OBT Forum

Farstar Colony
Periphery
21st March 3063

   Travelling to the Nova Cat’s Den from the Clan Homeworlds was the Nova Cat’s Sigma Galaxy.  Originally the Diamond Shark Kraken would have accompanied them but the vessel was called to do a job for the Sharks before being handed over the Nova Cats.  Because the WarShip would need clearance one of Sigma Galaxies two WarShips had been called away to escort the Diamond Shark Potemkin leaving only a the Vincent Mk-42 Corvette Righteous Return in escort duty.  There was little worry with the Draconis Combine fighting the Ghost Bears none of their WarShips or military units would be searching the far periphery borders and Sigma Galaxy were far closer to the Draconis Combine this time than they were last time, far from Columbus Base.

   Galaxy Commander Kelly Hardo, commander of Sigma Galaxy, was in one of the Righteous Return’s zero-gravity gyms that had been set up in the vessels carnivorous cargo bay because the gravity deck was small on the Vincent.  Bondswoman Kamesota walked up to her, she was short but strong with strong Japanese features, she had been taken captive when the Galaxy was travelling the other way from the Nova Cat’s Den to the Homeworlds when they had encountered a small DCMS Explorer Corps vessel, Kamesota had adapted well to the Nova Cat way.  “What is it Kamesota?”  Kelly asked not angrily but harsher than she would have meant.

   â€œSumimasen” she said in her native Japanese it meant ‘I am sorry’ but it annoyed Kelly when she reverted to Japanese, mainly because Kelly did not speak the language herself “Galaxy Commander, my apologies the ship’s commander sent me down to see you.  The Righteous Return detected a small vessel watching us, when our fighters gave chase it ran.”

   â€œWhere did they come from there are no vessels in the system, no inhabited systems on record.”

   â€œExactly.”  Kamesota said quietly.

   â€œFrom your time in the Explorer Corps did you know of any deep space colonies or anything strange happening in the deep?”

   â€œColumbus is the obvious one, but we are several light years from that system.”  Kelly smiled Kamesota knew where Columbus was but has refused to tell the Nova Cats the exact location just confirm they were right about the general area.

   â€œAnything else?”

   â€œAntallos, is a pirate colony nearer the Outworlds Alliance and another world named Razek’s Hole another pirate world.  Both I have locations of this is neither.”

   â€œAnything else?”  Kelly asked she was not surprised the samurai still in Kamesota was willing give up pirate locations.

   â€œThere is…” she muttered quietly then shook her head “nothing concrete.”

   â€œOn what?”

   â€œA House Davion run facility on a planet named Farstar presumable because of its distance to the Federated Suns.  Although set-up to appear like a civilian the base is used by the Federated Suns to infiltrate the Draconis Combine and Outworlds Alliance and was a launch off point for the search for the Clan Homeworlds before Operation Bulldog and Serpent.”

   â€œHow long until the JumpShips have recharged their K-F Drives?”

   â€œI do not know the Star Commodore did not elaborate other than to come and tell you what he had found.”

   â€œFine tell him we are going to investigate the little ship.  Tell him to tell the JumpShips to continue to recharge their drives and that we will be back in a couple of days.  We will burn in-system for one day check things out then if there is nothing we will come back.”  Kelly said getting back to her exercises tightening the hair bobble she wore another trophy from the encounter with the DCMS Explorer Corps vessel.  Unlike other warriors who took vineers that would allow them to see a vision Kelly took things she could use.  The bobble kept her long golden hair under control while she exercises and when she was in her Mech.

   â€œYes, Galaxy Commander, sorry for the interruption.”  She said giving Kelly a short bow before rushing off, Kelly had stopped asking her to stop bowing before she left and using Japanese because it seemed that they were ingrained in Kamesota‘s very being and to change it would change her.  Kelly had taken her as a Bondswoman to the Nova Cat Clan because she fought so passionately for her crews safety before surrendering to the Nova Cats even though her JumpShip was no match for the Nova Cat WarShips and DropShips.  Kamesota had a chance of being a decent Nova Cat Naval Warrior she just needed time.

   As it turned out she would have a couple of days more time, the JumpShips still had over a week to recharge their depleted Jump-Drives.  It was strange that JumpShips and WarShips could jump system-to-system in a blink of an eye but before that they had to wait for days recharging their engines with the solar power of the star they orbited.

   The Righteous Return would, with its two DropShips holding a Cluster of Sigma Galaxies elite warriors including Kelly’s own command Keshik, burn in-system and scan for the unidentified craft and any colonies.  If they discovered anything Kelly would lead an investigation of the planet.

   After two days of burning into the system they were ready to give up when Kamesota, observing the crew on Kelly’s order, noticed something a low frequency radio signal.  Closing on the fifth planet the Righteous Return found that the Farstar Colony was in the centre of a massive meteor stike crater on the fifth planet.  Landing with Sigma Galaxies Command Keshik the colony surrendered to Kelly Hardo exactly six minutes after landfall, as the first Nova Cat BattleMech entered the colony.  After a quick batch of interrogations Kamesota’s belief that it was a Davion spy colony was confirmed and Kelly Hardo decided that the best way to contain the threat posed by the Nova Cats striking a potential allies colony was to transport the whole population off planet then level the colony.  Fourteen hours later the three hundred colonists/Davion Intelligence Staff were transported aboard the Righteous Return making for a cramped journey back to the JumpShips.  The Righteous Return then levelled the colony sight with Naval Autocannon and Capital Missile fire before leaving the colony.  The data gained on Farstar was worth about eight years of spying the Nova Cats could have done and they gained accurate information on both Razek’s Hole and Antallos setting up Sigma Galaxies next operation.

Razek’s Hole/Antallos
Vance Razek’s Estates
Periphery
28th/31st March 3063

   Working on intelligence data gained on Farstar Colony and from interrogations of captured Davion personnel Clan Nova Cat’s Sigma Galaxy strike Razek’s Hole and then three days later Antallos’ city state Port Krin.  On Razek’s Hole the Nova Cats encounter significant resistance.  On their first landing they encounter a company of BattleMechs all of Draconis Combine manufacture and all using advanced weaponry.  Supporting these Mechs are two Battalions of armoured vehicles.  These forces put up a brave fight but a quickly dispatched costing the Nova Cats two trinaries from the 179th Striker Cluster and one star from the Lachesis Keshik.  Galaxy Commander Kelly Hard orders her troops to salvage as much as possible and search the compounds for intelligence data.  During the search the Nova Cats are attacked by a group of white Mechs and Battle Armour, at least Battalion strength, supported by white aerospace fighters, at wing strength.  This shatters the 179th Striker and the Lachesis Keshik killing Galaxy Commander Kelly Hardo in the process.  The rest of Sigma Galaxy descend on the enemy force looking for blood, after six hours of bloody fighting the Nova Cats take no prisoners but do net themselves nearly a battalion of Inner Sphere Mechs and some of the latest Inner Sphere Battle Armour designs.  From the salvage and the bodies of their attackers the Nova Cats are able to positively them as Word of Blake forces.

   Three days later the Nova Cats attack Antallos striking the city state of Antallos there they destroy Vinston’s Vigilantes defending the city and destroy the rest of Vance Razek’s forces, including Vance Razek himself, along with roughly a battalion of other pirate forces spread throughout the city costing Sigma Galaxy the 189th Battle Cluster in the process.  They leave Antallos after eighteen hours leaving Port Krin a free city for the first time in decades.  Sigma Galaxy then intent on avoiding all contact with further Periphery troops heads into the Deep Periphery before returning to the Nova Cat’s Den three months later.  Because of losses there is talk of disbanding the Galaxy however Khan Santin West chooses to merge Omega Provisional Galaxy with Sigma Galaxy bringing the unit back up to full strength.

Damn Blakies are everywhere. Those surats have to be destroyed. Seyla

Wait for April Fools...

Draconis Combine/Federated Suns Border
Proserpina and Surrounding Worlds
Draconis March, Federated Suns
14th-21st April 3063

   With the Ghost Bear Dominion still attacking their borders three regiments worth of rogue Draconis Combine troops operating in Battalions attack the seven worlds seized by the Federated Suns the year before.  Although they do light damage and have no chance of recapturing the worlds it appears these attacks were a smoke screen for the Combine’s real move against the Federated Suns.

   On the 18th the Federated Suns Fox-class Corvette FSS Invincible is attacked and destroyed by the Tatsumaki-class Destroyer DCS Lair of Mighty Wyrms in the Marduk system allowing the Draconis Combine raiding party to capture over a Battalions worth of equipment from the planetside factories.  On the 21st the Fox-class Corvette FSS Brest is attacked and destroyed by a Tatsumaki-class Destroyer in the Proserpina system again a large quantity of equipment was captured although the Davion Heavy Guards was able to bring down one of the raiding Rose-class DropShips, which exploded on impact.  The Tatsumaki was later confirmed as the Lair of Mighty Wyrms.

   Although they Federated Suns was able to hold onto the worlds it had captured the less than stellar performance of the Fox-class Corvette in this conflict, in Operations Bull Dog and Serpent and in the recent Death Commando attack on New Avalon worried the AFFS High Command and Admiralty.  On the order of Fleet Admiral Andrea Petain all work on the all four Fox-class Corvettes under construction was halted with crews transferred to other Projects until designers could look at the Fox design and make it a more effective fighter a process that would take well over a year.

Davion Royal Palace, First Prince’s Office
Davion Royal Palace, Avalon Island
New Avalon, Crucis March, Federated Suns
13th May 3063

   It seemed that every time Victor attempted to get some work done in his office he got interrupted either by one of his officers or by an event to hit the Inner Sphere, then again at the moment his reading was grim the Admiralty had suffered a humbling defeat in the worlds taken from the Draconis Combine and the St Ives Conflict seemed to have no end.  This time his interruption came from Star Colonel Canin Rosse, although the Watch Cluster were due to leave New Avalon the Star Colonel had requested an audience before leaving.  Walking into the office Canin was supremely confident, analysing the reports his troops had come up with a near full proof plan to help the Federated Suns end some trouble along their borders.  Now all he had to do was convince the First Prince to go for the plan.

   â€œStar Colonel this is quite a surprise, I thought you would have been getting tired of New Avalon, ready to take on the Federated Suns best.”

   â€œWe are.  However I came here to make a request.”

   â€œA request?”

   â€œAff, when the deal was initially made the Nova Cats were given rights to be involved in Federated Suns operations against its neighbours if the situation fit.”  Canin said Victor had been dreading this trust the Clanners to want real combat.

   â€œThe situation has not fit, Star Colonel, your presence here is Top Secret.  If you had been involved in the Draconis Combine Strike something would have been noticed.”

   â€œAff, I was not thinking about that mission.”  Canin said he noticed Victor was confused “your troops are involved in St Ives defence.  We have the firepower to end that fight.”

   â€œEnd that fight?  How so?  We have been fighting a holding action since day one.  To do more would invite all out war a direct violation of the Star League Agreement.”  Victor said, he had been looking for months to find a way to end the St Ives Conflict, several of his regiments were under near constant attack as was the St Ives Compact a close ally.  Technically the presence of the AFFS forces in St Ives were a violation of the Star League but they’d been there since the signing of the agreement and Victor wasn’t ready to withdraw them yet.

   â€œIf you were to attack it would be a direct violation.  If we were to attack then it would not.”

   â€œHow would you attack them?  Your technology and Mechs put you as a definite Clan force.”

   â€œLast year a Draconis Combine periphery world was attacked by an unknown foe” Victor nodded he had read the report an entire Combine unit had been wiped out.  By an unknown raider force using Mechs painted in the various colours of the Inner Sphere states and major mercenary units.

   â€œThat was the Nova Cats.”  Canin admitted immediately noticing Victor’s scientism “it was not the Watch Cluster, just a Nova Cat unit.  We would use the same strategy and cover they did.”

   â€œThe Capellans have a WarShip fleet that has threatened action against all forces involved in St Ives how will you prevent your unit being annihilated by a chance encounter by a Capellan WarShip?”

   â€œWe will need to borrow one of the Nova Cat WarShips defending your shipyards.  The Blade would make the perfect vessel.”  Canin said naming the Aegis guarding Kathil shipyards.

   â€œCan you guarantee the success of this mission?”

   â€œNothing is guaranteed in life First Prince, sometimes you just have to roll a hard six and lash out”  Canin said using one of the phrases he had learned while in the Federated Suns, he had no idea what it meant but it sounded good.

   â€œHow long will you need to prepare?”  Victor asked, he wasn’t about to stop the Clansmen trying to kill some Capellans.

   â€œWe are ready now.  My DropShips are loaded and ready for lift off.  We will begin the burn to our JumpShips if you will send us data on Kathil allowing us to jump in close to the Blade then we will hit the Capellans.  The next time you hear from us will be when we have returned to Federated Suns territory after a successful mission.”  Canin said confidently.

   â€œGood luck Star Colonel.”

   â€œWe make our own luck First Prince”  Canin said leaving the office Victor shook his head maybe after the Capellans gave the Nova Cats a bloody nose the Clansmen would listen to him, they could not fight everyone.

Parade Grounds
Wernke/Talon System
Capellan March, Federated Suns
22nd June 3063

   Following a year in the Lyran Alliance under Star League contract the Blue Star Irregulars returned to the Federated Suns in style landing on Wernke in the Capellan March all three Regiments were welcomed by the First Prince, Marshal of Armies Jackson Davion and Capellan March commander Field Marshal George Hasek.  Within the Federated Suns High Command there was high hope that the Blue Star Irregulars would accept Victor’s offer of becoming house units following the loss of their WarShip during the one year they served as SLDF troops on the Jade Falcon Border.

   The Blue Star Irregulars landed a single Union-class DropShip and three massive Overlord-C class DropShips all captured from Clan Jade Falcon, one even had the Jade Falcon emblem a Jade Falcon clutching a sword against a green rectangle, still on the hull.  The Blue Star Irregular commander Colonel Wu Sen Tang exited the Union piloting a captured Jade Falcon Turkina assault OmniMech.  The Mech reminded Victor of a big Mad Cat with big weapon arms and over shoulder missile launchers, just like the heavy OmniMech except the Turkina came in at a whopping ninety-five tons and could match Victor’s Daishi for firepower.  The Turkina stalked up to their observation dome and the Colonel lowered himself from the assault Mech dressed in a Star League Uniform, the Blue Star Irregulars had made their choice, this was just a courtesy call on their part.  Victor had wondered why all three Regiments had not travelled from the JumpShips this was why.  The Blue Star Colonel presented himself to Victor and saluted, Victor noticed he had Lieutenant-General rank tabs on his uniform “General?  Welcome to Wernke.”

   â€œThank you First Prince Davion, I am sorry I did not tell you this before landing but the Blue Star Irregulars have chosen to travel to Kittery and join the SLDF.  The Commanding-General confirmed my promotion on the way here and authorised our detour and gift.”

   â€œGift?”  Jackson asked surprised.

   â€œAye, Marshal, the Blue Star Irregulars have decided to honour the Federated Suns for the years they have trusted us to get the job done despite our Mercenary Status.”  He said raising a small communicator to his lips “command one, begin” he said quietly the doors on the three DropShips opened and Mechs began rolling our.  From the first DropShip there were about thirty Clan Battle and OmniMechs and a couple of dozen Elemental Battle Armour suits followed by three flatbed trucks full of parts.  Then out of the other vessels walked Hauptmann OmniMechs, followed by an Artic Fox and finally a Stiletto OmniMech all Lyran designs, all designs the Federated Suns had been barred from buying by Archon Katrina Steiner-Davion because of her hostile relationship with Victor.  The Hauptmann was one of the most impressive Inner Sphere OmniMechs while the Stiletto was brand-new, the first only walking off Coventry Metal Works Assembly Lines at the start of 3063, and the Artic Fox was limited to the Kell Hounds Mercenaries and Clan Wolf (in-Exile).

   â€œWhat is this?”  Victor managed.

   â€œOne moment sire” Tang said raising the communicator one more time “surprise package” he said at that moment two Fafnir Assault Mechs walked clear of one DropShip and two captured Clan Scytha OmniFighters were towed out by trucks.  The Fafnirs were factory new with just a grey base coat and were examples of one of the Lyrans most deadly BattleMech designs carrying two Heavy Gauss Rifles in their torsos they were slow but could floor any Mech with one hit from the rifles.  While the Scytha was one of the heaviest and deadly Clan OmniFighters in existence this was more than an impressive gift it was beyond that.

   â€œA gift from us and your friends in the Lyran realm.”  Tang said continuing when no-one said anything, “The Stilettos come courtesy of Duke Bradford of Coventry, he didn’t want them falling into the hands of Katherine so he bought the first run himself and sent them to Morgan’s ARDC with a note saying you needed to get a companies worth.  While the Artic Foxes are from Phelan Kell, the Wolf Khan just wanted to make sure you realised his Clan were contributing and to make sure you remembered that next time the Jade Falcons came knocking.”  Victor smiled trust the Kells “while the DropShips and the Fighters come courtesy of the Jade Falcons they just like giving us stuff.”

   â€œThe DropShips too?”  George Hasek said astonished.

   â€œAll except the Union, that’s mine” Tang said, the Blue Star Irregulars really were becoming SLDF troops if they were giving away so much so easily, any Merc unit in the Inner Sphere would kill to have that tech.

   â€œWell on behalf of the Federated Suns I accept, but you must accept something from me also.”  Victor said turning to Jackson “Jackson release the first three Conquistadors to the SLDF to the Blue Star Irregulars specifically.  George give them a company of Templars.”  Victor said the next generation of command DropShip and the first Federated Suns OmniMech were worthy gifts but Victor felt small giving so little.

   â€œThank you sire” the Blue Star Commander said saluting Victor.

   â€œNo, thank you General” Victor said offering the man his hand as they shook “and good luck.”  Victor said and he actually meant it.  Although having the Irregulars added to the AFFS would have been a bonus they had just done the Federated Suns a great service.

FSS Hanse Davion (First Prince-class Battleship)
Federated-Boeing Shipyards, Galax
Crucis March, Federated Suns
14th July 3063

   Standing inside the command bridge of the newly commissioned FSS Hanse Davion high above the hull of the First Prince-Battleship in a specially armoured and defended Command Bridge Victor Steiner-Davion stood beside Jackson Davion, Fleet Admiral Andrea Petain and Danai Centrella in front of the entire Federated Suns press.  The announcement that this vessel had been constructed has set the media crazy with questions such as where the vessel had come from and how long the Federated Suns had been developing and building it and how the money spent on the project had been hidden.  To their credit Jackson Davion and Andrea Petain had deflected most of the questions however when Victor had announced that he would personally launch the vessel in the Galax system there had been calls for it to be as public as possible.  Now standing in front of the media Victor wished he had not invited them aboard, Danai Centrella stepped up beside him and offered him her hand which he took gratefully she then leaned in and kissed him on the cheek sending the media tri-vid cameras wild, the first public kiss of the engaged couple.  Some of the media began asking questions immediately about their planned wedding, but Victor began to speak about the launch instead.

   â€œIf I could have your attention.”  He said the room went silent almost immediately, there were some perks to being the First Prince in a crowded room, despite their personal feelings towards Victor good or bad he was their First Prince, their leader, and in the Federated Suns that alone demanded respect.  “Thank you.  This vessel was constructed in secret at the same location the Davion-class Destroyers were completed the basis of this design and who designed it are a closely guarded secret.  This vessel is designed to show the people of the Federated Suns that we are taking great steps forward in naval technology and as a warning to our enemies that if you attack us you will face this vessel and the best crew the Federated Suns can field.”  Victor paused “when the Federated Suns began taking the great step back into constructing WarShips the first vessel was named the Fox for my father’s famous nickname.”  He said including his father as much in this as possible would garner the respect the occasion, and the vessel, merited.  “When naming this vessel and its class I decided what better way of honouring the man who delivered us Victory in the Fourth Succession War and the all too brief Alliance with the Lyran realm was to name a vessel after him.  So ladies and gentlemen of the press and the people of the Federated Suns allow me to reveal to you the FSS Hanse Davion, the first vessel of the First Prince-class Battleship to enter the AFFS Admiralty.”  He said again the press went crazy with questions however Victor raised his hands instead of speaking he pulled back a ribbon on the back wall of the bridge to reveal the name and class name.  The Media cameras went crazy, Victor gave them a few pictures then turned back to the press.  “I will now take some questions” he said the media went crazy but Victor pointed out one Maria Clarkson of the Avalon Gazette, not really a naval or even a military newspaper but still a face he recognised, the Public Relations team had always said go for someone you know first so Victor had picked about four he knew relatively well and picked them at random first for every press conference, some media studies had noticed this and claimed the First Prince was showing favouritism to certain papers but no-one had mentioned they were unhappy with this so he continued.

   â€œSire, although this vessel is very impressive and we are very glad to welcome this vessel into our military.  I have a personal question, if I may?”  She asked Victor fought the urge to roll his eyes ‘typical press‘ he thought, Victor glanced at Danai Centrella who smiled, Victor turned back to the cameras and nodded.  “We were wondering if you and Duchess Centrella had set a date and a location for your wedding?”

   â€œWe have and it will be on New Avalon” Victor said turning to another reporter Charles Gunn of the Kathil Post a proper military paper.  “Charlie” Victor said hopefully he would change the subject.

   â€œSire, I was wondering what your reaction was following the end of the Capellan St Ives Conflict?”  Victor almost said ‘no comment’ but decided he had something he wanted to say so said it.

   â€œI am glad that the St Ives people have been allowed their freedom from the Capellan Marauders.  I am glad that the Confederation has decided to stop using Biological Weapons, a direct violation of the Ares Conventions which the Confederation originally spearheaded, and I am glad that the Capellan Chancellor saw sense in stopping his ill-planned war.  We re-created the Star League to create a new age of peace, I am unhappy that one of the Succession Lords almost tore down all our hard work, some say the Federated Suns is the warmonger of the Inner Sphere.  I believe people should look beyond our borders every now and then.”  Victor said another military newspaper Frank Adams of the Admiralty Choice Magazine on Galaxy “Frank” Victor said looking directly at him perhaps someone would actually ask something about the FSS Hanse Davion.

   â€œSire, I was wondering what your reaction was to reports that a mercenary regiment fielding a WarShip stopped the St Ives Conflict and that they did so by threatening Sian with attack from orbit.”  Once again the press had pressed a button that Victor had no intention on touching on, instead of digging deeper into the vessel they were standing on they wanted to push for answers about things that had almost nothing to do with the Federated Suns.  Considering the true origin of the Hanse Davion Victor silently thanked them, if the truth ever did come out that would be a dark day indeed.

   â€œThe only mercenaries that I know fielding a WarShip are the Wolf’s Dragoons and at present all baring one of their vessels are in the Outreach system, the other vessel is here under refit.”  Victor paused “I do not know who these mercenaries were.  Only that they were not under Federated Suns employ and that they are not registered with the MRBC on Outreach.  If they were to enter the Federated Suns, our navy led by the FSS Hanse Davion would be ready for them.”

   â€œThank you ladies and gentlemen, I think that is enough for now, let’s get this ship in space.  Fleet Admiral Petain please.”  Jackson said stepping forward pushing Victor out of the way slightly allowing the Admiral forward, Andrea Petain had been in charge of the Navy since the FSS Fox had been launched and was the most experienced space officer the AFFS had, now her navy had some proper teeth to meet threats to the Federated Suns.

   â€œHelm, confirm we are clear of the docks and bring engines to one-quarter thrust.”  Admiral Petain said the helm officer nodded he was ready “engage main engines” Petain said the Hanse Davion’s massive engines stroked into life and the massive battleship creped forward clear of the bay officially entering service, outside an aerospace fighter flew past at high speed dropping a bottle of champagne against the vessel as was customary, the bottle shattered on impact showering the hull with champagne, completing the ceremony.  As the vessel safely cleared the dock two flights of fighters flew acrobatic displays over and below the vessel detonating fireworks.  Around the Shipyards were DropShips and other stations with photographers taking pictures that would be broadcast across the Inner Sphere.  Across the Inner Sphere naval experts were trying to work out where the vessel had come from and what its capabilities could be as no-one else had any vessel that even came close to matching its size or possible power.

Nova Cat Camp, Chronicle of Battles
40 Kilometres from anything, Wernke, Wernke system
Capellan March, Federated Suns
18th August 3063

   In six days the Nova Cats had turned a square kilometre of Wernke’s Vesper continent.  In those six days the Nova Cats had completely locked down the area not allowing a single Federated Suns citizen in civilian or military, noble or commoner, no-one had been allowed in.  During this time the Nova Cat warriors of the Watch Cluster and the DropShip crews had constructed a mammoth bonfire with a raised platform several metres above it, on top of this platform was a huge drum.

   During the preparation time Victor had been told by Canin Rosse to come in comfortable clothing, so he had ordered everyone else to do the same.  No-one wore anything formal and all the Federated Suns personnel were excited about something, it varied from person-to-person but for Victor it was everything.  From his initial contact with the Clans in 3051 a year after they first arrived all he had done was fight them, he’d never been allowed into there society without forcing his way in.  He understood some of their military traditions and beliefs and even had a group of Smoke Jaguar Elementals who had pledged their loyalty to him, following the defeat of their Clan, forming a bodyguard point attached to him at nearly all times

   But he had never seen the Clans socially, this would be very interesting even from this distance, some five hundred metres away he could smell and feel the heat from the fire.  On the surrounding hills the Nova Cats had erected a wooden wall and at even intervals stood Elementals in full Battle Armour painted black with blue highlights their V-shaped visor was coloured in a deep red when he had first saw them Victor had been taken aback by the ferociousness of the paint scheme, it looked threatening and deadly.

   The Federated Suns party consisting of: Victor, Danai, George Hasek, Andrew Redburn, half a dozen officers from the First Kathil Uhlans and Tigret, Victor’s former Smoke Jaguar elemental Bodyguard, all were allowed in the main entrance by two armoured Elementals.  As they walked towards the fire Victor turned to Tigret.  “Have you ever heard of this before?”

   â€œAff, the Nova Cats call this either the Ritual of Battle or the Chronicle of Battle, I am not sure which.  It is a regular occurrence and unique to their Clan.”  She said after a moments thought, her eyes alert ready for trouble she had wanted to bring her own armour or some personnel weapons but Victor had refused trusting the Nova Cats tonight was one more way of getting close to them.

   â€œAnything else?”

   â€œNo” Tigret said quietly not surprising since her Clan had been the Nova Cat’s greatest enemies.  Just then an unamoured, barely clothed male elemental raised up onto the platform above the flames with a massive jousting stick used for elemental hand-to-hand combat training, Victor had seen elementals train with them and felt their strike they were heavy pieces of kit.  The elemental began smashing the drum in a timely fashion with complete ease.  Victor counted twenty beats before the elemental lowered himself from the platform.  Other than the crackling of the fire there was near total silence, the Federated Suns group stood together several meters from the raging fire.

   â€œDo you hear that?”  Danai whispered to Victor, Victor listened more closely it was music something resembling Scottish bagpipes, a saxophone and a dozen other instruments all playing together all playing the same tune but it sounded so strange so foreign to hear these instruments together.

   â€œWhat the hell is this?  Look at them, they all look like they are in some kind of trance, I thought you said they didn‘t take controlled substances.” George said Victor and Danai looked around and saw the Field Marshal was right the entire Cluster of Nova Cats, and the DropShip crews, were all around them they had appeared from nothing.  Some were dressed in uniform, others in white gowns while yet others wore a mishmash of clothes, most wore very little it was quite a sight and reminded Victor of the Festa Piepa, Festival of the People, celebrated by Roman Catholics on New Avalon every year however he decided to leave that little analogy out of this night.

   Victor looked to Danai and noticed she had her eyes closed and a smile on her face “are you alright?” he whispered moving closer to her, the heat was immense he hoped it was not overpowering her.

   â€œFine, wonderful…” she said quietly her eyes never opening “just let yourself relax, stop thinking of things that are happening and let them happen” she said her voice becoming a whisper.  He guessed she recognised this from something of her childhood in the Magistracy of Canopus where social gatherings were ’fluid’ to use a polite word.  Victor closed his eyes and tried to relax, he was just beginning to relax when the beats began again, this time the beats did not come from the drum but from recordings from every single Elemental suit’s loud speakers the beats were in perfect time with each other, Victor could feel them penetrate him, move him the beats were oddly relaxing.  Then as soon as they had began, they ended and a voice appeared Victor’s eyes shot open as did others of the Federated Suns party who had shut their eyes.  Victor looked around for the voice and saw that the Nova Cats either still had their eyes closed or were looking up at the platform, there stood Canin Rosse dressed in his full uniform with a long leather cloak behind him and a full fur Nova Cat headpiece.

   â€œAnd so we remember the Father’s children and the Founders creation” the Star Colonel shouted, his voice could be heard everywhere but Victor saw no microphones of speakers or anything.  “Tonight is a time of remembrance, telling of battles and secrets.  We remember the Cloud Cobra, the Coyote, the Fire Mandrill, the Ghost Bear, the Goliath Scorpion, the Hell’s Horse, the Ice Hellion, the Jade Falcon, the Mongoose, the Nova Cat, the Sea Fox, the Smoke Jaguar, the Snow Raven, the Star Adder, the Steel Viper, the Widowmaker, the Wolf and even the Not-Named, the Wolverine.  We honour them all.”  As Canin spoke each name there was a drum beat, each signifying one of the twenty Clans originally formed by Nicholas Kerensky all those many centuries before.  “We remember! Seyla!”  Canin shouted, in unison the Nova Cats all replied in one voice “Seyla!” Victor looked around for Tigret looking for clarification of what he was witnessing however she was gone, looking around Victor noticed her with the Nova Cat warriors even though they were of different Clan, enemy Clans, Tigret seemed to fit-in and be accepted by the other clansmen immediately.

   â€œFrom Kerensky’s Stars came the eight hundred, Beneath a banner of Truth and Righteous Light To Lift up those who had suffered and to smite down with fearful vengeance those who had ruled in the name of Vanity and Greed.  The thunder of their BattleMechs’ feet, the lightning from their weapons and the blood spilled in their name.  Created the Clan Spirit, the forge on which we have fashioned ourselves to be the weapon.  Of the resurrected Star League, honed to a razor’s edge by the Trials, By the Remembrance and by the word of the Great Kerenskys, our sires, our saviours.”  Canin said quoting a passage from the remembrance he had committed to memory when he was a small child.  All at once together the Nova Cats chanted “Seyla!”

   â€œThe Great Father planned for his Army, his people, to live on the Pentagon Worlds in peace away from the corrupt Inner Sphere a Star League in Exile.” Canin said Victor realised that Canin was talking about something that had happened centuries ago before the Clan had even formed just as the First Star League’s Army had reached the worlds that would become Clan Space.  He had read about the events that followed the Exodus Armies flight from the Inner Sphere but never directly from a Clansmen, even Tigret had never spoken of those events.  “Unfortunately the people of the Exodus would not let go of the Inner Sphere and fragmented.  The Founder led the warriors that would become the Clans to the new Homeworld and formed the twenty Clans” Canin said pausing again the twenty beats were played to the same timing and rhythm, every time they played Victor felt new, reborn, refreshed it was a strange feeling.  “The twenty Clans returned to the worlds we would know as the Pentagon Worlds twenty years later.  The Nova Cat, Mongoose, Snow Raven and the Not-Named were tasked together to wipe Circe clear of all that opposed our order.  On the planet we found a devastated world bombed and destroyed by every weapon mankind had ever devised to harm another.  We found hundreds of men and women claiming to be warriors of the nations of the Inner Sphere and even more others claiming to be from nations they had created for themselves in this ravaged war-torn world.  We found our way on the world led by our Founder and found great success.  All were enemies of the Clans, all were destroyed with no quarter offered or given.”  Canin said as Victor listened he realised, he was hearing of how the Clans killed hundreds of enemy troops without taking a single prisoner of war it was shocking but something he could believe considering what the Clans were and what they had been originally formed to do - conqueror the Inner Sphere.  Again the Nova Cats chanted as one “Seyla!”  Victor looked into the bonfire still raging below Canin and thought he could see Mechs, ancient Mechs battle scarred and beaten being torn apart by Mechs that looked brand-new undamaged and deadly.  It reminded him of when the Clans had first returned to the Inner Sphere.  The armies of the Inner Sphere battle ravaged and beaten by centuries of Succession Wars once more torn apart by the armies of the Clans.

   â€œOver time the Clans took their own path.  Some chose the Crusader path deciding that the Founder created the Clans to teardown the nations of the Inner Sphere and reform the Inner Sphere in our own image.  Others Chose the Warden path choosing to seek peaceful paths back to the Inner Sphere, to make alliances and guide the Inner Sphere nations to a better standard of life.”  As Victor listened to the Nova Cat Star Colonel he wondered what path the Nova Cats were on, it looked like they were a Warden Clan but several of the Nova Cats harboured crusader viewpoints and a deep hatred for the Inner Sphere, all it would take was for one to topple the current leadership and the Nova Cats would be poised at striking the Federated Suns weakly defended periphery belly.  In the Tortuga Dominions the Nova Cats were in a perfect position to play both games.  As if Canin was thinking the same thing “The Nova Cat was destined for greatness, the Touman was ready to participate in Operation Revival but the Khans foresaw our destruction with the other Clans and a white light, we now know to be ComStar, so the Nova Cat refused Revival and instead have walked a different path transporting nearly everything they had from Clan Space into the depths of the Periphery where they have begun clearing up the trash of the Periphery and making contact with the Inner Sphere.  Only time will tell how far the Nova Cats and the Inner Sphere will walk together.  The Other Clans so strongly believed in Revival that they continued on despite the Nova Cat warning only to be stopped by the white Mechs of ComStar.  The Inner Sphere States reformed the Haloed Star League and used it to strike back at the Clans showing the Crusaders the folly of their course killing the Smoke Jaguar Clan.  Now the war has ended but soon it will begin again, how it will end no-one will know but only that our way must survive.”  Canin said there were several moments of silence then as one everyone present, Nova Cat and Federated Suns Officer alike chanted “Seyla!”  By the time Victor looked back up at the podium Canin was gone from the platform.  All around the Nova Cats began dancing wildly with little coordination as the music that had been in the background came to the fore and the Warriors followed the music.  Tigret was lost in the sea of Nova Cats, she would find her way back but for now she was with her own people fellow Clansmen and in her element.  Several members of the AFFS party were moving on the spot slowly, Victor realised he too was swaying back and fourth.  Canin appeared beside Victor from nowhere “First Prince” he said bowing slightly, it was a polite acknowledgement nothing more.

   â€œThis is quite something” Victor said watching as the officers of the Uhlans and Danai were swept up by the Nova Cat dance “it’s almost hypnotic.”

   â€œAff” Canin said quietly he was not looking at Victor instead deep into the flame “some Nova Cats use the fire to concentrate on their quest of a vision, it is not unheard of warriors to ascend the podium and cast their vineers into the fire I doubt that will happen this far from home but it may, the flames have a strange power.”

   â€œVineers?”  Andrew Redburn asked quietly watching the dance, he to was swaying slightly, beside him stood Field Marshal George Hasek who did not look impressed with the proceedings although Canin could see his right foot tapping on the ground as he followed the music, his mind may not approve but his body did.

   â€œOur vineers are our Souvenirs of Battle, unlike the other Clans and the Inner Sphere nations we do not take decorations for our achievements, our rank, names and vineers are enough.  Following a battle or a significant event in a Nova Cat warriors life they take something from the scene, something that will invoke an emotion during their Rite of Vision.”

   â€œYou have done this?”  Victor asked curious by the whole idea as he watched Danai dance, she was enchanting, her pure while dress spinning as her body twisted and turned she was as happy with these Clansmen as he had ever seen her adapting so easily with so much fluidal it made Victor slightly envious.

   â€œOnce before, just before Yvonne arrived in the Nova Cat’s Den” Canin said naming Victor’s sister.  Recently Victor had noticed Canin and Yvonne almost constantly referred to each other in first name terms neither had said anything about it but Victor had noticed.

   â€œMay I?”  Victor asked indicating to the platform, he wanted to climb it and get a private moment with the Nova Cat Star Colonel.

   â€œAff, it will support two people comfortably, the fire should have dimmed by now.”  Canin said glancing at the fire, from what Victor could see the fire had not changed from when he had first seen it.

   â€œSire, I do not think that is wise…”  George said quietly.

   â€œNonsense, Star Colonel Rosse and I will be fine.”  Victor said walking off with Canin, within a few minutes they were at the very top of the podium above the dimming fire, they could see for miles all around “amazing” Victor said looking out they were higher than the tallest BattleMech and their view was totally unobstructed.  Looking down he saw how smartly the Nova Cats had built this site the walled perimeter was a prefect circle around the fire which was placed in the lowest part of the base ensuring that the fire could not escape the area the Nova Cats had set up.  “You do this often?”

   â€œThe Chronicle of Battles takes place every month, a different story is told each time and warriors are free to tell their own stories as they dance.  I have told the story I told tonight before but thought it would be appropriate again due to your involvement.”  Canin said, he had sat down on the wooden podium and crossed his legs, his eyes half closed “shall we talk now First Prince Davion?  Quiaff?”  Cain asked quietly and slightly more formally.

   â€œWhat is going on between you and my sister, Yvonne?”  Victor asked as he turned back to Canin deciding a direct and simple approach was easiest, he knew the Clansmen would appreciate that.

   â€œI do not know” Canin said honestly.

   â€œYou don’t know?”  Victor said walking back and fore on the platform, it was sturdily built but creaked and moved every time he took a step.  “When I read the reports about your first visit I thought you were playing a game with Yvonne taking her on a little joyride, but then I discover that you continued in the same manner when she traveled to the Nova Cat’s Den, letting her pilot a Mech when she has no previous experience, and you gave her one of your uniform jackets.”  Victor said sitting down “then I hear you believe you had a vision about her before she arrived on Tortuga” he saw Canin about to protest that he had a vision not specifically about Yvonne just a vision and he raised his hand.  “It was about Yvonne” he said looking at Canin who nodded “now since a vision put your Clan on Tortuga in the first place I would like to know where this is going.”

   â€œI gave her the jacket on Tortuga” Canin admitted plainly “I have feelings for Yvonne, strange, confusing and wonderful emotions that I have felt for no other in my life.  And I had a vision about her.”  He said confirming the vision Victor believed he had experienced.

   â€œWhat was the vision?”  Victor asked, he barely believed in the Nova Cat visions but after what he thought he saw in the fire earlier and the obvious complete belief in visions amongst the Nova Cats he thought he would indulge Canin.

   â€œIn the vision I met a woman from a nation of metal warriors, but she was not a warrior herself.”  Canin said trying to explain it to someone other than the Oathmaster was strange, to Victor the description matched a thousand women on a thousand worlds throughout the Inner Sphere, very thin ice to proclaim it was his little sister. “During our time together we became close and she proved that she was a warrior, just a reluctant one.”

   â€œIs that it?  You saw that my sister had raw MechWarrior talent and thought that meant something more?”

   â€œNeg, after this was revealed the female warrior and the nova cat in my vision merged into one and two Nova Cats came from the merging, both with swords instead of claws.  Tell me First Prince Davion who is the nation of the sword?”  Canin asked opening his eyes looking at Victor who took a step back in surprise, the Federated Suns had always been the nation most closely associated with the sword, the King Arthur Camelot legend and the ancient belief that MechWarriors were modern day knights, although the Word of Blake and the Free Worlds League had both tried to cash in on the beliefs the Federated Suns still held the strongest, longest claim to the heritage.  In the AFFS there was a medal, the Medal Excalibur, which was the highest medal anyone could gain and had only been awarded thirty-four times in history it was directly associated with the sword and there was the title Knight of the Realm again associated with swords and knights of ancient Terra.

   â€œSo what will you do?”  Victor asked, it was obvious to Victor that Canin felt something for his sister and from what he had seen the Clan commander was an honourable man worthy of his sister.

   â€œNothing, I am a Clan Trueborn Warrior she is a Federated Suns Duchess, we are from two alien cultures both human but far different.  There would be no future for either of us in pursuing it.”

   â€œNever believe that, Canin”  Victor said using the Star Colonel’s first name for the first time, he was now considering this Clanner to be a real human being not just an enemy to be destroyed “if you feel strongly about Yvonne and she feels the same way don’t allow politics to get in the way.  I did and now I have lost her forever.”

   â€œDuchess Centrella is happy with you.”  Canin pointed out.

   â€œAnd I am happy with her, but before Danai there was another woman whom I was very close with.  She was recently killed by an assassin.  I would never consider Danai to be a replacement or a substitute they are totally different women and I love them for different reasons but I will never know if the other relationship would have worked because of politics.  Don’t allow yourself to fall into the same pit.”  Victor then lowered himself from the platform without another word and sought out Danai, Victor and Canin did not speak for the rest of the night until right before the Federated Suns party left when Victor presented Canin with a St Ives Diamond medal and George Hasek presented him with a Syrtis Medal of Honour.  Canin accepted both as medals for the unit instead of for himself, if he had taken them he would have only destroyed them in a Rite of Vision, at least now they would last as long as the cluster lasted.

New Avalon Rivers Football Team
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
4th September 3063

   While most of the Inner Sphere and even the Federated Suns called the game Soccer due to the amount of football teams in common usage the population of New Avalon and Avalon City called the game by its traditional European name, Football.  Jacob Varnay held shares in one of Avalon City’s biggest teams The Rivers, although he held those shares under an assumed name, the Varnay family had not been popular in the Federated Suns since the failed coup and following Civil War in the late Twenty-fifth Century.  First Prince Alexander Davion the leader of the Federated Suns following the Civil War had tried to eliminate all Varnays but he had been unsuccessful.  Over time the Varnays had began to rebuild their strength and power but were still hated by the vast majority of the Federated Suns population, only the influx of Lyrans and money into the Federated Suns had opened more doors for the Varnay family, something Jacob would be eternally thankful to Hanse Davion for.

   â€œI was wondering if you saw the new ship that Victor launched last month?”  His contact said as they watched the game unfold it was a Cup Game The Rivers against a tiny team from New Scotland, The Celts.

   â€œNo I didn’t.  You called me here to talk about one of the pint-sized prince’s new toys?”  He said mocking Victor’s short height at the same time as showing his anger, he had not expected to be called down here for something so small.

   â€œWell no, I was hoping your daughter would be here, Tera is so much easier to talk to her than her old man, and is far better to look at.”  Jacob did nothing, Tera his eldest daughter was on assignment inside the Eleventh Avalon Hussar RCT under an assumed name.  According to Tera, the Hussars were not happy at the current Princes policies or changes he was making to the military.

   â€œTera, is busy Franklin.  Although when I see her I will tell her you were looking for her.  Now business.”  He said as The Rivers scored their first goal, the stadium with over twenty-four thousand people inside went crazy, fortunately their box was insulated from noise.

   â€œAs I was saying the Hanse Davion, was launched last month by Victor.”  The man said “all very patriotic enhancing his image as a family man and such.  Thing is the ship used to be the FSS Thunderchild, don‘t know where they got it…”

   â€œWait a minute!  The Thunderchild!  The Thunderchild is my families flagship missing for almost six centuries!  Are you certain?”

   â€œOh yes, a salvage crew found it, apparently the new merc unit the Star Nova Galaxy group brought it in.  Scared little Katherine away when they jumped in system at the start of the year with it.”  He said as The Rivers scored their second “the Thunderchild was taken to Galax and given a substantial upgrade and some cosmetic changes to hide its real heritage and then re-launched to an unsuspecting public.”

   â€œUnbelievable!”  Jacob exclaimed as The Rives scored another in as many minutes the crowd went crazy again covering his shouting “Victor, the pint-sized prince has just given me another weapon to use in his own downfall.  Is there anyway we can get people onboard it?”

   â€œIt is possible, for the right price.”

   â€œAnything, I want that ship.  And contact Field Marshal Waters again, see if he is interested in my proposal.  At least one of his RCTs have fallen for Tera’s charms…”

   â€œNot difficult” the other man said Jacob ignored him, he knew his daughters reputation before secretly joining the military and it wouldn‘t surprise him if she had continued to use her unique charms to get what she wanted.

   â€œâ€¦having the oldest AFFS units on our side will confirm our right to the throne and a new Golden Age for the Federated Suns.”

   â€œIt’s possible, and you won’t forget your friends.”

   â€œI never forget my friends, Simon, it‘s bad for business and my name makes that hard enough as it is.”

   â€œOf course, sire, I meant no disrespect.”  He said smiling, Jacob and his entire family were the perfect tools.  Simon Gallagher would report this to his Archon and she would be very pleased by how things were proceeding.  If things went well the Varnays would attempt to gain control only to be beaten by Katherine and troops loyal to the Federated Commonwealth.  Victor Steiner-Davion and his brood would be dead and Simon would be back in charge of the AFFC as he was destined to be.  A week later Simon contacted Field Marshal Roger Waters and found the commander of the Avalon Hussars was very happy to help Simon and his client deal with Victor, he was also quite confident that the entire brigade of seven RCTs would be strongly behind their cause.  Seven well equipped and trained Regimental Combat Teams and a Battleship were not bad place to begin.

Uninhabited Island
New Hebrides Isles, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
28th September 3063

   Knowing that there would be a media and public frenzy around their wedding ceremony Victor and Danai had decided to hold a small private ceremony on the island he had proposed to her just over a year and a half before.  Because they were both military officers they had both chosen dress uniforms for the ceremony although Danai had worn a long dark green dress under her uniform jacket and skirt and she had a Vail covering her face as was tradition.  As was the tradition of the Davion family Victor wore the full dress uniform of the reborn AFFS green jacket with gold cuffs, and gold piping highlights decorations on the left breast and rank insignia on the shoulder epaulets, because there was no rank for First Prince Victor had chosen Field Marshal ranking strips.  Danai’s jacket was exactly the same as Victor’s except it had Marshal rank epaulets and less campaign ribbons.

   The guest list for the ceremony was wide and pan Federated Suns there was the Haseks of the Capellan March and the Sandovals of the Draconis March had joined them as had Arden Sortek and his wife as representatives of the Crucis March and personnel friends of Victor.  The commanders of the Tenth Lyran Guards, Victor’s Revenants, were also here in the same uniforms they had worn during the Clan War this would be the last time they would be able to wear these uniforms before officially transferring to the New Avalon Guards units.  Marshal of Armies Jackson Davion was here as was a couple of other members of the High Command.  Danai had invited her sister Naomi but she had refused.  So from outside there was the Allard-Liao family Candice, Duchess of St Ives Compact, Kai, heir to St Ives Compact and Cassandra, with her fiancé Tamas Rubinsky of Rubinsky’s Light Horse a long-term Mercenary Regiment of the St Ives Compact.  Beside them stood Commanding-General Morgan Hasek-Davion of the SLDF, here as a Hasek of the Capellan March and as a friend to Victor and Danai.  And finally standing beside Yvonne at the front was Star Colonel Canin Rosse, dressed in his Black embroidered Nova Cat dress uniform with full insignia and cape, although the head-piece was missing.  Victor had not been planning on inviting the Star Colonel, maintaining the secrecy surrounding the Nova Cat involvement in the Federated Suns however Yvonne had invited him and demanded he be allowed to be a Nova Cat, since there were no reporters present and the entire area had a fifteen kilometre seclusion zone around it.  Danai had agreed with Yvonne and Victor had finally agreed with them.

   The St Ives Compact delegation and Morgan had to be let in on the relationship the Federated Suns had began to form with the Nova Cats much to their shock, and slight horror, although after Victor explained exactly what the Nova Cats were doing and what they had done in St Ives/Capellan Confederation Conflict they had calmed down dramatically.  With the St Ives Compact dependant on the AFFS to hold their independence against the Capellan Confederation and the Star League basing its biggest training base on a Federated Suns base plus Morgan being a former AFFS Marshal of Armies and a Ducal leader of a Federated Suns world Victor and the others were confident that they would remain quiet about the secret arrangement.  Although peace rained between the guests and the Canin all were wary of the Nova Cat Warrior.  Yvonne had shown her feelings for Canin however and the two had been together throughout hands linked, Canin for his part had taken Victor‘s advice to heart and had barely taken his eyes off Yvonne.

   As the ceremony got underway, a traditional wedding ceremony despite the guests and the location, Victor felt strange looking at Danai, there was something not right.  He would have liked more family to be here but that wasn’t it, there was something wrong.

   At his seat Canin took his eyes off Yvonne for the first time since arriving, they were together now and although he wasn’t sure what was going on between them or what the future held he knew he wanted to be with her always, Canin looked straight up and suddenly Canin stood up, there was a gasp from all around Victor looked at him angrily.  But then before anyone could say a word two Aerospace Fighters flew overhead with a shuttle between them.  The shuttle landed behind the tree-line and a few moments later the occupants of the vessel arrived Peter Steiner-Davion, his surviving brother in full AFFC Dress Uniform, and to Victor’s surprise holding his hand Isis Marik who was dressed in a beautiful dark blue dress with her hair tied up.  On Outreach during their training to fight the Clans Victor had been interested in Isis but found her slightly too arrogant and too naïve of Inner Sphere politics to seriously consider her as a potential mate, his father had liked the idea of Victor and Isis together and their marriage would have brought the Free Worlds League into the Federated Commonwealth but as far as Victor was concerned that was never on the cards and something between Victor and Isis could never have worked.  “Peter!”  Yvonne shouted running grabbing her brother, it had been ten years since they had seen each other.  Victor broke from Danai and walked over to his brother.

   â€œSire, it is good to see you again” Peter said bowing slightly “sorry for my lateness, but finding out you where you were being married was not the easiest thing ever.  I also have to apologies for the uniform, it isn’t my fault things changed when I was on leave” he said with a boyish smile on his lips, Victor was barely keeping a straight face himself and grabbed his brother hugging him “it’s good to see you too!”  Peter said returning the embrace.  As they broke Peter pulled Isis forward into the group as Danai joined them as well linking arms with Victor “please allow me to introduce, my wife Isis Steiner.”  He said smiling as Victor looked dumbfounded as Isis curtseyed deeply.  Danai noticed Victor wasn’t going to say anything so she spoke up.

   â€œPeter, Isis, welcome to New Avalon.  I am glad you could make it.  Now dear” she said turning to Victor “I don’t want to rush you but we are supposed to be getting married ourselves.”  Victor looked to her and turned her to face the priest who had re-appeared at their side.

   â€œVictor Ian Steiner-Davion do you take Danai Kyalla Centrella as your lawfully wedded wife?”

   â€œI do” Victor said smiling looking deeply into Danai’s deep green eyes

   â€œDania Kyalla Centrella do you take Victor Ian Steiner-Davion as your lawfully wedded husband and accept to be the wife of the First Prince of the Federated Suns and to honour him and the nation.”  The last bit was because she was from another realm Dania had not liked its addition to the proceedings but decided to forget it, she knew what she was doing and what she wanted.

   â€œWith all my heart, I do” she said.

   â€œThen with these witnesses present…”  The priest said as more fighters passed overhead and another shuttle began to land.

   â€œFinnish it” Victor whispered “before something else goes wrong.”  Victor said angrily.

   â€œâ€¦ and with the power invested in me I now pronounce you man and wife” the priest said “you may kiss the bride.”  He said Victor raised the Vail and kissed Danai in a long embrace before breaking to see who the newcomer was.  Three individuals approached keeping a distance off, two were in Elemental Battle Armour while another was in standard Nova Cat Uniform, Victor glanced at Canin who nodded and headed over to them.  After several minutes of discussion Canin returned.

   â€œFirst Prince Davion, Duchess Centrella, I am sorry for the intrusion however it appears that I must leave the Federated Suns earlier than previously planned.”

   â€œLeave?”  Victor asked quietly

   â€œLeave…” Yvonne said in but a whisper she was shocked and hadn‘t expected this day to come but not today of all days.

   â€œAff, the saKhan of the Nova Cats has been killed in combat and Khan West wants me to return to New Barcella immediately.  There is a WarShip in system waiting to collect me.  My cluster will fold with the First Nova Cat Guards for the rest of their mission here, Star Colonel Kalvin Rosse will be your new Nova Cat Liaison.”

   â€œI’ll be sorry to see you go, thank you for your time and skill Star Colonel.”  Victor said.  Canin nodded and turned to Yvonne.

   â€œDuchess, I am sorry things between us were not realised sooner” he said kissing her gently on the cheek “I hope to see you again.  Unfortunately, I do not know when that may be.”  He said

   â€œI do not want you to go” she said tears running down her cheek lowering her head.

   â€œAnd I don’t want to leave” he said smiling as he used a contraction deliberately to make her more comfortable.  "But I am a Clan Trueborn warrior and I have duties to follow."  Tapping her cheek he smiled and she returned it then without another word he turned to leave walking off to join the other Nova Cats walking back to the shuttle.

   â€œVictor” Yvonne said Victor and Danai turned to face her as did just about everyone else “I love you and I hope you are so happy, Danai make my brother happy, goodbye” she said kissing both her brother and his wife then turning to Peter “great seeing you again Peter, I hope you found what you were looking for and are happy” she said enveloping her brother in a hug “he’ll need you, congratulations” she said kissing Peter on the cheek then rushing forward as fast as her dress could carry her shouting at Canin.

   â€œYvonne…” Victor said, his own voice a coarse whisper, as her sister reached Canin there was few word spoken between them before Canin lifted her up and twirled her around before kissing her, the other Nova Cats looked completely shocked and did not know what to do.  Canin lowered Yvonne to the ground and with a wave to the wedding party they began to disappear into the wood “…be happy” Victor finished glancing down at Danai giving her a long kiss.

   â€œOkay, are we the only ones here totally confused?”  Peter asked quietly glancing at Isis who looked just as confused “what is a Clanner doing on New Avalon?  And why is Yvonne going away with them?”

   â€œThat Clanner as you call him, saved New Avalon from Katrina’s machinations when I was fighting the Smoke Jaguars, saved Danai when the Capellans tried to kidnap her and ended the St Ives War.”  Victor said looking at Peter who was beginning to realise how stupid his question had sounded, warranted but stupid. “He deserves our respect.”  When the Nova Cats had first agreed to come to the Federated Suns and Victor had first thought he would never respect a Clansmen or count them as an ally they were just a tool he could use in the here and now something he could get rid of when the time came however, Canin Rosse was his ally and friend.  He also realized that if things continued to blossom between his sister and the Nova Cat Star Colonel that they’d also be related.

   â€œAnd Yvonne is going with him because she is in love with him, and he loves her.” Danai said as the Nova Cat Drop-Shuttle took off and began to climb.  Victor leaned in and kissed her again as the Nova Cat vessel disappeared.

   â€œNow let’s celebrate and catch up!” Victor said as a mammoth beach party began on the island, Victor only hoped Yvonne had made the right choice.  The Lucian Carns was soon spiriting Canin and Yvonne clear of the Federated Suns and back to the Nova Cat’s Den.

Floating Tower
Federated Boeing Shipyards, Galax
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th October 3063

   Just over a week after Canin and Yvonne had left New Avalon it was time for the Nova Cat Contract with the Federated Suns to end.  There had been no further attacks on the shipyards and eighteen Federated Suns Regiments had gained valuable experience in fighting a Clan opponent.  Before they left Victor called the Nova Cats all to Galax for one final goodbye.  There at Galax he presented Star Colonel Kalvin Rosse commander of the First Nova Cat Guards with the first Conquistador-class DropShip to come off the assembly line.  Victor had ordered this one specifically modified to transport the Watch Cluster as payment for their actions in the St Ives Compact.  Kalvin promised Victor that the Watch would receive the unarmed hull and would arm and use it as they saw fit.  And with that the entire Nova Cat Force began the steady withdrawal from Federated Suns space.

   In the meantime Victor had been catching up with his brother Peter and Isis.  Although they had known each other only a short time Victor had to admit they were a good couple together, far better a match than Victor and Isis could ever have been.  Peter seemed calmer and far more in control now than he ever had and he seemed to be able to analyse things with just a split second thought, similar to what his father used to do and Isis seemed far more knowledgeable of the Inner Sphere, politics and people, than the last time they had been together.  Peter explained to Victor privately that it was the Lyran priest on Zaniah that had proclaimed Isis Steiner that he had not asked her to forgo taking his full surname.  Victor understood it fine and quietly told Peter that he thought it was good they were playing up his Steiner heritage as it would make Katherine constantly look over her shoulder.

   Victor had offered Peter a position in the AFFS at least on a temporary basis until he and Isis worked out what they wanted to do, Peter had accepted and Victor had given him a commission as a Captain, one rank above his previous.  Peter’s first assignment would be to be Victor’s eyes and ears in the Fox’s Den, it was not a great job but it would give Peter valuable experience at high level command material, Peter would be Victor’s Prince’s Champion.  The Prince’s Champion was one of the most coveted positions in the entire AFFS and in some cases was equal to the Marshal of Armies second only to the First Prince, Peter had resisted since he had been out of the loop for so long but Victor convinced him that it was for the best to accept this position, at least for now.  He also assigned Peter one of the Mechs the Blue Star Irregulars had delivered from the Lyran Alliance, initially he had wanted to give Peter a Hauptmann OmniMech however Peter had said he would prefer one of the Fafnirs which Victor had no problem with.  As far a Victor was concerned it was only a matter of time that Peter would be ready to challenge Katherine for the Steiner throne and with Isis at his side the Lyran people would see someone who could deal with the Clan threat personally, mend the wounds caused with the split of the Arc-Royal Defence Cordon and with Isis they would see a leader who could provide the Lyran People with an Heir, something which Katherine could not promise.

Davion Family Dining Room, Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
10th October 3063

   The Davion Royal Palace had several dining areas however the one favoured by the Prince was one on the first floor adjacent to his work office, it was small and simple and easily fit Victor, Danai, Peter and Isis without it feeling too big.  As they ate Victor noticed Danai had hardly eaten her meal but had a smile on her face.  “Are you alright?”

   â€œSort of” she said, that wasn’t an answer Victor liked so he put down his drink and looked at her deeply, she seemed fine.

   â€œWhat do you mean ‘sort of?’”  He asked reaching out laying his hand on hers.

   â€œIt’s not a bad thing really, it’s just I won’t be able to pilot my Mech for a while and then there will be the lack of sleep but I’m sure I can handle that…”

   â€œWhat are you talking about?”  Victor asked he was beginning to worry now, there must be something wrong with her for her to be talking about things she couldn’t do. “Is there something wrong with you?" No answer "Danai, are you alright?”  he asked kneeling in front of her, he prayed she was, in Danai he had found someone he could act as he wanted and would be totally accepted, she was his sole mate in so many ways.  Across the table Peter and Isis had both stopped eating Peter gently holding Isis outstretched hand as they waited for possibly bad news.

   â€œI’ve never been better” Danai said slipping off her chair kneeling beside Victor “I’m pregnant!” She whispered to him smiling kissing him gently, Victor was shocked for several moments he did nothing and Danai began to get worried.  “Are you alright?  You're not mad… I think this is great but we have talked about this…”  she said thinking that maybe Victor didn’t want kids of his own, he was First Prince of the realm but technically he could name anyone to be his successor for as long as she‘d known him he was a man of action not really the homely type, but he was her sole mate and she would support him with whatever he wanted.

   â€œMad?  Mad?…”  Victor said quietly then noticed Danai’s shock in his reaction “No, no, no!  A baby” he said lifting her chin with his hand “US! A baby!” he said smiling kissing her “you and me…” he said his voice full of wonderment.  Suddenly he was on his feet pulling Danai to her feet as he looked at Peter and Isis “we are having a baby!”  He virtually shouted despite them being less than a metre away.

   â€œCongratulations, I‘m…”  Peter began as Victor leapt into the air punching the air “…happy for you both.”  He said still holding Isis hand tightly.

   â€œWe both are, very happy, for both of you” Isis said reaching out to squeeze Danai’s hand.  Victor was not listening though he walked into the corridor and grabbed one of the two guards, both guards immediately thought there was a problem.

   â€œI want you to be the first to know” he then looked at Peter and Isis “well third and fourth to know” he said looking at the two troopers pulling them in close putting an arm around them as if he was back in the field heading for the bar “we” he said pointing to Danai then himself “are having a baby!”  He said knocking their helmets off messing up both men’s hair, both men tried to maintain their discipline however neither could stop themselves smiling “com’on” Victor said slipping out from the guards grabbing Danai’s hand the half walked half ran down the corridor with Peter and Isis in hot pursuit along with both Royal Guard troopers.  Victor and Isis came out of one of the palace’s many balconies.  “You want this?  Don’t you?”  Victor whispered to Danai.

   â€œWith all my heart, yes” she said rubbing her belly, there was nothing there but she felt a strange sense of energy and growth.

   â€œThen Duchess, I believe it is time that we told the world that” he said quietly looking at her smiling, Danai broke into a broad smile as they linked both hands and looked into the sky then they both shouted together.

   â€œWE ARE HAVING A BABY!”  They shouted together before embracing each other tightly, the future started here.  Peter, Isis and the two guards looked on with a slight sense of bemusement and a slight feeling of awe, the future started here and they were witnessing it unfolding.  Within the hour the whole of Avalon City knew about Victor and Danai’s happy news, by the end of the day the whole of New Avalon knew and by the end of the week the entire Federated Suns and beyond knew that Danai was pregnant and that Victor would have an heir.  Soon the entire Inner Sphere knew as well and messages of encouragement began flooding in from people all around the Inner Sphere.  Even Victor’s sister Katherine sent them a message of congratulations but from the way it was worded and written Victor knew it wasn’t Katherine that had written the message either an aide or member of the LAAF had sent it to allow the Lyran Alliance to keep face.  Although Chancellor Sun-Tzu Liao sent a message as well Victor saw it he deleted it he had not interest in what a Liao wanted to say, he was almost tempted to share that information with the Haseks, it might get them off his back, then he thought about sending the entire AFFS after the Capellan leader another thing that would make the Hasek family happy, he and Danai would have to be extra careful from now on.

Nova Cat Command Base
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds, Clan Space
12th November 3063

   At the yearly Oathmaster’s grand melee Oathmaster Jal Steiner stuns the applicants by refusing to stand for the position of Oathmaster telling the applicants that he believes that if he continues any longer than the four years he has served he will loose his objectivity and be unable to guide the Clan effectively.  He returns to his previous rank of Star Colonel, however has no current assignment.  After a gruelling five days of combat and testing Star Commander Zane Carns becomes the new Nova Cat Oathmaster, in his acceptance speech he vows to step down like Jal Steiner did when he believes he has outlived his usefulness as Oathmaster, he then moves into a weeks worth of seclusion on Barcella.

Ghost Bear Dominion
Clan Occupation Zones
17th November 3063

   With Clan Ghost Bear attacking the Draconis Combine Clan Hell’s Horses strike them from behind the Hell’s Horses quickly seizing Spittal, Goito and Radstadt destroying the 566th Provisional Garrison Cluster, of Clan Ghost Bear’s Xi Galaxy, which was tasked with defending those worlds.  The invasion stalls however when Khan Malavei Fletcher leads an attack on Predlitz a world defended by a single Ghost Bear Trinary led by Star Captain Jake Kabrinski.  The Ghost Bear warriors find help from the local population during the Hell’s Horses invasion, something they had not experienced on other worlds, and the Hell’s Hoses themselves quickly bogged down.  The Hell’s Horses route when Star Captain Kabrinski engages and kills Khan Malavei Fletcher in personal combat despite his Elemental suit being lighter than the Khan’s Gnome Suit.  Unable to continue without Fletcher’s drive and passion/hatred for the Ghost Bears the invasion stalls.

Trial of Position
New Barcella, Dagda Continent
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
28th November 3063

   After training on various Clan OmniMechs and some BattleMechs Yvonne had chosen to use a ninety ton Kingfisher.  The Kingfisher was an old Mech but a solid one.  Looking at the standard weapon configurations available Yvonne had asked for and gained permission to fully customise the OmniMech to fight like she wanted it to.  In the right arm she mounted an Extended-Range Large Laser while in the left arms she mounted an Extended-Range PPC.  The left torso was home to a pair of Extended-Range Medium Lasers while the centre torso mounted a Streak SRM launcher with six-tubes and finally jump jets were fitted on the Mech’s back, a feature not common to the design.

   Across the Circle of Equals stood a ninety ton Supernova BattleMech, the Khan had explained that because Yvonne was not another Clan Warrior and admitted herself she had no command experiance that she would fight one opponent in combat.  Victory would grant her a place in the Clan, failure would be her death.  Although the Supernova was a standard design the Mech easily had three times the Kingfisher’s long range firepower with a blistering array of six Extended-Range Large Lasers.  Before the fight Canin had told her the only chance she would have was to get in close and make the Supernova pilot to fire his weapons too often causing the Mech to overheat.

   â€œI, Yvonne, call this circle of equals and challenge for the right to serve within Clan Nova Cat.  May no other enter.”  She said into the communication system beginning the traditional trial.

   â€œI, Star Colonel Neil commander of the First New Barcella Guards Cluster, refute your challenge to enter the Nova Cat Clan.  This is a solemn task, may no other enter.”  Her challenger said then they both chanted together “Seyla!” into the comm. system beginning the trial.

   After a brief pause the trial began with the Supernova pilot, Neil, launching his BattleMech into the air towards Yvonne’s location.  Yvonne ran her Mech forward as well firing both the PPC and the large laser the PPC slammed into the Supernova’s left arm while the laser went slightly wide.  The Supernova, still mid-flight, struck out with three of his own large lasers however the blast of the PPC threw the shot off-line and Neil barely controlled the Mech’s landing.  Yvonne knew she had a chance keeping the pace up she opened fire with both the PPC and the laser again, the Kingfisher’s heat sinks dealing with the heat produced easily.  This time both weapons struck low on the Supernova’s right leg melting away most of the armour there.  Neil returned fire with the Supernova’s six large lasers four slammed into the Kingfisher throwing Yvonne around as the Mech lost over two tons of armour.  The Kingfisher slammed into the ground and Yvonne could hear armour being crushed by the impact of ninety tons of Mech hitting the ground.  Rolling over she tried to pick the mighty OmniMech up, she had trained doing this a lot and was able to raise the mighty machine in one try.  Turning she was pleased to see that the Supernova was locked in position overheated from constant firing.  Triggering the Streak SRM launcher and both torso mounted medium lasers she was pleased to see the laser carve into the Supernova’s left torso while the SRMs struck all over the Mech.  As the Supernova began to cool and power back up Yvonne launched the Kingfisher skyward over the Supernova, clear of the Mech she cut the jets and landed, as the ninety ton Mech landed there was a slight stumble but she was able to keep control turning around she noticed the Supernova was now almost fully powered up raising its arms looking for her Kingfisher.  Aiming low on the Supernova’s back Yvonne triggered the PPC, Large and medium lasers and the SRM rack in the classic ‘alpha-strike.’  Every single one of the weapons slammed into the Supernova’s back the lasers melting what little armour was mounted there then the SRMs hit burrowing deep inside the Mech taking out the Mech’s gyroscope.  Without the powerful piece of balancing equipment to keep the Mech upright the Supernova keeled over disabled.

   â€œMechWarrior Yvonne, you are victorious today.  Welcome to Clan Nova Cat!”  The comm. system announced, it took Yvonne several moments to realise it was Canin speaking “I am proud of you.”  He added then the signal went dead.  Yvonne nodded looking at the downed Supernova ‘that wasn’t too difficult, but I don’t want to do this with the rest of my life’ she thought, she wasn't a warrior at heart, probably never would be.

Merchant Sector Administration
Philip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den
30th November 3063

   Although Yvonne had been accepted as a freeborn warrior in the Nova Cat Clan and had proven her worth in a Mech she had made it clear to even Khan West that she was not a warrior by heart.  To her surprise, Khan Santin West had respected her position and had her removed from active service in the Nova Cat Touman almost immediately, instead of being a warrior she was transferred to the New Barcella Civilian Administration in the Merchant Sector of the city.  From there Santin explained that she would be able to oversee all operations on New Barcella and that she would be in charge of making sure the lower castes stayed out of his way and out of the way of his troops.  “Wait I’m in charge here?  I just arrived.”  She said looking over at the Khan, the rest of the civilian castes looked shocked that she a lowly worker was questioning their Khan’s wishes and with contractions.

   â€œFirst drop the contractions.  Second you ran the Federated Suns for a whole year, I am sure you can run this planet.  There is a mountain of paperwork in that office” he said pointing to a closed wooden door “it was mine it is now yours.  Any major plan you have gets cleared with myself or the saKhan is that understood, Quiaff?”

   â€œAff, my Khan” Yvonne said quietly lowering her eyes in acknowledgement.

   â€œGood, saKhan Rosse will be your liaison with me, I am sure he will be able to cater to your every need.”  Santin said lifting a cigar to his mouth lighting it to cover the smile that had slowly appeared “I shall take my leave” he said stepping out of the room “saKhan?”

   â€œI will remain a while and ensure she has everything that is needed, Quiaff?”

   â€œAff, I shall see you in the morning.  Do not keep him up too late Yvonne” he whispered bursting into laughter as he walked down the corridor, Canin shook his head slowly surprised at the Khan's reaction to recent events.  Yvonne walked into the office Santin had indicated to as they opened the door some paperwork fell off the table joining the massive pile of paperwork currently covering nearly all the floor of the room.

   â€œGreat, looks like I am in for an all-nighter” she said stepping into the office, it was only about three o’clock in the afternoon, that was the scale of the task ahead of her.  Despite the technology of the Clans it appeared that paper followed everything, it also appeared the Khan had no time for it.  Picking up a letter she noticed the date on it “this is dated 3061 it has sat here unopened for two years!  Has the Khan not heard of delegation?”  She asked looking at Canin as he closed the door behind him, a small smile crept onto his face.  “What?”  She asked looking at him standing up straight “What is so funny?”

   â€œYou” he said “most Clansmen would look at this and have a heart-attack.  I think West ignored it for so long because of that reason.” he said stepping into the room over a pile of letters “you look at it and say ‘it will take all night’ you are amazing” he said kissing her forehead.

   â€œYou know everything to say” she said kissing him back “you know your people can see us?” she said nodding her head to the glass panel windows and the six open mouthed clerks.

   â€œLet them watch” he said lowering his head to kiss her, Yvonne returned his kiss but broke off after a couple of seconds “What is wrong?  Had enough of me now you have a new job?”  Yvonne punched his arm playfully then kissed him on the cheek and whispered in his ear.

   â€œThe Khan gave me a job and you are getting in the way.  So either help or go.”  She said turning to the papers picking some up shifting though them.

   â€œYes, wife.  I will get some coffee then we can get started.”  He said, Yvonne froze in space “something wrong?” He asked walking up behind her placing both hands on her shoulders “Yvonne?”  He asked getting no response.

   â€œWhat did you call me?” She whispered softly.

   â€œIt was nothing, I am sorry.”  He said breaking off realising his joke was the wrong type of one to make.  He’d heard men in the Inner Sphere say that all the time when given an order by a woman they were involved with but perhaps his use of the words was wrong.

   â€œWould you marry me?” She asked still staring away from him into space.

   â€œAre you proposing?”  He said jokingly stepping to the door opening it leaning out, “we need a pot of strong coffee and several boxes.”  He said to one of the civilian clerks, she nodded and rushed off, it wasn’t every day a saKhan gave them orders.  When Canin turned around Yvonne was standing right there pushing him into the door closing it.

   â€œIf I was proposing, would you marry me?”  She asked again, Canin took a deep breath and looked away. Yvonne broke off and stepped into the room “so that is what I am to you a plaything from somewhere far away.”  Canin stepped into the room behind her and grabbed her arm spinning her to face him, tears were running down her cheeks.

   â€œThere has not been a Trueborn involved in a marriage for centuries not since the earliest days of the Clans has such an event happened.  It goes against hundreds of years of tradition.”  He said trying to rationalise it Yvonne’s tears became denser and denser.

   â€œSo that’s it then?  We’re done.  Because if you want nothing more then I need to be alone, I need to find a way to fit.  I left everything to be with you, Canin!”  She shouted throwing down a bunch of papers as she broke loose from his grip turning away clearing space on the desk by brushing everything to the floor, she was crying pretty constantly now, her entire life had revolved around being with Canin and now that seemed very unlikely, she didn‘t even want to look at him.

   â€œAsk… Ask me again…”  Canin stammered sounding unsure of himself and what he was saying.

   â€œAsk you what saKhan?”  She asked formally wiping her face clear, she still refused to look at him.

   â€œYvonne, will you marry me, Quiaff?”  Canin said in an equally formal voice, now steady, confident.  Yvonne turned to face him Canin was looking right at her a tear running down his own cheek.  There was a slight nod between them confirming that he was serious.  “You want to get married?”

   â€œAff, I will marry you” she said stepping forward kissing him long and passionately, Canin broke off.

   â€œI do not know if the Khan will let me marry you, he has allowed us to remain together as lovers, I do not know what his reaction to a formal arrangement will be.  Santin West is unpredictable and Clan Law leaves little support for us.”

   â€œBut you are seriously committed to this?”  She asked whispering.

   â€œIf you are, I am one hundred percent committed to this, one hundred percent committed to you.”

   â€œThen that is all I needed to hear, let them do their worst.”  She said kissing him again the clerk came in put down the steaming pot of coffee and the four boxes and left again and they never broke off the kiss, no doubt their involvement would be around New Barcella‘s civilian castes in a matter of hours.  They finally finished sorting the documents eight hours later splitting them into the four different boxes separated by year and by category i.e. City Business and Non-City Business on New Barcella.  The saKhan declared victory Yvonne knew differently, it would take weeks to sort through everything and no doubt more paperwork would follow, but she had to agree it was a start.