MS Hellhounds Saga: Children of Mars (Discontinued)

[RedArmyShogun]

Free Privateer Ship Silent Night - Low Mars Orbit
Universal Star Date 2068 AE
​

Up in low Martian Orbit, ships with all sorts of callsigns, types and categories were in holding patterns, as Destroyers and Frigates climbed "up" from the terraformed planet or joined the orbital dockyards and defense stations, and a flurry of shuttles, like swarming insects drifted from all points between, the fate glow of reds, blues and yellows igniting from maneuvering thrusters and engine outlets, shining like fireflies in the dark. Today is a new beginning for a few, a return for others.

While other worlds had elements in the battlegroups, or the normal Fleets of the Dominion, even on some of these very selfsame ships, the bulk of recruits and elements of this battlegroup were the Sons and Daughters of Mars, forged to be tools of war or labor, to pay the Tithe of Mars. As the battle groups gathered the haulers and transports that Mars depended upon for imports and exports were held at bay.

Having had a handful of days for training to finish and for the old dogs to touch upon the Martian surface if they wished it, what peace and relaxation could be afforded was given, as personal PDA's chimed in, using encrypted channels that reported various shuttle launch times and to bring and order that those who were old would know, and those who were new would soon learn.

"Upon Arrival to 5th Fleet Command Cruiser Silent Night, connect to Ship Auxiliary console for map information. You are attached to the 15th MS Team under command of Captain Rochette E. Report to Hangar Bay 27 D Deck by 1500 Hours shipboard standard time. Await additional orders and crew quarter assignments. Leave personal possessions and luggage at initial docking site, adjutants shall bring your items to quarters."

​

As the hours pass and the day progresses, a woman with white hair leaned against a railing, wearing olive drab fatigue pants and a white tank top and a green jacket. A pair of dog tags, lingering just outside of the shit, marked her name and rank, though the green open jacket also bared the double bars of a Captain on the neck. Off to her side wearing much the same was a wild golden eyed girl with blonde hair and a smirk to her face stood off to the side, flipping a combat knife in her hands to pass the time, the two women waiting silently, one in boredom and the other with baited anticipation. And so, they waited, for new faces and old, the timer standing at 1435.


EmperorsChosen Stros King Crimson Azurian Dream Thalia_Neko TreasureSniper (please get sheets in and posts up by the 1st/2nd of January 2023, I will be on hand for reviews and to give aid if needed.)

 

[EmperorsChosen]

"Upon Arrival to 5th Fleet Command Cruiser Silent Night, connect to Ship Auxiliary console for map information. You are attached to the 15th MS Team under command of Captain Rochette E. Report to Hangar Bay 27 D Deck by 1500 Hours shipboard standard time. Await additional orders and crew quarter assignments. Leave personal possessions and luggage at initial docking site, adjutants shall bring your items to quarters."
​

The message reverberated through the communications as the red-headed veteran of the 15th Team fiddled in her cockpit, running diagnostics on her machine. Leaning back in her seat, she watched the screen as the various scans popped up before minimizing upon completion. She was wearing her standard boots, fatigue shorts, tank top with her trademark red jacket hanging off to the side.

New cogs, or so it seemed.

As the diagnostics finished in the green, the woman let out a sigh and patted the console of the cockpit before pulling herself up. Grabbing her jacket, Stefanie slipped on one sleeve at a time, the rolled-up right cuff covering where skin met metal. It was almost 1500, after all.

She made her way down from the embarkment walkways, isolating two of the other veterans with her gaze. Hands shoved in pockets, the prosthetic hand removed itself to rub the back of her neck a bit sheepishly, or perhaps not.

"You'll look like me, you keep playing with that," Stef commented idly as she walked past the two, her statement obviously directed to the blonde.

 

[TreasureSniper]

Another day, another war to win. That was always Sev's motto when it came to working as a merc. Back in the good old days, his was thought to be "special", but nowadays they are just seen as better mercs. Sev continued to sip on his drink while watching the crew carefully unpack and transfer his mecha onto a maintenance stand for a regular check-up. Hearing the announcement provides him with his next set of orders, the young man disposed of his empty cup and made his way to the designated Hangar bay.

Usually, the higher-ups would point him toward the direction where they need destruction to follow, but this time seemed a bit different. This client of theirs wanted a more...controlled approach, at least that was what he was told. Either way, he didn't really mind, as long as he get paid to do what he did best, fighting in giant metal robots.

Sev entered the room with a cavalier stride, wearing his company-issued fatigues and giving everyone a friendly wave. "~Yo." He greeted them rather casually despite not knowing their ranks. But then again, that type of stuff never really bothered him in the first place. "So...which one of you is my captain?" he asked his usual laid-back tone and goofy smile. In his experience, but didnt really care that much about how he acts, as long as he performed his job well enough.

 

[RedArmyShogun]

"Nah, if you were me, you would still have the hand." Said Sandra, as she threw the knife into the air, a grin on her face as she timed her reach, snatching the blade by the handle as it came down. "You should learn to race a swoop like mine Stef. Then again with the hand you might not have the feel for it."

The white-haired girl snorted and seemed mildly amused as she spoke up. "You mean the Swoop the Militia corner checked into a wall?" She added in as she eyed the new arrival. Male, spikey hair, clean. He also had the markings of an officer. So, he was one of the special favors from Mars. As he asked his question, he seemed rather laid back and goofy grinning. Interesting...

For her part Sandra turns her attention to the other and scoffs a bit, as the knife gleamed off of the lighting fixtures up above the pair. "Gotta lot of nerve just speak'n without being spoken too huh?" Then just as suddenly she put the knife away as the whitehaired woman next to her sighed and turned her gaze upon the male. "Heh, ah, well."

Waving her right hand, and with a tilt of the wrist, the officer speaks. "Captain Rochette, E. E is for Erika. Just hang about or check your machine. Got more to wait on before we go to the inductions." It was then a smirk showed across her face as she lowered her hand. "So, both LT's are blondes huh..."

"Fuck, my hair isn't so unique now, is it?" Sandra spoke up, before looking at the other. "I'm your scout pilot, you may out rank me, but think that helps you out I may forget about the Infantry with heavy AT hiding in the trees. Sergeant Couto S. Or just call me Sandra. So, who the fuck are you?"

 

[EmperorsChosen]

The red-haired woman let out a scoff. It didn't look it, but she was amused by the cocky remarks of the other. "If I were you in a swoop like that, I'da needed a full torso," She remarked back, making her way to a stack of equipment.

There were several large crates, one sitting on its own and two others stacked adjacent to it. Hopping onto the single stack to seat herself, the woman was rather unconcerned with the newcomer, aside from a dull gaze following him for a moment before glancing back at the blonde woman, and then shutting her eyes as she leaned back. Arms folded across her chest, she almost looked to be taking a nap, though Stefanie was more just letting the other two say their piece, and in the case of the blonde, prod.

"If you don't forget it anyway, blondie," Stef commented at the woman's supposed forgetfulness. "Stefanie Sobol. Corporal. Frontline unit. Some call me Stef, for short. Regardless... yeah, the fuck are you?"

 

[TreasureSniper]

This group was lot less formal than the ones he is used to dealing with, but nonetheless, they seemed a lot more entertaining to be around. Though he did think they were a bit too vulgar with the way they talked, then again most military personnel tend to be like that as well in the movies he watched. But still, he took it more as a friendly gesture, a form of hazing of some sorts. What great luck, all of them were women too. With any luck and the right lines maybe he'll be able to charm one of them.

"Hmm... Lieutenant JG Karsev Raznable, reporting for duty. But feel free to call me "Sev"." He gave the captain a laid-back two-finger unofficial salute. Based on what she has said so far, there was probably another blonde in the team as well, apart from the more "vocal" scout pilot. "Would it help if I changed the color of my hair?" He quipped back at the scout jokingly. At least this merry band of pilots seemed a lot more fun to be around compared to the usual rabble he was with.

"So then...how many more are we waiting for?" Sev asked. The captain was probably waiting for more of the team to appear before debriefing them. The higher-ups didn't really inform him on how many of them were there. They didn't even disclose the nature of the operation to him, which was rare but not too suspicious. "And...what exactly is the next sortie about?"

 

[Stros]

Having traveled among the numerous transport ships ferrying civilians and military personnel alike, up and down, through the Martian atmosphere. James had days prior paid a reluctant visit to the Lochmann estate in order to pay his respects to his mother's grave. The trip had been without fanfare, save for the private transport that had been reserved for him by the Lochmann transportation subsidiary. His father and elder siblings had made no attempts to welcome him upon landing on Mars, despite being fully aware of his arrival. Nevertheless, this proved to be in his benefit as the solemn journey remained untroubled by the overshadowing figures of his past. Though, he had no doubt that it was only a matter of time before they invaded his life again for personal gain.

Until that time inevitably arrived, he took solace in the quiet hour he spent at his mother's gravesite. Bringing with him a banquet of lavender from Earth, as it had been her favorite. Laying the flowers upon her gravestone, he updated his dear mother on his recent adventures and achievements with the 15th MS "Hellhounds". That ancient unit which had dotted the lives of so many of her grandfathers and now her own son. Eventually, he ran out of things to say given a tombstone can only listen, and bid his farewell before departing. Ignoring out of the corner of his eye as the grave keeper approached his mother's grave, no doubt to remove the flowers in order to "clean" the headstone.

It was with these passing memories, and those that resurfaced as a consequence, that he rejoined the Silent Night as it rested silently in orbit over the still mostly desolate red planet. Managing to suppress any and all visible signs of his venture. The life of James Lochmann VII faded from his focus and attention as the life of James L., Lieutenant J.G. of the 15th MS Team came to the foreground. As if in response to his re-arrival onboard, he received the summons to Hangar Bay 27 D. With what time he had until 1500, he immediately changed into his issued fatigues that had been tucked away neatly inside his luggage. In contrast to many aboard the Silent Night, they had been fitted, ironed, and trimmed to perfect regulation standards.

It was with his typical prim appearance and a vigor his in step that he approached the small crowd in a corner of the deck to hanger 27 D. Noticing the Sergeant by her roughneck posture and the Captain no far off, James signature light grin arose on his face as Stef's cold demeanor turned his way. Giving a light wave in response, he soon greeted the group in turn.

"Good evening... Captain. Sergeant."

Addressing the two commanding figures of his team with a respectful nod, the latter he addressed due more to her personal stature than her rank. Turning to the fourth and newest figure, he avoided the rude impulse of first encounters, that is to look a stranger up and down without comment, and instead jumped right to introductions with routine effort.

"Lieutenant James L."

Offering his hand, it would for the man to decide whether or not to return it.

 

[Azurian Dream]

"Upon Arrival to 5th Fleet Command Cruiser Silent Night, connect to Ship Auxiliary console for map information. You are attached to the 15th MS Team under command of Captain Rochette E. Report to Hangar Bay 27 D Deck by 1500 Hours shipboard standard time. Await additional orders and crew quarter assignments. Leave personal possessions and luggage at initial docking site, adjutants shall bring your items to quarters."
​

Ico watched the craft connect with a still heart... this reassignment had definitely been a surprise not many outside units would go out of their way to request a frontline rammer like himself into their fold with his mentality not being so different than other rushes he had a curiosity how this exchange had even come up. Regardless change was a absolute on the battlefield so there was no reason for it to not be expected behind the scenes. He watched the stars outside the glass as he made his way through the Silent Night vessel. He had heard quite a bit of the Hellhounds of the 15th MS unit, and in full respected them quite a bit. Yet as he neared entry to the meeting room he paused in the shadows as he say both hostile, goofy, and friendly natures mix.

"Heh so that's how its going to be," he spoke with a somber grin walking into the fold his lackluster eyes had caught everyone to name,a nd rank. He moved a bit in nodding to the captain in particular recognizing her right off the bat with his transfer dossier about the Hellhound members.

"Corporeal Caliburn, Ico reporting in I am to play your shield, and ram . It's a pleasure to meet you all," Ico's humdrum introduction was simple. He did however turn to his fellow Corporal ranked new teammate noting real fast what skin was visible showed underlies of a fellow Miners child from the minuet scarring's from said life, as well as the permanent tint of that of a factory worker on her skin that clearly had been roughened up by years of work. In response to that realization that she to was a fellow arm prosthetic amputee he raised up his own mechanical arm in offering for a mutual respect fist pound between two lower breed MS pilots who had clearly made somethings of themselves. He also was aware there Captain was of equal birth, but she was the Captain meaning such interaction would probably be frowned upon.

"I see the the breath of fresh air is loosening lips Cap E.," a new rather friendly voice calmly rung into the room as a man covered in a mechanics coveralls with his MS pilot suit clearly underneath it came in with his hands tucked into his pockets. Though what would probably catch most peoples attention was his unique scarring on the left side of his face with a few tufts of his hair being white unlike the rest of the brown strands. Even his left eye had clearly been altered in pigmentation appearing strangely way lighter a blue than his right. His demeanor while friendly clearly held some air of authority with how he scanned the room... well as much as one with their hands in there pocket could.

"Is the SS Serg. playing nice," he asked with a fatherly taunting look at Sandra walking behind her as he sat down on a actual chair near the Captain.

"Looks like were just missing one last new blood," he mulled accounting for everyone currently present. He turned a eye to there fresh Blood pilot Lieut. VII making friendly with new blood Raznable.
.................................................................................................
Mentions@
RedArmyShogun EmperorsChosen TreasureSniper Stros

 

[RedArmyShogun]

As the names were rattled of one by one, Fulke made his presence known, but did not say his own name, causing Erika to do the introduction for him. "Sergeant Major Megarson. Or Fulke Megarson. Also let's up the Commanders don't mind that getup. Though I wonder where my mechanics are... Hmm..."

"And no, we may be missing two, but if they don't turn up, I won't keep us here for much longer. Though I can't say I know much about the second, or if she's even coming, we'll just have to see." The captain says off handedly. Looking at the rest, the silver haired woman goes back to her lazy look from before, crossing her arms and resting them upon the rails as she slouched over, head resting on the right.

For her part the Sergeant looks at the rest and replies to all concerned. "Heh, whatever you say Sef... And Sev huh? How in the hell did someone get that out of your name?" Turning her head to towards Fulke she arcs an eyebrow; "Fuck you on about now, going senile gramps? Figured they would have put you in a desk or training job by now." Sandra said with annoyance in her voice as she went to lean against the supporting wall behind the railing, the elevator up to the dropship just behind her. Fixing her face with a grin she went back for her knife and fiddled with it, cleaning dirt and grime from under her nails in a bored fashion.

Then there were the two others that introduced themselves with the Sergeant grunting in acknowledgement. For her part the captain repeats her earlier message.
"Just hang about or check your machine. Got more to wait on before we go to the inductions."

 

[King Crimson]

"Fusion coils 30 through 36 intact...Auxiliary shock axel 84 in alignment...Backup temperature control battery at 100%..."
Loading hanger 27 M of the Martian Cruise Vessel Silent Night, an army of metal titans stand at attention, so freshly arrived from the surface of the Red planet below that one could still smell the lingering trace of atmospheric ozone lingering upon them.
The hanger was abuzz with activity; foremen diligently loading cargo to their intended destination, engineers and mechanics preemptively readying mountains of tools and equipment for the work that was sure to come ahead, and pilots, both old and new, inspecting the steel titans they would be operating, talking excitedly amongst themselves, bragging of future accomplishments or glorious past deeds.
All of their combined sounds bounced and echoed off the metal walls of the hanger, inundating the air with an electric excitement.

In one such loading dock, there stood one particular metal soldier, a bit smaller than those that surrounded it, painted in a fine black and bronze trim.
And attached precariously to the machine's left rib, there was a lone, young woman, held aloft in the low gravity environment by nothing but the twin spouts of bluish flame pouring from a pair of exhaust ports at her lower back, and a few cables keeping her firmly attached to the machine before her.
The patch on her heavy, bulky jacket marked her as a private, but the way her eyes, concealed before a pair of thick, rimmed goggles, caught every fine detail hidden amongst the chaotic mess of circuitry and wires before her, how her hands deftly maneuvered through the maze with the precision and skill of a surgeon, and the faint, self-fulfilled smile on her face as she engrossed herself in her work, marked her as someone who may have well been born to be around these gigantic, machines.
"Alright, everything there still seems to be in tip top shape!" she happily muttered to herself, sealing the maintenance plate back into place, before adjusting the output on her jump pack to shift her to the right, floating towards the mecha's arm, landing gently on the point where the machine's forearm connected to a large, long, rifled metal silo.
A power driver was already clutched in her hands, ready to open up the small, plated opening tucked away between the massive sheets of black, Martian dura-steel.
"Now let's just check out the fuselage and--"
"SENIOR PRIVATE NAOMI VESPA!!" a grizzled, commanding voice boomed behind her, sending an alarming shock through her body that left her floundering in the air in a panic to regain her lost balance, only to finally find some form of stability when she shut off her jump pack, and her suspension cables pulled taught, leaving her suspended nearly upside-down in the air.

From Naomi's new vantage, she was at least able to look directly at the source of the voice; an old, bedraggled, old man, with a head of balding gray hair that matched the thick strip of fuzz that coated his upper lip, wearing a patch that designated him as one of the senior mechanics of the starship.
While one of her hands kept busy keeping a firm hold of her hat, the other quickly stashed the tool her hand away in one of her many pockets, and then shot towards her head to offer the veteran a firm, yet altogether ridiculous upside-down salute.
"Sir!" Naomi respectfully shouted back, pulling her goggles up to reveal the amber eyes typical of a human born on the farthest reaches of the Martian colonies.
"Just performing a last-minute inspection before departure, Sir!"
With a roll of his eyes, the aged mechanic shot back, "You performed a 'last-minute inspection' thirty minutes ago! Aren't you 15th MS!?"
"Yes sir! I've gotta be at D Deck at 1500 for orientation!" Naomi cheerily quipped.
While she could spend her entire life here in this hanger, doing nothing but tending to the needs of these giant machines, the fact that she had the honor of piloting one still felt like some far away dream.
"It's 1455!"
...And that brought her crashing right back down to reality.

In a hastened panic, she disconnected the cables that held her aloft, letting her body plummet towards the ground, until, at the last moment, setting her body right-side up, and turning on her jump pack's boosters, slowing her descent enough to change what seemed like a life-ending fall into a dainty, soft landing.
"Thankyousirbye!" she hurriedly called to the foreman, giving him another quick salute as she rushed past him in a full bore sprint.
The man responded only with a disapproving nod of his head.
"Kids these days," he mumbled to himself, watching as the private scrambled away.

"Hanger Bay D, Hanger Bay D, Hanger Bay D..." Naomi repeated to herself, her eyes shifting from checking the map on her PDA, to scanning her surroundings.
At last, she found the words 'Hanger Bay D, printed in large, thick letters inscribed upon the floor, and on the bridge, she could see a group of various pilots having already been gathered, standing before a well dressed man, wearing the uniform of a major.
"I'm here!" she called out in panic as she sprinted towards the group in a mad dash, only stopping once she'd barged nearly into the middle of their collective group.
Her heart still pounding in her chest from her long, unexpected sprint, she planted her hand atop a conveniently placed stack of boxes, to catch her breath, not even noticing the intimidating red-haired woman sitting not a few feet from her.
"I-I'm here," she repeated, her breath coming out in ragged pants.
Once she remembers the decorum she's supposed to exhibit as an official MS soldier, and how she's violated pretty much all of it, she bolts upright, into the strictest, straightest salute she can muster.
"I-I mean! Senior Private Naomi Vespa of the 15th MS Squadron, reporting for duty, Sir!"

 

[TreasureSniper]

"It's a long story." Well, the cover story would be it's just a shorter version of his name, but that wouldn't make for the most interesting story. And telling her the real origin of the story of his name would probably raise some flags considering how lab-grown humans are viewed. But before he could say anything else, the third blonde group would make his appearance. His attitude was something more in line of what he initially expected how everyone would be. Strict and by the books. And for some reason, he even offered him a handshake. Seeing no reason to decline it, Sev shook his hand without hesitation. "A pleasure to meet you, Lieutenant." Giving the fellow lieutenant his standard cheeky smile, he had hope that this would be the start of a beautiful friendship or rivalry or maybe both. After all, lots of relationships open with these types of interactions, in the movies at least.

Two more individuals would enter the room, one of them had a nice-looking mechanical arm, while the other had a lot of battle scars. More veterans, or at least that's what he could see. The one who identified himself as Caliburn had some interesting choice of words with his introduction, sounding like a protagonist of one of those old animated shows he used to watch. "Caliburn huh? You know, you kinda look like one of the protagonists of those ancient movies. The ones that go on to be living legends. Or something like that. " But then again, these animated shows did also like to present the false protagonist in the first episode. Sev is hoping this guy would at least stick around for a few seasons. And seeing the young man immediately goes for a fist bump was not that surprising, though even he thought this was not the best place for that. Not that it was any of his business.

And then, there was this older-looking fella, someone who looked like they played a mentor-like figure. He was surprised to hear that his rank was higher, or at least being the second in command next to the captain. He said, something about another pilot is missing, though he wasn't sure if there was supposed to be more.

And then there was a short stack, someone who looked like they would be the perfect mascot for the hypothetical series. She seemed nervous, absurdly nervous for no reason. "Loosen up private, no use being all stressed over here. You can do that on the field." A little bit of gallows humor always goes a long way. "I am kidding of course. Feel free to lean on me if you need any help on the field." Building up morale is important in a team, or at least that's what those self-help books keep saying to him.

 

[Thalia_Neko]

Lind stood staring out a window at the vastness of space. She looked lost in thought, but was honestly not -- her head just empty. She found herself completely blank most days. And that suited her a lot better.

That's when she heard the announcement, causing her to look up -though, obviously not at anything in particular.

"Huh, guess I gotta go. Or this thing'll blow my head off, ha ha.." she commented, jokingly (and lovingly) tugging on the collar before shoving her hands in her pockets and turning away from the window.

"Hangar Bay 27 D Deck by 1500 Hours..." she echoed softly to herself. She checked the time on her pda. "Ah! Yep, better. Sheesh. What was I doing? Daydreaming?" She paused. "Who me? Nah, haha." She casually joked as she walked along the corridor at what could easily be described as nothing short of a leisurely pace. This one clearly didn't have places to be at any rushed time. Or that's one would think upon seeing her.

A moment later, Lind paused at the end of the hall, spotting someone rushing through it. A stark contrast with her own pace. "Hm.." the woman considered. "Someone's real excited. Heh, reminds me of someone," she murmured, reminiscing somewhat.

After a brief pause, Lind pushed back some memories and continued on after the girl. "Hangar Bay 27 D Deck.." she once more softly repeated, following the disappearing shadow. Just before the hangar, she swiveled her rifle onto her back, holding the strap across her shoulder that kept it in place.

A moment later the tallish woman was joining her fellow pilots in the hangar, sauntering in with a relaxed, natural gait.

"What're you all looking at me for?" the woman began, even if they weren't doing so. "What? I'm not late, you're all just early. Heh, alright, alright. Name's Lindsee. But no one calls me that. Most call me Lind. Some Lin." She paused. "Though I don't care what you call me."

"Oh, I -I mean! Senior Private Lindsee Luminarc of the 15th MS Squadron, r-reporting f-for duty!" Lind repeated, even copying the salute. "Sir!" She peered out from under her saluted hand, down at Naomi. Then flashed her a smarmy little good-natured grin. "Permission to lower my hand, sir? Permission to relax, sir?" She carried on, this time eyes straight ahead. She wasn't even looking at the one in charge. Or it didn't seem so.

 

[RedArmyShogun]

Snickering a bit as the two privates wandered in, Sandra was about to talk to them as they expected, Erika however cuts her off. Raising a hand in partial salute with a tired expression as she gave a yawn.

"Relax. Minus my own rank the others don't matter too much least I or someone above me tells you they do. Minus Admiral Zhang, Colonel Steiner and Lieutenant General Wainwright... Or anyone else with stars or birds... Just those three are the most important to us. Act just like that around them."

Sandra nods at that and grins, jabbing a thumb into her chest as she speaks proudly, "Yeah, half of you outrank me. If you think that's grounds to tell me how to run my scout or push me around, don't be surprised if I don't listen or you end up eating plasma from an artillery battery. Minus the Captain of course, she can tell me whatever." With a glance at the other, she speaks some more. "That's Captain Rochette E. And I'm Sergeant Couto S., Sandra is fine, more than a couple Sergeants in here now too."

"Indeed. You may call Erika or Captain. Don't worry too much about formalities, more trouble for me than it's worth. Minus if someone else is around with a higher rank, then it's all the titles and saluting and what have you. But ah yes, so we have one prisoner, a few rural, a former prisoner, two higher society and the rest is from the hives... What a mixed bag." With that she straightens herself up off the rail almost like clockwork as the 1500 mark crosses.

A bosun's whistle sounds it's shrill beeping across the shipboard system as a female voice cuts across to all aboard the ship, or at least those in combat zones. "All hands hear this; all hands hear this. Induction Ceremony is at 1600; Induction Ceremony is at 1600. Report to assigned auditorium grinds and training fields by 1550 in formation with your units. Commanders have responsibility." And just as suddenly the message repeats once more before cutting off.

Erika waits a bit to look at the rest and smiles, hands clasped behind her back and explains what this means to them. "We have three Divisions worth of troops onboard, plus an air force compliment. The MS Division has less men than the Infantry or Armor components, but we make up for it with maintenance crews. We will be in Area 7 Recreational and Training Field on E Deck, they'll have some markets on the ground to sort us by unit. It won't take but thirty minutes to get there, so I'll give you fifteen to meet and greet, or that can wait till after the Ceremony."

Sandra gives a nod and looks at the mismatch of gear they were all in and adds in her own words; "Eh don't worry too much, so long as it's close to a uniform or what we wear on duty they won't care too much, but stand at attention once the old stars start yapping or there will be hell to pay... Oh yeah, well uh, also be there for an hour or two, reviewing the fleet and units... Fuck I hate these days. Ah yeah, who's going to be XO this deployment?"

"Haven't decided. We'll deal with that later, maybe get some food; the mess hall would sound great after standing in line for all this."

 

[EmperorsChosen]

Slowly the others began to mosey in. The new LT didn't seem to be a total stick in the mud. The second to appear grinned in her direction as her casual scowl pointed his way. She gave a rather casual salute to him from where she sat in greeting. Stef had learned by to have a stick up her ass with formalities and when she could not care, which was typically anytime the Captain wasn't the top dog in the room.

The first LT, Sev, looked a bit rougher in appearance. He was a giant compared to her and his hair was more untamed, though he seemed okay enough. This was a stark contrast to the other, a textbook definition of prettyboy with a bit of a smug streak. He was alright though, as far as LTs went. Certainly could've gotten a major pain in the ass.

The next newbie to appear was rather excitable. Rough in appearance, in the sense he had scuffs and scratches from the toil of mars and calluses from hard labor like her. He'd also lost a part of himself. Unlike her, though, he had a sheen to his eyes that noted a difference in their outlook. He instantly turned to her, searching for reciprocation of his gesture. However, Stef merely raised her own rather lethargically, allowing the contact of knuckles but more so on his side than hers. Give the kid a break, she figured.

Well, they probably weren't all that far apart, but with her attitude she may as well have aged 10 years.

Then came the actual newbie. If Stef thought the other Corporal was bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. Whew, this one was actually fresh, fresh enough for the stoic to allow a short chortle at her antics. "Kid'll learn," She added simply.

And then, the last actual newbie. This woman was everything the other wasn't, and that wasn't necessarily a good though. Relaxed, confident, a smartass--They already had Sandra for that. Usually the privates had their shit kicked in enough that they lost that until they built it back up. Stef had half an urge to have her keep at attention, if their good-natured boss didn't already tell them to relax.

"Corporal Stefanie Sobol. Some call me Stef, otherwise Corporal Sobol is fine, if you wanna have a stick up your ass," Stef repeated with a bit more than last time.

 

[Stros]

For his part, James stood idly by as more characters decided to join in on their gathering. Attaching a name to each new face and voice for future reference, he had a knack at least for not forgetting them as easily or often as most. There were several oddities that he noticed, but didn't bother commenting on. In Naomi and Sev's case it was their staggering height difference and the reasons as to their extremes. More so the new Lt's than the rookie senior private. James had seen others in similar uniforms to herself working on various Mobile Suits through the hanger and could put two and two together. The Lt's unusually large statue on the other hand was unusual in that most MS pilots would hardly break six feet, and even at that only by a few inches. His stature could definitely be categorized as superhuman, which begged the question of his past.

However, pushing that thought to the back of his mind when it seemed that the group was now taking turns with introductions, James volunteered himself to go next.

"I'm Lieutenant JG James L. For any of those new or who just got here... I'm fine with James, or Lieutenant if you'd like to keep things formal. ... Look forward to working with you all. If you should ever need a sparing partner, don't be a stranger. I'm always up for... friendly competition."

James had intended on saying "a challenge", but had thought better of his terminology. It was an old habit of his, to test his new recruits in his old unit as its leader, to get a sense of where they were at on a technical level. It helped him to gauge the kinds of missions they could be assigned to, and also served as an opportunity to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. Though, the more concealed fact of the matter, was that James simply enjoyed pitting his skills and experience against others in order to see for himself whether he was the better pilot or not. Luckily, if not the results of his family lineage, he had the acumen to disguise his ulterior motives as the actions of a mentor.

Reminded of his days in The Flag Flights, his boyish smile waned for a moment as he broke eyes with the rest in the room and remembered his purpose for being conscripted into the "Hellhounds" and more importantly the Zero Program. However, always self aware of his every action and position by habit, the smile immediately returned as if only from a momentary absence. His thoughts on the other hand would not be so easily modeled and shaped to his social needs. A deep rooted part of him wondered at how long the new faces before him would stick around.

 

[Thalia_Neko]

"Thanks Cap'n, and got it," the woman said in a lax tone, lowering her hands.

"Daammmn, someone's a badass," remarked Lind, eyes on the blonde. "I'm the opposite. Tell me whatchu need. Orders to the exact. The more exact, the better. Then be prepared to be enthralled by my marksman skills! Each shot: magnificent." She gloated, holding up her hands. "Steadiest hands around," she self-aggrandized.

After the announcement, Lind murmured aloud the directions they were all given. "Area 7 Recreational and Training Field on D Deck -Ohp, on E Deck." She stated, snapping her finger and pointing at one of the boys. "Area 6 Recreationa -Area 7. G Deck. Rec Room and .. Ah, I got it, I got it, somewhere up there. No worries, Cap'n, crew. Got it, I got it." The woman repeated in a bored, yet snide tone.

She waved her hands in front of her face and shook her head, gorgeous purple locks swishing. "Got it, I got it. Important shit." Lind tapped her temple. "I got it, Cap'n. Corporal." She winked at Stef. "Lieutenant."

"Hey," she snapped the finger that had tapped her temple at him. "Sparring partner? I'm down. Beat men double your size down in the mines, haven't thrown down in awhile. Even a chap your size'll do for a warm-up." Lind exerted, flexing a bicep and smacking it with her other hand, a little smirk playing on her lips. "Ah. Wait. You meant in the machine, didn't you? Well, shit. Mine ain't made for sparrin'. So, maybe that's a no-can-do, after all. Damn. Eh, oh well." She just shrugged, and kept that bored expression on her face.

 

[TreasureSniper]

Wow, from simple introductions to not-so-subtle boasting of one's abilities. This group was very..volatile, at least with regard to their bravado. Since everyone was in such a jovial mood, he might as well join in the fun. Hearing the other Lieutenant actively and openly looking for a sparring partner was unexpected but was not unwelcome. It seemed the entire crew was finally here or at least the amount of people he was informed about at least.

Hearing the announcement of an induction ceremony didn't excite him one bit. All these formalities were not his cup of tea. He'd rather go out there and try his best to get a new record than listen to speeches about recognizing things like "duty" and "honor". In his eyes, actions speak louder than everything else. A promise isn't gonna mean anything if you're not willing or able to carry it out. But, for the sake of keeping the peace, he was willing to sit through if it means avoiding unnecessary conflict between his peers.

The other blonde seemed like the loudmouth of the group. Very talkative, and very friendly in her own unique way. She was a pilot of a scout, which means she deserved his respect cause he would never consider piloting such a tiny thing. But then again, due to his size, he doubted that he could fit one comfortably. This redhead, who called herself Stef seemed like a tough nut to crack. She resembled a type of character..something-dere. Sev couldn't quite remember what it was called, that was the impression he got from her.

"Alright, guess I'll take it from the top. One last time. I am Lieutenant Karsev Raznable. But just call me Sev. As for sparring." Sev's eyes darted around his teammates, trying to guess which one of these people was the most fun to fight in a mobile suit. "I am down for that anytime. Unless of course we have real missions. Nothing beats the real deal." One of the many downsides of being raised as nothing but a pilot for your entire is that it becomes ingrained into your personality. Sev was no exception, as he can't spend more than a few days outside of his mobile suit without getting....withdrawal symptoms.

Sev observed the tone shift of the purple-haired girl from nervousness to ditziness, to brimming with enthusiasm and finally, boasting of her abilities as a physical combatant. And here he thought he was the eccentric one. "You know you could just fight in the simulations right? Sure they are not as exciting but at least they give you a taste of what your opponent is capable of." Simulated combat was the bread and butter of his early childhood. Only when their performance was at an exceptional standard were the artificial pilots allowed to graduate to the real deal. Regardless, this Lind girl had spunk, lots of it. Though based on the movies and series he has watched, people like them tend to die either early on or at the season finale for maximum shock value.

"Anyways, what type of grub do you have here, Cap? Not the usual rations I hope." He did always make it a habit to bring his own stockpile of food with him, one of the many "perks" of being the longest surviving pilot of his program. "Did my little "care package" arrive yet?" Well, he did hope that these people approved of him bringing his own food. Rations were acceptable, but once you start eating good, you never wanna stop.

 

[Azurian Dream]

"Funny I was just about to say the same of you. You remind me of the ever looming rival, or antagonist hellbent on slaughtering all in their way," Ico chuckled in response to Sev's pretty common joke. Ico had heard it a dozen of times next to his moniker by the brass of "Devil's Lucky Coin". His attention was temporarily grabbed by the new rather tiny girl SP. Naomi rushing into the room clearly having been distracted by something else that when she noticed the time she made a mad woman's dash to the meeting. Ico did smirk at Fulkes joke though upon the intial meeting between him and Sev. It was about than that Stef returned the fist pound earning a smirk form Ico a bit more lively than usual as he left her alone for now as she didn't seem to in the mood for socializing.

"Careful don't want to ram into wall that's my job," Ico chimed rather lackluster as he observed the tiny girl the evident oil, and other servo fuels staining her hands spoke of someone very experienced with scrap work, and mechanical handling no doubt she was a titan in her field he imagined being pulled into a unit like this. He expected to be surprised to see what she could do on, and off the field.

"Ah Lind it will be than," Ico responded to the final waited upon member giving her a smile to her humor, but also being attention with her nature. Where as Naomi had walked in a bit scattered brain, and humble this Lind has come in with a form of casual confidence this was indeed a den of unusual folks, and surprisingly he felt rather home for once in a unit right off the bat. though maybe that wasn't a good thing either all things considered. Ico's attention was pulled to Sandra, and than to Captain Erika. Seemed there were some thing military norm, but not by much.

"Aye Captain," Ico respectively responded not sure yet if he should interact with Sandra maybe best to keep the meeting this time to a few, and properly meet the rest in full later. Ico's ears, however, perked at Lt. James L.s proposition to practice spar. However Ico could see both the confidence, and... something else thought he wasn't sure what that was as of yet. Either Lt had been a prior lead, or much like Ico himself.

"Sounds like were fellow prototype users LT," Ico would respond noticing a unique confidence that only came from pilots pushing Mobil Suits that were not mainline yet or were one of a kind. Though that conversation would be hilariously undermined by Lind who thought the LT. had been challenging them to a fist fight.

"I mean conquer the temple that is your body, and the machine will come easier," Ico pointed out with a lackluster smile.

.......................

"Speak of the devil and they shall appear. The day they retire me is the day someone makes a Lady out of you, or when a fellow sniper puts me into the ground," Fulke smiled as the two missing did in fact appear just to be followed up by Fulke shanking Sandra verbally. There was no doubt about it he was indeed not normal military with the way he spoke with his fellow Hellhounds though in truth he treated Sandra like a daughter... that needed to be hit upside the head once in awhile. He nodded in acknowledgement to the Captains introduction of him even giving a small half salute to those present as he prepared the screen projector encase the Captain wanted to use it. Just like clockwork Fulke note both SP. Vespa, and SP. Luminarc making their entries both of which much like the rest had very unique backgrounds.

"No qualms Private Vesper you made before time, and that is the important part. Though Heads up I expect a lot out of you as a helping hand to use mechanics for Mobil Suits we got a lot of unique ones now so your skill set will surely be put to the test though given your models uniqeness you should do fine. Though be warned were not allowed to touch the "Zero" there's a private section for that model ain't that right spoil sport LT," Fulke spoke directly to the new blood revealing he was one amongst the mechanic's squadron as well as a MS pilot for the 15th Hell Hounds while also teasing LT. James in respect to his special project unit. Fulke had worked on many units for the Hell Hounds and it wouldnt be a lie to say his curisoity had piqued him to check out the Zero, but the private company that owned it required a no handling contract when they took James on. Fulke than laughed a little at the banter between Ico, and Sev.

"Oh if that's the case I guess my first nickname for ya better be Excalibur Lt.," Fulke mused allowing himself to join in on the conversation so the new recruits would be aware he was easily approachable regardless of his own rank amongst the Hell Hounds. though he was also a bit unexpected in nature like Sandra in his relaxedness' of communication there was a reason they taunted each other so much after all. From than he took note of the second most interesting profile next to Sev's, Lind Luminarc. SP. Lind quickly earned a light hearted laugh from Fulke.

"Kid after my own heart," Fulke motioned as the captain gave her rounds of information on the hierarchy that truly mattered aboard this vessel as she called them out Fulke activated the screen projector showing a picture of each person the Captain mentioned so all in the room would not get caught of guard if they hadn't remembered their faces. Once Sandra gave the low down of herself Fulke added in.

"Do note that Sergeant Sandra is very much worth her weight in scout value you wont find many better, but if she gets outta line to much let me know theirs a monkey wrench with her name on it when she gets full of it," Fulke smiled clearly both proud of the Hell Hound mutt... but also ready to snipe her with a wrench if needed after that Captain Erika went over everything they needed to know.

"Before you completely break if at anytime any of you have desires to change loadout, or implement specialty gear other than what we already have on file for your mobile suits needs to be cleared by the Captain first before I'll let them arrive in the hangers," Fulke expressed knowing how often new members would change load outs once they got a feel for their new crew.
...........................................................
RedArmyShogun EmperorsChosen Thalia_Neko Stros King Crimson TreasureSniper

 

[Thalia_Neko]

At -Sev's suggestion Lind visibly deflated. "Nah. 'S'gotta be real, visceral. You know? Yeah. You know." Lind said with a small smirk. Simulated fighting was weak. Cheap. Nothing but a weak knock-off of real combat. She kept her piercing eyes locked on Sev, which radiated a certain heat to them. The heat of her gaze felt like it would definitely burn. Out there, outside of a cushy environment, there was no simulated combat. Just the real thing. She sized him up. Probably had all his training done in simulated environments. Her eyelids drooped, and her smirk disappeared.

"Primal," she practically growled from her gut. "Not sterile. Mechanical. Computer-generated."

"Ahhh~" Lind snapped her fingers over at Ico. "Someone gets it!" She announced happily, in her usual casual, sardonic, bored tone.

"Kid? Who me?" She patted herself, looking herself over. Then she looked back up at him and shrugged. "Excalibur, huh? What's that from? Seems a bit egotistical to name yourself after such a legend."

 

[RedArmyShogun]

Listening to the ongoing conversations, the captain found very little that she needed to respond to personally. Well till some things were thrown at her, or that demanded her attention, with a soft sigh, there was first the need to address the food situation. Well, there was also the issue of the penal trooper confusing where they needed to go, but she would address that later, provided Sandra did not, Sev is what Karsev Raznable liked to be called by at any rate.

"Hmm, food aboard the ship isn't too much different from other food we get on Mars, in both cases most of it comes from Earth. There are some small growing beds and the like on the ship, but by and large, we start out with food from Earth and pick up whatever can be bought from whatever world or colony we are near. Food starts out good then the quality drops, minus in some grains. Though there are restaurants and private merchant docks that may have more fare. You have to pay for those however."


Looking at Lind, or Lin as she called herself, she exchanged a glance with Sandra, who nodded just a bit before speaking out, "Eh, Deck E's Rec field, though I guess everything is a room. Just follow us when we go, cause if you end up the wrong place a fucking wrench will be the least of your worries." She said before eyeing up Fulke. "Don't be giving them funny ideas gramps." Turning her attention to Lin, her eyes rolled as she laughed a bit.

"No fucking shit it's just Sims. Though I'd be willing to fight you hand to hand. But yeah, Food is food here. Though if yah want something more real for your mecha fights, the techs might grumble a bit but yah can use the training munitions, mostly paint and smoke sort of stuff. Cause you fuck up a mech and not be in a battle, the crew chief and command will have your ass for breakfast."

"Indeed, never forget these machines are Dominion property more than anything belonging to us. As to sparing, pretty much what was said, I myself don't fight least I have skin in the game or I've been paid. Sooner navigate up on the bridge than breaking a wrist in some random fight." Erika adds in.

 

[TreasureSniper]

"Ah of course. What is a protagonist without a compelling villain or rival." Sev retorted with a small chuckle. He himself usually preferred the rival or antagonist as a character. Protags tend to be too clean and straight cut for his liking. This Ico guy, there's something about him he didn't like, but it's not fair for him to judge him based on his more shallow features.

"Well..I guess that sounds good to me." Anything beats, rations. As much as he wanted to bring some more of his food on board, it's probably not worth the trouble. Though he still wondered if the care package he sent had arrived. For all he knew it got denied because of "reasons". And then this "lady" had to the gall to tell him that she'd rather fight in the real world. Sev knows all too well the difference between the simulations and real combat situations. But then again, he doubted any of these people experienced the same type of sims he did. To experience a few century's worth of warfare in just under a decade. But even after all that, he could not deny the feeling of being in a real combat situation. His very existence was tied to fighting wars. In his first few missions, he fought to live, but eventually, he lived only to fight. And fight he did.

"Yea I get it too." His lackluster reply betrayed his true nature. A man who has killed countless pilots, young, old, veteran, newbie, super, or normal. All the movies keep saying that killing is wrong and war is bad, but if that was true why was it so much fun for him? Though thankfully, his psyche was stable and mature enough for him to develop some semblance of a conscience, that told him, no it's not ok to kill everyone, especially the people he liked. Maybe some of those older movies did rub off on him too. Lind's gaze was..interesting. He thought her eyes looked pretty. He met her gaze with a grin and a playful wink. "You see something you like?" It's not polite to stare, or at least that's what he had been told. But she's the one staring first, so it's fair right?

"As for sparing, hand to hand. I'd rather not. I've been told that...I don't hold back enough." He still remembers that last guy he fought from a previous client. Talked pretty big about himself, and almost came up to his height as well. Even had one of those fancy cyborg arms. Sev broke the damn thing with a single punch, knocking it completely out of his arm socket. Suffice it to say, the guys weren't too fond of him after that, though he respected him enough to not make any reports on him about it. Simply cited it as a maintenance failure.

And now people started throwing nicknames. Well, he wasn't really one to talk. His current epithet was one that had been passed down from one pilot to the next. It didn't even really have a cool story attached to it. Black Glint was the nickname they gave the original pilot because his suit was black and had a glint-like finish on it, one of the only features that have stayed constant with the suit. Even someone like him could appreciate a classic paint job. "A bit too elegant for my taste." Sev chuckled a bit at the old man for choosing such a silly moniker. But he suppose such a name can also be considered a "classic".

 

[Stros]

James hadn't expected his invitation of a simple sparring session to draw as much discussion as it had but wasn't bothered by the prospect either. Although, he was a bit disappointed to hear that the Captain disapproved of such antics, it wasn't all too unheard of for a mobile suit to experience minor damage in transit or during maintenance operations. With a brief nod to Lt. Sev, James would keep his eagerness in mind for the future when there was ample down time to explain a possible "malfunction". Gathering from the giant's manner of speech, it sounded like he had plenty of experience in the field which would prove a worthy challenge for the Zero. At that very thought, Corporeal Caliburn mentioned that he himself was also a prototype pilot. It wasn't altogether unheard of to hear of more than one being assigned to the same unit, but the chances still remained quite slim.

"You have good intuition. Corporeal." James answered with a smile.

He had to admit he was a bit curious as to what the man's machine was like in contrast to his own, but before he could pose a question about it Senior Private Lind demanded his attention. With a chuckle at her misunderstanding, he raised a hand and shook his head, before politely refusing her boisterous acceptance.

"I'll have to pass in that case."

With his smile widening at her eventual realization he meant a MS spar, and subsequent deflation, having apparently missed out on a noteworthy opportunity to fight. James turned to Sergeant Major Fulke at the mention of "spoil sport Lt.". His smile faded for a moment as he processed the comment, but soon enough returned in fashion.

"Indeed, Sergeant Major. But I would trust the Zero in your capable hands any day." He remarked.

In truth, he wouldn't have minded for Fulke to do repairs to the Zero. However, the shadowed CEOs of Fujiwara-Dyson would never let him or anyone not apart of R&D within even the maintenance section of the Mobile Suit. That fact about his contract with the company had proven to be troublesome already in the first month since he had joined the 15th Hellhounds. While in terms of repairs, the Mars R&D team rivaled and surpassed just about any maintenance team aboard the Silent Night in their expertise. It made customization or loadout alterations a headache that required James to submit written, and formal documentation for any and all changes. Which were to be approved by the project lead foremost, and then the R&D team secondary, as at times the modifications were simply not possible with the tools and technology they brought along for extended campaigns. James was certain that often his requests were denied by the team, merely as it was easier than complying with the appeal.

The announcement of the ceremony soon approaching was nothing he hadn't already been made aware of from the reports sent out weekly about updates and events aboard the Silent Night. After all, it was a craft large enough to house a small town's worth of people, and being a part of the officer corp meant taking an active role in the militaries bureaucracy. In comparison with the ceremonies held back home on Mars among the Lochmann estate, a military ceremony was a small formal trifle in comparison with a few speeches at most. Having already memorized a good portion of the layout to the Silent Night from his month stay aboard her, James could confidently find his way when the time came. Still yet, he nodded at the Captain's words and bided his time until the hour approached.

 

[Thalia_Neko]

She raised up her fists. "Hh? Alright. Lets go, shrimp. Right here. I'm ready."

With a snicker, she lowered her fists. "Just kidding."

The woman glanced back at Sev, then smirked. "Oh, you know it. Got me." She frowned. "Kheh, who holds back in fights?"

Hm, they appeared to be MS nuts. She was lukewarm on the big, hulking machines, despite having some talent for them. Maybe it came from growing up fighting fist to fist that made her less impressed with the machines. Or maybe they grew up surrounded by them, so they were nothing but machine-for-brains. With that, Lind turned and began walking away. "Also about before? That was just a joke. I got the whole map of the ship memorized up here," she said, again tapping her temple. "If it's important, I got it! Anyway, see you all later! At the beautiful ceremony!" Her voice grew louder in the hanger so they could hear her as she walked away, heading towards the next venue for the Induction Ceremony.

 

[RedArmyShogun]

"Fine then, I'll whoop your ass here and now. Tch." Sandra said at first, with the later coming out upon the woman going just kidding. She seemed ready to say something else, but stopped as Erika checked her PDA. It seemed some form of orders had come in.

"Huh. Naomi, you'll be leaving us today, seems someone is pulling strings, you and your Machine will still be on the cruiser, just in a different unit altogether and your replacement will be here, later in the formation or after. I'll send you the details now. Though we all should be getting on towards the induction Ceremony. Half of you have seen it before, for half of you it's pretty new."

"Tch, and that dumb bitch went ahead. I hope she gets lost." Sandra said in response. "Though, short stuff is going huh? Shame, was nice not being the shortest."

"Hmm... Well, I'm sure she'll get there just fine, but she had best hope someone there tells here where to stand or we find her first. Still, you guys, finish up your talks then head after us, a tour or at least eating can wait till later."

"The Tour being on me if it happens, I'm sure."

"Indeed." With that the Captain motions with one hand for the rest to follow, heading off towards the direction the convict, well former convict was headed.

 

[EmperorsChosen]

Stef sat idly as the others conversed. The LTs seemed to be getting along fine along with the new Corporal. Meanwhile, the Private was picking a fight with the wrong leprechaun. The red-haired woman's eyes trailed between the two, waiting to see if a fight would break out. There was always one in a batch, a smartass that hadn't quite figured out who they could fuck with and who they couldn't.

Maybe if you'd been in a real fight ya' wouldn't be itching for another.

It wasn't a thought borne of malice or even challenge. Just a tired, apathetic observation. Of course, Stef wasn't going to instigate anything. The purple hair was a smug little shit and the LT was just--large. Unfortunately or otherwise, the smartass left with the Captain following not long after, leaving the blonde to seethe with no one to punch.

Unless the blonde came close to killing her, Stef probably wouldn't step in. How was she going to learn if Stef did?

Looking around, all that was left was to talk. Stef knew why the Captain proposed such a thing. However, she was less the type to make small talk. Hardly being a conversationalist, she opted to move on. Pushing off the boxes, Stef landed on her feet and rotated her shoulders a bit. "Need anything, let me know. I'm heading out too."