Army of the Southern Cross

Here is our IC thread. First game post coming up.

It is a cold January morning in Monument City, with snowdrifts piling up across the base as we find our team on the tarmac waiting in line to load their hover tanks onto a Tunny heavy lift aircraft. A total of nine Spartas hover tanks and one Myrmidon with their pilots are being transferred far south to Brazilia Base on a pair of the Tunny's, to aid in the efforts against the Malcontent Zentraedi in the Control Zone. One by one, your tanks are brought up into the belly of the massive transports where they are strapped down by the Loadmaster of the aircraft and his crew. With your mecha secured, you are free to move to the upper deck of the Tunny where you are able to find a seat and settle in for the flight to South America.

It is going to be a long flight from Monument City, located near the border of the old United States and Canada, down to central Brazil. The trip is made even longer due to the fact that you are not flying in a direct line, but for safety sake, you have to divert out over the Pacific Ocean to avoid contact with the Zentraedi forces in the Control Zone. The good news is, there are plenty of cots set up on the upper deck that will let you stretch out and sleep for the very long trip.

From the many months you have spent in training together, everyone is at least familiar with one another, and our newly promoted Sgt. Schnieder is now sitting down looking at a data pad with the personnel files for his new team on it. You have come to be in charge of an odd assortment of people. First, there is the former Zentraedi officer Moira, now a member of the GMP as a Information Specialist. Then, there is Fia Tayler, a reporter that signed up to be a tanker. Next, you have Eric Brenner, a Armorer and Heavy Weapons Specialist that is built like a tank himself. Finally, you have your Scout/Recon man Adrian Hawthorne, a skilled comms man that has been assigned one of the Myrmidon scout tanks in order to be able to stealth in and out, providing EW support for a squad.

OOC LINK THAT WE DON'T HAVE HERE!

Army of the Southern Cross - OOC


Sgt. Heinrich Schnieder.

"Oh Sgt. Schneider good luck in Brazil! bring back some souvenirs! Pfft, only thing I'd bring back is whatever damned devil insect tries to bury it's way into my left ass cheek." The doctor grumbled to himself for a moment, as he once again looked over this personnel. Did he know them? Yes, of course, hes not an idiot, it'd be hard not to as they've made it HIS job to lead the poor bastards. Guess they liked the thought that the one who will be patching them back up to also be the one who has to order them around?

Not that he'd say the pay raise was bad, but suddenly shunting him off to the heart of the current hell on earth did nothing to continue his joy over his new position!

"Moira, Ms.Tayler, Mr.Brenner and Mr. Hawthorne." he repeated in his head, hoping to whatever god was watching that none of them would get shot immediately when they landed or gods forbid during training, forcing him to have to pull some daring savior bullshit and getting himself promptly shot in the ass.

That'd be the worst thing, hell he'd be damn well certain nobody would live it down either. Call him "Iron ass" or "The Shield."

The doctor hid a smirk as he gazed around himself for his crew, squad, whatever they want to be called.

"I do so hope you all brought the bug spray as I reminded you, I won't be held responsible for prying any large jawed insect off fingers should you forget!"

Fia Tayler

Summary of the happenings thus far: Prepared ten high-technology tanks for transportation to the Brazilian warzone; found our way to the upper deck, hopefully a few peaceful hours without any unexpected problems. Rechecked if our personal supplies of bug spray are sufficient for the Brazilian jungle.

Some might call this short mental note anti-climatic, given the dangers ahead - a rather newly formed team, even including a Zentraedi, facing those who didn't believe in the diversity represented by those assembled. But if the last few years have taught Fia anything, then that flashy stories and hyms of praise are usually only written posthumously. The small things, never mentioned anywhere, usually make the difference between life and death - or in this case, between getting a mozzie bite or avoiding the whole itchiness. One reason for Fia Tayler to be part of this mission - at some point, talking about the big picture is not enough anymore, and you feel the urge to change as many small things as you can instead of neglecting them.

"One can in my backpack, one in my luggage; no responsibilty taken if the malcontents smell me from afar, Sir, it stinks as if it'd kill more than just midges." The squad leader is not quite what you'd expect - a doctor, well-versed at patching up those who might get injured due to his orders. Maybe one of those who get mentioned in the news once or twice, and then never again because of their dull efficiency; maybe more than that, only time will tell. "Has anyone here been this far south yet? Never made it far enough, Only crossed the Gulf of Mexico once."

Moira shakes her head. "No, I've only been in the North American Quadrant and, of course, up in orbit. It seems odd to have to pack my hot weather gear for Brazilia Base, since we have multi-meter snow drifts back in Monument City at this time. It is so much easier to live in a spaceship, where you can control the climate than being on a planet where you have the variable weather conditions to worry about." She quietly eyes each member of the new squad, wondering how well each one will do in actual combat. Sometimes I find it hard to believe that these people were able to defeat the Zentraedi fleet. But then, I see the capabilities of these people and it surprises me. They are so adaptive, so inventive. The Zentraedi have been using the same technology for hundreds of years, but there micronians were able to create their own technology in such a short amount of time, tech capable of stopping High Lord Dolza and the main strike force.

"I heard that we are the first hover tanks being sent to help stabilize the region of the Control Zone. It will be interesting to see how well our new mecha handle the harsh conditions of the jungle."

Eric Brenner looks over at Moira, "I suspect that they will do well. The Spartas are smaller than the older Destroids, and should be able to maneuver through the thick jungle easier than the current mecha do. I'm looking forward to seeing how they do, along with getting away from the damn snow! I hate being cold, so the summer conditions down below the equator is just what this soldier ordered. Maybe you have the right idea on the weather, Moira. Sit inside a cozy ship where you can control the temperature easy."

Adrian Hawthorne, sighed tiredly as he observed his team. He was proud of his team, dependable people from different walks of life with an assortment of skills to boot. He was excited to work with these people, even if they would have certain quirks that would try the patience of a sane man; but he was also tired. Tired that the world and the people could not stop fighting as if their only means of existence was to shoot the next guy they saw and be generally discontented. War was a costly and messy business, Adrian thought grimly, and they were the idiotic heroes that would march up to the jaws of the devil himself and happily jump inside his grinder of a mouth. The last thought made Adrian chuckle. "Well, the world needs its idiots to keep it safe. Fuck everything and go for it." He told himself before turning towards his Sgt. Schneider.

Bug spray? We, yeah, he brought a can but he wasn't gonna use it. It'll ruin the camo he might create down in the jungle with the smell. Gotta go all natural, his momma would say. "Well Sarge, I got the sprays you asked. But to be honest, I wouldn't mind the bugs. It'll add to the natural camo I'll set up when we hit the ground down there. Gotta blend in with your surroundings after all."

After responding to the man, he turned towards his squadmates discussing about the weather, geography, and the mechas. For the weather, well he was taught how to adapt with the changing weather conditions as a Scout-Recon. Don't want to use a camo fit for the desert on a snowy backdrop, that's just stupid now, he thought. But he personally loved the cold, besides making it extremely hard to see under the snow, it actually helps him relax in a strange way. Like a loving, icy embrace, he thought.

Geography, well he hasn't been to the south recently or ever in his life; although he trained in many conditions for the Scout-Recon aspect of his military profession. Heading down to ground-zero would be an ultimate test on the things he had learned so far. Besides, it'll also give him a chance to explore someplace new.

As for the mechas, he was proud of his Myrmidon. A quick insertion mecha that specializes in recon and EW would make any fucker's day turn shitty in an instant. Paired with the Spartas, then their days have gone even shittier with a chance of hell opening up underneath their feet. To bad it had little amount of guns. Could have used one more but beggars can't be choosers.

"Never been to the south, like ever; excited to explore though so that's a plus." Adrian then points towards Eric with a smirk on his face. "I'm sorry big man, you might hate the cold but I love it to bits. Your mechas from what I've heard pack a punch while mine makes the enemy's life a nightmare so it's a win-win for us. All I can say, it's gonna be an interesting mission."

For endless hours, the droning of the Tunny's engines help to lull you to peaceful rest. After what seems like an eternity, the view outside the window changes from endless water to greens and browns of land, showing you that you are getting closer to your destination. Finally, one of the flight crew comes on the overhead speakers, "Alright everyone! We are now fifteen minutes out. Secure your personal items and get ready to land. When you are ready to unload your tanks, make sure you follow instructions from the loadmaster. Dent my Tunny, and I'll dent your heads."

The engines shift their tone as the aircraft slowly lowers itself down towards the runway. Brazilia Base soon comes rushing up to you and the landing gear let out a thump as you touch down. With practiced ease, the Tunny's crew begins to ready the cargo for unloading. Both the front and rear doors open wide to help speed the process along, and soon, under the watchful eyes of the crew, your tanks are out and free to maneuver.

A crowd of people has gathered to see the new mecha of the Southern Cross arrive. You hear comments about the 'toy' tanks, wondering if these little tanks can really be the next generation of Veritech mecha.

You are all given directions on where to park your mecha so that they are out of the way and safely protected in an armored bunker so you can report into the personnel office for your orders.

Sgt. Heinrich Schneider.

"Nein, it is odorless, thats why I told you to by the brand I told you to buy. Why would I tell you to buy it otherwise? Bah, matters little, but you will thank me when you are piloting your tanks and don't have to deal with the blasted little biters if they sneak into your tank while it's open." he waved it off before heading off to bed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Everyone in positions, we don't need a pile up on our first day because you forget which switch is the brakes. Lets get our prides and joys all in a line and give the people a good show yea? Good." his nagging did not cease even as they were pileing out of the Tunny. "And remember, we represent the newest and the brightest, try to act like it. We are the ones who will finally bring an end to this conflict, or so command hopes. So lets make certain we don't let it get to our heads."

Pulling out first he reved up his tank's engine and pulled out of the plane with little to no problems, after that it was simple as following directions, real simple, he only hoped none of his Squad tried to show off while they first got here.

"Toy tanks? bah! Little do they know eh? Let us hurry along and get our bearings, the less we stand around wondering where to go the better. Atleast they have a spot for us, I'll be damned if they make us park these things outside."

Moira winces as the heat and humidity of Brazil hits her like one of the main gun shells from her tank. She quickly reaches out and grabs up her duffel bag and loads up into her VHT. Following the orders of the loadmaster and the crew of the Tunny, then she obeys the directions of the ground guides leading them into the armored bunker. With a trained eye, she quickly sums up her opinion of the defenses around her, looking for ways that the Zentraedi might use to attack and disable the base. Not a bad job in defending this place; color me impressed! Even I would have a hard time leading an attack against this airfield.

When Schnider begins to lecture them about maintaining military discipline, she nods. "Yes, corporal. Falling into position." It will feel good to get back out into the field once more. I feel alive when I'm in battle. Every other time of my life makes me feel . . . empty, like I'm missing out on my purpose. I guess that's just the Zentraedi in me talking.

"It's alright Sarge! Gotta learn how to fight in any condition, plus I'm the guy who's gonna be alone most of the time! Better have a friendly relations with the local beasts and insects now." Adrian replied in a joking manner, a means to ease some of the tension slowly building up within his system.

The Brazilian air was humid. Hot and sticky, a complete annoyance since the ship was a bit cool but a bearable one. He made his way towards his things, a couple of duffel bags worth of items, before loading them in his Myrmidon. He didn't want to show off at this moment in time. Too early for something like that. Better do it on the field where one can surprise the enemy than inside the base.

With a quick systems check and a few mumbled curses for not placing his things properly, the roaring sound of the Myrmidon's engines can finally be heard; he maneuvered his baby with expert ease, making doubly sure to follow the...reminder of the loadmaster and the crew. "Aye, aye Sarge!" He hollered over the comms before moving in to position with the squad. As he did just that, he turned to his things and made a mental checklist. "Note to self, head to the armorer and ask for some extra recon gear if they can spare some." He mumbled before checking his systems a second time.

The personnel office of the base is easy enough to locate after getting your mecha secured in the bunker. Inside, there is a friendly looking sergeant seated at a computer, typing away rapidly. She looks up with a smile. "Ah! My transfers are here. Welcome to Brazilia Base, but don't get too comfy. I hope you had plenty of time to rest up on the flight over, because you'll be moving out with a convoy to your field deployment inside of two hours. You have the hard copy of your orders? Excellent. Let me get you processed in, then I can assign you to your new unit."

Over the course of the next hour, the sergeant and her office staff get your paperwork all set up in triplicate and present Sgt. Schneider with a packet for your field deployment. As she works, the sergeant fills you in on your new assignment. "First off, you'll be acting as convoy escorts. We have a shipment of parts, ammo and fuel heading to your new post of Anton-17, and it is up to you to keep it safe on the road. You'll be joined by a pair of Tomahawks and a Defender that are also on their way to replace combat losses at Anton-17, two platoons of infantry, plus you'll have a pair of helicopter gunships scouting out your route and providing air support." She pauses in her machine-gun typing for a moment to get serious. "Insurgents on the road have been making life out here miserable, and the Malcontents in the Control Zone have been very active recently, making several raids. Losses have been heavy, and we are now being forced to boost the troop complement at our BSURPs (that's a Border Surveillance Post). <sigh> I just wonder when the Zentraedi in the Zone will figure out that its a lost cause to keep resisting and just surrender once and for all." She shakes her head and resumes her rapid fire typing. "Sergeant Schneider, you and your team are now the newest members of the 3rd Tactical Armor Corps, 1st platoon. The 3rd TAC has a long and honorable history from before the First Robotech War, so make sure you do us all proud!"

With that, she hands over a data tablet to Sgt. Schneider. "This contains your convoy route and orders for the XO at Anton-17. Lt. Michael Simms in command of the convoy escort, so you'll want to check in with him to see how he wants your platoon deployed for guard duty. Well, I'm all done with you, so you'd better be on your way. Good luck out there!"

A quick examination of the convoy route shows you that your trip is just about 150 miles along what looks like a fairly well maintained highway. With the top speed of the Tomahawks being just over 50 miles per hour, it should take you around three hours to get to Anton-17, assuming that there is no trouble on the road.

Moira's level of interest increases as she hears the briefing from the sergeant. Indulging her curiosity, she pulls out her data tablet and does a quick internet search for reports and stories about the level of Malcontent activity in the area in recent weeks, trying to see just how hot the area is right now. She also decides to look into some of the history of the 3rd TAC, just to get a feel for the unit that they were now assigned to.

According to the intel gathered by the RDF, the Zentraedi forces in the region have been operating under the command of a woman known as High Lord Serena. Serena was a ship commander under Breetai before his forces switched sides and joined the Earth Defense Forces against the main Zentraedi fleet conducted the Global Bombardment that wiped out three out of every four people on the planet. Under the direction of Serena, the Malcontents have upped their game, making targeted attacks against specific objectives instead of just making nuisance raids. Various high tech factories have been raided, with the attacker's stealing delicate electronics, along with many raids being performed upon convoys in the area, both to destroy as much RDF equipment as possible and stealing whatever they can get their hands on.

A report in the GMP files on the Malcontents say that there must be a intelligence leak to the Zentraedi, or else they wouldn't be able to locate and attack as many of their targets as they have without some inside information. It is also strongly suspected that there are many human agents working with the Malcontents, aiding the Zentraedi with their mechanical and tactical needs. Any information on the identity of the leak is to be regarded as a high priority for the authorities to follow up on.

Fia Tayler

It's hard to impress a crowd like this one, gathered underneath the blazing sun to see the new war-winning monstrosities - quite likely, bringing an ice cream van with them would have done more to lighten the mood. Instead, they're bringing heavy fire power, nothing you could easily show off while heading towards the bunker; they won't call them toy tanks any longer when they see real combat footage.

And as it seems, that won't take too long - only two hours to adjust to the temperatures, and half of the time wasted with bureaucracy. Oh well, better than to sit around idly - that's something for nature photographers. The situation sounds rather dire, talking about recent heavy losses - she's done as much research as possible ever since their destination was explicit, but it's always different to hear the descriptions of someone involved first-hand. Next to her, Moira seems eager to catch up on things she could have read days ago - the combat journalist peeks over her shoulder to see if there's anything new, then turns towards the sergeant. "Where there any skirmishes during the last few hours? And, just to make sure I'm well-informed: Is Sergeant Roy Sterling still responsible for local coverage on military operations?"

Adrian nodded, a serious look was on his face for once. It seems things are taking a turn for the worst with the escalation from the Malcontents and military assets seem to be stretched to the limit. But being a part of a notable unit does ease the negatives of the entire situation in his opinion. "So with all due respect, we're doing guard duty with a big possibility of a skirmish that may result us having an extremely bad day? Alright ma'am, sir, we'll get on it right away."

He notices Moira looking over some recent information about the unit and Fia, the resident journalist seem to have asked about the dealings of one Sgt. Roy Sterling. Seeing his team asking and looking up some intel, he thought about the initial information from the briefing. Before long, he popped his question to the Boss Lady. "Ma'am, if I my clearance permits, may we know any recent reconnaissance or intel along the projected convoy route as well as any known elements the insurgents might throw at us? Also, may I request a requisition of additional supplies if command can spare any at the moment."

"A convoy escort mission? That cargo is safe, you can count on that." the man was assured of their victory. "These malcontents have been causing quite some trouble, but I assure you we will see to it this convoy has nothing to fear. We will show them just what type of new tech they are up against, within reason, of course." he gave a small nod to the orders and flinched as his squad immediately started started popping out questions.

No decorum here, sadly.

In truth he'd rather be back in the tanks, the heat and humidity made Heinrich want to shed off all of his gear and clothing and jump into the nearest water source... but the thoughts of injesting foreign water immediately put the thoughts of himself spending 2 days in the nearby rest room in his head.

The good doctor let his squad get their questions out, hoping the zentraedi don't try to front load this ambush that totally wont take place.

One might say "But good doctor, you could pass through without issue!" but of course that could happen, but then again Murphy's law exsists for a reason. It's their job to become the instance for the enemy mind.

Silanon said:

"Where there any skirmishes during the last few hours? And, just to make sure I'm well-informed: Is Sergeant Roy Sterling still responsible for local coverage on military operations?"

Click to expand...

The sergeant shakes her head. "I haven't heard of any attacks lately, but lord only knows what is going on out there. I'm a clerk, not an Intel expert after all. From what I remember, Sgt Sterling is still the correspondent assigned to the area."

AldarisLordOfLight said:

"Ma'am, if I my clearance permits, may we know any recent reconnaissance or intel along the projected convoy route as well as any known elements the insurgents might throw at us? Also, may I request a requisition of additional supplies if command can spare any at the moment."

Click to expand...

"I don't have any of that intel, but you can check in with your convoy leader for the latest. As far as supplies, what are you looking for? I might be able to arrange it for you."

Adrian nodded his head in understanding. Of course, who knows the situation better than the convoy leader. He made a mental note to check in with the convoy leader for those details and maybe even acquire the frequencies of the gunships from the briefing since they have been delegated as aerial recon.

As for the supplies and equipment, he was grateful for the possibility of acquiring something decent like camo netting, additional sensors, and a sniper rifle if possible. "Thank you ma'am for the consideration. I would need camo netting, large enough to cover at least half a VHT at worst and fully at best. I would fashion one from the local flora but that would take time and the mission is time sensitive enough, hence the request. I would also request for some additional sensor equipment as added eyes on the ground, and a sniper rifle if one can be spared for the mission."

The friendly sergeant makes a few notes on her computer. "All of that is well within your authorized gear, but the portable sensor rig might not be available. I'll send a message to the supply shed to have them deliver you what you've requested if they have it on hand. If there are any other special requests, make them now or you'll have to hold out as is until you get to Anton-17 and hope that they have what you want."

When everyone is done with their paperwork, you make your way back to the motorpool where your mecha are currently stored. Waiting in the underground garage are the various transports, armored vehicles and mecha of the convoy. There is a pair of tanker trucks full of fuel and eight heavy transport trucks filled with various supplies needed by the base, along with six APCs that will be taking the two infantry platoons along to help bolster the defenses of the base. Finally, there is the three Destroids and your hover tanks that will be providing heavy fire support on the ground and the two Comanchero gunships that will be your eyes in the sky.

The Lieutenant in charge of the convoy defenses is standing next to his Tomahawk mecha, talking to the leaders of the two infantry platoons. As you all approach, he looks up with curiosity, trying to size up the new kids on the block from the ASC. He returns the salutes you give with a wave of his hand. "At ease. You are just in time. I was just going over the convoy order for the escorts. Sergeant, I want your squad up front on point. From the briefings I've had about your scout tank, it will be perfect to keep on the lookout for Malcontents. Our Defender will be in the center of the convoy, providing us with air defense, and the Tomahawks will bring up the rear. Here is the list of squad radio frequencies that we are going to use, so make sure your people have them programmed in on their comm sets. Any questions?"

"None in regards to positioning, is there possible similarities between each of the ambushes you have faced so far? Such as certain areas prone to attack, certain tactics used, do they prefer attacking from afar or from up close? Anything that seems pertinent." Heinrich asked the man as he gazed upon the various mecha and transports that will be moving along with them. Up front and centre stage, that is where they will be and that's where they will dominate.

The doctor stood tall and proud, even if he felt abit nervous about entering battle so soon after getting on the ground, jet lag was a terrible thing.

The list was simple to put in, he set to it as they spoke as to get it down quickly, then handed the list to the others.

"We should be prepared for anything regardless, Murphy's law."

Moira takes the codes offered up and inputs them into her combat computer. "How far ahead of the body of the convoy are we going to be? Right at the head, or ranging out a bit?"

OOC With my personal knowledge of Zentraedi tactics, is there a place on the route that looks like a viable ambush site to plan for?

"Thank you ma'am. I'll be sure to make good use of the nets and the sniper rifle. A shame about the sensor rig. It could have helped in clearing the possible fog of war we might be facing out there. We'll get on with the mission then, ma'am." Adrian saluted, a relieved look on his face but a glint of disappointment shone in his eyes for the loss of the sensor rig.

Adrian Hawthorne, Comm guy and Scout-Recon, would never forget the majesty of the motorpool and the hustle and bustle it brings. The sight of the convoy affirmed the gravity of the mission at hand. Those supplies and men must reach Anton-17 intact. After the usual pomp and circumstance associated with the military and after inputting the comm frequencies on his equipment, he asked his question after seeing that his team popped theirs. "Sir, what's the sit-rep on the ground? Any intel on the Malcontents and any possible insurgents around the area? What's the status of our field of operation and has there been a recon team sent in ahead of the convoy to appraise us of any hidden surprises just in case? Will we be on our own or could we expect assistance from Anton-17?"

After relaying his concerns and questions, his eyes wandered around the motorpool and soon spotted a number of personnel carrying his requested supplies and equipment. After the briefing, he'll go through the gear and see if they are up to snuff.

OOC: I am now curious as to what sniper rifle the starting base has as well as the camo nets available. The nets are a must for any recon activity (as said by famous people around...somewhere).

From what Moira can see of the route, there are a couple of places that look to you to be viable ambush sites. One is at a bridge over a relatively small river, the second is in the middle of some lowlands with high mesa's on either side. There are many other locations that could be used as an ambush site, since you are traveling a goodly distance near contested territory.

Adrian's inspection of his gear reveals a good set of camouflage nets that when combined with the Concealment skill will give you an additional +20% to your skill. You also have a encrypted satellite radio pack with a battery life capable of 12 hours of continuous broadcasting. Finally, there in its case is a LAR-12S sniper rifle, complete with three power cells for it.

When you ask about the Malcontent activity in the area, the LT says, "I fully expect that we will run into trouble on the road somewhere out there. This new High Lord Serena has organized the Zentraedi into a cohesive fighting force, and has been sending raiding parties out looking for trouble. Hell, Anton-17 just barely was able to repel an attack on it a few days ago; that's why we are going there with so much firepower and supplies. What we are moving has to get to its destination. I just hope that your little Tonka toys over there are as good as the hype says they are."

Fia Tayler

It's always good to know the name of your contacts - at some point, she'll have footage to share. The need for more intel can be satisfied shortly after, as the LT is, as to be expected, well-informed about the dangers ahead; or at least as well-informed as you'll ever be when the opponent tends to strike from the shadows. The cargo - fuel and usual supplies, the things that keepthe military running without ever getting mentioned anywhere - is already loaded on various trucks, everyone ready to go as it seems. Only the spearhead of the operation is missing for now, as the team tries to gather as much information as possible before the tanks hover out first. Speaking of them: Just like the welcoming bunch of people, the convoy leader seems little impressed by the new mechas joining his undertaking.

"I take it you're not quite convinced of them, Lieutenant? Without wanting to sound over-confident, Sir, we'll pull our weight during the upcoming fights; they weren't built to look impressive, but to reliably fulfill their tasks." Time will tell if that's enough; as it sounds, Anton-17 is in a truly bad state, moreso than even the welcoming sergeant indicated. The fact that they almost lost their outpost indicates how much of a threat the malcontents are - new, inventive firepower will be needed, and luckily, has arrived just now. She's seen the hover tanks in action - and soon enough, the world will have seen them in the heat of battle as well. "How did they manage to almost break through the defenses of a fortified position like Anton-17? Have they gained that much more firepower lately, or is it just their better organisation?"