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{{Infobox incomplete|FO76}}
  
 
{{Infobox faction
  
{{Infobox faction
 
|games =FO76
  
|games =FO76
−
|image =FO76 Responders logo.png
 +
|image =F76_Fire_Breathers.png
  +
|type =Elite fire fighting force and combat unit
−
|founded by =[[Responders]], members of Charleston Fire Department.
 
  +
|founded by =Post-2082, by [[Melody Larkin]]
⚫
|leader =
  
  +
|dissolved =2096
−
|members =Residents of Vault 76 (determinant)
 
  ⚫
|leader =Cpt. [[Melody Larkin]]
  +
|members =See below<br/>[[Vault 76]] residents may become members
 
|headquarters =[[Charleston Fire Department]]
  
|headquarters =[[Charleston Fire Department]]
 
|locations =[[Charleston Fire Department]], [[Belching Betty]]
  
|locations =[[Charleston Fire Department]], [[Belching Betty]]
 
|parent =[[Responders]]
  
|parent =[[Responders]]
 
|divisions =
  
|divisions =
−
|related =[[Into the Fire]]
 +
|related =
 
}}{{Games|FO76}}
  
}}{{Games|FO76}}
   
−
The '''Fire Breathers''' was a specialized division of the [[Responders]] dedicated to fighting the [[Scorched]] before 2102. Before the [[Great War]] many served West Virginia as firefighters and emergency services most operating in Charleston, WV. After the Great War they formed the Responders and were tasked with battling the wildfires and underground mining fires. However, with the appearance of the Scorched their mission changed to a more combat role with most Fire Breathers being deployed with firearms to patrol in the Ash Heap south of Charleston.
 +
The '''Fire Breathers''' was a specialized division of the [[Responders]] dedicated to fighting the [[Scorched]] before 2102.<ref name=terminal>[[Charleston Fire Department terminal entries#Knowledge Exam]]: ''You're here because we believe you have the stones to survive in the Ash Heap and, more importantly, to help us stop these "Scorched" things from taking it over.''</ref> Before the [[Great War]] many members had served West Virginia as firefighters and emergency services, mostly operating in Charleston, West Virginia. Their division was led by [[Melody Larkin]] and originally assembled with the goal of exploring the toxic [[Ash Heap]] region.<ref name=terminal /><ref>[[The Fire Breathers]]</ref>
   
 
==Background==
  
==Background==
⚫
The Fire Breathers were comprised of pre-[[Great War|War]] firefighters and post-War volunteers. The division, based out of the [[Charleston Fire Department]], was created out of a need for a specialized defense against the Scorched. They refined tactics and developed equipment for this purpose, notably using pre-War fire protection gear as armor as well as Fire Breather uniforms. Firefighter [[Protectron (Fallout 76)|protectrons]] at the CFD were reprogrammed to assist the Fire Breathers in their new role.
  
   
  +
The Fire Breathers were initially founded by the [[Responders]] as an elite, high-risk fire fighting team to reach out to towns trapped beyond the toxic [[Ash Heap]]: Bramwell, Beckley, Welch, and others. Although Larkin wasn't thrilled by the idea, she warmed up to it quickly and helped establish a completely new division, capable of fighting through the hostile environment and surviving there for days on end. The name was her idea, meant to imbue the division with a prestige similar to other elite units: Green Berets, Navy SEALs, and especially [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smokejumper smokejumpers].<ref>[[The Fire Breathers]]: Maria Chavez: "''{{tooltip|All right. We're recording. |Getting ready for a conversation you think will be heated. }}''
⚫
To join the Fire Breathers, potential recruits were required to complete an exam comprised of three tests; a written exam, a fitness exam and a final exam testing the practical application of the recruit's abilities in a hostile environment.
  
   
  +
Melody Larkin: "''{{tooltip|Good, 'cause now we can get on record that I think this idea's god-damned looney. |You're being recorded by someone who wants your thoughts on the creation of a high-risk fire fighting squad. }}''
−
Like the rest of the Responders, the Fire Breathers are long gone by the time [[Vault 76]] opens in 2102.
  
  +
  +
Maria Chavez: "''{{tooltip|I'm not thrilled about sending our people into a place that's actively toxic either... ... but there are whole towns down there we still haven't reached out to: Welch, Beckley, Bramwell. | The person you're talking to said your idea to start a high-risk fire fighting squad is terrible. You're trying to remain calm.}}''"
  +
  +
Melody Larkin: "''{{tooltip| Bramwell? Come on, now! You really think the Hornwrights or the Garrahans didn't fly off to some private island the moment the air raid sirens turned on?| Bramwell is where the rich folks live.}}''"
  +
  +
Maria Chavez: "''{{tooltip|Most likely they did. But right now we don't know and don't have a safe way of finding out. And that's why I wanted your help, Melody, on how we can get there.| Striving to keep the conversation productive.}}''"
  +
  +
Melody Larkin: "''{{tooltip|... fine. We got a couple folks from the Charleston Fire Department. I can talk to them, see what they have to say about gettin' set up for those sorts of operations.| Begrudingly agreeing to an idea you think is risky (though, after what you just heard, know it's ultimately the right thing to do).}}''"
  +
  +
Maria Chavez: "''{{tooltip|Thank you. |You got what you wanted. Still remaining civil. }}''"
  +
  +
Melody Larkin: "''{{tooltip| Anyone you send into all that smoke is going to need training, though. Need to be whip smart if they're gonna survive someplace that hostile. And breathing equipment's finicky as hell. Whole lot of care and maintenance if they're gonna be out there for hours, let alone days. You're talking about a whole new division here.|You're onboard with this idea now, but there's still a lot of problems with this plan. You're going through them. }}''"
  +
  +
Maria Chavez: "''{{tooltip|I understand what I'm asking. | The person just threw a lot of reasons at you why this is a bad idea. You're aware of the issues.}}''"
  +
  +
Melody Larkin: "''{{tooltip|Tell you what you ought to do... you ought to give 'em a name. | You're now thinking about how you can get this group to succeed.}}''"
  +
  +
Maria Chavez: "''{{tooltip|A name? |The person you're talking to threw out an idea that caught you off guard. }}''"
  +
  +
Melody Larkin: "''{{tooltip| Green Berets. Smokejumpers. Navy Seals. You want someone to sign up for dangerous duty, needs to be some prestige behind it. You give 'em a name, a new designation, extra rations, maybe, I'll guarantee you'll get the volunteers you're looking for.|Brainstorming. }}''"
  +
  +
Maria Chavez: "''{{tooltip|Hmm. Any suggestions? |Still a bit surprised the direction this conversation has turned, but staying calm. }}''"
  +
  +
Melody Larkin: "''{{tooltip|Huh... well, gramps was a moonshiner. Made hooch so strong, normal folk couldn't come within a quarter-mile of it. Everyone called him and his boys the "Fire Breathers." Resilient sons-a-guns. What about that?|Telling an old story. Getting on board with this plan because you're getting to put your stamp on it. }}''"
  +
  +
Maria Chavez: "''{{tooltip|... I suppose we don't need to go with the first idea we come up with. But for now, I'd like you to reach out to those firemen. | Give a long pause before starting. Still trying to be civil, but the idea your partner just but out is ... out there. RERECORD. Long pause at start.}} {{tooltip| Convince them to get onboard with the... Fire Breathers. Let them know it's important. Prestigious. | RERCORD. You're giving into someone else's idea you're not quite onboard with when you say "Prestigious." Make it more reluctant.}}''"
  +
  +
Melody Larkin: "''{{tooltip|Oh lordy, I think she likes it. |Chuckle at the end of the line. Your weird suggestion seems like it's going to stick. }}''"
  +
  +
Maria Chavez: "''{{tooltip| I'll work on getting them a place to train. Charleston Fire Department seems like the natural spot.|Still staying civil, but now getting into the nitty-gritty of getting this all up and running. }}''"
  +
  +
Melody Larkin: "''{{tooltip|Certainly won't have to travel far to get yourselves into trouble. | RERCORD. You're onboard with an idea that was pitched at you. Hiding your glee that your idea was accepted.}}''"</ref>
  +
  +
The origin was less glamorous: Fire Breathers was a term used by her grandfather's neighbors to refer to him and his sons, courtesy of the insanely strong moonshine they brewed that kept people at a quarter-mile distance. Although [[Maria Chavez]] wanted to brainstorm the name more, it stuck, and the Fire Breathers were formed. After agreeing with survivors of the Charleston flood who still lived in the city, the Breathers used the ruins as an obstacle course in preparation for the challenge of operating in the Ash Heap.<ref>[[Charleston terminal entries]]: "''Woman named Melody stopped by. Said she was with the Responders. Wanted to know if it was all right if some of her trainees used my street for an obstacle course. Like it was some sort of friendly neighbor meet-and-greet.''
  +
  +
''They're crazy, still trying to operate in Charleston after the flood, but I guess they're in good company, seeing as I'm still here too.''
  +
  +
''At least my turrets will keep the critters off their backs while they're... proving whatever it is they need to prove.''"</ref>
  +
  +
For the next several years, the Fire Breathers distinguished themselves and were supercharged with the arrival of [[Hank Madigan]], a Marine Force Recon and Brotherhood veteran. With the scorched threat looming on the horizon, they were reformed into a fighting force capable of confronting the [[scorched]] in [[The Ash Heap]] and prevent them from taking over. The steep selection criteria focused on people who can both fight and survive in the polluted expanse of the burning Ash Heap.<ref>[[Charleston Fire Department terminal entries]]: "''Welcome to the Fire Breathers Training Program. You're here because we believe you have the stones to survive in the Ash Heap and, more importantly, to help us stop these "Scorched" things from taking it over.''
  +
  +
<br />''This system will walk you through three exams designed to prepare you for what's to come, starting with the "Knowledge" exam below. ''
  +
  +
<br />''Be sure to review your unit-issued study materials before starting. Good luck.''
  +
<br />''|| Melody Larkin ||''"</ref> In return for handling the toughest missions, all members of the Fire Breathers had top priority for rations and ammunition, as well as additional ad hoc benefits for those willing to put their lives on the line.<ref>[[Morgantown Airport terminal entries]]: "''All,''
  +
<br />''I just wanted to remind everyone that the Fire Breathers unit is always looking for more manpower. ''
  +
<br />''If you think you've got what it takes to handle our toughest missions and take on the Scorched, then Melody and Madigan would love to meet you.''
  +
<br />''Don't forget, it's a dangerous assignment, but it comes with benefits. You'll have top priority for both rations and ammunition. We ask the Fire Breathers to put their lives on the line, but we reward their bravery where we can.''
  +
<br />''The job's not for everyone, but if you think you can handle the recruitment process and training, then I ask you to consider signing up.''
  +
<br />''Thanks,''
  +
<br />''- Chavez''"</ref>
  +
  +
The unit was immediately thrown into the fire, trying to contain the influx of scorched into the area after the fall of the Brotherhood of Steel and the [[Big Bend Tunnel]]. While the strategic importance of the tunnel was known, the Breathers gave it a wide berth in order to come up with a proper attack plan.<ref>[[Charleston Fire Department terminal entries]]: "''<nowiki>{{</nowiki> <br/>''ATTN: All Active Fire Breathers
  +
<br/>''<nowiki>{{</nowiki> SUBJ: Big Bend Off Limits
  +
<br/>''___________________________
  +
<br/>''As many of you've heard by now, we've traced the influx of Scorched to a single source - Big Bend Tunnel. Initial reports suggest the parties we've run across so far are only the beginning. Now, we're not going to sit on our thumbs while these things make their way into the Heap, but we're not about to waste lives by rushing in without a plan.
  +
<br/>''So until further notice, all patrols and scouting parties should steer clear of Big Bend Tunnel and the surrounding area. And no one leaves the station without a firearm.
  +
<br/>''<nowiki>|| Melody ||</nowiki>''"</ref> Preparing for the plan involved making a run at the [[Atomic Mining Headquarters]] in [[Watoga]], cutting over the mountains. Lieutenant Madigan believed that the headquarters could provide information on how to combat the scorched more effectively, owing to AMS' monopoly on the ore.<ref>[[Charleston Fire Department terminal entries]]: "''<br/>''<nowiki>{{</nowiki> ATTN: All Active Fire Breathers
  +
<br/>''<nowiki>{{</nowiki> SUBJ: Scouts for AMS HQ
  +
<br/>''___________________________
  +
<br/>''We've got a good lead on some tech that should make blowing holes in the Scorched easier, and we're looking for volunteers to go collect.
  +
<br/>''The crew will be cutting a route across the mountains to get there, since Big Bend's still in the hands of the freaks, then heading into the heart of Watoga, which has apparently gone haywire without proper adult supervision.
  +
<br/>''For this reason, any volunteers will be outfitted with only the finest in firepower. All interested, please speak to Lieutenant Madigan.
  +
<br/>''<nowiki>|| Melody ||</nowiki>''"</ref>
  +
  +
Madigan and his team not only succeeded in infiltrating Watoga, but also brought back plans for weapons firing depleted [[ultracite]] (potent against the scorched) and leads for the [[Excavator power armor]] developed by the [[Garrahan Mining|Garrahan Mining Company]]. The power armor was considered a target of opportunity while the Fire Breathers figured out how to seal the tunnel off and stem the influx of scorched into the Heap.<ref>[[Charleston Fire Department terminal entries]]: "''<br>''
  +
<nowiki>{{ ATTN: All Active Fire Breathers</nowiki>
  +
<br />''<nowiki>{{ SUBJ: Excavator Power Armor</nowiki>''
  +
<br />''___________________________''
  +
<br />''Check-in from Madigan's latest "field trip" yielded a tip on some new gear.''
  +
<br />''Rumor is that Garrahan Mining's "Excavator Armor," while maybe not the mining method of the future, was actually a seriously rugged hunk of machinery. Smoke/fire/gas-resistant. And apparently the Garrahans kept all the tech to make them in their very own basement.''
  +
<br />''Any Fire Breathers that find themselves in the vicinity of Bramwell should pop into the old Garrahan HQ, see if they can find any old suits lying around.''
  +
<br />''|| Melody ||''"</ref> Eventually, they settled on blowing the tunnel up using mining explosives recovered from the Heap.<ref>[[Charleston Fire Department terminal entries]]: "''<nowiki>{{ ATTN: All Active Fire Breathers</nowiki>''
  +
<br />''<nowiki>{{ SUBJ: Muster Point - The Rusty Pick</nowiki>''
  +
<br />''___________________________''
  +
<br />''All right, ladies and gents. Word has come down from on high - we've got exactly no more time to wait for Madigan to show. So we're going to have to do this without him.''
  +
<br />''We move on Big Bend tomorrow. Muster point is The Rusty Pick. You're to be in gear and ready to move by 0700.''
  +
<br />''Sleep well, tonight. Because tomorrow, we're saving Appalachia.''
  +
<br />''|| Melody ||''"</ref>
  +
  +
After the fall of the Brotherhood in 2095, Madigan ventured beyond the mountains into [[The Mire]] and made contact with the [[Free States]], after deliberately disturbing their scorchbeast lure. Impressed by the fact the Staters were ''luring'' the monsters down to kill them, he decided to aid them in setting up the Scorched Detection System, so that once the Big Bend Tunnel was locked down, they could focus on eliminating the scorched in the Divide and the Mire together. He left Charleston to set up the crucial uplink at the [[Top of the World]], to finalize the SDS. He was, unfortunately, captured by the raiders under [[David Thorpe]] and tortured to death. His loss forced the Breathers to move out from [[The Rusty Pick]] on their own.<ref>[[Charleston Fire Department terminal entries]]: "''<nowiki>{{ ATTN: All Active Fire Breathers</nowiki>''
  +
  +
''<nowiki>{{ SUBJ: Muster Point - The Rusty Pick</nowiki>''
  +
  +
''___________________________''
  +
  +
''All right, ladies and gents. Word has come down from on high - we've got exactly no more time to wait for Madigan to show. So we're going to have to do this without him.''
  +
  +
''We move on Big Bend tomorrow. Muster point is The Rusty Pick. You're to be in gear and ready to move by 0700.''
  +
  +
''Sleep well, tonight. Because tomorrow, we're saving Appalachia.''
  +
  +
''|| Melody ||''"</ref>
  +
  +
To make matters worse, the Breathers did not have the protection of a Scorched vaccine worked on at the [[AVR Medical Center]], due to shortages of necessary materials and data.<ref>[[AVR Medical Center terminal entries]]
  +
</ref>
  +
  +
Unsurprisingly, the Big Bend became the Fire Breathers' grave, with the unit wiped out by the scorched, despite desperate efforts to fulfill the mission in spite of standing orders to retreat.<ref>[[Orders from Melody]]</ref><ref name=lastmission>[[Out of time (holotape)]]</ref><ref>[[Orders from Melody]]</ref>
  +
  +
==Organization==
  ⚫
The Fire Breathers were comprised of pre-[[Great War|War]] firefighters and post-War volunteers. They refined tactics and developed equipment specifically for fighting the Scorched, notably using pre-War fire protection gear as armor as well as Fire Breather uniforms. Firefighter [[Protectron (Fallout 76)|protectrons]] at the [[Charleston Fire Department]] were reprogrammed to assist the Fire Breathers in their new role.
  +
  ⚫
To join the Fire Breathers, potential recruits were required to complete an exam comprised of three tests; a written exam, a fitness exam and a final exam testing the practical application of the recruit's abilities in a hostile environment.<ref>[[Charleston Fire Department terminal entries#Knowledge Exam]]: ''This system will walk you through three exams designed to prepare you for what's to come...''</ref>
   
 
==Interactions with the player character==
  
==Interactions with the player character==
 
While the Fire Breathers have been wiped out, their protectrons and equipment can be utilized by the player character. One of these protectrons, [[Bernie]], appears during the quest [[Into the Fire]], in which the player character participates in the Fire Breathers' recruitment exam. Bernie presents the player character with equipment necessary for the final test and instructs on how to formally become a Fire Breather upon its completion.
  
While the Fire Breathers have been wiped out, their protectrons and equipment can be utilized by the player character. One of these protectrons, [[Bernie]], appears during the quest [[Into the Fire]], in which the player character participates in the Fire Breathers' recruitment exam. Bernie presents the player character with equipment necessary for the final test and instructs on how to formally become a Fire Breather upon its completion.
   
  +
The player character can find the bodies of Sergeants [[Allemane]], [[Cominsky]], and [[Holstein]] at [[Big Bend Tunnel]]. Collecting [[Allemane's code|the]] [[Cominsky's code|three]] [[Holstein's code|codes]] found on their corpses will unlock [[Scorched killer's receiver|plans for anti-Scorched weapon mods]] at the Fire Breathers' master terminal in the Charleston Fire Department.
−
After the quest, Into the Fire, the Fire Breather serve no further purpose in the game but their uniform and helmet can be rewarded to the player to wear as a final legacy to the fallen division.
  
   
 
==Locations==
  
==Locations==
−
* [[Charleston Fire Department]] - main, and so far only, base of operations.
 +
* [[Charleston Fire Department]] - Their main, and so far only, base of operations.
−
* [[Belching Betty]] - a Scorched infested mine, the player character is sent to clear it and activate the emergency beacon of a team of Fire Breathers previously sent there during [[Into the Fire]].
 +
* [[Belching Betty]] - A Scorched-infested mine, the player character is sent during [[Into the Fire]] to clear it and activate the emergency beacon of a team of Fire Breathers previously sent there.
−
* [[Brim Quarry]] - a Scorched infested Quarry, it was successfully cleared by a Fire Breathers team led by Lieutenant [[Thomas (Fallout 76)|Thomas]] on the 10th of March 2095, however has subsequently been occupied by [[Huntersville super mutant|super mutants]].
+
* [[Brim Quarry]] - A Scorched-infested quarry, it was successfully cleared by a Fire Breathers team led by Lieutenant [[Thomas (Fallout 76)|Thomas]] on March 10, [[Timeline#2095|2095]]. It has been reoccupied in subsequent years.
  +
* [[Big Bend Tunnel]] - The location of the Fire Breathers' last mission. The corpses of Sergeants Allemane, Cominsky, and Holstein can be found here.
   
 
==Known members==
  
==Known members==
  +
* [[Melody Larkin]] - Leader. Last reported leading a mission to seal [[Big Bend Tunnel]].<ref name=lastmission />
−
* [[Melody Larkin]]
  
−
* [[Hank Madigan]] - last reported as attempting to fix a relay for the [[Free States]] Scorched detection system at [[Top of the World]].
 +
* [[Hank Madigan]] - Killed by raiders while attempting to fix a relay for the [[Free States]]' Scorched Detection system. Corpse can be found in a cage on the [[Top of the World]]'s observation level.
−
* Sgt. [[Allemane]] - last reported on duty at [[Big Bend Tunnel]].
 +
* Sgt. [[Allemane]] - Died during the Fire Breathers' final mission. Corpse can be found at [[Big Bend Tunnel West]], near the tunnel entrance.
  +
* Sgt. [[Cominsky]] - Died during the Fire Breathers' final mission. Corpse can be found in the [[Big Bend Tunnel]], near the end of a side tunnel with railroad tracks running south.
−
* Sgt. [[Cominsky]]
 
  +
* Sgt. [[Holstein]] - Died during the Fire Breathers' final mission. Corpse can be found at [[Big Bend Tunnel East]], near the tunnel entrance.
−
* Sgt. [[Holstein]]
 
−
* [[Thomas (Fallout 76)|Lieutenant Thomas]] - a lieutenant in both the pre-War Charleston F.D. and later the Fire Breathers. At one point was charged with clearing [[Brim Quarry]]. <ref name="Thomas">[[Lt. Thomas' action report]]
+
* [[Thomas (Fallout 76)|Lieutenant Thomas]] - A lieutenant in both the pre-War Charleston F.D. and later the Fire Breathers. At one point was charged with clearing [[Brim Quarry]]. <ref name="Thomas">[[Lt. Thomas' action report]]
 
</ref>
  
</ref>
−
* [[Dustin]] - a member of Lieutenant Thomas' squad at Brim Quarry. After Garrett's death, he attempted to console the squad by reasoning his death was relatively painless.<ref name="Thomas" />
 +
* [[Dustin]] - A member of Lieutenant Thomas' squad at Brim Quarry. After Garrett's death, he attempted to console the squad by reasoning his death was relatively painless.<ref name="Thomas" />
−
* [[Garrett]] - a member of Lieutenant Thomas' squad at Brim Quarry. Died whilst clearing the quarry summit, and was buried in its shipping yard.<ref name="Thomas" />
 +
* [[Garrett]] - A member of Lieutenant Thomas' squad at Brim Quarry. Died whilst clearing the quarry summit and was buried in its shipping yard.<ref name="Thomas" />
−
* [[Omar]] - a member of Lieutenant Thomas' squad at Brim Quarry.<ref name="Thomas" />
 +
* [[Omar]] - A member of Lieutenant Thomas' squad at Brim Quarry.<ref name="Thomas" />
−
* [[Yas]] - a member of Lieutenant Thomas' squad at Brim Quarry.<ref name="Thomas" />
 +
* [[Yas]] - A member of Lieutenant Thomas' squad at Brim Quarry.<ref name="Thomas" />
−
Initiates:
 +
;Initiates
  +
* [[Andrew Rhodes]] - Died while attempting to clear [[Belching Betty]] as part of the final Fire Breathers' exam.
−
* [[Andrew Rhodes]]
  
  +
* [[Maxine Ballard]] - Died while attempting to clear Belching Betty as part of the final Fire Breathers' exam.
−
* [[Maxine Ballard]]
  
  +
* [[Rita Wilcox]] - Died while attempting to clear Belching Betty as part of the final Fire Breathers' exam.
−
* [[Rita Wilcox]]
  
  +
* [[Sylvester Tate]] - Died while attempting to clear Belching Betty as part of the final Fire Breathers' exam.
−
* [[Sylvester Tate]]
  
  +
* [[Timothy Wolfe]] - Died while attempting to clear Belching Betty as part of the final Fire Breathers' exam.
−
* [[Timothy Wolfe]]
  
   
 
==Appearances==
  
==Appearances==
−
The Fire Breathers only appears in ''[[Fallout 76]]''.
 +
The Fire Breathers only appear in ''[[Fallout 76]]''.
  +
  +
==Gallery==
  +
<gallery>
  +
FO76 Atomic Shop Heating Up.png|Fire Breathers in the [[Atomic Shop]]
  +
</gallery>
   
 
==References==
  
==References==
 
{{References}}
  
{{References}}
−  
−
{{stub|FO76}}
  
   
 
{{Navbox factions FO76}}
  
{{Navbox factions FO76}}
Line 63: Line 170:
 
[[Category:Fallout 76 factions]]
  
[[Category:Fallout 76 factions]]
 
[[Category:Fire Breathers]]
  
[[Category:Fire Breathers]]
  +
  +
[[es:Tragafuegos]]
  +
[[ru:Огнедышащие (организация)]]

Revision as of 04:32, 6 October 2019

 
Gametitle-FO76
Gametitle-FO76

The Fire Breathers was a specialized division of the Responders dedicated to fighting the Scorched before 2102.[1] Before the Great War many members had served West Virginia as firefighters and emergency services, mostly operating in Charleston, West Virginia. Their division was led by Melody Larkin and originally assembled with the goal of exploring the toxic Ash Heap region.[1][2]

Background

The Fire Breathers were initially founded by the Responders as an elite, high-risk fire fighting team to reach out to towns trapped beyond the toxic Ash Heap: Bramwell, Beckley, Welch, and others. Although Larkin wasn't thrilled by the idea, she warmed up to it quickly and helped establish a completely new division, capable of fighting through the hostile environment and surviving there for days on end. The name was her idea, meant to imbue the division with a prestige similar to other elite units: Green Berets, Navy SEALs, and especially smokejumpers.[3]

The origin was less glamorous: Fire Breathers was a term used by her grandfather's neighbors to refer to him and his sons, courtesy of the insanely strong moonshine they brewed that kept people at a quarter-mile distance. Although Maria Chavez wanted to brainstorm the name more, it stuck, and the Fire Breathers were formed. After agreeing with survivors of the Charleston flood who still lived in the city, the Breathers used the ruins as an obstacle course in preparation for the challenge of operating in the Ash Heap.[4]

For the next several years, the Fire Breathers distinguished themselves and were supercharged with the arrival of Hank Madigan, a Marine Force Recon and Brotherhood veteran. With the scorched threat looming on the horizon, they were reformed into a fighting force capable of confronting the scorched in The Ash Heap and prevent them from taking over. The steep selection criteria focused on people who can both fight and survive in the polluted expanse of the burning Ash Heap.[5] In return for handling the toughest missions, all members of the Fire Breathers had top priority for rations and ammunition, as well as additional ad hoc benefits for those willing to put their lives on the line.[6]

The unit was immediately thrown into the fire, trying to contain the influx of scorched into the area after the fall of the Brotherhood of Steel and the Big Bend Tunnel. While the strategic importance of the tunnel was known, the Breathers gave it a wide berth in order to come up with a proper attack plan.[7] Preparing for the plan involved making a run at the Atomic Mining Headquarters in Watoga, cutting over the mountains. Lieutenant Madigan believed that the headquarters could provide information on how to combat the scorched more effectively, owing to AMS' monopoly on the ore.[8]

Madigan and his team not only succeeded in infiltrating Watoga, but also brought back plans for weapons firing depleted ultracite (potent against the scorched) and leads for the Excavator power armor developed by the Garrahan Mining Company. The power armor was considered a target of opportunity while the Fire Breathers figured out how to seal the tunnel off and stem the influx of scorched into the Heap.[9] Eventually, they settled on blowing the tunnel up using mining explosives recovered from the Heap.[10]

After the fall of the Brotherhood in 2095, Madigan ventured beyond the mountains into The Mire and made contact with the Free States, after deliberately disturbing their scorchbeast lure. Impressed by the fact the Staters were luring the monsters down to kill them, he decided to aid them in setting up the Scorched Detection System, so that once the Big Bend Tunnel was locked down, they could focus on eliminating the scorched in the Divide and the Mire together. He left Charleston to set up the crucial uplink at the Top of the World, to finalize the SDS. He was, unfortunately, captured by the raiders under David Thorpe and tortured to death. His loss forced the Breathers to move out from The Rusty Pick on their own.[11]

To make matters worse, the Breathers did not have the protection of a Scorched vaccine worked on at the AVR Medical Center, due to shortages of necessary materials and data.[12]

Unsurprisingly, the Big Bend became the Fire Breathers' grave, with the unit wiped out by the scorched, despite desperate efforts to fulfill the mission in spite of standing orders to retreat.[13][14][15]

Organization

The Fire Breathers were comprised of pre-War firefighters and post-War volunteers. They refined tactics and developed equipment specifically for fighting the Scorched, notably using pre-War fire protection gear as armor as well as Fire Breather uniforms. Firefighter protectrons at the Charleston Fire Department were reprogrammed to assist the Fire Breathers in their new role.

To join the Fire Breathers, potential recruits were required to complete an exam comprised of three tests; a written exam, a fitness exam and a final exam testing the practical application of the recruit's abilities in a hostile environment.[16]

Interactions with the player character

While the Fire Breathers have been wiped out, their protectrons and equipment can be utilized by the player character. One of these protectrons, Bernie, appears during the quest Into the Fire, in which the player character participates in the Fire Breathers' recruitment exam. Bernie presents the player character with equipment necessary for the final test and instructs on how to formally become a Fire Breather upon its completion.

The player character can find the bodies of Sergeants Allemane, Cominsky, and Holstein at Big Bend Tunnel. Collecting the three codes found on their corpses will unlock plans for anti-Scorched weapon mods at the Fire Breathers' master terminal in the Charleston Fire Department.

Locations

  • Charleston Fire Department - Their main, and so far only, base of operations.
  • Belching Betty - A Scorched-infested mine, the player character is sent during Into the Fire to clear it and activate the emergency beacon of a team of Fire Breathers previously sent there.
  • Brim Quarry - A Scorched-infested quarry, it was successfully cleared by a Fire Breathers team led by Lieutenant Thomas on March 10, 2095. It has been reoccupied in subsequent years.
  • Big Bend Tunnel - The location of the Fire Breathers' last mission. The corpses of Sergeants Allemane, Cominsky, and Holstein can be found here.

Known members

  • Melody Larkin - Leader. Last reported leading a mission to seal Big Bend Tunnel.[14]
  • Hank Madigan - Killed by raiders while attempting to fix a relay for the Free States' Scorched Detection system. Corpse can be found in a cage on the Top of the World's observation level.
  • Sgt. Allemane - Died during the Fire Breathers' final mission. Corpse can be found at Big Bend Tunnel West, near the tunnel entrance.
  • Sgt. Cominsky - Died during the Fire Breathers' final mission. Corpse can be found in the Big Bend Tunnel, near the end of a side tunnel with railroad tracks running south.
  • Sgt. Holstein - Died during the Fire Breathers' final mission. Corpse can be found at Big Bend Tunnel East, near the tunnel entrance.
  • Lieutenant Thomas - A lieutenant in both the pre-War Charleston F.D. and later the Fire Breathers. At one point was charged with clearing Brim Quarry. [17]
  • Dustin - A member of Lieutenant Thomas' squad at Brim Quarry. After Garrett's death, he attempted to console the squad by reasoning his death was relatively painless.[17]
  • Garrett - A member of Lieutenant Thomas' squad at Brim Quarry. Died whilst clearing the quarry summit and was buried in its shipping yard.[17]
  • Omar - A member of Lieutenant Thomas' squad at Brim Quarry.[17]
  • Yas - A member of Lieutenant Thomas' squad at Brim Quarry.[17]
Initiates
  • Andrew Rhodes - Died while attempting to clear Belching Betty as part of the final Fire Breathers' exam.
  • Maxine Ballard - Died while attempting to clear Belching Betty as part of the final Fire Breathers' exam.
  • Rita Wilcox - Died while attempting to clear Belching Betty as part of the final Fire Breathers' exam.
  • Sylvester Tate - Died while attempting to clear Belching Betty as part of the final Fire Breathers' exam.
  • Timothy Wolfe - Died while attempting to clear Belching Betty as part of the final Fire Breathers' exam.

Appearances

The Fire Breathers only appear in Fallout 76.

Gallery

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Charleston Fire Department terminal entries#Knowledge Exam: You're here because we believe you have the stones to survive in the Ash Heap and, more importantly, to help us stop these "Scorched" things from taking it over.
  2. ↑ The Fire Breathers
  3. ↑ The Fire Breathers: Maria Chavez: "All right. We're recording. Melody Larkin: "Good, 'cause now we can get on record that I think this idea's god-damned looney. Maria Chavez: "I'm not thrilled about sending our people into a place that's actively toxic either... ... but there are whole towns down there we still haven't reached out to: Welch, Beckley, Bramwell. " Melody Larkin: " Bramwell? Come on, now! You really think the Hornwrights or the Garrahans didn't fly off to some private island the moment the air raid sirens turned on?" Maria Chavez: "Most likely they did. But right now we don't know and don't have a safe way of finding out. And that's why I wanted your help, Melody, on how we can get there." Melody Larkin: "... fine. We got a couple folks from the Charleston Fire Department. I can talk to them, see what they have to say about gettin' set up for those sorts of operations." Maria Chavez: "Thank you. " Melody Larkin: " Anyone you send into all that smoke is going to need training, though. Need to be whip smart if they're gonna survive someplace that hostile. And breathing equipment's finicky as hell. Whole lot of care and maintenance if they're gonna be out there for hours, let alone days. You're talking about a whole new division here." Maria Chavez: "I understand what I'm asking. " Melody Larkin: "Tell you what you ought to do... you ought to give 'em a name. " Maria Chavez: "A name? " Melody Larkin: " Green Berets. Smokejumpers. Navy Seals. You want someone to sign up for dangerous duty, needs to be some prestige behind it. You give 'em a name, a new designation, extra rations, maybe, I'll guarantee you'll get the volunteers you're looking for." Maria Chavez: "Hmm. Any suggestions? " Melody Larkin: "Huh... well, gramps was a moonshiner. Made hooch so strong, normal folk couldn't come within a quarter-mile of it. Everyone called him and his boys the "Fire Breathers." Resilient sons-a-guns. What about that?" Maria Chavez: "... I suppose we don't need to go with the first idea we come up with. But for now, I'd like you to reach out to those firemen. Convince them to get onboard with the... Fire Breathers. Let them know it's important. Prestigious. " Melody Larkin: "Oh lordy, I think she likes it. " Maria Chavez: " I'll work on getting them a place to train. Charleston Fire Department seems like the natural spot." Melody Larkin: "Certainly won't have to travel far to get yourselves into trouble. "
  4. ↑ Charleston terminal entries: "Woman named Melody stopped by. Said she was with the Responders. Wanted to know if it was all right if some of her trainees used my street for an obstacle course. Like it was some sort of friendly neighbor meet-and-greet. They're crazy, still trying to operate in Charleston after the flood, but I guess they're in good company, seeing as I'm still here too. At least my turrets will keep the critters off their backs while they're... proving whatever it is they need to prove."
  5. ↑ Charleston Fire Department terminal entries: "Welcome to the Fire Breathers Training Program. You're here because we believe you have the stones to survive in the Ash Heap and, more importantly, to help us stop these "Scorched" things from taking it over.
    This system will walk you through three exams designed to prepare you for what's to come, starting with the "Knowledge" exam below.
    Be sure to review your unit-issued study materials before starting. Good luck.
    || Melody Larkin ||"
  6. ↑ Morgantown Airport terminal entries: "All,
    I just wanted to remind everyone that the Fire Breathers unit is always looking for more manpower.
    If you think you've got what it takes to handle our toughest missions and take on the Scorched, then Melody and Madigan would love to meet you.
    Don't forget, it's a dangerous assignment, but it comes with benefits. You'll have top priority for both rations and ammunition. We ask the Fire Breathers to put their lives on the line, but we reward their bravery where we can.
    The job's not for everyone, but if you think you can handle the recruitment process and training, then I ask you to consider signing up.
    Thanks,
    - Chavez"
  7. ↑ Charleston Fire Department terminal entries: "{{
    ATTN: All Active Fire Breathers
    {{ SUBJ: Big Bend Off Limits
    ___________________________
    As many of you've heard by now, we've traced the influx of Scorched to a single source - Big Bend Tunnel. Initial reports suggest the parties we've run across so far are only the beginning. Now, we're not going to sit on our thumbs while these things make their way into the Heap, but we're not about to waste lives by rushing in without a plan.
    So until further notice, all patrols and scouting parties should steer clear of Big Bend Tunnel and the surrounding area. And no one leaves the station without a firearm.
    || Melody ||"
  8. ↑ Charleston Fire Department terminal entries: "
    {{ ATTN: All Active Fire Breathers
    {{ SUBJ: Scouts for AMS HQ
    ___________________________
    We've got a good lead on some tech that should make blowing holes in the Scorched easier, and we're looking for volunteers to go collect.
    The crew will be cutting a route across the mountains to get there, since Big Bend's still in the hands of the freaks, then heading into the heart of Watoga, which has apparently gone haywire without proper adult supervision.
    For this reason, any volunteers will be outfitted with only the finest in firepower. All interested, please speak to Lieutenant Madigan.
    || Melody ||"
  9. ↑ Charleston Fire Department terminal entries: "
     {{ ATTN: All Active Fire Breathers
    {{ SUBJ: Excavator Power Armor
    ___________________________
    Check-in from Madigan's latest "field trip" yielded a tip on some new gear.
    Rumor is that Garrahan Mining's "Excavator Armor," while maybe not the mining method of the future, was actually a seriously rugged hunk of machinery. Smoke/fire/gas-resistant. And apparently the Garrahans kept all the tech to make them in their very own basement.
    Any Fire Breathers that find themselves in the vicinity of Bramwell should pop into the old Garrahan HQ, see if they can find any old suits lying around.
    || Melody ||"
  10. ↑ Charleston Fire Department terminal entries: "{{ ATTN: All Active Fire Breathers
    {{ SUBJ: Muster Point - The Rusty Pick
    ___________________________
    All right, ladies and gents. Word has come down from on high - we've got exactly no more time to wait for Madigan to show. So we're going to have to do this without him.
    We move on Big Bend tomorrow. Muster point is The Rusty Pick. You're to be in gear and ready to move by 0700.
    Sleep well, tonight. Because tomorrow, we're saving Appalachia.
    || Melody ||"
  11. ↑ Charleston Fire Department terminal entries: "{{ ATTN: All Active Fire Breathers {{ SUBJ: Muster Point - The Rusty Pick ___________________________ All right, ladies and gents. Word has come down from on high - we've got exactly no more time to wait for Madigan to show. So we're going to have to do this without him. We move on Big Bend tomorrow. Muster point is The Rusty Pick. You're to be in gear and ready to move by 0700. Sleep well, tonight. Because tomorrow, we're saving Appalachia. || Melody ||"
  12. ↑ AVR Medical Center terminal entries
  13. ↑ Orders from Melody
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 Out of time (holotape)
  15. ↑ Orders from Melody
  16. ↑ Charleston Fire Department terminal entries#Knowledge Exam: This system will walk you through three exams designed to prepare you for what's to come...
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 17.2 17.3 17.4 Lt. Thomas' action report
v · d · e
Factions in Fallout 76
Active factions
Major factionsBlood Eagles (Rust Eagles) · Brotherhood First Expeditionary Force · Crater Raiders (Blackwater Bad Boys · Diehards · Lev's crew · War Party) · Cult of the Mothman · Enclave · Responders (Fire Breathers) · Settlers
Minor factionsAtlantic City Municipal Government · Blue Ridge Caravan Company · Brotherhood of Zeal · Cutthroats · Edwin's gang · The Enlightened · Fanatics · Free Radicals · Hellcat Company · Lombardi Family · Pioneer Scouts · Sargento's gang · Secret Service · The Showmen · Pittsburgh Union · Zetan aliens
Defunct factions
Major factionsAppalachian Brotherhood of Steel/Taggerdy's Thunder · Free States · original Responders (original Fire Breathers) · Raiders (Blackwater Bandits · original Cutthroats · original Diehards · Gourmands · Trappers)
Minor factionsBurrow Boys · Charleston Emergency Government · Free Watoga People's Party · Order of Mysteries · Sons of Dane
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