บท 175: 158. Scavenge and Trading for Supplies

If you want to read 15 Chapters ahead and more, be sure to check out my Patreon!!!

Go to https://www.patreon.com/Tang12

___________________________

Satisfied that administrative operations were under control, Sico thanked Jenny and left her to her work, feeling reassured that despite the complexities of their operations, the Minutemen's HQ was running smoothly under Jenny's watchful eye.

After leaving Jenny's office, Sico made his way towards the food and water supplies warehouse. This storage facility was critical for the sustenance of Sanctuary and its operations, ensuring that everyone had enough resources to maintain their health and strength.

Upon arriving at the warehouse, Sico was greeted by Marcus, the quartermaster responsible for managing the inventory of supplies. Marcus was busy organizing crates and logging inventory details on his clipboard.

Sico: "Marcus, how are the supplies holding up? I know we were only projected to have enough for a month last time I checked."

Marcus looked up from his clipboard, his expression a mix of concern and diligence.

Marcus: "Sico, good to see you. We're managing, but it's tight. The recent influx of settlers and the increased activities have put a strain on our reserves. We're okay for now, but I'm concerned about the next few weeks."

Sico nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.

Sico: "Do we need to initiate more scavenging missions, or should we consider trading with nearby settlements?"

Marcus pondered for a moment before responding.

Marcus: "Both options might be necessary. I'll compile a list of what we're most in need of and identify potential trading partners. If we could boost our scavenging runs, especially for non-perishable food and clean water sources, that would also make a significant difference."

Sico: "Make it so, Marcus. Prioritize food and water, but keep an eye on medical supplies as well. Set up a meeting with me tomorrow, and we'll finalize the plans for scavenging and trading."

Marcus nodded, marking down the notes on his clipboard.

Marcus: "Will do, Sico. I'll get everything prepared and update you first thing in the morning."

Satisfied that Marcus was on top of things, Sico left the warehouse, his mind already moving on to other matters that needed his attention.

The next morning, Sico arrived at the warehouse early, ready to finalize the plans for addressing Sanctuary's supply needs with Marcus. He found Marcus already waiting for him, a series of notes and maps spread out on a makeshift table. Marcus greeted him with a nod, clearly prepared for their discussion.

Marcus: "Morning, Sico. I've put together a list of our most critical needs and identified a few nearby settlements that could be potential trading partners. I've also outlined a plan for increasing our scavenging missions."

Sico reviewed the documents Marcus had prepared, noting the attention to detail and thoroughness of the plans.

Sico: "This looks solid, Marcus. What are your recommendations for our first steps?"

Marcus pointed to a marked map showing nearby locations known for their abundance of resources.

Marcus: "I suggest we start by sending teams to these areas. They're likely to yield the supplies we need. At the same time, I'll reach out to these settlements." He indicated another set of notes. "We can offer them some of our surplus mechanical parts and tools in exchange for food and medical supplies."

Sico considered the strategy, then nodded in approval.

Sico: "Let's put this into action. Let me coordinate with Hancock to organize the scavenging teams. I'll personally handle the initial communications with the settlements to set a positive tone for the negotiations."

Marcus gave Sico a confident nod, trusting his leadership to navigate the upcoming initiatives effectively.

Marcus: "It's all yours, Sico. I know you'll handle it well."

With the plan set, Sico left the warehouse to find Hancock at the Scavenging Department. The department was bustling with activity, a testament to the critical role it played in maintaining Sanctuary's resources and readiness.

Upon arrival, Sico found Hancock coordinating with his team, planning out details for various scavenging missions. Sico waited for a suitable break in the conversation before approaching.

Sico: "Hancock, I need to discuss our strategy for securing more supplies and setting up trade deals. I'm planning to personally lead this operation, and I'd like you to assist me. We need to make sure everything goes smoothly."

Hancock looked up, his expression turning serious as he focused on Sico.

Hancock: "That sounds like a critical mission, Sico. I'm all in. What's the plan?"

Sico outlined the locations Marcus had identified and the potential settlements for trade. He emphasized the importance of their approach, suggesting they leverage Sanctuary's strengths in mechanics and tools.

Sico: "I'll lead the initial expeditions to these resource-rich areas and handle the trade negotiations. Your experience with logistics and scavenging will be invaluable to ensure we're maximizing our efforts and maintaining supply security."

Hancock nodded, fully grasping the weight of the task.

Hancock: "You can count on me, Sico. Let's get our teams prepped and move out as soon as possible. I'll organize the details and ensure we're ready to hit the ground running."

Sico: "Perfect. I'll finalize the plans and coordinate with you on timing. We need to act fast to stay ahead."

With their roles and responsibilities clearly defined, Sico and Hancock shook hands, both understanding the importance of their collaboration.

After parting ways with Hancock, Sico made his way to Nora's office at the Minutemen HQ. Nora, instrumental in many of their operations, was busy at her desk, pouring over reports and communications from various parts of the Commonwealth.

Sico knocked lightly on the open door, catching Nora's attention.

Sico: "Nora, do you have a moment? There's something important I need to discuss with you."

Nora looked up from her work, her expression shifting to one of attentive concern.

Nora: "Of course, Sico. What's going on?"

Sico stepped inside, closing the door behind him for privacy. He explained the current supply situation, the planned scavenging missions, and the potential trade negotiations.

Sico: "We're organizing a series of operations to secure more resources and establish trade routes. I'm leading the initial efforts, and I'd like you to consider joining. Your skills in negotiation and strategic planning would be invaluable."

Nora considered Sico's proposal for a moment, weighing the needs of their community against the potential risks of the mission.

Nora: "It sounds like these missions are critical for our sustainability. Count me in, Sico. I can help with the negotiations and ensure we establish beneficial trade deals."

Sico nodded, pleased with her decision.

Sico: "Great, I knew I could count on you. We'll be coordinating closely with Hancock to get everything set up. I'll keep you updated on the timing and details so you can prepare accordingly."

Nora: "Sounds good. I'll start reviewing our potential trade partners and come up with a list of negotiation points. We need to make sure we're getting the best possible deals."

Sico: "Excellent. Let's aim to maintain the upper hand in these discussions. I appreciate your help, Nora."

With their plan solidified and roles defined, Sico left Nora's office feeling confident about their next steps.

The next day, under the soft morning light filtering through the large windows of the Minutemen HQ, Sico gathered Nora, Hancock, and their respective teams for a detailed briefing on the upcoming missions. The main meeting room, already filled with palpable anticipation, was lined with updated maps and new logistical charts. Each team member was equipped with a datapad, ready to take notes and review digital documents.

Sico took his place at the front, clearing his throat to catch everyone's attention.

Sico: "Good morning, team. Thanks for joining on short notice. Today, we detail the steps of our critical missions — scavenging for supplies and establishing robust trade routes. Both are vital for our future."

He paused, signaling Nora to take the lead on the trade mission details.

Nora: "Thanks, Sico. As we discussed, I'll be accompanying Sico on the initial trade mission. We've identified three key settlements for negotiations. Each offers unique resources that are crucial for us. My focus will be on securing favorable terms that ensure a steady flow of supplies and support."

Nora displayed a map highlighting the settlements and their known resources.

Nora: "I've prepared a negotiation toolkit for each settlement, tailored to their needs and what we can offer. Our success here will depend on our ability to present ourselves as reliable and valuable partners."

She then passed the floor to Hancock, who was overseeing the scavenging operations.

Hancock: "Alright, for the scavenging side, we've pinpointed several locations rich in materials essential for our expansion and sustainability. Each team has been assigned a specific route, which you can see on your datapads."

Hancock activated a remote, and the digital screens around the room lit up with detailed routes and objectives.

Hancock: "Safety's a priority, so we've also marked potential hot zones for raider activity and other threats. Keep sharp, follow the plan, and watch each other's backs out there."

Sico resumed, capturing the focused attention of every individual in the room.

Sico: "Thank you, Nora and Hancock. I cannot stress enough how important it is that these missions go smoothly. We're not just scavenging and negotiating for resources; we're also laying down the groundwork for our future security and prosperity."

His gaze swept across the room, meeting the eyes of his teams, instilling a sense of purpose and determination.

Sico: "We all have our assignments. Let's proceed with precision and care. Prepare thoroughly today. We move out at dawn tomorrow. Stay coordinated, and keep communications clear and constant."

With the briefing concluded, the teams broke into smaller groups, discussing their specific roles and strategies. Nora and Hancock stayed behind to finalize the finer details with Sico, ensuring that every angle was covered.

After the teams had finished strategizing, the focus shifted to the logistical details critical for the missions' success. The surplus supplies—particularly mechanical parts and tools—were a key element in the trade negotiations that Nora would spearhead. These items were in high demand across the Commonwealth due to their necessity for maintaining and repairing settlement infrastructure.

In a designated storage area, a logistics team, supervised by Hancock, meticulously sorted and inventoried these valuable items. Each crate was packed with an assortment of gears, electrical components, and specialized tools, ensuring that they could address a broad spectrum of mechanical needs. These were strategically chosen to appeal to settlements that might lack the technical resources but had ample food and medical supplies, which were equally crucial for Sanctuary.

As they organized the crates, careful attention was paid to the weight and balance of the loads that would be carried in the six trucks and two Humvees. The vehicles had been pulled into the HQ's motor pool, where another team was preparing them for the journey. This team checked each vehicle thoroughly, ensuring they were mechanically sound and equipped for potentially rough travels. The Humvees, known for their durability and off-road capabilities, were reserved for leading and scouting, equipped with additional communications gear to maintain contact with the caravan and HQ.

Fuel levels were checked and topped off, spare tires were mounted, and all the vehicles were loaded with navigation aids, including updated maps of the area and GPS devices, should the traditional routes be compromised. Safety was paramount, so first aid kits and extra rations were also stashed in each vehicle.

Back inside HQ, Nora was finalizing the trade plans with her team. They rehearsed negotiation scenarios, simulating possible challenges and responses from the settlements they aimed to engage. This practice ensured that Nora and her team would not be caught off-guard by any demands or changes in terms during the actual negotiations.

By late afternoon, the preparations were nearly complete. Sico gathered the drivers and their crews for a final briefing. He emphasized the importance of vigilance and maintaining communication. Each driver confirmed their understanding of the routes and the contingency plans in place should they encounter any unforeseen complications.

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the compound, there was a sense of readiness and determination among the team members. The trucks, lined up and loaded, were ready to move out at dawn. Each vehicle's lights flickered on in the dimming light, a final check before the day ended.

Sico, Nora, and Hancock, satisfied with the day's preparations, reviewed the entire operation once more. They double-checked the communication protocols, ensuring that all team members were fully briefed on how to report their status and any issues encountered during the mission.

As dawn broke over the Commonwealth, the air was crisp and the sky painted in hues of pink and orange. The Minutemen teams assembled at the motor pool, their breath visible in the chilly morning air. Sico, Nora, and Hancock were already there, making their final rounds, checking each vehicle and its occupants to ensure no detail was overlooked.

Sico stepped forward, his voice cutting through the morning quiet with authority and resolve.

Sico: "Alright, everyone, this is it. Keep your wits about you, stick to the plan, and watch out for each other. Remember, the success of these missions is crucial not only for our immediate needs but for laying the foundations of a stronger, more secure Commonwealth."

Nods and murmurs of agreement echoed among the team members. They climbed into their assigned vehicles, starting engines that roared to life and broke the dawn's silence. The trucks, heavy with supplies, and the Humvees, armed and ready for scouting, formed a convoy that stretched across the compound.

Hancock, leading the convoy in the first Humvee, radioed back to Sico.

Hancock: "All units check in, we're moving out."

One by one, the vehicle commanders confirmed their readiness, and with a final thumbs-up from Hancock, the convoy rolled out and they depart to begin their mission.

________________________________________________

• Name: Sico

• Stats :

S: 8,44

P: 7,44

E: 8,44

C: 8,44

I: 9,44

A: 7,45

L: 7

• Skills: advance Mechanic, Science, and Shooting skills, intermediate Medical, Hand to Hand Combat, Lockpicking, Hacking, Persuasion, and Drawing Skills

• Inventory: 53.280 caps, 10mm Pistol, 1500 10mm rounds, 22 mole rats meat, 17 mole rats teeth, 1 fragmentation grenade, 6 stimpak, 1 rad x, 6 fusion core, computer blueprint, modern TV blueprint, camera recorder blueprint, 1 set of combat armor, Automatic Assault Rifle, 1.500 5.56mm rounds, power armor T51 blueprint, Electric Motorcycle blueprint, T-45 power armor, Minigun, 1.000 5mm rounds, Cryolator, 200 cryo cell, Machine Gun Turret Mk1 blueprint, electric car blueprint, Kellogg gun, Righteous Authority, Ashmaker, Furious Power Fist, Full set combat armor blueprint, M240 7.62mm machine guns blueprint, Automatic Assault Rifle blueprint, and Humvee blueprint

• Active Quest: -