>>32263603

The sound starts muffled, but the tell-tale crack of lasfire quickly grows in intensity beyond the door. Before you can say anything, Jorah is already leaping over the desk and typing away at the console there.

"Can you see anything out there?" You ask him, sliding the last piece of your hellgun back into place.

"Nope," He answers, sounding oddly disinterested.

"Can you open the doors, at least?"

"Uh huh. Think that's a good idea, though?"

Your first instinct is to order the doors open, but he may have a point. Whatever Jacklo did help thin the number of xenos directly outside, but just how many are still out there is a mystery. On a related note, just what time is it?

Your sense of pragmatism and honor struggle, before you decide...

>"Open that frakking door!"
>"We can't risk it. Wait for the others."

>lasfire
Lasfire = Allies!

TROOPER YOU OPEN THAT DOOR THIS INSTANT!

>>32263848
>"Open that frakking door!"

More Xenos to eradicate that way.

>>32263848
>"Open that frakking door!"
Prep a grenade before the door opens.

>>32263848
>"Open that frakking door!"

32263848
>"Open that frakking door!"

We still gots lots of light don't we?

>>32264286
Shit. Stupid fucking.

>>32263848
>"Open that frakking door!"

We still gots lots of light don't we?

>>32263848
>>"Open that frakking door!"

>>32263848
The xenls look like pterodactyl s right? If so how the hell did the get inside these buildings?
Shit smells fishy

>>32263848
>"Open that frakking door!"
We have a shoulder light and one on the gun turn on all lights and face the door then open it. Load flame nades as well for our launcher.

>>32264403
No, they look like subterranean hammerhead sharks with no eyes.

>>32264621
Huh for some reason I thought they could fly

>>32264700
I think they were just jumping in between the walls of the canyons and killing each other then falling around the people in the movie. But at the same time I want to say some could fly I don't exactly remember.

>>32264700
They can fly

(Ah shite. Fair warning, my laptop's being a bitch again. Even so, I shall try my best to march on.)

>>32263848

New boss or no, you're a Guardsmen, and old habits die hard. Readying your rifle, you look over to Jorah and point.

"Open that frakking door, Trooper!" You bark, and with a shrug he complies.

The thing begins to slide open with a loud groan like before, retracting to reveal an interesting scene. Xeno bodies litter the stairway and courtyard from before, as well as bits and pieces of the occasional unlucky armsmen.

However, the main thing that draws your concern is the spectacle on the street, standing tall next to a freshly opened manhole.

"WHAT DO YA THINK YOU'RE GOING, BUG BRAINS?!" Vincent bellows, firing into the brightening sky as the xenos beat a hasty retreat. "I SIZZLE IN THE SUN, TOO, BUT YA DON'T SEE ME COMPLAININ'!

Behind him, more armsmen emerge from the opening until over a dozen stand out in the open now, taking a few more parting shots at the enemy. It's not quite morning yet, but you can see the faint but growing glow on the horizon.

By then Vincent and his men are making their way toward you, stepping over various corpses and puddles of blood as they go. As he grows closer you see that the Commander is wearing the stained remains of a camocloak, but now it hangs in tatters around him.

"Mornin'," Vincent nods as he stops at the top of the stairs, looking around him. "Fun night?"

>"Probably not as fun as yours."
>"We managed on our own."
>"Lost some good people "
>Other?

>>32264803
>>"Probably not as fun as yours."

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26 KB JPG

>>32264803
>"Probably not as fun as yours."

>>32264803
>"Probably not as fun as yours."
Met a survivor, helped us keep the bastards out. Find anything or anyone?

>>32264803
>>"Probably not as fun as yours."

>>32264803
>>"Probably not as fun as yours."

>>32264803
>"Probably not as fun as yours."

>>32264803
>"Probably not as fun as yours."

>>32264803
I hear writing in google docs is good since it auto saves, Gmail does the same. Whats wrong with your laptop exactly besides being old?

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15 KB JPG

>>32265009
>pic OP on his laptop

>>32264852
(Welp, now I know who Vincent looks like.)

>>32265009
(The screen locks into place, slowly but surely turning the entire screen white with an afterimage of what I was looking at in the background. How long it stays that way has ranged from a few seconds to nearly an hour, like just now. Any tips/suggestions?)

>>32264803

You look over the commander and his gathered group of men, each one wearing a similar looking cloak and equally covered in white ichor.

"Probably not as fun as yours," You answer. "We found a survivor, though; a PDF Trooper almost scared out of his wits, but still helpful."

"Well, you got us beat by one," Vincent grunts. "Only thing we found below were more of the bastards. How's the Lady?"

"She's doing fine, thank you very much," A familiar voice answers behind you, and you turn to find Christina with several others watching on. "What's the status of Warlock, Commander?"

"Minus this bunch here, the rest of First and Second are still below, making our new friends chase their tails. Should be finished with that soon, if we're lucky. We picked up a few from Third that shared our idea, but from what they said they're all that's left," Vincent sighs and shakes his head.

Hearing this grave news Christina only nods, a professional mask hiding whatever she might be thinking.

"Your men deserve time to catch their breath, but I'm afraid we're not done yet," She tells him. "You said there are xenos still underground?"

"In the subways and sewer systems," Vincent answers, only the slightest hint of hesitance in his tone. "Got somethin' in mind?"

"I do, actually," She smiles, and you find yourself swallowing hard. "This is a serious problem, but there's research to be done. Especially so with a live specimen. I want to capture at least one of these things. Alive, and relatively unharmed."

>"With all due respect, ma'am, you're insane."
>"I volunteer."
>Say nothing.
>Other?

>>32265292
>So who's coming with me?

>>32265292
>Any tips/suggestions?
Your laptop is hanging. Reboot it. Get something like Lazarus so you can recover what your wrote even after you shut it down.

>>32265292
>>Say nothing.
We know it needs to happen, but fuck if we are signing up for that detail

>>32265292
>other
"So, I guess we're going on a bug hunt."

>>32265292
>Stay with the Inquisitor

We're her bodyguard. Stick with her. Unless she asks us of course

>>32265292
>"I volunteer."
Hmm does sound like its hanging, I'll think on it heading to lunch be back later.

>>32265292
I volunteer as tribute. Been living on borrowed time anyways

>>32265292
>any tips/suggestions

I'm not really too /g/-savvy but I'd suggest backup what you need then format and re-instal an operating system (I don't know what you use now but there are plenty of options you might like)

>>32265366
+ 1

>>32265292
>Say nothing.

>>32265366
I'll second this.

>>32265368
(I've done a system restore twice now. The first time seemed to help, but the second one was done just before I started and it was acting up.)

>>32265245
(Fairly accurate. Diabolical facial hair included.)

>>32265292

"So I guess we're going on a bug hunt," You deadpan.

After a few moments Vincent and the armsmen share a chuckle at your phrasing, but Christina seems to have missed the comedy side of it.

"Quite right," She nods. "I've requested additional support from the Antbellum, and they're bringing down gear to help handle them. The only problem is getting one in there. After that, we can eliminate those remaining and deal with the main infestation."

"That sounds all well and good, ma'am," Vincent begins. "But you're leaving out somethin' kinda important."

"Which is?"

"Who gets bait-duty?"

"Ah. A fair question."

Though none of them seem outright scared, the armsmen look at one another as men at the noose, waiting to see who falls first. Though you can't even see their faces, you can't help but feel just a little sorry for them.

Sometimes, it really sucks to be the good guy.

"So," You begin with a sigh. "Who's coming with me?"

The others turn to you in plain surprise except for Christina, who's simply wearing the grin of a cat that's cornered a mouse.

"Well, well," She says. "I thought your hero days were finished, Lieutenant."

"Someone has to do it," You tell her, sounding more resigned than reverent. "And I've got to start earning my paycheck."

She gives a pleased nod at this.

"If you want, another can accompany you. Better your odds of survival," Christina informs you.

As she does so, you can't help but catch someone mutter 'Fourteen, coming up.'

>Pick Vincent.
>Pick Roxy.
>Pick Mikel.
>Pick no one.
>Other?

>>32265941
>Pick Roxy.
Vince deserves a breather.

>>32265941
>>Other?
Pick whoever said 14 coming up

>>32265941
>Other?

I pick whoever decided to be a smartass right then.

A lesson, trooper. Wait until the meetings over before you get shirty.

>>32266024
>>32266032
This, fuck that guy in particular

>>32265941
Pick the smart ass. Never volunteer for Anthony and never draw attention to yourself. We violated the first and mr. "14" violated the second.

>>32265941
Chuck a thumb ver your shoulder while saying "I'll take number 14 the smart ass along for the ride Ma'am."

>>32266032
Like the choice and the commentary. Support.

>>32266064
Anything*.

Also, elijah, I edited you quest down to just story posts and will send a link on twitter when I get home. I'm going to try to keep it updated.

>>32266024
>>32266032
I support this action.

>>32265941
"Well sounds like I already have a volunteer, eh Mr. 14?"

>>32266153
Who is Mr. 14?

>>32266196
The smart ass.

>>32265941
I concur with the general consensus so far. We've got an asshole coming with us.

>>32266225
I missed when and where he was being a smartass, what did he do?

>>32266253
>As she does so, you can't help but catch someone mutter 'Fourteen, coming up.'

>>32266253
>As she does so, you can't help but catch someone mutter 'Fourteen, coming up.'

>>32266253
14 refers to how we're the 14th bodyguard to protect Christina and how he thinks we'll be the 14 to die.

>>32266356
No we are 13th bodyguard.

>>32265941
"Bunch a dammed dirt apes. You wanna live forever? The Emp's been sitting on that chair keeping this shit hole together for how long? And none of you wanna take a walk down a hole to make friends with these hammer-headed holediggers?"

>>32266365
We're her 13th bodyguard 14 coming up implies we're gonna get killed soon

>>32266356
Ah clever, I completely missed that.
>>32266402
Exactly meaning >>32266416

>>32266416
Lucky 13

tg at its sharpest

>>32266124
(Many thanks, friend!)

>>32265941

"Thank you, ma'am," You nod, chucking a thumb over your shoulder. "I'll take smart ass."

Behind you, a slightly panicked noise is drowned out by various snickering from the man's comrades. Turning around, you find a particular armsmen standing stock-still and suddenly without friends.

"A lesson, trooper. Wait until the meeting's over before you get shitty." You tell him. "Name?"

"A-armsmen Aleki Hassan, sir," He answers, looking rapidly between you, Vincent, and Christina.

"Go on, then," Vincent grins, obviously enjoying this. "Get on with it."

"A good choice," Christina adds, stoic but having just a little trouble keeping it so. "Mr. Hassan has been reported to be one of the 'lucky' ones. Maybe it'll rub off on you."

Seeing no way out, the Armsman in question slumps his shoulders and gives a weak nod.

"Wonderful," Christina says, securing her helmet back in place.

Within ten minutes additional drop-ships descend on the city, unloading fresh troops and heavy illumination equipment. Melodi and a handful of other Tech Priests arrive to tweak your flashlights, increasing their output dramatically at the cost of battery life. Already, Jaraax is mounting up on a number of Chimera's and other vehicles, intent on heading out to fortify the mine's entrance.

>Stop and say hi to Melodi.
>No time to chat. Time to get eaten.

>>32266477
>Stop and say hi to Melodi.

>>32266477
>No time to chat. Time to get eaten.

>>32266477
>"Hey melodi wish I could chat but its time to go get eaten"

>>32266477
>>No time to chat. Time to get eaten.

>>32266477
>Stop and say hi
At least we can say hi before we get eaten, and maybe she'll have some nifty gadget for us.

>>32266477
>Stop and say hi to Melodi.

Hey, quick question, but can you locate where the main power plant is? I feel like the best way to trap one of these xeno's is to have a circle of light surrounding a little patch of shade. Any ideas?

>>32266477
>>Stop and say hi to waifubait

>>32266477
>"Hey melodi wish I could chat but its time to go get eaten, it's not nids this time though!"

>>32266525
Like this idea

>>32266477
>Stop and say hi to Melodi.

>>32266624
Good idea, anon. Supporting.

>>32266477

>Stop and say hi to Melodi.

who knows our favorite tech preist might have some sort of nifty Q gadget that might keep us from being an xeno snack-time

File: 1399215089121.gif (1.45 MB, 258x192)

1.45 MB GIF

Tell melodi we love her and want to spend the rest of our life holding hands, but .... "I being to my words true, shall not fail my rendezvous"... to paraphrase a dead french foreign legionaire.

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>>32266752
That's a big damn snake.

>>32266778
That, my friend, is what she said.

>>32266752
The poets name was Alan Seeger, the poem is "rendezvous with death" ... I had to Google.

>>32266525
best of both worlds right here

>>32266477
>Stop and say hi
Lota things could be causing it to hang. Overheating, running outa ram, or your ram could be getting bad.
>>32266624
I like it, also think we should save our lights for when it gets too close, just quickly flash it then run.


>>32266805
I lol'd

>>32266477

Pressed for time, you at least spare a few words while Melodi tweaks your gear. Though she moves with a practiced precision, she can't help but look over the chaos that is the courtyard.

"Do you know who all died?" She asks quietly.

"I'm afraid not," You answer. "I just know there's gonna be a lot of empty seats on the ride home."

She cringes at your words, and you reconsider the bluntness of them, but before you put the thoughts to words you hear a shout of alarm. In an instant your hand springs for your rifle, but it isn't long before you see the cause for the commotion.

All around the courtyard the creatures and their blood begin to melt, dissolve, and eventually evaporate into thin air. For those with the stuff on their clothing and skin, like Vincent, the experience must be a slight surprise.

You and Melodi share a quiet laugh as the Commander swears loudly and frequently, wiping at his arms and face. Perhaps you could suggest he wear full carapace next time, rather than the scout variant he seems to favor. Perhaps not.

However, time isn't on your side and you spot Christina nearby, tapping her wrist.

"Sorry, Melodi," You tell her. "I'd love to stay and chat more, but I've gotta go get eaten."

"W-wait, what?" She asks, more than a little confused. However, you push on.

You set off with Vincent, Christina, and the men that had accompanied the Commander up to the surface. Lastly, tagging along beside you, is Hassan, who has decided to refrain from saying anything as you clamber down into the sewers.

>Say something to him? (What?)
>Concentrate on the mission.

>>32267206
So, why exactly are you so "lucky" trooper?

>>32267206
Just get to it. No need to rub it in.

>>32267206
Aren't you happy you aren't pulling sentry duty?

>>32267206
>Concentrate on the mission.

The time for social links is over. A simple for the emperor will suffice

inb4 hive queen

>>32267206
>Say something to him?
Discuss plan, our formation, etc.
Cover and move. 1 runs while the other blinds the target then runs when the other stops and covers.
Hopefully professionalism will calm both our nerves.

>>32267419
>>32267242
COmbination of these pelase

>>32267474
going with this

>>32267206

Though you're no fan of smart asses (mainly because you're one yourself, sometimes) you're not one to hold a grudge over something like this. Making sure nothing is creeping about the immediate area, the group starts off seemingly at random, though Vincent is at the head. Seeing this, you decide to try and try and be nice.

"So, why exactly are you so 'lucky,' trooper?" You ask him, and it takes a moment for him to realize you're speaking to him.

"That's a good question, actually," He shrugs. "I'd say it's the opposite, but then again I'm still here. I guess I'm lucky cause I'm still alive."

"Fair enough," You nod. "So, you know the plan?"

"We make a lot of noise, then run back to the others so they can shoot the xeno with shock netting?"

"And?"

"And try not die in the process?"

"Good man. Any questions?"

"None, sir."

After a few minutes of walking you seem to come to a good ambush spot in a large spacious intersection, with three different exits and plenty of hiding spots. After first making sure said spots are vacant, Vincent and the others begin taking up position.

"Just get their attention and let the Commander and his men handle the rest," Christina tells you. "Though if I could offer advice: run fast."

"Much obliged, ma'am," You nod. Picking the middle exit first, you share a look with Hassan who seems equally thrilled. "Well, let's to it."

>Strike up a song as you walk.
>Talk casually.
>Move carefully and quietly.
>Other?

>Roll a 1d20. First three count.

Rolled 2

>>32268013
>Move carefully and quietly.

Rolled 4

>>32268013

Rolled 14

>>32268013
Be wvery wvery quiet , we're hunting xenos
>Move carefully and quietly.

Rolled 10

>>32268013
Come on, dice...

>>32268013
>>Strike up a song as you walk.
Always look on the bright side of life

>>32268013

Not too fond of being horribly murdered today, you take one side of the stretch of hallway while Hassan takes the other. Together, you both begin to edge your way forward. Your flashlights lead the way, but even as they do a decent job of it you're still cautious.

The only sound is that of you and the Armsmen's boots wading through the water and your breathing, the latter at least in the attempt to stay even and collected.

You're a ways down before you reach an opening branching off to someplace else. Nodding to Hassan, you get ready to move to the other side.

Though you've never served together you both know you're jobs and move with quiet efficiency.

Moving quickly around the entrance, rifle ready, yo-

Something blindsides you, seemingly emerging from the water itself at your side in a mass of limbs and teeth. You go down before you can even cry out, the water going over you within seconds as a heavy weight bears down on you. Already, you're thankful for the fully-locked helmet.

However, your rifle goes free from hand and the xeno on top of you doesn't seem too thrilled on waiting for you to find it.

>Rollin'.

Rolled 8

>>32268396

>>32268396
KNIFE A BITCH

>>32268396

Rolled 19

>>32268396
OPERATIN'

Rolled 10

>>32268507
whoops

Rolled 6

>>32268396

>>32268532
Nice job

Rolled 12

>>32268532
I rolled nice!

Captcha was: dthugus musical
Let's start singing!

>>32268532
OPERATION OPERATIN' IS OPERATED

>>32268568

>dthugus musical

so like Hustle & Flow
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0410097/?ref_=nv_sr_1

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>>32268532
Ohh shit

>>32268396

The many advantaged of carapace quickly come into perspective. The added protection against bullets or, in this case, claws. The utterly airtight suit with it's small but invaluable oxygen supply. And last, but certainly not least, are the reinforced boots.

Getting your feet under the thing, you send it flying with a screech before it abruptly quiets when it slams into the wall. A hand, human, brings you back up to the surface a few moments later.

"We have to go, NOW!" Hassan says, and behind you more screeching sounds. With your hellgun dangling at your side, you do as you're told and run.

>Roll, Forrest, Roll!

Rolled 3

>>32269325
Rollin Thunder

Rolled 10

>>32269325

Rolled 14

>>32269325
They see me rolling

Rolled 7

>>32269325
Calm yo tits stormcloak

Rolled 20

>>32269325
GO GO GO!

Rolled 6

>>32269325
Op does our cybernetic leg thats totally not Necron tech, give us bonuses to some actions?

>>32269415
roll faster next time

>>32269415
holy shit
i actually critted.

>>32269425
We'd probably need a matching set if we want to push more out of them and not lose our balance.

Rolled 18

>>32269325

Rolled 4

>>32269325

Rolled 10

>>32269325
Life is like a box of Slaaneshi porno-slates, you never know what you're gonna get.

>>32269415
THE POWER OF DICE COMPELS THEE

File: ed.jpg (28 KB, 210x170)

28 KB JPG

Rolled 11

>>32269754
Oh jeez that was embarrassing

>>32269425
(Kicking in doors and/or kneecaps and other assorted joints get a bonus when using the cybernetic. However, as the other anon said, you'd need a matching pair to get a speed bonus.)

>>32269325

Running is still something you're having to get used to. Your new cybernetic leg now outpaces your real one; a bit of a 180 from the old one. Even so, whatever lies behind you is enough incentive to get the lead out.

Sprinting down the hall, you don't see a shred of Vincent or his men, though you suppose that's their job. Even so, when you clear the hall and enter the room the Commander's voice is clear.

"Down!"

Rather than going straight down you throw yourself to the side. Just in time, as well, for a moment later the xeno's cry turns from one of bloodlust to fear and pain. Shaking your head and looking, you find two of the things struggling inside a large mass of webbing. A few bursts of lasfire take down the other two that dodged the ambush, leaving only the captured specimens alive.

Nearing, Vincent lays into one of the creatures with the butt of his hellgun with relish. While normally an easy going man, the expression on his face is anything but.

"NOT SO FUN, IS IT?" He snarls, landing one last hit before a power armored hand pulls him away.

"Enough, Vin," Christina tells him, signaling the lights to dim. They do so, and the creature's quiet but don't outright surrender. "Interesting..."

She holds out a hand, but quickly retracts it when one of them tries to snap at it. Seeing the job done, she turns to Vincent.

"Commander, I-"

However, he's not paying her any mind.

"Say again?" He asks, hand pressed against his ear. "Oh for Throne's sake-JENKINS! Breathe, and start again. Slowly."

Aside from the occasional growl from the restrained xenos, everyone waits quietly as Vincent listens to whoever's on the other side. When he's finally done his jaw and fists are clenched tight, and when he looks back at you all there's murder in his eyes.

(Cont.)

>>32269897
ah shit what did we do now?

>>32269937
>you all

It's not us mate. The fucking ship captain.

>>32269947
>inb4 stranded

>>32269990
Methinks this

It's clearly a tyranid hive ship

>>32270095
Light sensitive gargoyles?
>mitebcool

>>32270095
A thousand Riddicks, each dual-wielding tea cups.

>>32270148
ten thrones that QM laptop died again

I think its a hanging laptop.

>>32269897

"We just got a call from third platoon," He says. "There's at least three of them still alive; dragged off to the mines after they were overrun at the hospital."

"And?" Christina asks him patiently, only slightly taken aback when he turns and starts off. Wordlessly, his men follow with the xeno in tow.

"No 'and,' ma'am. We're getting our people back," He tells her.

"Commander," Christina calls, voice calm but with an edge to it.

"Come on, people. Jaraax should be in place to-"

"COMMANDER!"

It's the first time Christina raises her voice, and it's terrifying. You're not sure if it's because of her position, the armor, or both. All the same, Vincent freezes on the spot and slowly turns back to face her.

"Ma'am?" He asks, obviously not in the mood for this.

"Three, you said?" She asks, closing the distance between them at a leisurely pace. "Three men, Commander. Three men, versus how many that we've already lost?"

"That's all they could confirm," He shakes his head stubbornly. "Our people don't bite it that easy, ma'am, and you know that! There's more down there with those things, and it's our duty to get them out!"

"It's our -duty- to serve the Imperium, first and foremost," She answers. "Now that we're able to properly catalog these creatures, I'm in favor of Leuitenant Dunkin's plan."

An orbital strike? Perfectly acceptable before, but now? You don't know these men, but already you've seen them fight and die without as much as a second thought. It's almost painful watching Vincent torn between following Christina's orders and looking after his men.

As if to make the matter worse, the Inquisitor turns to you expectantly.

>"She's right, Commander. Those men are as good as dead."
>"These men have fought for you. DIED for you! Is this how you repay loyalty?"
>Other?

>>32270181
>>"She's right, Commander. Those men are as good as dead."

This is the Imperium here, and they are guardsman. They were dead the second they picked up a lasrifle.

>>32270181
ah shit you just HAD to put us in this situation
we try to move in with lots of guys we are going lose a lot more then 3 men
on the other hand we don't do anything then we piss off vincent
i suggest a comprimise send in one 7 man team and give them 5 hours if they don't come back with thare men then we leave them

>>32270181
>Other
>"Permission to attempt a rescue, ma'am."

A bit gung-ho for an Inquisitorial Operative yeah, but I imagine Dunkin has gotten fairly sick of leaving people behind in his life.

>>32270181
>>"These men have fought for you. DIED for you! Is this how you repay loyalty?"
Blamm'ing intensifies.

>>32270181

>>32270250
I agree with this but add something along the lines that its for further research on the new xeno. Odd that they suddenly started taking prisoners.

>>32270266
I'm against calling her out on it in front of anyone, she's calling the shots here. She has absolute authority, but that doesn't mean we can't make an alternative suggestion before she goes orbital on this rock.

>>32270181
>"She's right, Commander. Those men are as good as dead."
If we try to get them out more then 3 will die

>>32270250
>>32270283

Good idea, I imagine Christina would be fairly keen to have a pictfeed of the inside of their hive/nest.

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>>32270265
INTO THE BREACH YOU DOGS

>>32270250
>i suggest a comprimise send in one 7 man team and give them 5 hours if they don't come back with thare men then we leave them

A small team like this seems the most reasonable. Plus we're her bodyguard I doubt she'd let us go do it.

>>32270313
on the contray i want to go we still need to use this grenade launcher

>>32270181
One: We don't know if those guys the xeno took are still alive
two: We go in with a group to get the captives and we'll have more casualties.
Now I can agree about sending a team of volunteers and only volunteers to go on in and get them out, but its best we cut our losses.
>Agree with the Inquisitor

>"Getting inside their nest might reveal a whole lot more than the two live ones we have here"
>"Permission to attempt a rescue, ma'am"

Lead with the potential reward and then volunteer ourselves? Or are we in favoring of letting some other poor sap have a go?

>>32270250
>>32270283
Something like this, it is perplexing that they would just start taking prisoners. Could there be others from the capital also taken?

>>32270181
damn it, were a bodyguard not an arch-millitant.

I'm in favor of >>32270265 's plan, form a volunteer rescue team and go in there. Lets take off the hell guns an run high powered lights off our back pack fuel cells and go in there with flamers, find our guys and set charges to collapse the mine behind us on our way out.

>>32270365
BRILLIANT! but we are taking the hell gun that nade launcher needs to be used

>>32270365
We're a BODYGUARD. Unless the inquisitor plans to go in, we shouldn't.

>>32270181
"I don't really have any right to weigh in here Lady Inquisitor. While it is true that these men knew the risks, you are still nevertheless responsible for their lives. If you're certain these men could not possibly serve any better than by dying here, it is our duty to accept your decision. Still, should you reconsider... Well, at the very least you can count me in."

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>>32270365
>>32270313

Psh, bodyguards are a dime a dozen. Heroes of the Imperium however, are a different level of currency all together.

What are you, chicken?

>>32270181
If this commander wants to send more people after only three missing guardsmen, he must be pretty sheltered as far as Imperial Guard are concerned.

>"She's right, Commander. Those men are as good as dead."

>>32270265
I like it.

>>32270181
>"Getting inside their nest might reveal a whole lot more than the two live ones we have here"
>"Permission to attempt a rescue, ma'am"

Anybody got that let'sdothis.jpg

>>32270406
This works if we have a private moment with Her Ladyship, but right now we're in full view of the squad and Vincent.

>>32270181
>"Permission to do something crazy ma'am"

>>32270438
Not all IG regiments have the willpower or even the manpower to soak up the ridiculous casualties that we're used to seeing in say, the Death Korps of Krieg or Steel Legion. And a Vostroyan would be inclined to recover the men just for their hallowed equipment.

In short, it differs. I'd be interested to know where this Vincent hails from. A Hive Worlder likely wouldn't put that much value on his own, or wear a camo-cloak for that matter.

>>32270535
I'd guess a Death World, personally. 'Every man for himself' doesn't really cut it when literally everything is out to brutally murder you.

>>32270517
I think that is the perfect phrasing for what we want to do.

>>32270181
>Other?
>"Permission to attempt a rescue, ma'am."

Set a time frame, and we can also get some intel at the same time.

We may be a bodyguard, but from what Christina seems to be hinting at, she's looking for us to be something more than "just" a bodyguard.

Let's show that we get impossible shit done.

>>32270181
Use Cain logic: quietly pull her aside and point out these are the men who guard her life and they will be more inclined to do so if they think she gives a damn.

>>32270181

No, no, no...

Memories resurface of the same position, just different people and place. The job's done, why worry about a few grunts? The thought alone makes your blood boil.

However, you're not stupid enough to call out an Inquisitor.

"Permission to do something crazy, ma'am," You request.

"Such as?"

"A rescue."

You can't see her face, but you could wager it's one of surprise. However, her tone changes to one of weary understanding.

"I suppose I should have expected this kind of behavior to go beyond convenient," She grumbles. "I told you, going in wo-"

"I'm not asking you to send us all in, ma'am," You're quick to explain. "A single squad, volunteer only, sent in for rescue and further study of the xenos."

She remains silent, so you take it as a sign to explain.

"Sure, you'll find out some things from those two," You signal to the pair of captives. "But think of what you could learn if you took a look at their home? Strap a pictfeed to my head and I can get you plenty of footage. Just give us one chance, ma'am. We'll go in, get what and who we can, and seal the place with charges. No nukes, no unneeded destruction, and we mark up a new race to exterminate.

For a long minute Christina says nor does anything, instead comfortable just staring you down. You've dealt with several angry women and pissed COs before, so you're prepared for such things. The helmet covering you helps.

Finally, a sigh escapes the Inquisitor and she shakes her head.

"Three hours," She says. "Three hours and we're flattening the entire mountain. We've got enough xenos running about trying to kill us all. I won't add another."

"Thank you, ma'am."

"Don't thank me," She snaps, but then softens. "Just make it back. And keep that fool alive a while longer, while you're at it. He has his uses when not on suicidal acts of bravado like this."

"Yes, ma'am."

(Cont.)

>>32270883

You begin to make your way back to the surface, running into a handful of teams Vincent had dispatched along the way. They're hesitant around the captives, but follow all the same.

Meanwhile, the Commander himself saddles up next to you as you all walk, fumbling for words.

"I..." He shakes his head. "Thank you, for back there. Not everyday she get's a wrench thrown into her plans. Keeps her on her toes."

>"You owe me for this."
>"No one else gets left behind."
>"We've all got a part to play, Commander."
>Other?

>>32270936
>"No one else gets left behind."

>>32270936
>"We've all got a part to play, Commander."

>>32270936
>We've all got a part to play, Commander

>>32270936
>>"No one else gets left behind."
>>"We've all got a part to play, Commander."
Do the first then follow up with the second as we check our gun and cock it if we can do that with guns in this era that is

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>>32270936
>"No one gets left behind."

>>32270936
>"No one else gets left behind."

>>32270936
>>"No one else gets left behind."
>>"We've all got a part to play, Commander."

>>32270999
On second thought, I'm backing up this anon. >>32270977

>>32270936
>"We've all got a part to play, Commander."

>>32270936
>>"No one else gets left behind."
>>"We've all got a part to play, Commander."

>>32270936
This >>32270977

Cause fuck yeah.

>>32270883
>>32270936
>mfw volatile materials and mining charges laying around
>mfw 'no live ammunition', only harsh language
>mfw I have no face

>>32270936

"No one else gets left behind," You tell him, and he nods in response. Not in the mood to deal with whoever is trying to claw to the surface of your memories as you say those words, you check over your hellgun. "We've all got a part to play, Commander. You've got yours, and I've got mine."

"I'll drink to that," Vincent says.

A short time later you're back on the surface and in the courtyard. With the covering shadow of a transport overhead, the captives are transferred to a metal cage for more pennant transport before being shipped up to the Antebellum.

Word quickly spreads of what the plan is, and Vincent prepares to gather volunteers.

"A typical squad holds ten people," He says. "Leaves eight to make up, after us. Any suggestions?"

>Mikel.
>Alpha. (Or maybe someone in particular?)
>Hassan.
>Jacklo.
>No suggestions.

>>32271155
>Volunteers only


>Hassan
Hahaha, no. Poor guy.

>>32271155
>Father Mikel

He did say he wanted to bring the Emperors Light into the darkness. (Flamethrowers all day everyday)

>>32271155

I'm assuming we can't ask for anyone too major, as we're already pushing it by being allowed to go.

Part of me really wants to ask Mikel because of his flamethrower, but we were warned, and I'm certain it was for a reason.

Hassan's learned his lesson (I hope), and Jacklo has definitely earned a pass. Definitely leave them alone.

I guess my vote is if Roxy volunteers (or someone else from Alpha), we take 'em, but otherwise, go strictly with volunteers so we don't irritate the Lady any further than we may already have.

>>32271155
>No, this is a long-shot as it is anyone whose willing will come, everyone else should have a choice.

>>32271327
This mainly becuase I can't think of any good people to bring along

>>32271327
>>32271325

I agree with these two anons in the main, and no doubt Vincent knows his own men better than we do. He'll probably have enough volunteers to make do.

>>32271327
agreed volunteers only if one of the names ones show up however let us know

>>32271327
whoops should be who's not whose

>>32271155
Ask Mikel

>>32271155

>No suggestions.

as with >>32271327 and >>32271206

let people volunteer or not as their conscience dictates, (I'd be surprised if we didn't have 100% sign on) then choose among those who have stepped foreword

>>32271155
Ask for the a-team and a rhino

>>32271155

"We agreed this was a volunteer-only thing," You tell him. "No pressuring anyone into doing this."

"Agreed," He nods, and with that takes his leave to gather some fresh bodies.

The Armsmen have looted whatever remained of the armory, as well as established a small one themselves from a nearby chimera. Most of it is standard gear that you already outclass, but you might be able to find something extra for your launcher.

>Roll for lootin' skillz. (Looking for anything in particular?)
>Keep what you have and wait.

Rolled 2

>>32271444
rolling for loot
find a flamethrower BRING THE LIGHT!

Rolled 1

>>32271444
Flare and flame nades

Rolled 1

>>32271444
FLAMES TO PURGE THE UNPURE

>>32271480
>>32271469
>>32271464
ah shit

Rolled 6

>>32271444
>Roll for lootin' skillz. (Looking for anything in particular?)

Flares, flashbangs, strobe lights, flamethrowers, anything that gives off a LOT of light.

>>32271480
>>32271469
>>32271464
How did we all roll so shit?

Rolled 16

>>32271444
How about a vortex grenade, nothing like discontinued tech.

>>32271464
>>32271469
>>32271480
An ork waagh was hidden in the loot pile.

>>32271464
>>32271469
>>32271480

Looks like we're going in naked.

>>32271499
>How did we all roll so shit?

Looks like the dice gods are saying "No extra loot for you!"

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>>32271444
something like a million candlelight flashlight

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>>32271480
>>32271469
>>32271464
Well, shit.

Can we get a water pistol for out troubles?

>>32271571
We found a candle and it is broken

>>32271619
no we found a flamethrower made out of candle wax

>>32271644
>>32271600
We find a flamethrower that shoots water.

>>32271674
oh how about this a flamethrower that is blessed by khorn so it shots boiling blood

(MY SIDES! And I had such a nice surprise in store too...)

>>32271444

You decide to rummage through the assorted pile and try to find something worth while. It isn't looking too promising, but maybe if you hoped for the best you mi-

"Emperor damn mother-" You swear as something metal slices into your left palm from the pile, and when you bring the hand up a trickle of blood is already beginning to flow. Growling at your own stupidity, you feel the urge to send a water container flying, but contain yourself.

A short time later, Vincent returns with his assembled team.

For the most part it's various Armsmen, almost all sporting the same camo cloak as Vincent. However, there are two that catch your eye.

"Father," You nod to Mikel, who does the same in return. "Gabriel."

The big Alpha Trooper hefts the melta in his hand to a better place on his shoulder and nods, helmet at his side and Lho Stick in his mouth. You get the sudden urge for one yourself, but decide to hold it off for now.

"Rox said to look after ya since she couldn't come," He says. "Thought you could use some extra punch, too."

"Alright, people, we're burning daylight," Vincent says. "Mount up!"

A Chimera sits nearby, engine rumbling softly as it awaits you. With gear ready and your palm no longer bleeding, the hatch closes and you set off with a roar.

>Say something to someone? (Who and what?)
>Light a Lho Stick and enjoy the ride.

>Light a Lho Stick and enjoy the ride.
>Say something to someone? (Who and what?)
So everyone why you guys sign up for this most likely suicied mission?

>>32271725
>>Light a Lho Stick and enjoy the ride.
ive seen some of what has been described in this section in a movie once. didnt the majority of the team end up dieing? also debating if there is any copy right we need to worry about.

>>32271725
>>Light a Lho Stick and enjoy the ride.

>>32271725
>Light a Lho Stick and enjoy the ride
Might be our last.

>>32271771
Because background angst. I'm guessing Lt Dunkin was in a similar position to Vincent once, one that did go our way.

>>32271725
>>Light a Lho Stick and enjoy the ride.
>>Say something to someone? (Who and what?)

Talk for a moment with Mikel or Gabriel depending on their moods, we don't know either of them well.

Once done, ask Mikel for a blessing/reading, we'll need every last bit of bravado/luck/whatever since we're going into the belly of the beast.

>>32271725
>>Light a Lho Stick and enjoy the ride.

>>32271725

This is too much.

Letting the others fill the time with talk, you strike up a Lho Stick yourself and take a grateful draw. You blame the shaking in your hands on shitty driving skills and worse road conditions. The small gestures does wonders, however, and you feel your anxiety lessening.

However, not everything is idle talk on the way up.

"We've grabbed a fethton of lights and schematics of the mine," Vincent says. "This is a lot better than we started, so already we're doing pretty well. The way I see it we head for the last place the mining crew radioed from before going dark, here."

He points to a section of mining shaft at least two kilometers down. Lovely.

"It's a simple snatch and grab op. We get in, grab any survivors we find, and seal the place behind us with charges," Vincent pauses. "I suppose I don't have to say this isn't our most survival-friendly mission, but we're trained to deal with crazy shit like this."

Despite the view on the mission's outcome, the mood is oddly confident. Perhaps this sort of things happens as often as the holodramas depict. You're not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing.

It isn't long after when you reach the mining camp.

Jaraax has already dug in around the main entrance, flood lights of all shapes and sizes mounted on just about everything. They greet you all in turn, nodding in respect or giving a slap on the shoulder. Beyond the barricade, the darkness within is far from inviting.

"Deuce, take point," Vincent orders, and one of the Armsmen step forward. "Last chance to back out, people."

No one says a word as you step into the darkness.

(Cont.)

>>32270821
Yeah... more than "just" a bodyguard, maybe we should've got more than just that leg augmented, ifyacatchmedrift...

>>32272462

You begin forward, looking for anything two legged or more. Sadly all you find is a spacious elevator, probably meant to hold half a hundred miners at a time. With just ten, the sheer size of it shows.

"That's gonna make a hell of a lotta noise," Gabriel muses.

"We could rope down, but fuck all trying to climb back up with more people than ropes and those things on our asses" Vincent replies.

>No choice. Hit it.
>Think of something else?

>>32272516
>>No choice. Hit it.

>>32272516
>No choice. Hit it.

There's no way we'd make it back up the ropes with these flying critters on our tail and potentially unconscious abductees in tow. Let's get ready to rock and roll.

>>32272516
>No choice. Hit it.
Play some Imperium of Man's version of rock and roll.

Anyone know of any Warhammer tribute bands?

>>32272516
>No choice. Hit it.

>>32272516

I suppose we could rope down, then have the elevator sent down to meet us when we are on the way back, but that would require good timing and comms that work in the mines.

Barring that, I guess my vote goes for:

>No choice. Hit it.

>>32272516
We'll rope down. Jaraax stations some men on top so when we want to go up we'll radio them to bring the lift down so we can go up.

>>32272516
>No choice. Hit it.

Better have them flashlights at the ready brothers. Been nice knowing you.

>>32272516
>Think of something else?

3 Hellgunss and a melta trooper ropes down secures point does a little scouting then every one else takes the elevator

>>32272627
This strikes me as appropriate for our current endeavor.
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JGM3Q1dVDP4

This a little less so.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JR2CU4ApCI

>>32272663
And if there's a malfunction? Better to find out on the way down now than when we're bailing out.

>>32272663
Then all we have to do then is try to survive. Lost half the squadron. Get someone to do a noble sacrifice. Stuff.

>Captcha
>dramatic eunwer

Indeed captcha. Indeed.

>No choice. Hit it.

We had three hours and we probably already burned close on an hour just getting there. As a certain marine in a different setting would say: "We gotta move!"

>>32272516

"No choice," You say. "Hit it."

With a grunt Vincent smacks the console, and after a few seconds a distant rumble begins to sound. And just like that, you're on your way down.

It's not the earsplitting screech of metal on metal you were expecting, but it's far from quiet. Sticking close to the center, the squad keeps an eye on the edges and the walls as you descend. No trouble yet, but you're nothing if not paranoid in these situations.

>Roll dat perception.

Rolled 18

>>32272863

Rolled 8

>>32272863
Go go gadget eyesight

Rolled 3

>>32272863
Eyes on fire

Rolled 1

>>32272863

>>32272875
>>32272876
>>32272881

Is it best of three or an average barring crits?

Rolled 16

>>32272863

Captcha: contains paratifi. Seems like we have a name for the Xenos now...

>>32272891
You, sir. You're grounded for the remaining of the thread, sorry for the incovenience.

Rolled 12

>>32272863
I see for the emperor!

>>32272904
(Average.)

>>32272863

You're about halfway down when you catch a glimpse of movement, and when you look you see one of the creatures scurrying along the wall. Tracking it, you send it tumbling down with a well-placed blast.

"Contact!" You warn, and just in time.

Four others clamber over the side of the elevator, with another breaking off of the wall and flying above. Hesitant to damage to lift, Gabriel hangs back while you and the others move to engage.

>Roll for the Emperor!

>>32272904
Best of 3 IIRC. Else that 20 earlier would've done shit.

Rolled 2

>>32273038
disciplined fire men!

Rolled 2

>>32273038

Blam!

Rolled 16

>>32273038
The dice giveth...

Rolled 4

>>32273038

>>32273078
well that is my last roll of the night

>>32273078
>>32273085
>>32273095
shit

Rolled 12

>>32273038
Blast em

Rolled 4

>>32273038
OPERATIN'

Rolled 20

>>32273169
Damn. Horrible rolls now. Did someone preroll the 20's out of em?

>>32273038

You open fire as they come, but these things move at frightening speed. One goes down, then two, but the last pair scatter. Meanwhile, the one in flight swoops down. Most dive for cover, but one unfortunate Armsmen isn't so lucky.

His lasgun goes flying as the thing picks him up and begins to make toward a hole tunneled into the wall. Meanwhile, Gabriel sends one of the ground ones flying with a smack from his melta, but the thing is quick to recover.

>Try and save the Armsman.
>Help Gabriel.

>Roll it. Signify which choice the roll counts for.

>>32273187
HA! I SALVAGED! HAHAHAHA!

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>>32273169
>>32273095
>>32273085
>>32273078

and then there's this guy
>>32273187

Rolled 3

>>32273197
Save the Guardsman

Rolled 16

>>32273200
Arglblargl. Dammit. Too late. Why?

Rolled 19

>>32273197
>Try and save the Armsman.

Rolled 20

>>32273197
>Try and save the Armsman.

Come on, come on...

Rolled 19

>>32273197
Kill the arms man. So he doesn't suffer

Rolled 11

>>32273197
>Try and save the Armsman.
Fuck you, spiderbug!

yesyesyeyseysyeyseysyeysyesyes!
>>32273246
Also forgot to vote.
>Try and save the Armsman
>>32273273
Bad anon!

>Captcha
>olsdifi Patriotic

For the IMPERIUM!

>>32273269
Saved both the armsman and helped Gabriel

>>32273269
CRITICAL RESCUE!

>>32273269
The emperor protects.

>>32273267
>>32273269
My fucking DICK

>>32273273
No, bad anon (good roll though)

>>32273269

>tfw one of your previous rolls was a 2
>tfw you redeem yourself with a 20

Damn, was so worried I'd roll a 1 next or something, glad I rolled.

>>32273477
the 20 isn't one of the first three, so it doesn't count.

>>32273518
>>32273518
Averaging apparently

>>32273518

The 16 doesn't count, they didn't specify what it was for, which was specifically requested we mention.

>>32273518

Also, the 16 roll was replying to something else, and not the posted call for a roll.

Pretty easy to see it doesn't count, to be honest.

>>32273539
>>32273549

That and the 19 would see us through regardless, I should think.

>>32273197

Not today...

You take aim. It's a difficult shot to make, to say the least. The thing's constantly moving, and so is the struggling Armsman. Then you see your moment.

You fire.

The shot strikes true, and the xeno collides onto the floor. The Armsman lands roughly, but alive.

Meanwhile, the one attacking Gabriel is ripped in half by Mikel's shotgun, while Vincent a pair of Armsmen gun down the fifth and final xeno.

Shortly after that you reach the bottom of the mine to find it empty, where a number of deserted or destroyed administrative buildings stand. You and the others pour out of the elevator, scanning the open ground for movement and finding none.

"Well, shit," You hear an Armsmen mutter, and when several of you look he shakes his head. "Comms just went to shit topside."

"Just means less noise in our ear," Vincent responds.

With the map fresh in mind the Commander seems confident in his heading, moving past various off-branching rails without a second look. The silence except for your footsteps are disconcerting, but you steel your resolve and march on.

Seemingly at random he pauses in front of a rail line leading farther away, seemingly in thought.

"This is a straight shot, but it's a hell of a walk," He jams a thumb in the direction of a nearby train. "Any of you know how to work one'a those things?"

>Let's find out. (Roll)
>Best not waste the time. Rough it.

Rolled 14

>>32273604
>>Let's find out. (Roll)

Rolled 6

>>32273604
>Let's find out. (Roll)

Go go magic dice!

Rolled 10

>>32273604
>Let's find out. (Roll)

Rolled 13

[desire to know more intensifies]

>>32273604
How mich time do we have left?

Rolled 14

>>32273604
>Chooo Chooo MOTHERFRAKERS!

Nice average. About 10?

>>32273604
>Best not waste the time. Rough it.

Rolled 6

>>32273604
>Let's find out
Toll the Great Bell Once!
Pull the Lever forward to engage the
Piston and Pump...
Toll the Great Bell Twice!
With push of Button fire the Engine
And spark Turbine into life...
Toll the Great Bell Thrice!
Sing Praise to the
God of All Machines

>>32273604

After a bit of fiddling, and with the help of a questionable Armsman by the name of Venzi, you manage to 'borrow' one of the train cars. It's far from perfect after nearly a month of neglect, but before long you're making good progress.

"Time?" You ask, and you're surprised to see Vincent pull back his sleeve to reveal a simple wristwatch.

"Two hours, twenty minutes," He grins. "Plenty of time."

You want to share his confidence, but you remain cautious.

Another fifteen minutes pass before you finally come to another stop at a much smaller station. You catch the faint sound of rock coming loose somewhere, but nothing reveals itself as you all dismount from the train.

"We can't be too far now," Vincent says. "Now we just gotta..."

He halts in his tracks and a hand shoots up to his ear. He looks back to you and Gabriel before quickly giving you the channel code. Tuning in, you hear a faint voice behind a wall of static.

"-cking peachy, boss."

"Remind me to kick your ass when I'm done saving it," Vincent snorts, though the relief in his tone is obvious. "The hell are you?"

"Some big ass cav-of the fu-vies down here," Comes the garbled response.

"Hang tight. We're on our way," He answers.

"Like we ca-ng else," The disgruntled reply.

"Double time it!" Vincent orders. "Sounds like we got some new survivors to handle."

Setting off down a stretch of pathway, the walls slowly grow more crude and basic as you grow closer to the most recent diggings. Eventually you come upon a mass of collapsed stone, apparently in the process of being cleared before being abruptly stopped. The occasional dark stain on the ground leaves little to doubt.

You move past the sight silently, intent on getting your people back. An opening in the shaft ahead calls you, and as you slip through you hear a faint noise you can't quite make out. What you DO know is that it slowly but steadily grows in intensity as you continue.

Then you come to the end.

(Cont.)

>>32274340

The path comes to a sharp decline, leading to the floor of the cavern below. The room itself is immense in size, with five large pillars scattered about the room acting as supports. It's far too dark to make out any other details, and you all quickly kill your lights to avoid unwanted attention.

"Stick to thermal or night vision," Vincent suggests, sliding an odd looking pair of goggles over his eyes. "Let's not kick the nest till we need to. Nice and slow, now."

Changing from one, and then to the other, you see scattered groups of the xeno hanging from the walls or ceiling. However, near the very back you pick up human-shaped life forms. As if on cue, the radio sparks to life.

"Took you long enough," The voice says, much clearer this time.

"Stow it and get ready to play damsel," Vincent growls. "Got the camera rolling, Mike? Good. Film and make it quick. Final stretch: We grab our people and slap charges on those supports; when we reach the exit we blow'em and bury the little feths even deeper. Objections?"

>None.
>Other suggestion?

>>32274465
>The faster, the better.

>>32274465
Tell him to ask the 3 guardsmen if they feel like their being watched. It could be an ambush

>>32274465
>None

Sounds like a plan, let's keep our finger on the trigger though, eh?

>>32274465
3 or 4 guys need to go save the hostages everyone else needs to start setting the place to blow up make shure we got nades in the launcher if we have to use them

>>32274529
We're in a room of full of deadly, if sleepy, xenos. Of course they're going to feel like they're being watched.

Rolled 6

>>32274465
>None.

Make sure we have our grenade launcher at the ready, in case either the charges don't go off, or we have to buy them time.