wait."
"So, what sort of hardware are we going to need?" Jokin asks, glancing towards Tek as he seems to be the man to talk to, "Not sure I want to pack everything, but I've got an assortment of weapons, a gun for every need you might say." he says as he starts cracking open cases, revealing a laser rifle, a shotgun/flamer combo, and a NG heavy plasma ejector, "You've got my railgun still, though." He adds with a grin.
Tek shakes his head to Sithik as he comes up, "Nope, I will be heading over to Arcadia here soon though. This little gathering might be something that would hold your interest. Just a quick escort job, sound like something you would want to help out with?" Then looking to Aya with a nod and a smile. After giving St. James a once over, almost an inspection kind of thing he steps forward with an extended hand, "Please, please don't call me sir. I actually work for a living. Name's Tek." A warm smile follows. After which Tek turns to Jokin and shrugs, "I can grab it for you if you like but you will need to remember to bring it back to the shop for me to complete the modifications. But so far as what you will need I am not sure. I have 'some' extra equipment if needed but I would be more interested to see what we have to start with before committing to anything."
St. James looks between the gathered people and wonders out loud,"I feel like I'm traveling light compared to most of you. So... do we have plan, then?" Still, she pauses and nods to Tek,"Well... it's a sign of respect in the military. But I can call you Mr. if you prefer, though that's normally only used for subordinates. Never was an officer, myself. Enlisted." She shrugs, and begins tweaking some settings on her speakers until her voice comes out in a sinister rasp. "Check. Check. Check 1-2. Check 1-2. Better."
Sithik gives a nod to Tek as he explains briefly the situation. "What is the method of travel?" he asks Tek while checking out the rest of the unknown group gathered, familiar faces on some, still considered unknown however.
Still roughly two hours before sunup, there is one more vehicle to add noise to the cacophony of the landing strip. A large dual-rotor helicopter descends out of the southeast. It comes in fast enough to be a useful transport vehicle, with the rotors spinning at opposite ends of a long semi-cylindrical body with a cockpit stuck on one end. A simple muted green cover it, with no further camouflage evident. A few circles are made, and it finally lands appropriately on the nearby helicopter pad. A ramp lowers out the back, and three men walk out wearing neat dark gray suits and sunglasses. Following a moment of scouring the area by scanning it with swiveling heads, they move toward the gathering of exotically strange people. Three of them are recognized immediately. "Hello. Tek, Aya, Sergeant St. James," the man in front says with a distinct accent that isn't actually Spanish, but at least Spanish-ish. "Greetings to the rest of you, I hope that we can get moving before first light."
Alex goes nearly unnoticed too so far in its approach of the group. A near marvel really. Or maybe a blessing answers at an inopportune time. Aiming to break the spell the robot waves, its neutral voice calling out clearly. "Hello humans, Tek." They all look human anyway..
Aya is easily recognizable to the latest arrivals, as the faceplate of her helm is absent. Her eyes are protected by her worn visor, so perhaps there is little need for the full covering. "I am prepared," she answers the greeting and statement of hope. Of the others in the group, Sithik draws notice as he is unarmored. "If you will accompany us," she advises, "You seem unprepared."
St. James does a quick check of her weapon, clearing the barely, removing and re-attaching the e-clip. Then she does a quick count of the clips attached to her armor, before stepping forward to offer a hand to the man who address them,"Sir. I believe we're ready whenever you are... Though I may be hasty speaking for anyone else. You tell us where you want us and we'll be good as gold."
Jokin hmns a bit, "I'll just pack the Plasma Ejector." He says to Tek, then takes the shotgun, and the rifle out, slinging them and adjusting them on his person, as well as tucking ammo away into ammo pouches before he hefts up the plasma ejector, and slips on a helmet.
Besides his backpack Tek has a medium sized metal case he is carrying as well. Tek says into a built in speaker system as to be heard over the screaming loud dual rotor helicopter, "Who else are we waiting for?" This comment does not seem to be directed at any one person but more everyone gathered.
The lead man speaks, with the others looking on as both lieutenants and bodyguards. "For those of you who haven't already met me, my name is Guerrno. Today we will be transporting a valuable object down to the Caribbean, paying twenty-five thousand credits apiece. In the interest of fostering goodwill, everyone will be paid the same, but only the three of you who came forward earlier to sign on will have the benefits of the contract, should they become necessary." He pauses for a moment to let that sink in. "As I said when my associates and I were looking for good people like you, anyone here depending on magic of any sort will be at a disadvantage, and I can only say as much right now. The helicopter will take us to a meeting point, then we'll head for the Mississippi. We'll be traversing territory claimed by the Federation of Magic, skirting the edge of the Coalition Arkansas territory, then we'll be into the wilds for the remaining half of the journey, using the Mississippi as a highway. I have additional security on hand, but this is what you'll be facing, and what you'll need to protect. I'll add that this is a *highly* delicate item, and allowing it to be hurt is probably a very bad idea. We've taken steps, but hopefully with your services, we can all walk away richer. My employer thanks you for your service. Unless there are further questions, it looks like you all have an hour to go and trade out any equipment that you think might best suit the job, now that you know most of the details."
Sithik turns to Aya with a grin, "I am prepared as well as any present." Turning back to the men in charge to listen to their instructions.
Alex turns to consider the large helicopter taking them all a great ways south, and then the man in charge of it. "Could use some credits. You have need of someone who could maintain that bird of yours? How fast does it go? Not sure it will fit my girth.." The robot notes, turning away from those who have neglected its approach and greeting to deal with the one in charge instead.
The combination of Sithik's reply and the information from the organizers prompts Aya to open her senses to any aforementioned magic in the vicinity.
St. James nods her head over towards the robot, asking Tek,"That yours? Is it gonna fit on the helicopter?" She eyes it doubtfully, then shrugs and turns towards the man once more. She steps towards the helicopter, addressing him,"I might be able to talk us out of scraps with Coalition squads, but otherwise, shall I assume our priority is to help you avoid confrontation, followed by repelling attack, followed by engaging while you flee if necessary?"
Tek smiles to Alex as St. James points him out, "Belong to me? No, no. Alex is one of those smart robots. Just treat him like you would any other D-Bee. While you all are here I can offer Heavy Damage Energy weapons or a Rail Gun if anyone can use and wants to use something like that. I have some armor but it is already damaged. Does anyone need anything before we head out?"
"And what benefits will the rest of us be missing out on, since you've decided to bring it up, Mr. Guerrno?" Jokin asks, looking the fellow over, getting the gear he's leaving behind ready to tuck back into storage.
Sithik looks to the one speaking about the details of the job, "Why do you say magic will be at a disadvantage? Will it put the group in danger?" His reptilian pet creeping up behind him to curl around one leg like a loving kitten.
"It'll do about one-forty, cruising. Two-hundred in an emergency," Guerrno replies to Alex. "It's primarily for personnel transport, and we don't really have a need for quick insertion into war zone. But yes, while we might discuss a dedicated maintenance person, that's for another time, please. For now, the job is our object." He wobbles a hand a tad. "You could probably fit in diagonally." As exotic as the flying robot may be, he doesn't seem phased, and neither do his companions. Just professional. Jokin is answered quickly, "Partial compensation of lost equipment and various medical issues. We like to work closely with those who show immediate interest in our assignments, and it's only fair to those who did, to be the ones to retain these benefits, I hope you would agree. Pay, however, remains the same and is the same for both contract and non-contract workers." When Sithik speaks up, Guerrno removes his sunglasses, so that he can better look at the tattooed man. Nothing exciting underneath to be revealed, just human eyeballs. "I'm sorry, I can't discuss further details about magic, save to say that if you depend on it for your life, you will be at a significant if not debilitating disadvantage, depending on how much you rely on it. As far as putting the group in danger? Only as I've said; if someone relies on it heavily, that person might not be in a position that he's used to being in. A significant disadvantage, for instance, for one who walks the lines, or rips through dimensions. When we're ready, please embark so that we can get going. If there are other questions, I'll answer them en route."
Alex nods. "I am capable of double that speed. So if all the same to you I will be your craft's escort to the destination from the outside as opposed to in." Th robot offers, not wanting to force the others to endure it obstructing the largest emergency exit. After it turns to regard Tek and St. James with a nod. "Yes, I am sentient, not a Coalition bot or Naruni drone. Inferior models both I assure you. Besides, Tek could not afford me." It adds in jest.
Aya has no other needs or concerns, and moves to board the aircraft.
"So you're basically asking us for charity work, yeah?" Jokin asks, "That 25 grand will cover armor repairs, and maybe ammo. So you're not looking for an awful lot of effort out of those of us who didn't sign up right away yeah?" He shrugs a bit, "Half upfront then, since we've got no contract binding you to pay us or treat us fair, those of us who didn't sign up ahead of time. Otherwise, enjoy the trip." He adds.
St. James lifts an eyebrow at Tek as if to say 'what the hell?'. "Huuuuuh. Right. Okay. Well, then. That'll... uh... do... just fine. She moves towards the helicopter a little more, to begin scoping a place to sit, "Glad I don't have to rely on magic. Dicey business, that. Mind if I seat up?" To Tek, though, she says,"You and me need to have a talk sometime about some weapon modifications I have in mind when we're not in the middle of business. Sound good?"
Tek gets up into the helicopter, securing his metal case before strapping in himself. Then looking to St. James, "Sure thing just swing by the shop sometime and we can go over the specifics of what you are looking for." Then leaning forward he says to the pilot, "I'm locked, cocked and ready to rock. Let's hit it."
Sithik files into the helicopter taking note of what has been mentioned, his pet trailing in behind him. Both find a spot to sit along the walls, the reptilian resting its head on the unarmed man's lap for the travel.
"I have no issue with that, you're welcome to fly along," Guerrno nods. Jokin gets a look, but also an understanding nod. "Charity hardly involves a large cash payment for services rendered. We've had complaints such as yours before, but don't usually have personnel issues in the end. It's bad for business, and business is very important to us. I assure you that you will be paid, and you will be treated fairly as I've outlined. However, there will be no up front payment. That wouldn't be fair to those who previously stepped forward to sign on with us in good faith. If you don't find this acceptable, I understand, and hope that in the future you might come forward sooner. You look quite capable. Board or don't board, it's your choice with no ill will from us," is eventually offered with a wave toward the helicopter whose rotors are already beginning to wind up again, thanks to power provided by two enormous turboshaft engines at the base of each. He watches as the others board, offering each a nod, while his two comrades do their best to find comfortable seating for the people from Kingsdale. Seating involves two long rows of chairs, one on each side with the seats facing in toward the centerline of the aircraft, twenty seats on either side.
As the chopper prepares for take off Alex ascends into the air above to wait comfortably and follow at its wing once it departs.
St. James settles herself near one of the doors, belt clipped to the lines near the door, and pulls free a pair of binoculars to scan the landscape. "Sounds like a cakewalk. Well, let's get going, then."
Jokin taps his chest, "If this gets damaged to any degree beyond minor cosmetic work it's going to cost minimum 20 grand to replace. It's cheaper to buy a new one then it is to fix it." He explains, "Limbs? If they get damaged could be 5 to 10 grand to repair, minimum. Ammo recharge rates on a Long E-clip that this baby chews through?" he pats the Plasma Ejector, "Quite a lot. Not to mention all the advantages I've got that will aid your mission built in. Twenty-five grand is chump change compared to the expenses. So, if I go along on your mission you're buying very, very little effort from me as it stands, and no incentive to stick through any difficult opposition. So I suppose we're at an impasse. A pleasure meeting you anyway," he says and starts to pack up his gear and head home.
It's not an impasse to the men who came here looking for escorts. Guerrno offers a polite, "I understand. It can be very expensive to damage equipment like that. I'm sure that we'll be back in the future, and please look for us. Heavy equipment like that is usually wanted. But thank you for showing up today interested, at any rate." A few steps take him into the helicopter, which at one word from him, immediately lifts off and begins to make a loop over the airfield and then nearly due south.
GROUND RALLY POINT IN FEDERATION TERRITORY
The flight from Kingsdale takes roughly one hour, with the large troop transport landing just as the sun rises. It descends into a large clearing surrounded by forest, in land claimed by the Federation of Magic. Thankfully, the flight was completely uneventful, as is the rally point. What is possibly exciting is the sight of two vehicles that at one point were Mark V APCs, but are now something better. More heavily armored. More heavily armed, with the most obvious modifications being mini-missile launchers on the rear. Two rail guns are mounted up top. Nearby are two hovercycles. Guerrno gestures everyone out.
Alex descends with the chopper and waits for everyone to unload as it takes a look over the new vehicles with an approving nod to the modifications.
St. James piles out of the helicopter now, lifting her faceplate briefly to take a look around. Examining the heavy vehicles, she whistles low in approval,"Well, you guys certainly weren't kidding when you said this was important. Well then... here's to profit." She gives a thumbs up, then slams her faceplate up,"Good to see some cover."
Aya is momentarily concerned by the armored vehicles before realizing that they are part of the security for the landing area. Once the doors open, she is prompt to dismount.
Having closed the faceplate to his Cyclops armor before they left Tek leaves it down finding the use of his built-in optics natural. After dismounting Tek makes his way over to the APCs giving them a quick once-over and a pat with a nod of approval, "These are nice pieces of equipment you have here."
The tattooed individual and reptilian pet climbs on out with the rest of the group, taking note of the terrain of the area and distant landmarks that may be noticed from this spot. Just getting himself oriented before looking to see where he needs to be from this point.
Guerrno moves out and asks, "Yeah, feel that? Hope nobody was depending on techno-wizardy. We'll get going soon, no reason to waste time." He walks over to one vehicle and pats it. "This contains the item. Guard it, it is very delicate. Delicate enough that if you had a common handgun, you could damage it. A vibro-knife would gouge it up to the hilt. So this vehicle needs to remain intact. The other is our personnel transport, should we be lucky enough for the opportunity, and obviously another guard. They'll keep us covered from the air." He gestures toward the two hovercycles. As if on cue, two doors pop open on each one, exposing what were previously hidden mounted plasma weapons. "If everything goes well, we'll make it to the coast by sundown, and have you back home by sunrise. Now," he continues, "What I couldn't say earlier is that what you're guarding sucks magic dry. If you try to use it, it won't work. Period. If anyone needs a weapon to make up for that, we can provide one. Anyone?" Four additional men slip out of the personnel APC and start to tweak at small panels and such on both vehicles, obviously just doing their best to tweak them for movement.
"Glad to see I won't be labeled the tank then," Alex remarks as it returns for its assessment of the vehicles. The robot then considers the one with the valuable and fragile cargo. "So breaking it is a bad thing.. ok. Shame all vehicles are so small. I'd sooner link to this APC and control it as an extension of myself. But I don’t fit. So instead I guess I can only offer resistance to attackers and make repairs en route. Any spare plating for that?" The robot requires with its assessment.
St. James stretches her fingers a little bit, then unlimbers her rifle, sighting down the line of it, and moves towards the indicated vehicle they are here to escort, "Well then, sounds like plan. Let's get to it then." She loosens her sword in its sheath, and then smiles.
Tek walks over to Sithik and extends his hand passing him a vibro-knife and sheath, "Here take this Sithik, it might come in handy." Then looking to Guerrno he says, "I am pretty damn good with weapon systems. Where you want me?" Still between both vehicle Tek looks the optics on his helm shift as if focusing.
Sithik accepts the vibro-knife from the mechanic offering the weapon with a thankful nod of his head, then moves to the leader of the expedition, "I am proficient with energy weapons if you have a spare to offer. If not the knife will do fine."
The frontman gives Alex a small nod, and in his continued accent replies, "Some, but nothing enough to keep someone from blowing a hole in the side faster than it can be patched, I wouldn't think. Though clearly you may have some extraordinary abilities. If you want to try to 'connect' with the other vehicle, if you think it could help - please do." Remaining in his suit, Guerrno does eventually pull a partial armored helmet over his head, as do the others. Gas masks and goggles, as well. The four men who had emerged from the personnel APC enter it, then come out, armed with two plasma rifles, one rocket launcher, and a small man-portable railgun. They divide themselves between the two APCs, then Guerrno answers Tek's question with, "Why don't you take the transport. Keep those railguns up so that the object doesn't get hit. The missiles up top are automatic defensive systems." When Sithik answers him, Guerrno lets out a high-pitched whistle and snaps his fingers. One of the armed men tosses down his plasma weapon, a rifle of Northern Gun issue. It is handed over to the tattooed man with the polite assurance, "We get it back when this is over." Two extra e-clips are also tossed down to compliment the one already engaged. He does stop to make it a point to the others. "According to our contract, only those who signed on would be given weapons. We're providing a weapon to a non-signed individual this time simply because of his unknowing inability to use his innate powers, an inability that I wasn't free to discuss. I'll be in the personnel vehicle. Let's get going, if there aren't any further questions." He starts to walk off, leaving the choice of positioning to those who have come along.
Alex shakes its head. "Would leave me defenseless sitting on top. Think it's better to have two active models than one. But plating will help after the battle. If I spend my own armor repairing supplies on your equipment, will you reimburse me for that?" The robot asks, aware of the very cut and dry budget.
Aya falls into position after the frontman. She has no further questions and no reason to delay. Her lengthy weapon is kept readied even as it is somewhat utilized as a travel aid.
St. James drops back behind the vehicles a little ways to provide herself some distance to work with her rifle holds it in relaxed-ready position, eyes peeled for trouble,"Seems pretty cut and dried, boss. Here's to hoping the holy hell you prepared for doesn't come knocking." From that point on, she remains silent, armored skull-face impassive. "You guys using a frequency we should be on? I wanna tune my suit."
Tek moves into the transport vehicle as directed and merges with its weapons system.
Sithik takes and checks the weapon, making sure it is ready for service as he makes his way aboard the transport vehicle, the extra clips being put into his pack for safekeeping, the vibro-knife getting attached to his belt next to the small skinning knife he usually carries for protection.
Over the new local radio band comes Guerrno's voice, and a reply to Alex. "As there is no existing contract, if you are damaged during battle and require repair to get to our ultimate destination, you will be repaired at no cost. However, any further damage incurred after the cessation of the mission, namely the delivery of the object, will not be covered. I'm interested in looking at you as a mechanic however, so in the future I'd be pleased if you were to come forward sooner to sign on with others." Then, apparently someone was looking, because the reactors in each vehicle send power down through the drivetrain to start the eight enormous wheels turning. "Here we go. The good news is that we're protected against magic - something useful here in the Federation. But you never know what lives in the wilderness, so keep your eyes out." It doesn't take long before the Mark Vs will be barreling east-by-southeast at nearly full speed. Guerrno says on a different subject, "Any materials of your own that you use would be considered your own losses, like ammunition, as you are unsigned. However, I realize that it is splitting hairs, but you are free to use our own plating."
Alex shrugs. "Suit yourselves. I'll save it all for me then." The robot replies as it takes position a dozen feet above the vital APC. There it rotates slowly as it moves forward, kinda resembling a radar dish and perhaps focusing on a similar function.
Now sealed in a mobile casket with others, Aya has little to devote her attention to aside from those with her. "Will you be capable without your magic?" she asks Sithik. "How far to our destination? Will all the travel be in this vehicle? We will be of no help if it is destroyed with us inside."
St. James continuously checks and rechecks her weapons and armor, apparently both pleased to be on the road, and still obsessively cautious,"The bug you don't catch is the one that bites you."
Tek stays quiet as he feels out the new system he has just merged with. The railguns pivot and aim around and the sensors sweep around as each system is tried out. After everything goes back to its normal positioning. Over the radio Tek simply says, "Tek here. Ready to go. Out."
Sithik and pet find a place to sit and enjoy the ride, rather accustomed to being transported to the action. "I will be able to adapt to whatever the challenge brings," commenting to Aya.
Without comment to the robot - Guerrno sticking fastidiously to contracts as agreed to be fair to all - he says to Aya, "We have about one-hundred and fifty miles to go, in a straight line. At full speed, if we don't hit any obstacles, we should make it to our first point in two hours. You aren't required to be inside," he adds. "If you feel better up top with my men, you can access it via the hatch between the two railguns. But no, we won't be using these all the way. I said that we'll be using the river, and they don't float well. My employer found some ancient blueprints left over from before the Cataclysm, scaled them up and added technology, then built a large hovercraft to take us downstream." There's some distance covered, decent distance behind obviously experienced drivers, with the hovercycles distant and covering a perimeter. Every few minutes comes the call, "No hostiles." Very efficient, as everything else has seemed to be. After about thirty minutes, Guerrno asks if anyone has ever been in this territory, or that far down the Mississippi.
Alex makes no reply to show it knows nothing of the terrain ahead. "The array of different vehicles is interesting. Quite the expense for a fragile trinket." The robot does note vocally, not wishing to obscure the radio with idle chat.
Aya promptly accepts the offer, standing and moving to the hatch to ride fully or partially above. All the better to avoid claustrophobia and observe what lies outside. Perimeter or not, she prefers awareness to ignorance. It also allows her to verify her transmitter. "No, I am not familiar with the area."
St. James nods to Guerrno,"I was Coalition Special Forces before I... retired myself from active duty... I've been all over, single and in squads. So yeah, I've been here and then some, sir. Why do you ask?" Well, at least she's forthcoming about it. She looks up to one of the hatches to see about propping herself on top, prone, with her weapon, leaving her comm-channel open as she does so,"Got some questions sir?"
Tek remains silent as he is not sure if Guerrno is just making idle chat or not. Keeping track of what is going on outside with the sensors Tek stays ready.
Sithik also does not know the area, indicated by a shake of his head when asked. Simply enjoying the trip for as long as it lasts, keeping his reptilian friend content within the rolling casket.
Guerrno nods to St. James, though no one but the driver can see him. In that Spanish-ish of his, he tells her, "I'd like to know more about those who've come along with us - particularly anyone who came forward to sign on. Our organization will be making more runs like this, so it helps to know what to expect. Or even, if you prove to be useful, who to approach directly. Still, this part of the Federation isn't well known to us, most of our travel is done in flight. The delicate nature of this object kept us from putting it where gravity might try to destroy it. Once we reach the river south of the Arkansas Territory, we'll be much more familiar with the area." The APCs bounce along. When Aya emerges from the hatch, one of the men waves to a weapon partially hidden in a small notch on the back of the APC. It's long, with a vented front in a bullpup configuration. From behind his partial armor, the suited man asks her, "Usted es un guerrero. ¿Alguna vez has visto un rifle como este?"
As the APC rumbles along Alex just watches the trees and the sky, listening as woodland creatures flee its path. Feeling those too small or slow to escape it in time.
Aya shakes her head in response to the speech and indicated rifle. "I do not understand you and I already possess a weapon." She takes up a cross-legged seated position on the vehicle, resting her weapon along the long axis of the vehicle without removing her hand.
St. James hunkers down where she's at once she's got a comfy prone position to begin scanning. Over comm she says,"Nothing out here that's obvious, sir... No creatures known to populate these lands, or anything wacky like that known to this area. If you do a fourteen degree course correction, northeast, go about five miles in, and then cut back towards the original route, you can avoid some unhealthy caves and such that seem to disgorge nasties from time to time. Devil unicorns and such. We can take them but better to not have to." As to the man who spoke Spanish, she speaks out loud in that raspy voice"¿Cómo se llama eso? Es impresionante."
Tek still merged with the weapons system remain quite and alert. Keeping track of the systems he has access too and scanning the area around the vehicles for any possible threats.
Sithik remains content to ride quietly along, there are plenty of eyes up top and tech devices to boot, there is nothing more he can do at this time. Being drained of energy he tries to catch a nap.
Woodland critters run from Alex like young children before the King of Pop. The man puts away the rifle, the doors snapping shut once more to conceal it. "Nosotros lo llamamos un rifle," is the rather bland response. There's a loud *BANG* followed by the front vehicle skidding to a halt, the transport vehicle having to weave around it, its brakes incapable of stopping it in time. Guerrno is heard cursing over the radio, cursing his luck. Crackle-crackle. "We need a mechanic, the trans-axle twisted up or something."
All stop. That’s clear enough and Alex does, before turning to float to the damaged axle and consider it. Already the robot is mulling the complications of such a repair in such a place with a shake of its head. "Hope you've got some heavy duty jacks."
Aya uses her free hand to steady herself as the vehicle swerves with the other's halt. "Did it collide with something?" Equipment can fail, now and then, but it does not suddenly break of its own accord.
St. James lifts an eyebrow to the man,"Muy gracioso." Still, when the vehicle skids to a halt after the loud pop, she curses as while gripping a tight hold as well,"What did it? Keep alert people. Could be a forced stop, something placed in our route." As if that actually needed to be said. Propping her rifle, she scans the surroundings carefully, waiting,"What a time for a breakdown, aye?" Eyes immediately go to the package.
Tek breaks his connection with the weapon system and dismounts. Walking over to the other vehicle he lays a hand on it, "Well let's see what's wrong with it first." He then closes his eyes and concentrates.
Sithik's eyes pop open from his little cat nap with the sudden breaking of the vehicle. Once at a complete halt he unloads himself and his pet. Giving a sharp barked command to the reptilian companion, it slithers off to check out the nearby area they are stopped in. The tattooed man also walks away from the vehicles to scout the surrounding perimeter himself, also to see where the magic draining extends to, if he can determine such a thing.
As questions are asked, and Tek seems to know about doing something, the side of the damaged APC folds down in a place that normal ones don't. Inside are a variety of spare parts, from nuts and bolts to somewhat complex linkages and various lengths of wire. Not enough for an overhaul, but plenty for repairing non-devastating wilderness accidents and other such problems. Guerrno is rapidly on scene to ask of Tek, "How soon can we be going." Perhaps asking even before he's done concentrating on the matter. To his own men and the others around he calls in accented American, "Check the cargo, make sure that it didn't get bumped. Re-seat it if necessary." He eyes the sky as one of the cycles swoops overhead. "St. James says that we're in a safe area, but watch out anyway."
Alex nods as the hidden compartment is revealed and holds all the might be needed. "Good good, prop her up, make some spot-welds and we may be on out way. If lucky," the robot says encouragingly, though too bulky to get in and do so without shoving everyone else aside.
Aya lifts her weapon to a high ready as he scans the surroundings. Stopped, the vehicles all make a much more ready target, and the crippling damage may not be a random event.
St. James slips over to the hatch of the vehicle she's on, standing up in it so she can gain some cover and still rotate to survey the wilderness around them. She flips out the tripod on her rifle, and keeps looking around, flicking her eye between the sight and away from time to time,"Señor Guerrno, these are well designed vehicles. Interesting modifications."
Tek takes out a large jack and after clearing an area and securing it properly lifts the large vehicle up and off the ground. Extending the robotic arm on his armor into the joint on one of the wheels he takes a moment to clear out the debris and then unjam it. Before tightening everything down Tek goes straight to work on the electrical system. Only needing a small amount of the spare wires getting it all put back together and tightened down goes extremely fast. While most would just be starting the repair Tek is lowering the APC back dawn and returning the jack to its compartment. "Give me one more moment and we can get back on the road." With that Tek moves around to the opposite side of the truck and opens a panel that was unseen before he moved it.
Sithik and his pet use the time to scope out the nearby terrain, not roaming too far from the vehicles, just enough to ensure security of the group while the repairs are worked on.
"Oh? Gracias," Guerrno answers St. James. "My organization does its best to stay on the edge, and I think that we do a good job. Good technicians, good personnel, good designers, good representatives. We try. Sometimes nature is against us." Then he turns to more immediately important issues. "Thank you, Tek. Very impressive. Somebody check the device!" As no one else had bothered, two of his own men hop down and head over to the APC's descending ramp. They disappear inside.
Alex nods in approval as Tek has everything in hand with the help of the supplied equipment. "Back on the road again then," the robot confirms, returning to its previous position to escort 12 feet above the APC.
Aya detects no threats, though she would expect that their air support would notice before her. As they prepare to continue, her weapon lowers, returning to the resting ready.
St. James nods,"I imagine you do good profit selling the research that leads to them. Still, the fact that you manage some progress even with nature 'attacking' you." She raps on her helmet, continuing her scanning,"I can see why you want this protected. The Coalition would stop at nothing to get its hands on it."
Tek digs into the panel and seems to do some spot soldering on some wiring on that side as well, using one of the fingers on his robotic arm to do it. After closing the panel back up Tek reenters the vehicle, "All fixed. Nothing broke it was just a jammed transaxle joint. I got it cleared up and it shouldn't give us any more trouble." Then he merges with the weapons system once again. Over the radio he says, "This is Tek. I am ready to depart. Out."
Sithik and pet return to saddle up and continue on the way.
Guerrno gives St. James a smile and quirks up an eyebrow. "Really? Hmm." That said, he adds, "We would be happy to sell many of our improvements to people who have the money. Keeping certain things to ourselves, of course, but many of them would be salable. I'm sure that there are many more than the Coalition who would be interested in everything that we have to offer." He watches as Tek finishes the repairs. His men emerge from the transport APC and the ramp immediately begins to raise. Before slapping their visors shut, one of them calls out, "El dispositivo está intacto y funcionando. Le tomó un batido, pero se ve bien para continuar en el búfalo." When everyone's back in place, the drives fire up again, everything in perfect working order, and much appreciated. It takes another hour - thankfully uneventful - to make it to the river, watching as the sun starts to climb into the sky. When the APCs finally break out of the treeline, there is an impressive sight waiting on the bank of the river. A massive hovercraft of the inflatable-skirt type, fan-driven on four points with massive turbines connected to a nuclear power supply. There are two points for railguns and various fighting positions behind a waist-high defensive wall that outlines the cargo bed. The cargo bed itself is further impressive, large enough for both APCs to board side-by-side. It'll be tight, though. Guerrno hops out of his vehicle and starts giving directions to load. "Secure the landing area," he orders those from Kingsdale.
THE MISSISSIPPI
The landing area needs be secured, so Alex leaves its escort of the APC and its cargo. Instead the robot takes up a paced orbit about set area, creating an extended perimeter of sensor readings to confirm all is well.
Aya dismounts the APC to move out a moderate distance from the hovercraft. There, she takes up a sentry post for the loading.
St. James hops free of the vehicle as they are ordered to secure the landing area, and after a bit of poking around, she radios to Guerrno,"Señor, as much as I adore speaking economics with you, and would love to do so at length when business is not more immediate I should inform you that this place is a COMMON nesting area for some temperamental flying beasties. They've got a mean disposition... If we haven't seen any yet, it's only because they're out doing something else. If you've got specialized anti-air defenses, I'd suggest prepping them in case they come back before we're done."
Tek remains merged in the APC for now. Hearing about the expected flying trouble he starts scanning the sky.
Guerrno stops giving directions for loading when St. James reveals her information. "You're sure of this?" Still, he gestures toward three of his four men. One each goes to an APC, the other remains on the ground, all of their visors snapped shut over their neat business suits. The APCs are sitting near each other, facing the river, as the giant hovercraft backs up and lowers its loading ramp, skirt deflating as it settles to make it easier for the large vehicles to drive on in. The radio crackles to life. "Criaturas en el cielo acercaba desde el este!"
Ill news indeed. In reaction to that Alex ascends to make its orbit of the perimeter above the trees. "How big would these fliers be?" It asks of the comm.
"Understood," Aya acknowledges. Her attention focuses more skyward, though her head does not move.
St. James points to the east as the radio crackles to life, sighting down the scope of her rifle as she moves close to the the vehicle they are set to guard, "From the east, about 20 feet tall. Maybe three times that in wingspan. BIG beaks. Like big-ass pterodactyls. Should we engage or wait to see if they become hostile, or fire when we have a shot? They're nasty little shits. Big shits. Sorry."
The radio crackles to life as the rail-guns swivel into action, "Contact, I repeat we have contact. Six unidentified bogies closing in on our position at 500 feet. They are still half a mile out. They are approaching from the east."
The men around the landing area scramble into action with the news of incoming attackers. As they approach, their forms can be made out, and indeed, St. James' description was very accurate. Only the part about claws was left out. If there is something thankful to be taken away, it's that they were slow enough that everyone involved with the loading was expecting them, and thus able to deal with them. The hovercycles head out, but the personnel vehicle is already half-loaded aboard the hovercraft, and thus unable to use its weapons. The creatures begin to make swoops toward the interesting things cluttering their nest.
Aya lifts her weapon as she takes note of incoming targets. One is chosen, aimed upon, and tracked. "I am aware of the six to the east," she notifies, but does not yet fire. There is no reason to start an unnecessary conflict.
"Well such a giant target cant be hard to hit." Alex notes with confidence as it turns to the direction the wings approach from. "Would our cyclist care for follow the leader, bet we'd outpace them quite easily," the robot adds, shooting up with a burst of speed to match their altitude.
Guerrno drops the plasma rifle to the ground and pulls two pistols from beneath his jacket. Unusual ones, to say the least. He seems to take a less 'wait-and-see' approach as the reptilian creatures swoop down, firing at the lead one dual-handed.
Airborne, the lead creature takes a blast to the body, and is none to pleased about it as the unusual weapons manage to pierce rather vital parts. Seriously wounded, it turns and attempts to flap away east.
The hovercycles act as a unit, firing their plasma weapons on the next creature in line.
This creature too squeaks and squawks, pausing and hesitating, but not quite fleeing just yet.
The four ground guards raise their plasma rifles, and just as carefully as everyone else, simply walk down the line, firing as one.
Again, the beast is taken by surprise, pausing in mid-air.
St. James meanwhile takes careful aim from her place next to the vehicle, sighting along one of the creature's wing-membranes, and unleashes a high-intensity spurt of laser fire against it, eyes narrowed in concentration as she does so,"Your men are trained beautifully!"
Tek takes aim with the pair of rail guns and unleashes a full burst on a fresh flying target.
The dual burst from heavy railguns shreds the chest of yet another creature, its carcass falling rather elegantly into the river.
The first animal shot simply continues east, not looking back and putting as much distance between itself and those that harmed it as possible.
One of the creatures remains in the air, stationary and flapping its wings, but otherwise stunned by the attack.
Finally, though, one of the creatures gets through. For whatever animal intelligence it has, it decides that a flying robot looks like a good target, swooping to scrape at Alex with its claws.
Again, it's impossible to tell what these creatures are thinking. Attacking? Defending their nest? Whatever the case may be, the final intact creature makes a move at Aya, also reaching out with its foot-claws toward the unusual woman.
The remaining creature is one of those shocked by earlier attacks. Like its stunned counterpart, it simply hangs in the air for a precious moment.
Aya bats aside the claws with her staff weapon, then immediately points it at the creature after it flies past. The first energy blast is slightly delayed for adjustment of aim, the second not.
The creature batted aside by Aya continues on, and manages to catch an energy blast to the back. Somehow, it manages to slip aside just in time to avoid the other.
For its bulk Alex is actually quite agile. Waiting for the creatures and when one accelerates to strike at the robot it turns in a blur to brings its shovel arm up to bat away the seeking talons. This in turn brings the rest of Alex's tools to bear on the beast. Three arms lash out in turn at the creature's wing membrane. Plasma cutter, laser cutter, and the ever popular chainsaw.
Despite its own attempts to bat aside Alex's attack, the creature takes two of the slices, which leave an enormous gash and slash in its wing's membrane. But just enough to anger it. It flaps upward and out of the way, still quite in the fight.
The lead man levels his dual pistols again, and first at the one he'd first hit, the two unusual weapons silently emitting laser energy.
As it was waiting and stunned, the animal makes no move to get out of the way. Dual beams punch neat and cauterized holes in its chest, and it plummets to the ground, impacting near the transport APC in which Tek is currently fighting.
The hovercycles turn on a dime and open up on the creature just struck by the strange flying robot. One plasma weapon per hovercycle hums through the air.
Alex is in no further danger. The creature is neatly shredded.
The four soldiers in suits open up on the other animal that has chosen to move rather than stay put as a stationary target. Weapons echo over Aya's head.
Again, the men from unknown regions protect one of the people hired on to protect them, as well. Aya's attacker falls out of the sky in pieces.
St. James leans away from her sight at this point, then and changing her grip, fires a beam right past the creature's head, swearing as it misses. She lines up another shot, finger twitching on the trigger,"Stupid birds. GO! SHOO!"
The rail guns reorient towards the only remaining target before they come to life spraying projectiles at the attacking creature.
The rounds spray past the nearly-helpless creature far enough that it doesn't notice their passage.
Though bleeding profusely from a blast to its chest, the remaining creature chooses not to flee with its single reminding comrade. This one chooses Guerro as a target, extending its talons and clawing for his body.
Guerro takes a huge hit to the chest as the animal's talons rip through what is fortunately plate armor disguised as a neat business suit. He's knocked onto his back, dropping one of his pistols. A number of Spanish-ish swears - weak ones - crackle on the radio band. The pterodactyl-thing flies up in the air, ready to strike someone else.
Aya traverses her weapon to the remaining beast and releases a rapid trio of snapshots from her weapon.
The blasts from the strange staff weapon tear through the animal. Like most of its cousins, it falls to earth. A tail here, a head there, a wing there. The four guards fan out, their eyes on the sky, but everything appears to be clear. Even the radar shows nothing. The semi-ambush by animal intelligence was largely unsuccessful, unless you happen to be Guerrno.
Alex was surprised the creature could manage to fly with a torn wing. It would have seen if it could manage with a severed wing as well, but the hovercycle saw to that. No wonder they have neutralized all the targets either, being so well equipped. It's a wonder they wanted additional protection. But maybe that will soon change. Till then there is yet one chicken to pluck, diving down at their employer. That’s no good. Alex dives down to meet the ascending villain and slash with three more arms. The chainsaw takes the lead this time. Only Alex to suddenly brake as Aya beats the robot to the punch. Guerrno may be closer to a chainsaw than he is comfortable in that rush.
Aya lowers her weapon after the remaining beast falls to pieces. "They are no more threat," she states, "we should continue on."
St. James meanwhile slings her rifle over her shoulder and reaches into her kit to withdraw an odd small box, about the size of a small biscuit tin, and moves to Guerrno to check him. After probing the rents in his armor gingerly, she says,"You'll be fine, but you should get checked by a doctor for broken ribs or internal bruising." She stows the tin, whatever it was, and offers him a hand to help him stand,"Can you walk, or do you need to be carried?"
Tek stays with the APC until is is safely loaded onto the hovercraft at which time he gets out and finds his way to a weapons platform on the hovercraft for him to man. Into his radio he says, "Tek here. APC in working order, changing to a weapons platform on hovercraft. Out."
The downed man reaches up slowly to raise the temporary visor. His face is a small smile. "Gracias. I can walk, I just need to limit my movement. I don't think that I've broken anything." St. James' hand is accepted with a nod, and he gets to his feet. After taking in a long breath of air and letting it out in an equally long exhale he does his best to put on an optimistic face. "Okay, let's get these things loaded before something decides to come back to.. the nest, you said?" His question is directed at St. James, but he has already moved on, waving to his men who are already in gear. With the amazing efficiency of a well-oiled company, the two vehicles will be on board the hovercraft in only moments. As Guerrno himself steps aboard, he suggests, "Unless you want to be trapped inside, you'll need to stay outside. We can't open anything more than the top hatch while embarked." He checks in with Tek, to see what he wants to do. Everyone else is already boarded, the hovercycles flying south to scout ahead.
Alex takes up position hovering above the nose of the interesting craft. Ready and able.
Aya now moves to board the hovercraft for the next portion of the escorting journey.
St. James nods to the man, "No problem. Nest. Yes señor. They'll be back eventually, once they gather more courage, or greater numbers. Even dumb animals can be dangerous to well-prepared men. Since they're animals, though, they'll be satisfied if we're just gone when they come back." She checks her armor and her gun, then takes up position on the craft, scanning relentlessly in that nervously aware manner of hers. "Damn this thing is big."
The Spanish-ish accented men are happy when everyone is embarked, with Tek choosing to remain inside of his vehicle to man the railgun turrets. The giant lift fans fire up, a noise the would be harsh to the ears of anyone not appropriately protected. Enough so that simple conversation might even be difficult without yelling. However, as loud as it is, the vehicle is equally nimble and fast, pulling off the shore with its bulky load like a mechanical ballerina. In only a minute, it is up to full speed, rushing south along the mightiest river in North America at nearly one-hundred and fifty miles per hour, possibly more. The river is huge, with five-hundred feet of clearance to either side. The flying creatures make no further appearance. "How's everyone holding up back there?" It's not Guerrno, but someone with a voice of authority who obviously expects answers from everyone involved.
Alex easily paces with the hovercraft. Cruising alongside much like it did for the helicopter in the first leg.
"I am present and unharmed." Aya is uncertain as to what more details the requester may want. Her reply answers the question well enough, as she holds nothing over her head.
St. James has to turn up her loudspeaker to be heard easily. Her suit filters out the worst noise, but without the loudspeaker, she might not be able to make herself easily heard since it's not over the comm. "No significant damage, sir. Just some foul-tempered animals. We're all doing well, though Señor Guerrno should probably see el doctor, sí? And you, sir?" She actually sounds a tad bored, if possible. But at least she's respectful. Most of her attention is on watching the landscape.
Inside the APC, Tek pipes up over the radio. "I've got two new contacts on radar, aerial contacts pacing us about a quarter-mile back. They just popped on, must have been moving low. Not like the birds."
Even with the significant distance having been put between the current position of the hovercraft and the landing point, there's never a guarantee that you won't run into something bad. Guerrno warned as much. A voice over the local radio, coming from the hovercraft's cabin says, "No estamos en territorio de la Federación. La coalición en el oeste, pero nada más que nosotros conocemos." It's still a weird pseudo-Spanish, but those who can hear it, understand it.
What is radio speak to a robot? Alex has the most advanced sensors alien technology can offer. If trouble should be on the horizon, the robot should be able to find it. Before it attacks it at least.
Aya has no understanding of what is said in Spanish, but she can follow Tek's words perfectly well. Her focus turns, along with weapon and body, towards their rear and the noted targets.
St. James puts a hand up to the side of her helmet, and she is silent for a few seconds,"They're not Coalition. Command codes not recognized. They're threatening to blow us out of the water from their huge-ass helicopter if we don't hand over the merchandise. No guarantee they know what we have. May be a rival company. May be pirates who just saw a heavily armed transport and decided to steal it." She lifts her rifle and sights down its length, searching for a shot on something small, weak, or unarmored. "Orders?"
Either Tek heard orders that others didn't, or he's just the kind to take charge. In either case, he uses the twin railgun turrets to open fire on one of the contacts, well within range of these up-gunned weapons.
Unfortunately, they fly past harmlessly. The men aboard the hovercraft are already in motion, taking no chances with anyone following them, not even asking for identification first. Two of their rocket launchers open up, as do the two railguns mounted on the hovercraft itself. Voices in accented American encourage everyone, particularly the hired guns, to protect their precious cargo.
The contact to the west takes the full brunt of the railguns and an enormous slam from one of the missiles. One missile flies off course, its guidance system malfunctioning. The impacts are enough to encourage the helicopter to slow and turn back north. The other continues on its way, accelerating toward the hovercraft and the cargo aboard.
When train a pursues at 200 miles an hour and Alex intercepts at four hundred miles and hour.. They meet up in seconds, Alex shooting up to position itself above the chopper's rotors and lowers its laser cutter into their path..
The helicopter is fitted out for emergencies, and pilot immediately deploys countermeasures against any further missiles. Even a four-hundred mile per hour robot is easy to see, and emergency maneuvers immediately throw the helicopter across the sky. Unfortunately, it's not quite enough, and the laser cuts through its spinning rotors. Without rotors, helicopters make fantastic lawn darts, and this one plummets into the cool waters of the Mississippi. Its comrade is burning oil and smoking, still heading north, clearly not intending to return. Appreciative words come across the radio, though most of them are in Spanish-ish.
Aya takes aim upon the remaining aircraft. Careful aim that focuses upon the centroid of the mechanism: the spinning rotors that keep it aloft. Before the shot is made, it becomes irrelevant, and she lowers her weapon.
St. James sights along her rifle for a long moment, but in mere seconds, the helicopters are felled. She lowers her rifle, and raises up her binoculars instead,"Shit. Now THAT'S a robot. Hells to the yeah." Over her loudspeaker, "All threats neutralized."
The men on the hovercraft are happy, and the vehicle speeds on, putting miles and miles behind in its wake. Even the hours pass, with some of the men showing their unusual weapons to those on board who feel like inspecting them. Eventually comes the call in highly accented American, "About one-fifty to our destination. Huddle up." As promised by the injured Guerrno, the mission is going fairly well and fairly quickly, the sun right on time for a descent on target, assuming that nothing gets in the way.
Alex shrugs at all the praise, retaking its prior escort position. "I just exploited a blatant design flaw is all." The machine remarks modestly over the comm. "Any flier could have done it."
"A wise exploit," Aya commends without the excessive exuberance of others. She then approaches the others, per their request and, more likely, gestures. "What information is there to share, now?"
St. James moves forward to 'huddle' as directed, ever eager to please,"Keeping eyes out, I hope. We expecting any final push against us?" She remains otherwise quiet as she approaches.
The information shared with Aya is in regard to the weaponry. It's nothing manufactured by any known North American company, and although there are no demonstrations - and wastes of ammunition - the men speak highly of them. The remaining journey passes without issue, even though the hovercraft does have to bull its way through what has become an enormous swamp of ancient Louisiana. The drop point is a relatively small sand bar that the hovercraft pulls onto neatly, disgorging the two APCs very quickly. Guerrno is assisted out, holding his chest, and directs a comment to St. James with a low chuckle. "Perhaps I did bruise or break a rib or two. But I'll live. Please help unload the cargo. I received word that our transport has been delayed slightly due to a storm, so prepare to hold out for around thirty minutes. I don't expect problems, but you never know." On cue, the heavy ramp of the transporting APC drops open, allowing people in to assist.
SHORE OF THE CARIBBEAN ALONG ANCIENT LOUISIANA
Alex can cart 800 lbs of cargo provided there is means to carry it with its tool arms. Of course it has to be moved out of the APC first. So the robot hovers outside, waiting for something to come into position.
Aya cannot carry as much as the robotic Alex, but she can assist in moving cargo. The weapons were of mild interest, but only mild. Rare items that use rare ammunition are of limited use. Of the cargo, the only that would interest her is the object they agreed to protect.
St. James moves to help with unloading the cargo... first what they were hired to move, then anything else she is asked to,"You guys make some interesting weapons. You have any sniper-weapons of notable interest that are on the market?"
As everyone starts to get the cargo out and on the ground, Tek is heard to comment, "I think I've seen this before." The object is carefully removed, proving to be a perfect sphere of complex metal and wiring, but looking tobe of odd and old technology. Ten-feet in diameter, looking to be around five-hundred pounds. It is treated as delicately as one would handle an infant. Some of the men confirm to St. James that they probably have items that would hold her interest, but now that the destination has been reached, they need to focus on the task at hand. The injured Guerrno asks Alex, "Now that it's out, can you move it around for us once our transport arrives?" Shortly after that question is posed, a very fast jet of some kind comes in from the south, stopping over the sand bar with four pivoting thrusters that then allow it to descend vertically. Guerrno adds, "Your transport home, when the transaction is complete."
Alex nods and readily inverts to handle the fragile device with its humanoid hands. Clearly designs for delicate work they hold the object with precision and the robot floats ready to take it wherever they would like.
"That is the device?" A possibly needless question, but Aya asks it, regardless. The curiosity does not keep her from continuing to move the other cargo as is needed.
St. James raises an eyebrow to that, but shrugs, helping to move things wherever necessary. She still eyeballs the giant sphere with an impressed sort of air, but with her mask down, it's anybody's guess what she's thinking. "A useful device indeed, if your opponents are magic users."
"Yes, this is it," Guerrno confirms. "A very interesting little piece. Thanks to you, it's headed safely in the right direction." The half hour passes uneventfully. Nothing rises out of the sea. No shots ring out of the trees. Of course, this place was probably chosen for this very reason. The transport arrives as the man had estimated, a giant single-rotor helicopter with a shrouded tail-rotor landing on the remaining clear piece of land. Its rear ramp drops, ready to accept its precious cargo. "Keep an eye out, do what you can to help us get it inside safely."
Though the cargo is large, even larger than Alex, it is also relatively light. So with the aid of nylon slings provided the robot is easily able to maneuver it from the door of one transport to another.
St. James is on instant alert once the helicopter drops down. Gun out and ready, she bounces on her heels in that twitchy, overly-alert manner of hers as if waiting for trouble. She radios Guerrno as she escorts the thing (by walking next to the robot) to the helicopter, "Just so we're clear. You know and recognize the pilot and vehicle, right?" Paranoid much?
Guerrno isn't walking, but things are tight on the sand bar and readily seen. "Yes, this is our helicopter. We received the proper codes before it was allowed to land, otherwise it would have been shot down as we did with the ones chasing us. Of course, in this case, it was expected." The other men on the ground are very appreciative of Alex's heavy lifting capabilities, and it's not long before the sphere is loaded and secure above the huge transport vehicle. As the ramp closes, the rotor slowly beings to spin up. Guerrno makes a waving motion, inviting everyone back to the hovercraft. "Now it's time for our side of the contract to be carried out in full."
Alex releases the artifact in their care without any qualms. Surely safer in their hands. That done the robot returns its normal axis of flight to move over an receive payment.
Once her loading duties are done, Aya returns her weapon to the ready. "We are finished, then." It is more statement than question, and she returns to the hovercraft.
St. James trudges over towards Guerrno, hands kept carefully affixed to the rifle,"Keep in touch, Señor. It's good doing business with a professional."
The injured man says, "Twenty-five thousand and our gratitude, as promised. Thanks to all of you for coming along, the journey was smoother than I anticipated." The money is counted out in either cash and coin or via electronic transfer, whichever way is preferable to the individual. Tek and Sithik receive their equal payments for services rendered, while Guerrno's men go about what is obviously prepping the hovercraft to head to another location with the APCs embarked as well. "Thank you for signing on with us," he says, making a point of noting St. James, Aya and Tek. "For those of you who didn't, we do try to be very reasonable, and having seen what you can do, would look forward to your services in the future." The transport helicopter is now in the sky and heading south. "If there's nothing further, your transport is ready to get you back to Kingsdale. Should only be about a thirty-minute flight."
Alex turns to take in the last vehicle of the extended journey with a shake of its head. The jet is clearly not a cargo hauler. "45 minutes actually, accounting for drag to tether myself to the bottom of the craft." The robot corrects and then waits for the others to board and the jet to take off. Once airborne the machine will be able to snug itself into place for the ride home...
"Your gratitude is received," Aya acknowledges, even adding a slim smile. "If there are other tasks, I am willing." She then moves to board the aircraft for their return.
St. James nods gently to the man after the money is transferred,"I'd like to see what else your company offers to /clients/ in the future. I'm signing on with a PMC soon, and we may at some point in the future be in the market to be clients when we grow our business a little more. I'm sure the colonel would like to see what you have to offer." She pulls free a small chit and offers it to Guerrno,"This has my comm frequency on it if ever need be. Keep in touch." Then she moves to board the aircraft.
Guerrno thanks St. James, and takes her card, assuring that he will contact her in the future, when the need arises. There are a few questions asked about how a giant robot would estimate the flight time of an unknown aircraft, but none voiced enough to both actually seeking an answer. With everyone aboard, the pilot and copilot fire up the quad-turbines and lift straight up by about one-hundred feet before a smooth pivot transitions to horizontal flight. The aircraft manages to make good time, despite Alex's presence, landing neatly at the Kingsdale airfield, at which point all are free to go their separate ways. Mission done, cargo delivered safely, interested employers. All in all, probably a good day's work.
