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On a roll so into 3069...

3069

Constrictor (Whirlwind-class Destroyer)
Pirate Point, Kathil System
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th January 3069

   Unlike the other new accusations of the Nova Cat WarShip fleet, which had been sent to the Nova Cat’s Den for refit, the Whirlwind-class Constrictor captured by ransom from the Steel Vipers was directed to the Federated Suns Kathil system.  Gaining information on a secret pirate point inside the system the Constrictor slipped into the system as the Nova Cats began negotiations for the under construction Yvonne Steiner-Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser, at the McKenna Shipyards in orbit of Kathil.  Seeing that the Nova Cats are serious and that the Constrictor is on the table in the negotiations and the Federated Suns do not even attempt to hide their enthusiasm to gaining control of the vessel due to the similarities between the Whirlwind-class and their own Davion Block III-class Destroyer.  The Whirlwind originated as the Davion Block I-class Destroyer and was converted by the First Star League into the Whirlwind following their purchase by the First Lord during the Reunification War.

   The negotiations however drag on slightly as the Federated Suns stall for time as they attempt to finish the Yvonne Steiner-Davion.  The Nova Cats use this time to show the Federated Suns crews how to operate the Constrictor and the Federated Suns crews and engineers show the Nova Cats how to use an Avalon.  The deal is done in early March and both vessels are sent to shipyards in their respective realms for full refits and checks.  The Federated Suns wonder about retrofitting the Whirlwind with Rotary Autocannons and Screen Launchers creating a Block II version similar to their recently deployed Congress-class Frigates while the Nova Cats decide to completely retrofit the Avalon creating a completely new class.

Wolf’s Dragoon’s Security Compound
Harlech City, Outreach, Chaos March
14th January 3069

   Just as they had promised the Federated Suns delivered the next completed Davion Block III-class Destroyer originally named the FSS Arthur Steiner-Davion, after Victor’s fallen brother, the Dragoons welcome the vessel into their own depleted military and rename the vessel Wolf Pack in reverence to their founders Jamie and Joshua Wolf and their origins.  As the Davion’s crew show the Dragoons how to operate the vessel a Stealth and a Templar OmniMech are found in the cargo bay, the two designs exclusive to the Federated Suns are further gifts from House Davion.  In acknowledgement of the Federated Suns honouring of the Wolf’s Dragoons General Maeve Wolf allows Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner, who had handed over the vessel, to land on Outreach and become the first outsider on Outreach since the closing of the world by the Dragoons.

   On Outreach Reinhart finds the Dragoons are struggling to rebuild their world still shattered from the riots that destroyed the Inner Sphere's mercenary hub.  He also finds the Dragoons still struggling to regain their former strength following their drive to help the AMC and ComStar destroy the Word of Blake.  As Marshal of Armies Reinhart negotiates with Maeve offering the Dragoons further supplies and aid in exchange for the Dragoons deepening their relationship with General Motors/Blackwell Industries of New Valencia.  This deal would have the Dragoons help the Federated Suns build limited amounts of Clan designs on the world and champion the development of a Battle Armour production plant on the world.  With help from the Federated Suns the Dragoons would be able to rebuild Outreach quicker and Maeve soon agrees to the terms this also furthers the Federated Suns and Wolf‘s Dragoons rekindling their previous relationship terms enjoyed during the Fourth Succession War.

   Packing up what little belongings he had carried with him Reinhart Steiner looked out over the shattered landscape of Outreach as the doors behind him opened, he immediately recognized the perfume strong and sweet as it filled the room. “Welcome to Outreach, Miss McCarron” Reinhart said turning looking at the younger woman.  When he had captured her she had been an angry woman unwilling to accept that she was no longer in a position of command or that she may never pilot a Mech again in combat.  Now she was still angry but it was an anger that was not directed at Reinhart or the Federated Suns, instead on that was directed at what had happened to the Armoured Cavalry Regiments still based in the Capellan Confederation.  “I was not sure if you would come down planet?”  He asked openly, Faith had originally intended to remain on the WarShip until a JumpShip arrived to take them both away and back to the Federated Suns.

   â€œWhere you go I go Reinhart.”  She said smiling “also I wanted to see what had happened to the Dragoons.”  She said moving to the windows looking out over Harlech City a tear ran down her cheek as she looked at the devastation the Dragoons were still struggling to repair.  “You know during the War of ‘39 the Federated Suns did this to the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry’s base world to teach them not to strike into the Federated Suns and ever since they have never struck back.”

   â€œI was aware.”  Reinhart  said although the War of ‘39 was before the beginning of his military career he had heard of the Federated Suns actions to stop the Cavalry’s deep strike into their territory, where they had gone as deep as Kathil before stopping. An entire regiment of the Armoured Cavalry had been destroyed as had the McCarron’s factory.  Their factory that they had built themselves with money gained through contract and blood had only been rebuilt with help from Sun-Tzu Liao, and the Capellan Chancellor had taken his time with the rebuilding making sure the Cavalry knew their place, and making it clear that now it was a Capellan factory. 

   â€œWe’ve been scared into hiding away just like the Capellan Dogs we are in bed with.”  She said painting the worse image in Reinhart’s head he’d ever thought up.

   â€œI have made a decision.”  Reinhart said however Faith turned back to him a smile on her face.

   â€œSo have I.”  She said

   â€œPlease” he said interested in what she had to say, since rarely did she ask of anything or want to do anything.

   â€œNo, no, you first, you spoke first after all.”  She said smiling she had Reinhart there and what he had to say could affect her decision so he nodded and began to speak.

   â€œI have decided to release you from AFFS custody and allow you to have your freedom back.  I have arranged with the Dragoons to have you and your OmniMech transported anywhere you wish.  You can return to the Armoured Cavalry or go to Galatea and join another Merc unit, the Dragoons may even offer you a job.”  He said noticing her reaction he had expected her to be happy but her facial expression was one of surprise and hurt.  “What is wrong?”  He asked softly moving closer.

   â€œI thought you liked having me around.”  She said quietly, she almost sounded afraid.

   â€œI do, but you are not my prisoner anymore, I’m not sure if I ever thought you as one.  You deserve to have a life of your own to follow the path that is laid before you and to see your family once more.”  He said Faith had met several McCarrons in the Federated Suns all several generations removed from the line based in the Capellan Confederation and all had welcomed her with open arms however she deserved to be able to join her family if that was what she wanted.

   â€œWhat if I chose another path?”

   â€œLike what?  The SLDF?  I’m sure I could pull some strings get Morgan to skip your basic training…”  He said chuckling at the thought of a person with the rank of Major following basic training for anything.

   â€œNo” she said quickly dismissing that idea “the SLDF and I are likely incompatible, I was thinking of staying with you and returning to the Federated Suns.”  She said looking at Reinhart who was floored by the idea, under no circumstance had he expected such a move although he enjoyed her company he knew several members of the High Command and general military hated the idea of a former member of the Liao military on any Federated Suns territory let alone New Avalon.

   â€œForgive me for asking, but why?  Many within the Federated Sun still do trust you and may never, and the chances of you ever piloting a Mech in combat again are small, worse if you do ever fight again it could be against the Capellan Confederation, against the Armoured Cavalry.  Could you do that?”

   â€œI don’t know” Faith said truthfully after a moments thought “all I know is that away from the Cavalry I have been more alive and free than I ever have and I have seen things and met people that I have begun to like maybe even love.  I want to explore that side of my life more and I am willing to give up on being a MechWarrior to do so.”  She said looking straight into Reinhart’s eyes he knew what she was speaking about, he had seen her looking at him and felt himself look at her several times.  He did not know if he could ever convince the people of the Federated Suns to trust her but he wanted to know if he could love her.  Instead of speaking Reinhart grabbed Faith and spun her around laughing, it would be a rocky road but one they would walk together, something he could live with.  “I take it you like this idea?”  She asked as he continued to hold her aloft.

   â€œI will contact the First Prince as soon as possible to confirm the plan.”  He said Faith leaned down and kissed his forehead.

   â€œI like that plan.”  She whispered as Reinhart continued to hold her aloft turning slowly both having eyes for each other alone.  “but let’s wait a little while, enjoy this moment” she said Reinhart was already ahead of her and heading for the bedroom.
 
Office of the First Prince, Fox’s Den
Davion Mountain Range, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th January 3069

   With the Inner Sphere at general peace following the Federated Suns securing of Ares from the Capellan Confederation First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion rarely used his office in the Fox’s Den normally waiting for the report to come to him via Reinhart Steiner of one of his Field Marshals.  Today however was a special day and Victor wanted to proceed over it himself.  There was a knock at the door “enter” he called raising from his position behind the desk in walked Major Ross McKinnon commander of the Fox’s Teeth.  The Major snapped to a salute exactly two steps from the desk Victor looked at him for a moment then followed the salute himself “at ease Major, take a seat.”  he said indicating for Ross to take a seat the Major nodded and sat down “how’s thing’s been Major?”

   â€œGood, sire” Ross said sharply.

   â€œFamily life treating you well?”

   â€œAffirmative, sire” he said formally then looked away briefly “being a husband and father changes ones outlook on life quite dramatically.  But I wouldn’t have it any other way having Rachel and Canin in my life is the greatest thing I have ever experienced.”

   â€œI can agree with that statement, children and family are one of the most joyous things a man can experience.”  Victor said looking at the papers on the desk “Major, can you remember the last time you were in the Fox’s Den with me?”

   â€œ25th December 3058, when you informed me of the mission to what we knew as the Tortuga Dominions, which is now the Nova Cat’s Den.”  Ross said instantly remembering the mission brief as if it was yesterday find out what the Tortuga Fusiliers are up to and why no-one has heard a word out of them.  “It’s been eleven long years, sir, the mission changed my life, sire.”  He added quietly thinking that this was the First Prince’s way of saying soon you will be on another mission like that.  “You have orders for me? Sir.”  Ross asked quietly.

   â€œSort of.”  Victor said, Ross felt a sense of dread the First Prince only broke the chain of command if it was a big thing that was going down “here, open this.” Victor said holding out an envelope.  Ross took the envelope and opened it out fell the rank insignia of a full Colonel two ranks above Ross’ own.  “As of this date and time you Ross McKinnon are a Colonel in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.”  Victor said raising to his feet “your new assignment is to form a special operations command attached to the Fox’s Den and answerable to myself and the Marshal of Armies alone, your people will do jobs that are too messy for the regular army and too big for the DMI.”

   â€œI’m off operations?”  Ross asked slowly raising to his feet he wouldn‘t miss field rations or long patrols but Rachel would be back to operations as soon as Canin was old enough to be looked after by a nanny or family, they could be separated for months.

   â€œFor the most part” Victor said “I have decreed that you will form this unit yourself and choose your own staff and resources. Anything that you think you need comes to me and I get it, that includes equipment, staff, an executive officer, some auxiliary units etc you get the idea.”  Victor said Ross got the idea alright this meant Ross could move Rachel into the command structure of this new department, have the Fox’s Teeth attached and if he needed to go on an operation or two then what would be the harm?  “Any questions?”

   â€œWhat about the Fox’s Teeth?”

   â€œThey are due to be folded back into the Regular Army other than the troops you need.”  Victor said gravely he hated to see the Fox’s Teeth go but without a suitable commander the unit was done.

   â€œSire, the Fox’s Teeth can read each other’s moves and they are a name feared throughout the Inner Sphere, history dating to the Star League, for the trouble they can cause it would be a shame to break them up.  And it would take one weapon out of your hands.”

   â€œWithout a commander they can’t be kept on the books as an independent outfit, they were never supposed to be one in the first place.”

   â€œWhat about my cousin? He’s a Leftenant in the Twentieth Avalon Hussars David McKinnon.  He’s had a little trouble fitting into the Regular army but I think given the tools and a little leeway in how he does his job he could be a great officer.  I can keep him in check if the Fox’s Teeth are assigned under my command.”  Ross promised David was a true wildcard and not half the MechWarrior he could be but with the right incentive and guidance Ross was sure he could be moulded to become one of the AFFS best officers.

   â€œYou wouldn’t have a problem with sending him to his death?”  Victor asked it was a question that needed to be asked, for every officer there came a point where they had to order troops to their deaths.

   â€œNo, sir, knowing David he’d find a way out of any situation we sent him into just to annoy us.” David said smiling  “I can handle it and I believe he can as well.”

   â€œFine cut the orders and Captain David McKinnon will command the Fox’s Teeth as soon as is applicable.”  Victor said he trusted Ross that putting his cousin in such a position would not be a problem, only time would tell.  “Now Colonel there is one last piece of business for us to cover.”  Victor said rounding the table standing just in front of Ross “I do not know if you’ve heard Marshal Redburn commander of the Kathil Uhlans and the Prince’s Champion has chosen to stand down as a combat officer, he will remain as an advisor on New Avalon but for all purposes he will be retiring.”

   â€œI’d heard, sire, you don’t want me to command the Uhlans as well?” He asked Ross relished the idea but perhaps that was a bit too much to ask for.

   â€œNeg” Victor answered with a small smile, Ross was surely not that confident of his abilities? “However, I would like you to consider filling the post of Prince’s Champion.”  Victor said Ross was floored normally such a post went to one of the Davion family or one of the most senior Field Marshals not a Colonel from a working family.

   â€œSire, you honour me, but are you sure I am the right person?”

   â€œLet my lay it to you in simple terms, Colonel.”  Victor said leaning against the table stressing Ross’ new rank and position. “I need an officer that has shown initiative, shown they can make the best of situations and has the best for House Davion and the Federated Suns at heart.  Now your rank may be a little problem for some of the RCT commanders but no-one can question your loyalty or skill, I believe you can do this, do you?”

   â€œAye, sir, I’d relish the challenge and it would be an honour.”

   â€œGlad to hear it” Victor said shaking Ross’ hand “there’s an office at the end of the corridor it’s yours there is about a week’s worth of paper work on the desk should get you started.”  Victor said walking back round the desk he noticed Ross’ pained look on his face.  “Welcome to the big leagues Colonel.”  Victor said releasing Ross’ hand smiling broadly the Colonel saluted and retreated from the office head held high.

HPG Compound
Tikonov, Capellan Confederation Held
Capellan March, Federated Suns
1st March 3069

   For the first time in five years the Word of Blake techs at the HPG Compound on Tikonov take the array offline for routine maintenance required to keep the array operation.  Although angry at the array being offline with Tikonov an isolated world held in the Federated Suns Sun-Tzu Liao can do little to stop Word of Blake performing required maintenance, the Word of Blake for their part promise the array will be offline for a maximum of four weeks.

Wolf’s Dragoons Command Compound
Outreach, Chaos March
2nd March 3069

   A Capellan messenger lands on the Dragoon’s homeworld and travels directly to the command compounds with an offer to General Maeve Wolf.  The Dragoons are offered a short term contract of up to six months with the possible increases for the use of a Dragoon WarShip and a regiment of troops that will be expected to fight offensively and in counter insurgency warfare once the target has been secured.  As payment the Capellans offer the Dragoons in excess of an entire regiment worth of BattleMechs and Battle Armour.

   General Maeve Wolf tells the messenger that she will think the offer over.  On the 15th March WolfNet operatives discover the Capellans plan to attack Ares first destroying the Federated Suns WarShips in system then the planet’s garrison force.  With the Federated Suns recent generosity to the Dragoons still over them and the Capellans known policy of Company Store methods with Mercenary forces Maeve Wolf decides to reject the Capellan offer instead informing her WolfNet operatives to inform the Federated Suns that they have information they may be interested in.  On the 22nd March a Davion Conquistador-class DropShip is dropped into the system at a Pirate point known only to the Dragoons and the Federated Suns the vessel is full of supplies for the Dragoons and both vessel and supplies are for the Dragoons.  The Dragoons via WolfNet operatives on New Avalon inform the Federated Suns of the Capellans plans.

Cyclops, Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser
Unexplored Deep Periphery System
96 Light-years Core-ward Cirincus Federation
12th March 3069

   It was the early evening on the space station, although day and night were the same in space the people held onto the illusion of what time it was just to keep themselves right.  It had been quiet recently on board, everyone knew what was expected of them and no-one had come looking for trouble in the system recently so they’d been able to relax.  The command staff led by Queen Jennifer Briton II herself had been at a meal in the primary gravity deck enjoying their night while other people took care of the business end of the station.

   While the Queen was away she’d left her eighteen year-old daughter Gabriella in charge of the command deck.  One thing Gabriella hated more than anything was duty in the command deck she dearly loved her mother and her life on Cyclops but she was an aerospace fighter pilot and the command deck was just a little bit too foreign from her EST-R3 Eisensturm Aerospace Fighter, something her mother had gained as a present for Gabriella’s eighteenth birthday, a top of the line aerospace fighter it formed the lead squadron of the station’s defences and Gabriella was the lead pilot.  This was just babysitting duty but her mother said it was important for her to learn command and learn how the station operated for when she was gone.  Jennifer Briton II was in her late forties and Gabriella knew of space farers living into their early hundreds away from the ills of planetary life.  Which meant Gabriella would have sixty years or more to learn command and about the station, something she was very happy with, unlike many pirate groups the controllers of Cyclops got on and enjoyed working together, it was the stability brought by the station and by the non-aggression pact everyone signed before setting foot on the station which meant most of the time they didn’t have to act like pirates, they could live like regular people.

   Standing at the forward view ports of what was formerly the bridge of the vessel when it was a WarShip and now acted as their flight control tower of their space station.  Gabriella looked out at the various pirate DropShips and a squadron of the station’s fighters challenging any who got away from their markers or made any hostile moves or threats in Cyclops controlled space.  The doors opened behind Gabriella but she did not turn away from the view of space, instead she was focused on where she longed to be back in her fighter.

   â€œCommander, a moment” it was her wingman Ana Cyrus one of the best pilots in their squadron and someone Gabriella trusted her life to completely.

   â€œWhat is it?”  Gabriella asked trying hard not to sound too bored.

   â€œIt’s your mother…”  Ana said quietly so no others in the room could hear, Gabriella immediately spun on the spot “…she’s been killed, in a brawl between pirate commanders.  To begin with security was in charge but spun out of control, she was found after the chaos dead on the deck, stabbed in the back.”  Gabriella spun away as a tear began to run down her cheek, her mother dead and her barely a week into her eighteenth year.

   â€œWhat are the others saying about it?”  Although loosing her mother was a tragedy loosing control of Cyclops would be a betrayal of her entire family line from Mad Dog himself.

   â€œTravis is claiming that he needs to command until an investigation can be completed.”  Ana said naming the former Clan Smoke Jaguar Elemental warrior who had joined up following the destruction of his clan at the hands of the SLDF and quickly become head of security.

   â€œI think not.”  Gabriella said quietly turning back to face Ana the looking over her wingman’s shoulder “Controller Roberts, lock the door after I leave, allow no other to enter other than me or my mother.”  She said heading to the main doors over her shoulder she heard the controller acknowledge.

   â€œYour mother is dead, trust me on this.”  Ana said once the doors were sealed behind them.

   â€œI trust you with my life, as hard as that is for a pirate.”  She said equally quietly “they cannot know my mother is dead, I must end Travis challenge before more people hear of my mother’s passing.  Assemble the squadron and anyone you know we can count on for support.”  Gabriella said quietly heading down the corridor pulling herself along in the zero gravity environment.

   â€œWhere are you going?”

   â€œTo claim my mother’s remains and to kill a pretender.”  Gabriella answered disappearing down the corridor heading for the main bar on the station, The Cosmos.  Situated on one of the station’s largest gravity decks it would make things easier.  Entering she saw Travis in the centre of a group of people all were cheering and toasting, in the far corner a smaller group made up of Jennifer Briton’s most fanatical supporters were gathered.  Gabriella first moved to them, she noticed they were all bruised but ready to fight, all were surrounding her mother’s corpse.  Gabriella suppressed a tear with a smile “I thank you.”  She said to each of them in turn then a quieter “thank you” to her mother for preparing her for this moment.  She then turned to Travis’ group who had by now noticed her entrance and the growing number of aerospace fighter pilots and ground-crews, all supporters of Gabriella.   Around Travis a large group of Security/Marines had gathered ready to fight if need be.  “Travis, I call you out.”  Gabriella said standing apart from her group.

   â€œA Trial of Position?”  Travis asked moving forward apart from the group he was a mountain of a man, all muscle, a true challenge to anyone in a fight.

   â€œIf you like, you have challenged my families right to rule correct?”

   â€œAff, your mother lies dead and you are too young and weak to rule this station, it needs a firm hand.”  He said pounding one fist into the other.

   â€œAnd you believe you are this strong hand?”

   â€œAff, I am the strongest hand.”

   â€œThen I challenge you, if you defeat me make sure to kill me for I will never serve you.  This station has been in my family for generations, we created it and we will continue to rule here.”

   â€œWe shall see.  Augmented or un-augmented?”  He enquired Gabriella smiled Travis was still thinking like a Clanner, she could use it against him.

   â€œWhatever” she said feigning interest in his ritual combat ways.

   â€œUn-augmented then we will fight with what we have, I wish to crush the air from your lungs with my own fists.”

   â€œWhatever” she said “can we get this over with?”  He nodded and they moved to an open area of the room.

   â€œMay the best warrior win.”

   â€œWhatever” she said for a third time, she could see him beginning to loose his temper.

   â€œSeyla!”  He shouted the Clan word as he broke into a charge towards Gabriella, she in turn dropped to one knee and withdrew a small hold-out pistol from the small of her back.  In one fluid motion she flicked the safety and fired three shots into the massive Elemental warrior, he seemed to absorb the first two shots but the third brought him down, rolling out of the way Gabriella watched as he crashed into the deck.  Knowing this wouldn’t necessarily kill him outright she flipped to her feet and moved over to him as the stunned Travis rolled over.

   â€œWe said un--augmented, you have violated this trial” he complained

   â€œI said whatever, and this isn’t a trial, it’s a bar-brawl.  The same type of fight that killed my mother and you.”  Gabriella said firing two more shots into the Elemental’s head killing him outright.  Without though she ejected the clip and loaded another turning to the Marines who were stunned looking at their dead commander.  “Anyone else?”  No-one spoke up “good, now clear up this bar, honour my mother and get the hell out of here.”  She said no-one moved “move, or you’ll end like this mess!”  She shouted everyone began moving in the room several marines moved over to remove Travis’ body “leave him” she ordered none of the troopers said anything instead they quickly followed the others out of the room leaving her alone in the bar with the dead Elemental at her feet.  Gabriella sat down and picked up a bottle of Northwind-branded Scotch, the proper stuff, pouring herself a finger glass of the drink she toasted her mother and downed it in a single shot.   Over the next couple of days there were three more challenges to her authority all of which Gabriella dealt with herself and in equally brutal forms setting herself up securely as the next leader of the Cyclops station maintaining the Briton family hold over their legacy.
   
Throne Room
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
28th March 3069

   At a private ceremony attended by only a few of the most trusted advisors of the Capellan Confederation and a couple of Magistracy of Canopus advisers Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao and Magestix Naomi Centrella marry on the Capellan capitol world.  Sun-Tzu and Naomi announce that their two nations will for now remain separately governed.

   As a wedding move and copying a move made by Prince Hanse Davion, of the Federated Suns, forty years before Sun-Tzu gives Naomi a present by informing her that at this very moment Capellan troops were landing on Ares and had driven off the Federated Suns forces invading their realm.  The Capellan forces that Sun-Tzu speaks of, which include a Magistracy Regiment, find not a single Federated Suns solider on Ares or in the system.  Sun-Tzu announces to the entire Capellan nation that their brave forces drove off the Federated Suns troops with their strength and that the Federated Suns was scared of the Capellan advance.

Throne Room
Zi-jin Cheng (Forbidden City), Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
31st March 3069

   Sitting on his throne with new wife Naomi Centrella-Liao Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao leader of the Capellan Confederation looked down at the Word of Blake Precentor who stood in front of him.  The Tikonov HPG had only just come back on-line and none of his advisors controlling the planet had been allowed to speak with their Chancellor making Sun-Tzu more than a little unhappy.  “Precentor I would like to know why I have not been allowed to speak to my people on Tikonov?  And why the HPG took three days longer to come back online.”

   â€œChancellor, these things take time, even the Word of Blake could not keep full contact with the world.  There was no way to foresee what happened during the time of Blackout on Tikonov.”

   â€œYou did not answer the Chancellor’s questions” Naomi said stepping down from her place beside the throne, Sun-Tzu smiled watching her move in her long skin tight dress move down to the Precentor’s level.  Unlike her predecessor, Isis Marik, Naomi was not afraid to take control of a situation and Sun-Tzu loved watching her work.  “Answer the questions.  Why are our advisors not being allowed to use the HPG and why did it take longer than anticipated to bring back online?”  She asked moving her finger down the man’s jaw-line, Sun-Tzu could see the man had eyes only for Naomi and was mesmerised anything he had prepared had gone out the window.

   â€œThey are not being allowed to speak because they are in prison.”  Sun-Tzu snapped his eyes away from Naomi onto the Precentor “And the work took longer because our work crews did not complete the work, ComStar did.”  He said rapidly seeing Sun-Tzu move, Naomi glanced at her husband then back to the Word of Blake Precentor.

   â€œComStar?  They moved against you on a Capellan world?”

   â€œNo, they were requested to take control by the rulers of the world.”

   â€œWhat rulers?  I will have them shot for the impertinence, no-one take’s a Capellan world from its Chancellor.”

   â€œThat’s the problem, Tikonov is no longer a Capellan World.”

   â€œTell us the rest.”  Sun-Tzu said warily, he knew taking Ares had been too easy.

   â€œHouse Davion dropped the entire Crucis Lancers Brigade onto the world along with what we believe to be the Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment.  The eight Federated Suns Regimental Combat Teams annihilated the Third and Fifth McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry and the Word of Blake’s Sixteenth Division.  According to reports the Seventh Crucis Lancers RCT were destroyed in the fighting however the Federated Suns plan to rebuild it and create a Ninth Regiment out of the salvage they have gained from Tikonov and the factories on the world.  Also it appears that Colonel Paul Bowman, of the Wild Geese Regiment has taken a step back from Wild Geese operations and rejoined his family.  It would appear Tikonov has a new Duke.”  The Precentor said swallowing heavily, a new young military minded leader, who had fought for the Federated Suns for years, on Tikonov would surely turn the world completely against the Capellan Confederation probably permanently.

   â€œWhat of the Sundermann Rhys that was placed in the system to guard against such an attack?”  Naomi demanded grabbing the man around the throat her nails digging into his skin.

   â€œThe Feng Huang Cruiser in the system was overpowered by a pair of Federated Suns WarShips, according to the rumour the credit for the kill has gone to the Fox-class Corvette FSS Fox.”  Sun Tzu wanted to scream as he listened to the Precentor two Regiments and a WarShip all destroyed, what a sorry state of affairs they were in, there was no direct way to hit back at the Federated Suns either not with the ever growing Federated Suns WarShip fleet guarding their borders like hawks ready to pounce.

   â€œNot the best present ever.”  Sun-Tzu said quietly as Naomi closed her hand around the man’s throat her nails penetrating the Word of Blake Precentor’s throat covering herself and the white Word of Blake uniform in red blood the man fought for breath.  Naomi just held him there watching him die then dropped him to the ground.  “What a mess.”  Sun-Tzu said looking at her as she looked down at the dead man.

   â€œBut it did make me feel better, now what?”  She said her voice as cold as any true Capellan's Sun-Tzu had ever heard

   â€œWe need to clean this up then find the leak, a clear out of the Maskirovka for a start.”  Sun-Tzu said condemning at least a dozen operatives to their deaths with a casual thought.

   â€œNo, what I mean is what about the Federated Suns?  How will we enact our revenge on them?”

   â€œIn due time, for now we wait, our WarShip fleet has been dangerously depleted because of them we will rebuild before we strike again.”  Sun-Tzu said standing up walking out of the room, Naomi stood there not knowing what she was more disgusted by the dead body on the floor or her husband’s reaction, she would find a way to pay the Federated Suns back for this outrage.

Conference Room Alpha, Gravity Deck
SLS Covenant (Covenant-class Cruiser)
Furillo System, Bolan Province, Lyran Alliance
1st May 3069

   At a special press conference the media of the Inner Sphere and surrounding Periphery states sat at a special audience held by acting-Commanding General Archer Christifori commander of the Star League Defence Force until Morgan Hasek-Davion returned to the post in late June.  “Ladies and Gentlemen, today I have two announcements.”  Archer began, the one thing he disliked about the post of Commanding-General was dealing with the press and would be happy to pass it back to Morgan as soon as possible.  “The first that as of this morning the First Sirian Lancer Brigade based on Sirius will be deployed to the Pleiades Cluster to stop the fighting, between Federated Suns and Taurian Concordat forces, that has plagued the region in recent months and years.”  He said letting that sink in for a moment “the Sirian Lancers will show no favouritism to either the Federated Suns defenders or the Taurian aggressors they will stop the fighting and ensure that all parties can sit around a table and hammer out a peace.  Anyone attacking the Star League forces will be dealt with harshly and swiftly.”  He said turning to his next piece of business “secondly the Sirian Concordance and the Star League Protectorate Worlds will officially merge and come under a joint authority, at the next Whitting Conference the exact powers of this authority will be hammered out.  Now if there are any questions?”

   â€œGeneral, is it correct the Covenant is en-route to Tharkad and not Kittery as originally planned?”

   â€œOur destination has never officially been released to the press, Miss Chambers, and it has never changed.  Although I can confirm that we are en-route to Tharkad and that I have a meeting with the Lyran Alliance Archon, Peter Steiner-Davion.”

   â€œCould you divulge the details of this meeting?”

   â€œNot at this time.”  Archer said quietly, since the Archon didn’t even know yet he wasn‘t about to tell the Inner Sphere.

   â€œCommanding-General, is it true that while you were on Thorin you got engaged?”  One of the other news reporters asked Archer shot the man a cold gaze as Archer wondered, ‘how the hell had they heard about that?  Wasn’t anything personnel anymore?’

   â€œThat is classified information and none of your business, Mr Keller.”  Archer said turning back to the rest of the reporters.

   â€œSir, information suggests that you were engage to a Lyran officer is this true.”  Another reporter asked Archer rolled his eyes and stepped back from the podium.

   â€œIf that is all, this briefing is over.”  He said stepping back from the crowd and out a rear door, waiting outside the door was his fiancée Katya Chafee, formerly a Haptmann and intelligence officer of the Thorin Militia, and his sister Andrea Christifori.  “I hate the press” he said quietly Andrea a newspaper writer herself gave him a look of hurt but he smiled back at her and Andrea broke into a smile of her own, Katya just enveloped him in an embrace, they had known this would happen just not so quickly.  “When Morgan wants the job back he’s welcome to it.”

   â€œYou’ll get used to it.”  Katya said quietly whispering in his ear.  Archer wasn’t so certain he wanted to get used to it, he hadn’t taken to the field in his Mech in over a year, hadn’t been one of the men on the ground making decisions in the fire of combat, it was something he was beginning to miss.  Soon Morgan would take back the post of Commanding-General and perhaps Archer would find his unit a nice hot-spot somewhere he could be useful on the ground once more.

Gray’s Ghosts Base-camp
Hardisey’s Haven
Cirincus Federation
14th May 3069

   In their first operation following accepting a contract with the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey the former Word of Blake personnel that formed the Heart of Blake Mercenary Force are tasked with halting the Cirincus Federation sponsored raids that had caused significant damage to the worlds controlled by the Duchy.  The Heart of Blake commanded by the most senior of the former-Precentor’s David Hunter were given no direct orders about how they should stop the raids only that they had to be stopped.  In the early morning of Hardisey’s Haven just over the Cirincus Federation Border the Heart of Blake dropped en masse on the Gray’s Ghosts Mercenary Company.

   The Gray’s Ghosts had always come close to violating the rules of combat and sometimes took missions more akin to terrorists or pirates than mercenaries.  Also they had only recently take up a contract with the Cirincus Federation, just before the start of the raids, making them a perfect target.  Using surprise, superior firepower, numbers and training the Heart of Blake annihilate Gray’s Ghosts in less than thirty minutes of hard combat.

Zi-jin Cheng (Forbidden City)
Sian, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
28th May 3069

   Following half a dozen assassinations by an agent known as “Tamroy” on the Capellan Capital the Capellan Chancellor hires the warrior known as the Bounty Hunter to hunt down and kill Tamroy giving the Bounty Hunter free-way on Sian to find the agent and kill them.  The only information the Capellans can give the Bounty Hunter is that Tamroy utilises the Infiltrator Mk. II Battle Armour suit and appears to have an extensive support network on the Capellan Homeworld.  In retaliation for the hiring of the Bounty Hunter being involved Tamroy shows that this infamous warrior’s involvement does not bother them by assassinating Sang-iang-jun Talon Zahn the Chancellor’s primary military advisor before once again disappearing from sight.  The Bounty Hunter begins tearing Sian apart in an attempt to find and eliminate this elusive assassin.

Clan Diamond Shark Shipyard Facilities
Hofn System, Jarnfolk Territory
Deep Periphery
6th July 3069

   The Jarnfolk are a group of Scandinavian descendant family orientated/ruled traders that control four systems in the Deep Periphery between Clan Space and the Inner Sphere.  For the most part the Jarnfolk have no contact with the outside world and no-one bothers them as they have little resources interesting to other parties and their territory is not strategically important.

   Also due to an incident with a Clan Diamond Shark in 3056 the Jarnfolk families avoid the Clans at every opportunity.  For the most part all anyone ever knows of the Jarnfolk is of their beautifully maintained and decorated JumpShip and DropShip fleet and their exquisite fire-arm manufacture process in which every weapon is individually engraved and built for each user of the weapon.

   Unknown to every other faction the Diamond Sharks had made extensive contacts with the Hasna family of the Jarnfolk and through the decade since the first contact with the Jarnfolk the Diamond Sharks had built up an extensive alliance with the Hasna family going as far to place the whole Predator Galaxy in the Jarnfolk systems, building Hyper Pulse Generators on all four worlds, maintaining and allowing the Jarnfolk full access to the equipment.  However in exchange they gained the Jarnfolk’s manual labour and the right to construct an extensive shipyard facility on, and in orbit of, the Jarnfolk’s most remote world.

   When the Diamond Shark’s newest Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser Typhoon, formerly Coterie, arrived in the system already in the shipyard were five other Potemkin-class vessels including the Renown, a Clan Star Adder vessel that was under a twenty year contract with the Diamond Sharks.  Every vessel was being extensively modified to a new configuration.  The Typhoon slipped into the last bare berth in the shipyard and the Diamond Shark crews began modifying this vessel as well their Jarnfolk allies helping them with resources but for the most part leaving the Diamond Sharks to their own devices.  Soon the Diamond Sharks would show everyone what they had planned but for now things would proceed at their own pace.

Various Worlds
Capellan March, Federated Suns
14th July 3069

    Beginning in the early hours and continuing through the day the a series of terrorist attacks rocks the Federated Suns Capellan March on more than a dozen worlds.  The attacks vary from a Lone BattleMech turning on its Militia Command Base and killing the commander and command staff to a nail-bomb attack in a packed café at lunch time.  Throughout the Capellan March the AFFS troops alert levels are heightened and both DMI and MIIO agencies begin through investigations into the attacks.  Many leads point to Capellan Confederation sympathisers however there is no concrete proof to suggest the Confederation had a direct hand in the attacks.

Various Worlds
Capellan Confederation
24th July 3069

   Although they have no direct link to the Capellan Confederation and there are several raids launched on Federated Suns based cells the Fox’s Teeth and several other small raiding companies attached to the new Special Forces Command begin raids against the Capellan Confederation held worlds just over the border.  These attacks are designed to keep the Capellans on edge and damage the Capellan military showing that if the Confederation attacks the Federated Suns people then the Federated Suns will destroy the Capellan military machine just like the Fourth Succession War.  Without significant WarShip support the Capellans are unable to stop most of the raids although they are able to destroy several of the Federated Suns unit’s the successes of the Fox’s Teeth and other units show the Capellans have no chance against the Federated Suns lightning raid tactics.

Marshal of Armies Official Residence
Avalon City (Outskirts), New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
31st July 3069

   Although Reinhart Steiner owned two houses in the Federated Suns and his family mansion was in his native Lyran Alliance because of his position as the Marshal of Armies he was afforded an official city residence in Avalon City.  This residence was as grand as any high wealth mansion on New Avalon, within walking distance of the Royal Court and the gates of the Davion Palace and had a direct shuttle that would take anyone to the foot of Mount Davion and the Fox’s Den public entrances.  Also at the mansion was a Mech Garage for two Mechs to be stored although full maintenance could only be done at a proper Mechbay the Marshal of Armies could store his Mech near his residence during a time of war just in case of trouble on New Avalon and he was cut off from the Fox’s Den.  In the garage stood Reinhart’s Warhawk Clan OmniMech still kitted out in its Lyran Guards paint scheme and Faith McCarron’s Men Shen Capellan OmniMech also kitted out in the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry paint scheme, both Mechs featured the insignia of the First New Avalon Guards RCT, the world New Avalon with a hand starching out holding the sword Excalibur, although only Reinhart’s had taken to the field carrying such colours as Faith was still considered to be a security risk by the MIIO.

   As he entered the rear patio doors Reinhart immediately smelt food cooking in the kitchen walking in he saw Faith standing over the cooker with almost a dozen pans on the boil, she looked flustered and tired out something Reinhart had never seen in her.  “What’s going on?”  He asked quietly looking around Faith’s head immediately shot up.

   â€œI thought I’d try my hand at cooking something.”  She said sheepishly.

   â€œAnd… are you winning?”  Reinhart asked looking the scene over once more.

   â€œSort of…” she said looking over the counter at his feet “are those MechWarrior boots in my Kitchen?”  She asked possessively she had only been living with Reinhart since they returned from Outreach a couple of months before.  She had become very attached to the house, the others were Reinhart's this one was their home, truly shared between them.  Unlike Reinhart who had been fighting the Clans almost constantly from graduation then posts within the Federated Suns Faith had enjoyed growing up in the Mansions of the Armoured Cavalry and knew how to live.  One of the ground rules she had insisted on was was no work clothing in the house unless someone was visiting.

   â€œMaybe” Reinhart answered, it was his turn to feel a little sheepish.

   â€œOff” she ordered Reinhart didn’t hesitate or argue immediately dropping to his knees to remove the boots seconds later a sniper slug shot over the area Reinhart had been standing missing his head by inches and imbedding itself in one of Faith’s boiling pans.  As the liquid began to pour out Reinhart launched himself flat onto the floor crawling away from the open patio doors and the back garden hitting his emergency communicator switch as he went, AFFS troops would be here within minutes.

   â€œDOWN!!"  He screamed "Faith, are you all right?” Looking around Faith however was too busy to answer reaching down under the cooking counter she removed a small submachine gun from a small hidden shelf under the table and opened fire firing into the bushes and trees that dominated the yet untamed back garden, one thing that would be sorted as soon as possible.  Moments later another slug shot into the room missing Faith by less than a metre. Both Faith and Reinhart, armed with his Sternsnatch Auto-Pistol, opened fire hitting the trees and bushes at the back garden with over a hundred rounds in less than ten seconds.  Two bodies fell out of the undergrowth immediately dressed in camouflage togs “Where did you get that?”  Reinhart asked looking down at the weapon in Faith’s hands, under the rules of her staying on New Avalon she was not supposed to have any type of weapon without supervision.

   â€œNever seen it before I used it.”  Faith said also glancing at the weapon as Reinhart moved closer "came in handy" she whispered as his arms enveloped her.

   â€œVery true, nice work.”  He whispered as they embraced standing there in the shattered kitchen.

   â€œNo, nice work will be someone cleaning up this mess, and that someone not being me.”  Faith said quietly Reinhart wasn’t concentrating on that however as he kissed her strongly.  Within five minutes a security force of seven AFFS military police had arrived to begin an investigation, in the undergrowth they found a third body dressed like the others dead and the groundskeeper with his throat slit in his shed.  Reinhart ordered the grounds cleaned of all plants and trees and began looking at hiring a landscape artist to redesign the whole area and for security to upgrade the ground and house security.

   Two days later in front of the whole Royal Court and the AFFS High Command First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion awarded Faith McCarron the Gold Starburst Medal for her bravery under fire and her saving of Reinhart Steiner from assassination.  This event brings the High Command into accepting Faith more than they had previously and opens some doors that had been sealed for her.  At the same ceremony Reinhart Steiner is elevated to being a member of the Order of Davion.  The Order of Davion is for people who show unflinching loyalty to House Davion and the First Prince and Victor Steiner-Davion cannot think of anyone more deserving than Reinhart Steiner, this is made as public as possible showing anyone in the Federated Suns that the First Prince trusted Reinhart.  Again following this announcement Field Marshal George Hasek complains that Victor is hanging onto the Federated Commonwealth legacy too closely and handing out awards too easily but George is generally ignored and is soon locking horns with the High Command as they begin talking of including Tikonov and a couple of other Capellan March worlds into the Crucis March.

   Following an assassination attempt on the Marshal of Armies the DMI and MIIO order a top level review on security on New Avalon, around major installations and important figures around the Federated Suns, this sort of act will not be tolerated or be allowed to happen again.

Pleiades Cluster, Disputed Territory
Taurian Concordat/Federated Suns Border
15th November 3069

   Escorted by the SLS Troy, the former-FWL Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser, the First Sirian Lancer Brigade enters the Pleiades Cluster to fly the Star League Flag in the region for the first time in centuries.  Even before the unit reaches the first of the Cluster’s planets a squadron of Taurian marked fighters assault the WarShip.  Although this force causes no damage the signal is clear the Star League Forces are not welcome in the Pleiades Cluster for any reason.

   As the Sirian Lancer troopers land on the world Federated Suns units move in to offer assistance however their commander, Lt General Jason Thrall, refuses to trust the Federated Suns, who had conquered his nation during the Fourth Succession War, refuse this assistance and stand alone ignoring Federated Suns calls to move their base closer to Suns lines.  Knowing that Thrall’s position against the Federated Suns is endangering his troops lives and the SLDF mission to Pleiades the Federated Suns commander tries to contact the Star League Advisory Council, on Defiance, however with the HPG Grid not fully operational the message is never delivered.

Marshal of Armies Residence
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th November 3069

   Barely two months following their marriage Faith and Reinhart Steiner discover they are to be parents with Faith falling pregnant.  Knowing that the pregnancy could put doubt in people’s minds about her capabilities Faith declares that she will continue to complete her duties as Reinhart’s aide-de-camp for as long as possible putting her duties as a Captain in the AFFS ahead of her personal needs.  Reinhart removes Faith from the active MechWarrior list on a temporary basis, although Faith does not approve of this move she agrees to comply with her husband’s, and bosses, wishes.

Unknown Location
Pleiades Cluster, Capellan March
Disputed Federated Suns/Taurian Concordat
21st December 3069

   In the middle of the night just over a month after their arrival in the Pleiades Cluster on Star League duties the First Sirian Lancers Brigade were at camp after a relatively successful day.  Lieutenant-General Jason Thrall was having a particularly successful day, not only had he taken down three enemy Mechs today single handily he had hooked up with a young armour Lieutenant who was fantastic in bed, against the regs but he didn‘t give a crap High Command was on Kittery not in the Pleiades.  Life was good.  Life was also quite cold waking drowsily from his stupor Jason could feel cold to his back and his arms were in a strange position “honey turn up the heat, it’s freezing in here.”  He whispered moments later cold, slimy liquid was poured all over his crotch area immediately waking him up “What the hell?!?”  He screamed looking around trying to get up but finding his arms locked in position by chains “What is going on?”  He demanded looking around seeing no-one.

   â€œTurning up the heat” a voice said from the darkness as a cigarette lighter with a single flame was moved out from the darkness, Jason tried to get away from the flame but he was locked in position

   â€œWhat the hell do you want?”  He asked as the flame got closer “money? I have money?”  He said getting desperate as the lighter touched the soaked fabric of his shorts which instantly burst into flame, the liquid acting as an accelerant, he had but moments before the shorts and accelerant would burn away and his skin was next.  The heat and pain were unbearable but Jason tried to resist crying out, a plan that lasted seconds as he began to scream.

   â€œNot yet” the voice said and a bucket of water was thrown over him dowsing the flame, nothing was left of the shorts he was naked, burned and blistered and still chained to the metal table.

   â€œL… Look we can t…talk about this.” Jason stammered out.

   â€œI think not, does this look familiar?”  the voice asked as more lights in the room lit up, there lying there was Lieutenant Ann Cain, the young woman he had been with just a short time before.  She was naked, her face battered black-and-blue.

   â€œLieutenant Cain?  What is she doing here?  What have you done to her?”  Jason asked demanding an answer, he knew what they had planned he just didn‘t want to admit it to himself.

   â€œNothing yet, but since you expect us to do something, we will comply.”

   â€œN… no wait!  I… I didn’t mean for you to…” he said as a hooded male appeared between her legs naked from the waist down, Jason knew what was coming and shut his eyes.

   â€œI think not, General” the voice said two arms reached him from each side and held his eyes open and his head turned towards the unconscious lieutenant.

   â€œWhy… Why are you doing this?”  He asked

   â€œWe have had enough of the Star League and the Federated Suns thinking they can run our lives.  It is time that people left us alone.”  The voice said as the first man disappeared from the Lieutenant and another man appeared just as she began to wake and realize what was happening, Ann Cain began to scream.  “It is time people got the message, we don’t want the Star League here.”  the voice said as a blade appeared over Jason’s chest and immediately dug into his skin, Jason screamed, the knife was not meant to kill however as the wielder began to cut an ’S’ into his chest.  It was time to give the Star League a message they wouldn’t forget in a hurry.

   The next morning in the centre of the Sirian Lancer’s base camp Jason Thrall’s body was found hung on a cross naked and burned with the words “SLDF - GET OFF OUR PLANET” stencilled on his chest.  Beside the cross lying on the ground bloodied, battered she was also naked and nearly frozen to death was Ann Cain barely alive following her ordeal.

   The heir to the Sirian Concordance was dead but the Star League troops could not show they were defeated or they would be next, the Lancers began operations less than an hour after the discoveries within hours there were results with a rebel Battalion surrounded and annihilated by the Lancers, with no prisoners taken, a building in the battle area was flattened by the lancers inside fifty-two women and children were found.  All during the day the Lancer’s restraint became less and less controlled leading to the Federated Suns forces on planet to step in and hold the Lancers off destroying an entire village in their anger

Proving Grounds
Tortuga Prime, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
31st December 3069

   Without any major battles to fight, or opponents to threaten them, Clan Nova Cat had charged down the research and development path as they continued to transform the former-Tortuga Dominions worlds into Clan worlds.  One world had remained almost completely untouched however, Tortuga Prime, the former capital world had been turned into a massive Proving Ground for newly developed Nova Cat weapons and units.  With Tau Galaxy helping the Nova Cats on New Haiti to develop new combat vehicles, first is the Shoden Tactical Missile Tank, a seventy ton wheeled vehicle design with three Advanced Tactical Missile Launchers on a turret as the main weapons.  The Nova Cat Watch and a small contingent of Clan Diamond Shark had helped develop new BattleMech designs.

   The first design ready for submission to the Khan had been named the Ocelot and had been developed by Nova Cat-born scientists helped by captured Ice Hellion and Smoke Jaguar scientists.  A light design weighing in at thirty-five tons the Mech was capable of over running at over ninety kilometres per hour and jumping one hundred-and-eighty metres making it an able scout or harasser.  For armament the Ocelot would come in two primary configurations.  The first would carry a torso mounted Heavy Large Laser, two arm mounted Extended-Range Medium Lasers and to help in scout missions a Light Active Probe.  Although it was a heat machine and was restricted to medium ranged conflicts its speed and jump jets would compensate for that making it lethal in the harasser/flanker roll.  The second Ocelot would drop the Light Active Probe and some armour gaining an Extended-Range Particle Projection Cannon in its place giving the Mech superior strike range and firepower while sacrificing the advanced scouting abilities, this Mech is very similar to the Clan Wolf (in-Exile)’s Pack Hunter design, another light design with a heavy punch.

   Upon seeing the design Khan Canin Rosse had liked the design but been worried about its capabilities in the field as the scientists had never tested it in a real combat test.  Instead of waiting for the scientists to get a trial for the Mech, Canin selected three Mechs available to them on Tortuga and climbed into the Ocelot ready to take the Mech out himself for some live fire testing.  Much to the surprise and horror of the Nova Cat scientists.

   â€œNova Cat Alpha, Control, radio check.”  Canin said looking over the inventory available to him extra-light fusion engine-fully powered, gyro-stable and set to his patterns, Left torso Heavy Large Laser-fully powered and focused, Right Arm twin Extended-Range Medium Lasers-powered, primed and read, Light Active Probe-stand-by mode.

   â€œControl, Nova Cat Alpha, read you clear.  Target one at end of range, good hunting” the controller said, Canin recognised the voice as someone who had worked on the base when Canin was in charge of the Tortuga Garrison and immediately felt good about this, Canin was now in the firing line, the Ocelot would be using live ammo and so would its targets anything could happen here up-to and including his death.

   â€œUnderstood, moving to engage.”  He said accelerating the Mech forwards, at the other side of the Proving Ground a former-Clan Wolf (in-Exile) thirty ton Pack Hunter came charging towards him.  The Pack Hunter was faster, more manoeuvrable and had better range on the Ocelot, but lacked back-up weapons making it a perfect test target for the Mech.  Canin ran in towards the ‘Hunter closing the distance then just within PPC range turned cutting left away from the ‘Hunter drawing the lighter Mech closer.  After nearly thirty seconds at full speed the ‘Hunter pilot launched their Mech skyward using the design’s impressive jump capacity to close two hundred-and-ten metres in a single bound.  At the same time Canin launched his Ocelot backwards using the Ocelot’s own Jump Jets the two Mechs crossed in mid-air missing by metres the ’Hunter pilot unwilling to risk a shot in mid-air continued past the Ocelot.  Canin was not so cautious firing both arm mounted Extended-Range Medium Lasers coring the centre torso armour then the gyroscope the damage was not crippling but was enough to knock the ‘Hunter off course before landing forcing the Mech into a lop-sided impact with the Mech’s full thirty tons landing down on the left leg.  The left leg of the ‘Hunter seemed to take the impact for a moment then shattered into hundreds of pieces as the full shock of the impact destroyed the limb and causing the ‘Hunter to plough into the ground face first.  The damage caused to the leg and gyroscope ruled the Mech out of this fight, Canin did not give the Pack Hunter another moments notice turning around to see the next Mech entering the grounds a captured Inner Sphere Owens OmniMech.

   Canin instantly recognised the Mech as the same one that had once belonged to MechWarrior Camilla, a former-Smoke Jaguar, who had died as a Nova Cat defending the First Babylon Diet in the Clan Homeworlds.  Although inferior to Clan designs of similar size Canin knew this was not a standard Owens and had been modified with Clan tech making it a far more challenging adversary.

   The Owens was far faster than the Ocelot and the pilot knew how to use his Mech zigzagging from left to right as they closed the Owens pilot kept a near constant barrage of Advance Tactical Missile fire in the air causing explosions on each side of the Ocelot but causing no damage to the Mech.  This immediately gave Canin an idea of what he was facing one of the Owens weapon configurations, developed by the Nova Cats, carried a six-tube ATM launcher and a pair of Heavy Medium-class Lasers.  Once the Mech got closer it could do a lot of damage to Canin’s Mech.  Copying the Owens Canin began to zigzag the Ocelot closing on the Owens then at maximum range for the Heavy Large Laser and the Extended-Range lasers he triggered a full barrage raising the heat in the Ocelot cockpit dramatically and causing his weapons array to short out briefly as the heat sinks and firing control computers dealt with the unstable Heavy lasers.  The opal laser blast of the heavy laser bore into the Owens left side stripping the torso of all armour and causing heavy internal damage, Canin saw an internal explosion and guessed he had hit the Active Probe or extra-light engine.  Whatever it put the Owens’ shot off target causing the Mech to stumble under the attack, luckily for the pilot the Ocelot’s two bright red Extended-Range lasers missed their target.  Instead of waiting for return fire from the Owens Canin launched the Ocelot airborne with its jump jets closing on the wounded Owens, in mid-air Canin opened up with the heavy laser again this time the opal beam sliced into the right torso, again more internal explosions could be seen and the Mech locked up as the fusion engine moved into emergency shut-down to avoid a core breach taking the Owens out of the fight, two down.

   Turning to look for his next target Canin’s Ocelot was battered by an autocannon blast to the right arm.  Looking up he could see a forty-five ton Stealth OmniMech, gained from the Federated Suns months before and like the Owens modified with Clan technology.  This configuration was not the deadliest but still carried quite a barrage of an medium Ultra-class autocannon and four Extended-Range Small Lasers.  Moving in the Stealth stood its ground firing the double-rate autocannon again causing damage to the torso this time, the in-active light active probe winked off-line as half a ton of armour rained on the deck.  Closing on the Mech Canin watched as the heavier Mech continued to stand its ground, just within range of his lasers Canin cut off a full barrage of Heavy laser and Extended-Range Lasers the Heavy went high and wide while the paired medium lasers tore into the left torso melting the autocannon muzzle, a lucky shot, putting the weapon out of commission and turning the Stealth into a toothless design with the Extended-Range Small Lasers far out of range.  The Stealth pilot then chose to use his Mech’s other assets, speed and Jump Capacity.  Launching itself over two hundred metres closer the Stealth then began to run towards Canin’s Ocelot intent on bringing its lasers into range, on the damaged Ocelot they could be dangerous.  Now it was Canin’s turn to stand still lining up his heavy laser on the Stealth’s damaged left torso Canin waited until he saw the Stealth pilot fire his own Lasers before cutting off a Heavy Laser blast.  The all four of the Stealth’s lasers tore into the Ocelot’s torso armour causing light damage but the single Heavy Laser barrage tore into the Stealth’s damaged torso destroying the shielding the fusion engine had left disabling the engine.  Safety protocols launched the pilot’s ejection seat rockets, sending the pilot over the field for recover by Nova Cat teams, the protocols also shut down the Mech warding off a catastrophic engine failure saving the Mech to be repaired at a later date.  “Exercise over my Khan, congratulations on a successful run” the controller said over the comm.  Canin nodded it had been a good day for him and for his Clan.

   With no more targets left on their field other than Canin’s Ocelot he walked it back to the engineers and scientists who had created the design and dropped to the ground to address them.  “I think this Mech is as Agile as a Smoke Jaguar, Swift as an Ice Hellion and as Deadly as a Nova Cat” he said brining in every side of the development team praising them all.  “Although our warriors are superior in skill, I belief it is good to welcome the claws of others into out Clan, we are more deadly as a result.  I welcome the Ocelot into our Clan so that we may merge their claws with our warrior spirit with our strength and dedication.”  He said bowing his head slightly all others followed suit then after a moment all said in unison “Seyla!” welcoming the Ocelot into the Nova Cat Clan Touman, when it would be used in anger was anyone‘s guess but they were ready.

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Ramora
Outworlds Alliance
5th-12th February 3070

   Under orders from the Federated Suns Draconis March Command on Robinson the Screaming Eagles Mercenary Regiment jumps three of its four Mech Battalions over the border into Outworlds Alliance territory to hunt down a bandit force that had been plaguing the Draconis March Periphery region for months.  Arriving at a pirate point in the Ramora system the Screaming Eagles Mercenaries charge onto the planet only to find a force already on planet ready for them.

   Finding their DropShips swarmed by enemy fighters immediately one vessel is forced into a crash landing while the other two are both badly damaged.  Marshaling her troops Colonel Tam Lafayette, the Eagles Intelligence officer informs her that the fighters attacking them are not raider fighters instead they are Clan Snow Raven and Outworlds Alliance fighters!  Realizing that intelligence has dropped her Regiment in trouble Tam orders a full evacuation to commence as soon as the survivors of the third Battalion can be recovered.

   Fighting through a heavy fighter screen, an entire Trinary of Front-Line Clan MechWarriors and support assets from the Alliance Borders the Screaming Eagles are able to get to their downed colleagues and return them and much of their equipment to the other vessels abandoning the downed vessel to the Ravens and Outworlds Alliance.  Loosing nearly a full Battalion in the fight along with exec Lt Colonel Chris Lewis the Screaming Eagles make a hasty exit before more Ravens and Outworlds Alliance forces arrive.

   Returning to their base world of Kilborne the Screaming Eagles plan to inform the AFFS of their mistake and ask for compensation from their employers however this is put on hold  as they find their fourth Mech Battalion and their armour regiment under heavy assault by the Sixth Raven Battle Cluster and Outworlds Alliance fighters.  Fighting their way through the air screen the Screaming Eagles throw themselves into the Snow Raven ground forces completely destroying their opponents but loosing another Battalion of Mechs in the process.  Although salvage will allow them to regain nearly a full battalion, all at a higher tech level than they had previous, back they have lost over a full battalion’s worth of equipment and troops in this order from the Draconis March Command.  With their armour regiment decimated as well the Screaming Eagles have a lot of rebuilding to do.

   Colonel Tam Lafayette transmits information to the Draconis March Regional Command and to New Avalon High Command informing them of their mistake and the damage done to the Screaming Eagles and the relations between the Federated Suns and Outworlds Alliance/Clan Snow Raven.  The Draconis March Regional Command transmits information back informing them that they did not send the orders that sent them into the Outworlds Alliance and that they are to hold position on Kilborne until the incident can be fully investigated by the Federated Suns DMI, the Federated Suns hope that this rogue action has not created a powerful new adversary for their nation.

Near Terra Orbit
Terra System, Chaos March
14th February 3070

   With a combination of the remaining ComGuard, Allied Mercenary Command and Star League Defence Force WarShip fleets the final four Word of Blake WarShips are finally cornered between Terra and its satellite Luna.  In a very one sided battle the Word of Blake vessels were overwhelmed by the superior numbers of the allied fleets and defeated with three vessels destroyed and one running from the battle.

   During the Battle the Wolf’s Dragoons vessel Nelson, a Lola III-class Destroyer is destroyed as is almost all the remaining ComGuard WarShips including the Blake’s Strength, the largest surviving vessel.  The Blake's Strength and others are destroyed or disabled in the final moments of the battle trying to stop the Blake’s Sword, a McKenna-class Battleship, the Word of Blake’s Flagship as it retreated instead of staying with the Word of Blake cause to the end.  Although some Chaos March listening posts are able to track the vessel briefly the Blake's Sword soon enters the former Free Worlds League claimed space and disappears from view.

       For the SLDF vessels the SLS Shining Claw received only light damage during the battle however with the ComGuard navy decimated they are left in system as Terra's only space defence and for recovery operations, for the first time since the Amaris Coup Terra is almost completely defenceless.  With the loss of the Nelson the Wolf’s Dragoons retreat to Outreach without another word not interested in losing anymore of their WarShip fleet or helping anyone, the Dragoons again have a long way to rebuild before they will be ready for another major deployment.

   This battle also reveals the mystery of the attack on the New Syrtis Shipyards by a Colt-class Battle-cruiser in 3061 as the Heracles is destroyed by the Wolf’s Dragoons vessel Beowulf.  With the revelation of these details the Federated Suns’ Capellan March offers any support the ComGuards want, anything they can do to pay back the Word of Blake but the ComGuards refuse knowing that if any successor state fought on Terra it would probably spark another Succession War.

Detroit
Fronc Reaches, Periphery
27th February 3070

   The Taurian Concordat launches a full scale invasion of the Fronc Reaches in retaliation for the loss of the TCS Vandenberg, they find it nowhere or any evidence of it ever being taken to the Fronc claimed systems with the population hostile to them being on the Fronc worlds as well as pressure from the Magistracy of Canopus and the Capellan Confederation they withdraw but not before disarming the Colonial Marshals of almost all their Mech force and taking an entire production line of Anubis BattleMechs from the Detroit factories much to the anger of the Capellans and the Magistracy.

   The Fronc Reaches hire several small mercenary forces on short term contracts to supplement their conventional forces until more Marshals can be equipped with Mech forces.  Both Capellan and Magistracy governments censure the Taurians because of their action against the Fronc Reaches and their act of piracy in taking the Mechs.

Gravity Deck - Trial of Position
Tsunami (Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser)
Jarnfolk Space, Periphery
4th June 3070

   Stepping into the circle of warriors Khan Barbara Sennet, leader of Clan Diamond Shark, stared over at the massive hulking Elemental Warrior Hanna Coston, the warrior who had challenged her authority once too much with the last challenge ending with this Trial.  “Who is the one willing to attempt to take the mantle of Clan Diamond Shark?”  She asked never taking her eyes off Hanna Coston.

   â€œI, Hanna Coston, am the challenger.”  She said like Barbara Sennet her eyes never strayed from her opponent.

   â€œAnd why do you call this challenge?”  She asked ensuring all the warriors surrounding saw why this Trial would take place ensuring they would not attempt Trials for silly reasons, something common in other Clans.

   â€œBarbara Sennet, you have served this Clan honourably and proudly sending us down a path that will ensure the growth of our Clan and its future for decades to come.  This vessel is testament to what you have accomplished.”  Hanna Coston said raising her huge arms to the massive gym on the equally huge gravity deck of the massive Potemkin-class vessel.  Like the other Diamond Shark vessels this vessel, the Tsunami, was undergoing extensive refits for its new role within the changing Diamond Shark Clan.  “However as we proudly step into a bright new horizon there are those of us who believe that our Clan needs a new Khan, a younger Khan, you have been offered retirement to the Merchant Caste but refused, this is the last resort.  One last time I offer you the honourable path, join the Merchants and continue to serve our Clan.”

   â€œAfter leading our Khan I could never there would be too much…” she paused fighting for the right word “awkwardness on both sides.  I will be Khan or nothing.”  She said sealing her own fate, Barbara noticed Hanna move uneasily killing ones Khan was never something a warrior wanted to do even if they would be Khan in the end.

   â€œSeyla.”  Hanna Coston whispered honouring the Khan’s request and signalling she was ready for the following battle.  Moments after Barbara had repeated the word ‘Seyla’ Hanna Coston was on the offensive moving quickly in with several blows.  The old Khan had no response for the blows and although she was still fit and capable of fighting years of being a diplomat and politician had dulled Barbara Sennet’s reflexes enough to give Hanna Coston an advantage without her superior strength inherent in an Elemental.  The trial was one sided from the start and within a minute Hanna had her arms around Barbara’s throat, with one fluid motion she snapped the former-Khan’s neck ending the Trial quickly and with as little suffering as possible.

   â€œHail Khan Hanna Coston!”  The vessel’s commander said stepping forward as Barbara Sennet’s lifeless body fell to the ground the warriors making the circle chanted the world Seyla and cheered her victory however Hanna raised her arms silencing the crowd of her fellow clansmen.

   â€œHail Barbara Sennet!  Honour her as she honoured us.  Make sure we never forget what she did for us.”  She said all the warriors became very silent bowing their heads then in unison they uttered the word ‘Seyla’ ending the ceremony for all time.  Instead of lower castemen removing the body of the dead Khan six MechWarriors moved forward and removed the former-Khan’s body.  She would be honoured and with her DNA filling the Clan’s Iron Wombs she would, in a way, live forever.

Galisteo, Trinity Worlds
Duchy of Tamarind-Abby
Former Free Worlds League
7th June 3070

   News Report - The violence on the Trinity Worlds began spiralling out of control when what started as a dispute over new taxes exploded into a full-scale rebellion after the infamous “Bad Rock Massacre.”  With Duchy of Tamarind-Abby military forces deployed to keep the new nation secure from the other Free Worlds League Remnant, Lyran Alliance and Cirincus Federation and Swann’s Cavaliers mercenary unit spread thinly between Cerillos, Galisteo and Sierra, the situation became a stalemate.  Rebels and the governments remaining loyal militia units (with Mercenary support) engaged in small-scale raids and reprisals, but neither side achieved much expect adding to the growing list of casualties.

   All that changed in April, when Camacho’s Caballeros (formally known as the Seventeenth Recon Regiment) arrived on Galisteo, under the command of Colonel Carlos Camacho, patron of the Vado Ancho hacienda and Knight of Galisteo.  Like their commander, many members of the Caballeros hail from the Trinity Worlds.  When Don Carlos received word of the unfolding events on his home world, he requested and received release from his unit’s contract with Tanadi Computers (a sub-group of Hachiman Taro Electronics in the Draconis Combine).  Unprepared for the intervention by a well-equipped mercenary regiment, half the Cavaliers’ aerospace assets got caught on the ground, and their Charlie Battalion was overwhelmed.

   Since the Caballeros’ victory, Camacho has accepted the post of President of Galisteo’s new provisional government, and has retired from the mercenary trade.

   The disposition of the surviving members of Swann’s Cavaliers remains a mystery.  Rumours abound that their forces on Sierra and Cerillos have abandoned their posts and departed aboard unmarked DropShips, even though pockets of violence persists on both worlds.

Avalon City General Medical Centre
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
17th June 3070

   While the Diamond Sharks celebrate new leadership in their new Khan’s victory in the Federated Suns another family are celebrating a change in their lives and some new arrivals.  In the early morning Faith Steiner, Reinhart Steiner’s wife, gives birth to twins a son and daughter, Richard and Ariana.  Both are born two months premature but under the care of one of Avalon City’s best hospitals both are strong and healthy.  In the days following the birth of the children Faith permanently resigns her commission with the AFFS dedicating her future to the care of her children.  Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner returns from the Martial Olympiad on Defiance at the end of the month to spend some times with his wife and children.

Clan Wolf (in-Exile) enclave (Wolf City)
Arc-Royal, Arc-Royal Theatre
Lyran Alliance
30th June 3070

   As with other places across the Inner Sphere on Arc-Royal’s Clan Wolf (in-Exile) capital, Wolf City, also celebrates a new beginning with the birth of a freeborn child.  Unlike Clan Nova Cat's leadership who announced their Khan's child to the general Clan but hid the birth behind visions Phelan Kell knows that even his Exiled Wolves would find it hard to accept a freeborn born to their Khan instead.  He and Ranna Kerensky agree the child will be brought up in one of the Freeborn creches on Arc-Royal.  There free from any family involvement or interference the child will have the chance to grow and choose their own path.   Evan Wolf becomes the newest addition to Freeborn Creche Six, his heritage kept secret to but a few son of a Kell and a Kerensky, only the events of the future could limit his potential.